Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Part 1 – First day of work

I woke up with a start. Darn, did my alarm not ring?! Oh, please, not that! I tried to get out of bed to get hold of my phone on the other side of my desk. I can’t see a thing! After zigzagging between my clothes scattered on the floor, I finally got hold of my cellphone. 6:52! In any case, now that I think about it, I don’t have class today… I flipped out for no reason. Since I’m awake, I might as well get ready for the day… I raised the blinds slightly so I could see a little better. Hmm, Yeleen isn’t here? Now that I think of it, I haven’t seen her in the room one single morning. Maybe she takes off in the middle of the night… I gathered my things and went to take a shower. Might as well go out and eat a breakfast worthy of the name. As I picked up my bag, I realised the poster of Castiel’s concert was still there. I’m going to ask around today, see who’s going and organise the evening out… I don’t want to miss that; it’s too good of an opportunity to see what’s become of Castiel without him seeing me… I’ll find someone who’ll come with me.

A nice breakfast, let’s see, where might I find that… Hmm, my phone’s vibrating. Already so early in the morning! It’s bound to be… Oh no… A message from Clemence! “This afternoon we need your help. See you at 9am.” The afternoon starts at 9am according to Clemence! She didn’t even ask me if I was available. True, I gave my schedule to Hyun… But still… I hesitate answering her… I could just say I was sleeping… So alright, it’d be better to make a good impression. Good thing I got up! Might as well go to the café right now.

Hyun: “Hi! Already up?”

Me: “Oh hi! Yes, I’m on my way to the café.”

Hyun: “So early? I figured I wouldn’t see you until this afternoon. What’s up?”

Me: “Clemence sent me a text saying to be there by 9am, I was thrilled.”

Hyun: “Oh yeah? She told you at the last minute… That doesn’t sound like her.”

Me: “Really? Maybe it’s a special treatment she reserved just for me.”

Hyun: “Oh? Maybe.”

Hyun doesn’t quite get my irony.

Hyun: “Come on, I’m sure you haven’t had breakfast. I’ll treat you to a coffee or a hot chocolate when we get there, no better way to start the day.”

Me: “For sure… Thanks!”

Once inside the café…

Clemence: “Hi Hyun! You’re already here? You could’ve slept in…”

Me: “Good morn…”

Clemence: “Oh, Tetrakys, I didn’t see you.”

Me: “Right… Good morning Clemence, I came in this morning, as requested.”

Clemence: “Right, so I see. Fine. You have your full uniform, don’t you?”

Me: “Yes, I have it!”

Clemence: “You’d better.”

If Rosalya saw me in this outfit, she’d most likely call the fashion police. That thought made me smile.

Clemence went back to work, she’s arranging croissants in a basket on the bar counter. I don’t feel very comfortable, standing there in the middle of the café, it isn’t open yet… What exactly am I here for? I’m going to wait here until she gives me some instructions…

Clemence: “You OK? You’re not wearing yourself out?”

Me: “Uh no, but I didn’t want to bother you while… while you were busy.”

Clemence: “Bother e while I’m arranging the croissants? Geez, I’ve heard everything now. Come on, let’s take a tour of the café, and I’ll explain your day.”

Me: “Fine.”

Clemence: “Don’t make me repeat myself, I’m warning you.”

Me: “Umm, O.K.”

Looks like it’s going to be quite a day.

Hyun: “I can take care of that Clemence. I’ll take her on a tour and give her instructions.”

Clemence: “Really? Don’t you want to do something more interesting?”

I conclude that I am not ‘interesting’…

Hyun: “I’ll do that.”

Clemence: “Fine, in that case, I’ll be outside, if you need me.”

When Hyun makes up his mind, there’s no arguing. She says yes whenever he makes even the slightest suggestion. Clemence went outside.

Hyun: “So, this is the inside of the café. All you have to do is make sure there’s coffee in the machines and that we’re not out of anything. Put the menus and sugar bowls on each of the tables. So far, so good?”

Me: “I should be able to handle that.”

Hyun: “Follow me to the kitchen.”

Once inside the kitchen we were alone.

Hyun: “How’re you doing? I wanted to take over, I know Clemence can be hard on new recruits.”

Me: “Right… Thanks. I never know how to behave when she’s around. I feel like I get clumsier than usual. It’s… complicated.”

Hyun: “She has that effect on everybody, don’t worry! It’ll change.”

Me: “Thanks.” (He winked at me.)

Hyun: “You’re not the first one that’s happened to, but all others ran off! For once that we have a motivated waitress, no way I’m letting her get away!”

My good mood comes back. Hyun knows Clemence well… I should trust him.

Hyun: “To give you a bit of courage, here is your breakfast, as promised!”

Hyun handed me a hot chocolate and a warm croissant.

Me: “Oh, thanks!”

After running into Clemence I had practically forgotten Hyun’s promise. I started gobbling down the croissant and he continued giving me instructions while I ate.

Hyun: “And so, here’s the kitchen! For the time being, Clemence is mainly the one who comes in here; she makes the café’s pastries, but when the dishwasher breaks down, this is where the action is. And it’s where you’ll find what you need if we’re out of coffee, sugar, plates or anything else.”

Me: “OK, got it.”

Hyun: “I’ll explain the morning organization.”

Me: “Hold on, if I can just specify something… I won’t always be able to be here at the last minute in the morning though, with classes, it’s complicated.”

Hyun: “Don’t worry, same for me, Clemence knows it.”

Me: “Same for you?”

Hyun: “Yes, I’m at Anteros Academy too.”

Me: “Really? But you never told me!”

Hyun: “You never asked!” he smiled.

Me: “But I haven’t run into you either…”

Hyun: “Well, it’s big, and there are pretty many people!”

Me: “Actually, I thought you just worked at the café. And that you managed it more or less with Clemence…”

Hyun: “No, I’m a student on the side, but it didn’t bother me, my parents run a restaurant, I’ve always liked doing this.”

Me: “I understand your enthusiasm better now, every time I come here, it seems like you’re happy to be here even though…”

Hyun: “Even though?”

I always end up talking too much!

Hyun: “Even though working with Clemence isn’t a picnic every day?”

Me: “Well…”

Hyun: “I like my job, but I’m realistic. Honestly, you get used to it.”

Me: “Really?”

Hyun: “You’ll see.”

Me: “And so what are you majoring in?”

Hyun: “I’m majoring in media and communications.”

Me: “Oh really? Exactly, what does that consists of…”

Clemence: “Alright already. You got it, newbie? So now you can take care of the tables outside; the first costumers are just sitting down.”

She startled me! I hadn’t heard her come up behind me. I grabbed Hyun’s forearm when I jumped. Clemence is staring at my hand on Hyun’s arm; I pulled it away immediately, as if it had burnt me.

Hyun: “We haven’t finished; I’ve barely showed her the kitchen.”

Clemence: “Y-yes, fine. S-so I’ll let you finish Hyun.”

She seems upset.

Clemence: “In any case, you know what you’re doing, I trust you. But don’t let her besiege you with questions, and no need to repeat everything, if she doesn’t understand, we’ll find someone else!”

It’s always nice to hear someone talk about you in the third person.

Hyun: “No, it’s just the opposite, Tetrakys catches on fast. There’s no problem.”

Clemence: “Still I’m sure you explain everything so well, Hyun dear, anyone would understand.”

I understand it’s not a problem for Hyun to work with Clemence…  She gave me a harsh look and vanished behind the door.

Hyun: “So… Where was I… Yes, anyway, you’ll find everything you need here. In the morning, if ever you get here before Clemence or me, you may be alone, so I’ll give you the spare key to the café later. When you get here, you set the tables, you make sure that mothing is missing and then you just wait for the first customers, couldn’t be easier.”

Me: “That sounds pretty easy to remember so far.”

Hyun: “Seriously, evenings are more complicated; we’ll go over that together another time.”

The door swung open again.

Clemence: “Well, Tetrakys I really need help. Go upfront and take care of the costumers, I’ll keep getting the pastries ready and Hyun will do drinks. That is, if you’re not busy, of course, Hyun.”

‘Of course, Hyun’. Does he not even realise how her behaviour changes when she goes from him to me? She’s schizophrenic as far as that goes. Clemence has vanished again. What’s up with her behaviour? It seems like she’s got us under surveillance.

Hyun: “Right sorry… Go on. I’ll take care of the drinks.”

I’d rather stay with Hyun; he’s such more indulgent than Clémence…

Hyun: “Feel free if you need help or if you have a doubt about anything whatsoever.”

Me: “T-thanks Hyun.”

Hyun: “Oh yeah, just one thing, to open the café in the morning, you have to switch off the alarm, without fail. The code’s 28N1.”

Me: “Fine and where’s the…”

He vanished into the café dining area before I could even finish asking my question. Right, now’s time for me to enter the ring!

There’s only one person outside. Yet Clemence seemed really busy… Might as well take care of the person waiting. Better for me not to waste time.

Me: “Welcome to the Cosy Bear Café, what would you like?”

Yeleen: “A-again. No way. I go to class and you’re there, I go to my room, and you’re there, I come to have coffee and you’re there, too.”

Me: “Well, yes, I’m going to end up thinking our fates is to spend our lives together.”

Yeleen: “Fate, yes. How lucky can I get?”

I’m not sure, but I would’ve sworn I saw a faint smile cross her lips.

Me: “So…What’ll you have?”

Yeleen: “I’m going to have a hot chocolate. To go.”

I scribbled the order on my pad and slipped it into my apron pocket. Besides having to be careful about the slightest move I make in front of Clemence, on top of that I have to be friendly waiting on the person I least want to see. I was about to go inside and ask Hyun to prepare the order when someone else sat down.

Me: “Good morning, what can I get you?”

Nina: “Tetrakys! Is it really you? Wh-what are you doing here?”

Me: “Nina? Talk about a surprise!” She has grown… so much!

Nina: “You’re surprising me is more like it! I come to the café regularly, practically all the time even, and this is the first time I’ve ever seen you.”

Me: “Right, it’s my first day of work; not surprising you never saw me here before.”

Nina: “Oh right, OK. I thought you’d left town forever or who knows what…”

Me: “Well, you should never say never.”

Nina: “Everyone kind of disappeared, even Lysander is faraway now…”

Me: “Have you heard from him?”

Nina: “Not really… He left town when his parents died… Apparently he took over the reins of his parents’ farm.”

Me: “What?! Their parents are… No… That’s horrible I didn’t know… Rosalya didn’t tell me…”

Nina: “Yes, I… It’s really sad. So anyway, Lysander is the past for me now.”

Even though Nina seems really to have gone on to something else, I guess you just don’t suddenly forget someone you loved as obsessively as she loved Lysander.

Me: “I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to bring back painful memories…”

Nina: “No, no… It’s no longer painful anymore. Just the opposite, it’s a very fond memory.”

She seems lost in her thoughts for a second…Let’s change subjects…

Me: “And so are you at Sweet Amoris now?”

Nina: “Yes, in my senior year! It’s not a bad place.”

Me: “For that matter, today’s Wednesday, don’t you have class this morning?”

Nina: “Sure I do… But, I don’t feel like going this morning…”

Me: “From time to time… Never hurt anyone.”

Nina: “I didn’t expect you to say that!”

Me: “I wouldn’t lie to you. But in any case, don’t overdo it.”

Nina: “Don’t worry about me.”

Me: “So, what can I get y…”

Yeleen: “I can go get my chocolate somewhere else if you’re busy.”

That would’ve suited me… I’d love to be able to answer that. But I don’t know what is worse, bearing Yeleen or being subjected to Clemence’s wrath.

Me: “Yeah, sorry, I’m working. I’m coming.”

Me: “So what can I get you Nina?”

Nina: “I’d like a black coffee, please.”

Me: “A black coffee?”

Nina: “What?”

Me: “No, no, nothing, be right back with that.”

The last time I saw Nina she was a little middle schooler. The years go by so fast… And as I have such a thought, I sound like I’m a hundred years old. Great.

Hyun: “How’s it going? Everything OK?”

Me: “So far, I haven’t burned the coffee, so I must not being too badly.”

Clemence: “What??!”

I hadn’t seen her putting bottles away under the counter.

Me: “It was a joke, Clemence!”

Clemence: “I can’t believe this kid! If I smell the slightest smoke fumes around here, I’ll hold you responsible!”

With that she went back to the kitchen, leaving me speechless in front of Hyun.

Me: “I swear… I was joking!”

Hyun: “Yeah, I know. Don’t worry, she knows it too.”

Me: “Doesn’t sound like it.”

Hyun: “Sure she does, believe me, she’s teasing you.”

Hyun keeps telling me that, but exactly how long is this going to last? It’s not a good way to test me; instead, it has a tendency to make me lose my self-confidence.

Hyun: “So, did you need something?”

Me: “Yes! A black coffee and a hot chocolate to go, please.”

I’m worrying about every move I make now. I get the impression she can always pop up anytime anywhere.

Hyun tackled the job easily. You can tell he knows the place by heart. He could do it blindfolded. He set the two steaming cups down on the counter and I rushed to carry them away before Clemence came back.

Me: “Here you go, Nina.”

Nina: “No, the coffee was for me.”

Yeleen: “And the hot chocolate for me! Is there not another, slightly better server around?”

For pity’s sake, let Yeleen not talk so loud, Clemence is going to end up showing up again.

Nina: “It’s her first day, show a little indulgence!”

And now it’s a high schooler who is taking my defence. Great. Clemence is putting so much pressure on me, I’m getting totally flustered. I wanted to switch the two cups and I tripped from going at it too fast. I split a few drops of chocolate on Yeleen’s table and knocked over two chairs while I was at it. She glared at me, but didn’t make a comment, for once. For sure, I have to manage my clumsiness; it’s turning into a problem. I have to go get a sponge quick before Clemence sees it.

Yeleen: “Wait, you dropped this.”

Yeleen is waving the poster of Castiel’s concert. I had folded it and put it in my pocket before leaving this morning…

Me: “Yeah, thanks…”

I held out my hand to get it back. But she moved it out of my reach to keep me from getting it back.

Yeleen: “You listen to Crowstorm?”

Me: “I just know the singer.”

Yeleen: “Y-you know the singer?”

Me: “Yes, I know him. But we’re out of touch. It dates back to high school.”

Yeleen: “Oh. Right, so you don’t really know Cass.”

‘Cass’?

Me: “Because you mean, you know him?”

Yeleen: “Here, take your poster back. I guess I’ll be seeing you around soon considering you and I can’t spend a day apart.”

Me: “I…”

She left, without even taking the time to answer me. I picked up the change she had left on the table.

Nina: “She doesn’t know him.”

Me: “What do you know?”

Nina: “I know everyone’s got that name on the tip of their tongue: Castiel. And no one can get close to him. It’s kind of the dream of every girl within a 40km radius. I’m sure she said that to get you mad. And it’s working! Why don’t you tell her he was your boyfriend?”

Me: “Because it’s none of her business!”

Nina: “I thought things were over between you two a long time ago.”

Me: “That’s the case! What do you know for that matter?”

Nina: “I go to Sweet Amoris, everyone knows everything.”

I should’ve known. Nothing has changed in this town. Gossip is still the most popular hobby.

I headed towards the bar counter. Remind me why I came back inside, again? I’m thinking back on the scene that just took place. Does Yeleen really know him? That shouldn’t bother me all that much… but… I can’t help it. Castiel and I had a passionate, complicated relationship. I have a hard time imagining him with a girl who is as big of a pain as Yeleen. ‘With’ I mean… I don’t think they’re together… At least, I hope not. Come on, get a hold of yourself, Tetrakys, you don’t care, you don’t care, you don’t care.

Hyun: “Uh… You OK? You’ve been staring into space for five minutes without saying anything.”

Me: “It’s nothing… just some girl in my class who always ends up interfering in my life.”

Hyun: “Doesn’t look like it’s ‘nothing’. You look worried… You want to talk about it?”

Me: “There is this girl, Yeleen who’s in class with me… she’s messing up the start of my school year big time.”

Hyun: “What exactly is happening to affect you so much?”

Me: “Well… she’s attending class with me, but she’s also my roommate. And there, I learn that she knows people that I am more or less close to.”

Hyun: “It’s a small town, everyone knows each other… But I get it.”

Me: “Yes and…”

Right then is when Clemence showed up. She looked at Hyun then me.

Clemence: “Please stop distracting Hyun!”

Me: “B-but, I…”

And all of a sudden I remembered the reason why I had come into the café. The sponge, the knocked over chairs! I had left everything the way it was. It’s not that big of a deal, but I’m sure it’s enough for Clemence to fly off the handle.

Clemence: “Aren’t there any customers outside?”

Me: “Just one.”

Clemence: “Right, so mind telling me why aren’t you outside?”

Me: “I’m on my way right now!”

I leaned over the bar counter and grabbed a sponge quick. As I turned around, I saw that Clemence had gone out.

Clemence: “Tetrakys!!! What is this mess?”

I turned pale. I gave Hyun a look of distress and rushed outside.

Clemence: “There are knocked-over chairs! There’s chocolate on the table! And you’ve barely been here 10 minutes!”

Me: “Yeah, I’m sorry, I’m going to straighten everything up right away.”

Clemence: “I sure hope so! I can’t believe this kid. This takes the cake.”

Me: “’Kid’?”

With that, she went back inside mumbling inaudible complaints. I always feel like I’m being scolded like a child, and it’s my first day. Remind me again why I took this job…? Then Hyun came out, walked over to me and helped me pick up the chairs. I don’t feel good, I get the impression I was really not made for this.

Hyun: “Don’t worry, she’ll get over it. She’s testing you.”

Me: “You keep telling me that!”

Hyun: “Well, it’s true. It’s her personality.”

Me: “You think so? I do everything wrong…”

Hyun: “You’re going to get used to it and she’ll get over it.”

Me: “Yeah, but when? Because it just increases the pressure and gets me flustered…”

Hyun: “I’ll talk to her this afternoon.”

Me: “I can’t spend every single one of my workdays in this atmosphere; I’ll end up exploding.”

Hyun: “She does it on purpose to see if you can stand the pressure; it’ll blow over.”

I didn’t add a thing, annoyed by Clemence behaviour regarding me… I just took the sponge. Hyun went back inside after we finished straightening everything up.

Nina: “She’s no easy to deal with for sure.”

Me: “Not easy, you got that right…”

Nina: “Well, I’m headed out.”

Me: “OK, I enjoyed seeing you again.”

Nina: “Me too, I’m sure we’ll run into each other again.”

She smiled at me then started rummaging through her pockets.

Nina: “Hey… Think you could cover me for the coffee? I hadn’t noticed but I don’t have my billfold.”

Me: “It’s on me this time around.”

Nina: “Thanks!”

Me: “Sure.”

Nina left the café and other customers came and sat down. I managed not to screw up any more the rest of the day. I didn’t work part of the afternoon. Clemence has to lighten up my schedule to abide by my contract. And I started up again a little later in the late afternoon. Hyun and I didn’t have time to talk again… And Clemence just gave me harsh looks when I passed by her, but I didn’t get subjected to a single remark more. It’s going to be closing time soon. I went back in the kitchen.

Hyun: “We can close the café now.”

Me: “Yeah, what a day, my legs are numb from all the coming and going.”

Hyun: “For sure, people don’t realise it much, but waiting tables is actually pretty physical.”

Clemence stuck her head through the door right then.

Clemence: “Tetrakys, you aren’t paid to distract Hyun.”

Obviously it’s always my fault. I didn’t even bother to react. In the end, maybe Hyun was right, you get used to it.

Hyun: “It’s my fault, I was just telling her I was going to show her what to do when it’s closing time.”

Hyun’s taking my defence… What I told him earlier sunk in… I smiled at him shyly.

Clemence: “Well… anyway, I know what young girls her age have on their mind.”

Me: “What??” I wiped the smile off my face right away.

Clemence: “Don’t contradict me. I was your age once. And it’s hard not to fall for Hyun’s charm, I’m capable of understanding, believe me.”

It’s definitely not me Hyun should be careful about. Hyun doesn’t look very comfortable.

Hyun: “Ma’am, we… we’re going to close the café.”

Clemence: “For the umpteenth time, Hyun dear, Cle-mence, not Ma’am, you make me feel old, sweetheart.”

‘Sweetheart?’

Clemence: “So Tetrakys, listen closely to what Hyun says; you might have to close the café alone if one of us were sick.”

Me: “Y-yes Ma’am.”

Clemence: “Have a nice evening, Hyun.”

Clemence winked at him before shutting the door.

So now, everything has gotten very clear. In fact Clemence has a huge crush on him. That explains quite a few things.

Hyun: “So follow me outside, I’m going to explain stuff to you.”

He headed out right away. Hyun straightened up the tables and chairs outside. Then closed the café doors, leaving the keys in the lock of the door, inside.

Hyun: “So… How about a beer? It would do me a world of good.”

Me: “Now?”

Hyun: “Yes, we’ve finished our shift.”

Me: “I’m surprised, you seem so… Serious in everyday life.”

Hyun: “People can be serious and need to let off steam after a day of work; that’s not incompatible.”

Me: “Yes, that’s true.”

Hyun: “So do you want a beer or not? It’s my treat, since from what I understand you’ve had a long day…”

Me: “Thanks.”

Hyun: “The day felt especially long to me.”

Me: “I agree. It was unusual.”

Hyun: “Things went more smoothly with Clemence for the rest of the day, didn’t they?”

Me: “Yes, much better. Did you talk to her?”

Hyun: “I told her it’d be a pity to deprive herself of someone who really wanted to work. She knows she isn’t easy to get along with. Plus not many people applied. So when we find a real gem, we hang onto it.”

Me: “A real gem? Me? He’s kidding. I’m the queen of clumsiness.”

Hyun: “A real gem for not having run off right from the trial run!”

Me: “Oh right, now I get what you mean.”

Hyun: “But it’s good that you’re realistic about your weaknesses.”

Me: “Yeah, haha. Thanks for the support.”

Hyun: “You’re welcome!”

He winked at me before taking a gulp of his beer.

Me: “By the way, we didn’t get to finish our conversation earlier. What year are you in at the university?”

Hyun: “I’m in my last year, like you.”

Me: “Oh right, and do you have an apartment in town?”

Hyun: “No, I’m on campus.”

Me: “Like me!”

Hyun: “Yep, but I’m sure your roommate isn’t as off-the-wall as mine.”

Me: “Believe me, I wish she were just ‘off-the-wall’.”

Hyun: “Oh really? Mine is a student who spends his time scribbling in a notebook. We’ve only said three words to each other since we met. I get the impression he doesn’t want to talk much… I’ve been looking for a way to connect with him, but he never looks up from his notebooks…”

Me: “Maybe he’s shy or just really passionate about what he’s doing.”

Hyun: “Yeah… that’s true.”

Me: “Is he in media and communications, too?”

Hyun: “Guess not since I don’t see him in my classes… But I don’t even know what his major is, since we don’t talk… The only thing I know is that he spends pretty much time getting lost down hallways..”

That reminds me of someone!

Me: “What’s his name?”

Hyun: “Uh…”

Me: “Would it happen to be Morgan by any chance?”

Hyun: “Yes! That’s definitely it. Do you know him?”

Me: “Not really.”

Hyun is his roommate! I have to find a way for him and Alexy to meet! Geez, listening to me, I’m starting to sound like Rosa…

Hyun: “Not really but you know his name?”

Alexy wouldn’t like me to tell everyone that he really ‘fell’ for Morgan… Especially since Hyun might mention it to Morgan…

Me: “He was lost, we talked a couple of seconds.”

Hyun: “Oh right. Nothing that could tell me more about him… I guess it’ll come over time.”

Me: “Yeah, for sure.”

I’m thinking back about my room awaiting me on campus with Yeleen in it… I really have no desire to go there…

Hyun: “Wow, I hadn’t noticed the time! Someone’s waiting for me, I really have to go!”

Faster than lightening Hyun grabbed my empty glass from my hands as well as his and put everything down in the sink.

Hyun: “Sorry!”

He handed me my coat and bag that I had left behind the bar.

Hyun: “The alarm is set! We have two minutes to get out of here!”

I rushed out into the street.

Hyun: “I’m really sorry, it’s a bit abrupt of me. I don’t want to be late. I promised my family that I would be on time for our Skype date. It’s our way of keeping in touch… It was far from my intention to throw you out.”

Me: “Yes, I understand, don’t worry.”

It’s rather cute. It seems really important to him.

Hyun: “Thanks! Have a nice evening! I’ll text you for your next work hours. Clemence will tell me.”

Me: “Very well, thanks.”

He smiled and skipped away.

Brr, it’s cold. I love rainy nights, but only when I’m warm and in bed listening to the raindrops hitting the window. I won’t lose a minute. I’ll run home to my warm sheets.

Geez, it’s cold out… It’s pouring rain! It’s wild how some places I town aren’t lit up like this, and I have to go this way to get back on campus. I think back about the guys that hassled me the first night… This time they won’t let me go, there’s no Nath anywhere around… Why do I always have to imagine the worst-case scenarios… Everything’s going to be fine, in 5 minutes I’m nice and warm under my comforter. Still, I walked fast, despite myself. At the end of the alley, I made out a silhouette that stood out in the darkness. I stopped on the spot. It’s a man’s build. The alley is so narrow we’re going to brush against each other… He could press me against a wall, I wouldn’t be able to escape… And with the pouring rain, even if I scream, no one will hear me! I have to stop imagining the worst! It might just be someone on his way home. Like me. Despite myself, I felt the same anxiety as when the guy had grabbed me by the wrist the first night. My legs started shaking, I’m incapable of being rational. And that silhouette moving towards me… I folded my arms across my chest, lowered my eyes, and picked up the pace. As I get closer to the silhouette, I clench my fists, ready to reach if anything whatsoever were to happen. We were getting closer to each other… I stepped to the side right when we were going to cross paths… My nails were digging into the palm of my hand.

Rayan: “Evening, is everything OK?”

Me: “Oh my gosh!”

I let out a swear word before getting a grip on myself…

Rayan: “Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.”

Me: “No, no, it’s not your fault! Good-afternoon, I mean evening.”

Rayan: “Oh yes I did, I can tell I scared you to death; you’re as white as a sheet.”

Me: “No, no, it’s just me, I wasn’t feeling safe in this alley; and I didn’t recognise you.”

I was doing my best to catch my breath. My heart was beating like crazy.

Rayan: “For sure, I totally believe you. It’s really dark here and it’s pouring. How come you’re coming home alone in the rain?”

Me: “I’m coming home from work. My part-time job…”

Rayan: “Oh, are you working near campus? That’s all to your credit.”

Me: “Well… It’s kind of thanks to you.”

Rayan: “Really?”

Me: “On registration day, you were the one who told me about a job vacancy at the Cosy Bear Café. I hadn’t had the chance to tell you sooner, but thanks. Today was my first day.”

Rayan: “Thanks, but the only person you owe is yourself. You seized the opportunity, and aced it.”

Me: “I confess I’m kind of reassured that you’re the one I ran into.”

Rayan: “True, this alley isn’t the least bit reassuring…”

Me: “I definitely agree.”

Me: “So I’m not going to hang around…”

Rayan: “Yes, of course, I won’t keep you. Be careful.”

Me: “Thank you, sir. Have a nice evening.”

I folded my arms across my chest and took off again right away, at a jog.

Rayan: “Tetrakys?”

He called out at me from far off.

Me: “Yes?”

Rayan: “Are you sure… I mean, are you going to be OK walking home alone? I wouldn’t want for…”

Me: “Oh, yes, th-thanks, I’m the one with too much imagination.”

Rayan: “Right… I’m counting on you. I want to see you in my class on Friday.”

Me: “Of course! See you Friday.”

I ran toward the campus gates.

My shoes are totally soaked. Quick! A hot shower!

I tiptoed in, Yeleen is listening to music, her headphones over her ears, she’s tapping on her smartphone… She didn’t look my way when I walked in. I headed straight for the bathroom to shower and change clothes. Once back in the room, and finally lying in bed, I realised how much my feet and calves hurt. What a day… I didn’t even get a chance to rest or see Rosalya and Alexy. I wanted to pick up a book, but I dozed off before even reaching out my arm to get it…

Part 2 - Rosa comes up with a plan

Woken up by my ringing phone, I reach out blindly to try and pick it up off my dresser. I have a rough time waking up. I end up touching clumsily with my fingers and almost make it fall. I answer without looking.

Rosa: “What are you doing?! You didn’t answer my text yesterday and we didn’t see each other all day. I didn’t think you had class!”

Me: “Rosa? I-I’m sleeping.”

Rosa: “Still! Get up! I’m on my way to meet Alexy”

Me: “O-OK… Where are you?”

Rosa: “We’re going to… Alexyyyyy I’m over here! Gotta go, he’s looking all over for me. We’ll wait for you, OK?”

Me: “Sure, but where are you?”

Beeep!

That Rosa. I wonder where she finds so much energy in the morning. I got up, not without some difficulty, and got dressed fast to go meet up with them. I don’t see them anywhere… they must have gone into town. Well, I hope I’m not wrong about where I’m supposed to meet them.

Rosa: “It’s about time!”

Me: “You hung up before telling me where you were! It took me a while to find you.”

Alexy: “In the park, of course. Doesn’t that bring back memories?”

Me: “True, we spent a lot of time here, back then…”

Rosa: “That’s for sure.”

Me: “Neither of you has class this morning?”

Rosa: “No, but we have our self-help class in early afternoon.”

Me: “Oh right, I’m going to it, too.”

Alexy: “Great, so we can all eat together beforehand.”

Me: “That suits me.”

Rosa: “That leaves us time to find a plan of attack.”

Me: “A plan of attack? For?”

Alexy: “For Morgan, Rosalya won’t let it go.”

Me: “Oh, that reminds me! My co-worker at the café, Hyun, is his roommate!”

Rosa: “What?! Why didn’t you tell me that right away on the phone?!”

Me: “I was sleeping Rosalya…”

Rosa: “So what? Tell us everything! Do they know each other well?”

Me: “Not really… Morgan is the shy type apparently.”

Alexy: “Did you talk to Hyun about me?”

Me: “No. I wouldn’t have dared.”

Alexy: “OK, thanks, I appreciate that. I wouldn’t want it to happen that way.”

Me: “For sure, I understand.”

Rosa: “But still we have to find a way to…”

Me: “Right. But I don’t see how…”

Rosa: “I know!”

Alexy: “I’m expecting the worst…”

Me: “What’s your idea?”

Rosa: “Tetrakys, you can organise a party!”

Me: “A party? Me?”

Alexy: “Yeah, that’s what she said.”

Me: “But, but, but…”

Rosa: “You have no excuse to say no!”

Me: “But I hardly know Hyun. I don’t really see myself inviting him to a mixer.”

Alexy: “You can use your new job as a pretext for a drink.”

Me: “Right, but I don’t see why Morgan would come. He and Hyun practically never talk…”

Rosa: “There’s no way, Tetrakys! So close to our goal, you have to find a solution!”

Me: “I’ll give it some thought..”

Alexy: “Rosalya, that’s all you’ve got on the brain, I swear. Are you bored with Leigh? You sure are interested in my love life.”

Rosalya stopped hopping up and down. Her smile left her face…

Rosa: “No, everything’s fine.”

Alexy: “Are you sure? Did I say something wr…?”

Me: “Rosa? You OK?”

Rosa: “Fine. I assure you everything’s fine with Leigh.”

She picked up her handbag, slipped it over her shoulder and gave us a smile that seemed forced to me.

Rosa: “Come on, let’s go eat.”

Alexy gave me a questioning look. That worried me… Usually Rosalya is really expressive, she confides in us easily.

Me: “What’s going on, Rosa? Are you two still together?”

Rosa: “Of course we’re still together! Leigh and I we’re like Romeo and Juliette or Rapunzel and her chameleon, inseparable! Come on let’s go eat.”

Rosa slipped her arms around our shoulders and dragged us out of the park gate.

As we went by the café, Rosalya stopped dead in her tracks.

Rosa: “How about we sit down here? It’ll bring back good memories!”

Alexy: “I don’t think they serve lunch…”

Me: “Right, and I don’t really want to run into my boss.”

Rosa: “Don’t worry. I’ll go buy us sandwiches and that way we can have a drink at the same time!”

Me: “But Rosa, I’m not really comfortable with the idea of seeing Clemence.”

Rosa: “She can’t make you feel guilty! You’re not working today, you’re not going to stop coming here for drinks seeing as we’re already limited by how few cafés there are in this town!”

With that, she pulled out two chairs and forced me and Alexy to sit down.

Rosa: “Excuse me! Could we get 3 lemonades, please?”

Hyun: “Hello! Yes, of course, I’ll be right there.”

Hyun just stuck his head out of the café, he hasn’t seen me yet.

Rosa: “I’ll be right back! I’m going to get sandwiches.”

No sooner said than done, she was out of sight and headed downtown.

Alexy: “When Rosa comes up with an idea, there’s no stopping her…”

Me: “Yep…”

We hardly had time to make a little small talk and enjoy the sun that was worming our skin before Rosalya was already back.

Rosa: “I ran like crazy!”

Me: “Rosaaaa, do we really have to eat here? I feel like I spend my life here.”

Hyun: “And is that a problem?”

Leave it to me to stick my foot in my mouth. I blushed and shrunk down in my chair.

Me: “Oh Hyun. My friends insisted on coming here to eat… Sorry to add to your workload… Especially at this time of day, there’s already a pretty big crowd.”

Alexy: “My ‘friends? Rosa insisted, you mean?”

Hyun: “No, no problem, it’s the best place to enjoy the sun. You’re right.”

Me: “Thanks Hyun.”

Rosa: “Tetrakys has told us a lot about you! So you’re a university student, too?”

A lot?

Me: “Uh Rosa…”

Hyun: “Oh yeah, really? Well… yes, I’m a student, too.”

Rosa: “We’ve never run into each other until now! It’d be nice to get to know each other better.”

Hyun: “U-uh… Sure.”

He went back inside the café.

Me: “Rosa, what game are you playing?”

Rosa: “You forgot to tell us how cute your coworker was.”

Me: “He most likely is, but he’s my coworker above all.”

Rosa: “A coworker who’s the same age and goes to the same university as you…”

Me: “Well, yes, I don’t see it like that. I’m trying to concentrate on no screwing up anymore in this café. I think I’ve done my share.”

Rosa: “I’m convinced that he has already considered the idea, if you want my opinion.”

Me: “Rosa… I don’t know what you’re getting at, but don’t get me into a tricky situation.”

Rosa: “Come on, you know me! I won’t do anything without your consent.”

Alexy: “Well yes… Or else she’ll do anything to get your consent.”

Rosalya stifled a laugh with her fist. That’s precisely when Hyun chose to come back to our table. He set the bill down on the table, smiling shyly.

Rosa: “By the way, Hyun? That’s your name right, Hyun?”

Hyun: “Uh, yes… that’s right.”

He’s bright red. Rosalya is seriously taking action… And at the same time, I realise that in the face of a beauty like Rosa’s, people remain kind of speechless…

Rosa: “Tetrakys wants to celebrate the start of her new job, want to join us?”

Flat out? Like that? I don’t know if I should be in admiration or scared she’ll go too far. That girl is afraid of nothing. Hyun gave me a look of surprise, and turned back to Rosa.

Hyun: “Yes, of course, sure, I’d love to.”

Rosa: “Great, she’ll keep you posted.”

I can’t believe it, I couldn’t even get a word in edgewise. Rosalya is really incredible.

Hyun: “Great, I’ll look forward to that then… Sorry, I have other costumers to wait on. Have a nice day.”

Hyun walked off, and turned around several times towards our table as if he was thinking about what had just happened.

Me: “Geez Rosa! You sound like my mother the first time she organised a party for my 10^th birthday. All the kids I had never dared talking to, she did the inviting for me. You just made me relieve one of the most shameful events of my childhood.”

Rosa: “No pain, no gain!”

Me: “What about you Alexy, you aren’t saying anything?”

Alexy: “Me? I’ve known for a long time that the woman is uncontrollable.”

Rosa: “The ball’s in your court now Tetrakys. Find a way to invite Morgan to the party.”

Me: “As if it were easy.”

Rosa: “I just managed to invite a total stranger to your place for a party that you are supposed to organise, right? Anything’s possible.”

Me: “But I don’t feel as comfortable with people as you do, Rosa.”

Rosa: “Of course you do. You have it in you. Call on all your charms.”

Rosalya winked at me. I don’t know exactly what she’s implying by ‘all my charms’. But I don’t think Hyun is the kind of guy to let himself be taken advantage of easily.

Alexy: “I confess I never say no to a good party!”

Me: “Thanks for the help!”

Alexy: “Now that you’re back among us, I’m no longer the only one to be subjected to Rosa’s wacky ideas. We’re sharing, sweetheart!”

Rosa: “I thought that’s what you liked most about me.”

Rosalya put on a falsely angry face.

Alexy: “Well yes… Except at times… With you, we have to hold on tight.”

Rosa: “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

A smile rose at the corner of her lips. She glanced at him and all three of us burst out laughing. We kept talking about one thing or another as we finished our sandwiches. Then Rosa put her hand on my shoulder and lowered her tone so only Alexy and I could hear her.

Rosa: “There’s half an hour left before the class starts. The café is practically empty; Hyun must be more available to talk. Go on, we’ll meet up with you in class.”

Me: “What do you mean ‘go on’? What exactly do you want me to do??”

Rosa: “Well, organise your party! I’ve already done the hardest part.”

Me: “What?!”

Alexy: “Don’t worry if you don’t succeed. It’d be nice to meet Morgan, he intrigues me, but not to the extent of forcing my friends to organise parties on fishy pretexts.”

Rosa: “Don’t listen to Alexy! We’re going to throw a great party and have a blast.”

Me: “Oh, you’re a hell of a lot of help, you two!”

Alexy: “Well… At the risk of repeating myself: I never say no to a party-”

Me: “Haha, really thanks a lot, you two.”

Rosa: “Maybe you can take the opportunity to get to know Hyun better?”

With that, they picked up their stuff and let me alone at the table. I went into the café.

Me: “Sorry to bother you… I…”

Hyun: “Oh, don’t worry, you’re not bothering me, I’m almost done. Clemence should be here soon to take over.”

Me: “I get the impression you spend your life here, but you’re a student like me.”

Hyun: “That’s true, I get that feeling too. I need the money so I told Clemence to give me as many shifts as possible.”

Me: “I couldn’t spend so much time here. On top of classes, it’d be enough to drive me crazy.”

Hyun: “For sure, I understand. It’s just a question of getting organised actually. I have a goal, and I’m sticking to it.”

Me: “True.”

Hyun: “I really want to travel in Asia. That’s why I’m working here. One day I’ll treat myself to the trip.”

The expression on his face was one I’d never seen before.

Me: “I totally get that! I’m fascinated by all of Asia – the culture is so different from ours, that makes me want to go.”

Hyun: “Really? Lots of people tend to get stuck on themselves and like their little comforts. And then there’s me, the first chance I get, I’ll grab my backpack and tour the world!”

He said that in a cheerful, almost singsong, voice.

Me: “Oh, it sounds like it really means a lot to you, for sure!”

Hyun: “Is it that obvious?”

Me: “Yep, sure is.”

Hyun: “Sorry, I get carried away.”

Me: “No, no… Don’t change a thing.”

That came out all by itself… But up until now, I had only seen the nice, hardworking Hyun. His laid-back side is… surprising.

Me: “In any case, I hope my friends didn’t cause you any trouble earlier.”

Hyun: “Trouble? Not at all. They seem…”

Me: “Annoying?”

Hyun: “No, I was going to say interesting.”

Me: “Oh!”

Hyun: “Yeah, It sounded like Rosalya invited me for you.”

I felt the red rising in my cheeks and warming my skin.

Me: “No! I was going to do it, but, she… how can I explain.”

Hyun: “Made the first move?”

Me: “Exactly. That’s it.”

Hyun: “But you were planning on it?”

Me: “Yes, of course, I mean, it’s partly thanks to you that I got the job.”

Hyun: “It’s nice of you to say that, but it’s mainly because you didn’t run away after being confronted with Clemence.”

Me: “Ha ha, but it’s because you knew how to show me the bright side of things.”

Hyun: “I’m glad it worked.”

Me: “And so… For this party…”

Hyun: “I’m listening. When do you want to have it?”

Me: “I don’t really know… Are you free anytime?”

Hyun: “Well… I’m free all the time…”

Me: “Hmm… could we do it tonight?”

Hyun: “Whoa! When you organise a party, you get right to business.”

Me: “Might as well take the opportunity as soon as possible.”

Hyun: “You’re right, might as well.”

Me: “So… there’ll be a few of my friends.”

Hyun: “I figured as much, yeah.”

Me: “If you want to invite some people, that could be fun. You know, the more, the merrier.”

Hyun: “Thanks! I don’t know who yet… But I’ll think about it. Where’re you going to have it?”

Um… now, that’s a helluwa good question.

Me: “Uh… I was thinking of the neighbourhood bar.”

Hyun: “They are closed, exceptionally.”

Me: “Oh, really?”

Hyun: “Really. I know ‘cuz Clemence keeps repeating like crazy how there’s no competition this week, so we should grab the chance to get as much customer loyalty as possible.”

Me: “Oh, OK. Darn. That doesn’t leave me with a lot of options… In my dorm room is out of the question; my roommate would most likely call the police or shoot me on the spot.”

Hyun: “That bad?”

Me: “Obviously you haven’t met her yet…”

Me: “In your dorm room?”

Hyun: “Well…”

I invite myself to his place shamelessly. I definitely have things to sort out as far as work relationships go.

Hyun: “I would’ve liked to say yes, but I don’t feel comfortable with the idea considering I haven’t talked to Morgan a single time, that might be a bit much at once.”

Me: “Yeah, you’re right, I totally understand.”

Hyun: “Are you sure you can’t do it in your room?”

Me: “I would’ve liked to avoid a heated argument with Yeleen.”

Hyun: “Yeleen?”

Me: “My notorious roommate.”

Hyun: “Just invite her to the party…”

Me: “Hmm…”

Hyun: “She’s a student like us, I’m sure getting thrown out of her room would get her more irritated than being invited.”

Me: “Well… your theory remains to be proved.”

Hyun: “Try! You never know.”

Me: “I’ll try if you try with Morgan, too.”

Hyun: “Hmm… OK.”

As if I were going to invite Yeleen to a friendly gathering.

Hyun: “At worst, if the party can’t happen, there’s a concert next week. I don’t know if you’re in the loop… Maybe you haven’t heard, since you just arrived in town. I’m talking about the band Crowstorm, pretty well known in the area.”

Me: “Oh, yes, I know.” Geez, is everyone around really hooked on this band or what?

Hyun: “And so, I was wondering. I mean, I don’t know if you…”

Me: “What…?”

Hyun: “You want us to go together?”

Me: “No sorry, I don’t know what I’m doing that night yet…”

Hyun: “No problem, I understand… Maybe we’ll run into each other there anyway.”

Me: “Yeah…”

Hyun: “In any case, keep me posted for the party at your place, OK?”

I nodded, then pulled out my phone to see the time. I still have some time before my class starts!

Me: “So, I’m going to try to find an outfit for tonight.”

Hyun: “Uh… Still, don’t forget to tell your roomie before throwing a party!”

Me: “Haha, for sure, at worst, if she refuses, I’ll hopefully have other chances to wear new clothes.”

Hyun: “Anyway, so see you tonight maybe.”

Me: “That works for me. I’ll keep you posted.”

I headed into town. I don’t have anything cute to wear; I need to find something. I don’t see Leigh in the shop. Maybe it’s his day-off… None of the sales people I know are around… I made a quick tour of the shop… and in no time spotted several outfits I liked for tonight. Hmm… I can’t make up my mind. I chose a cute skirt with a nice black top. Perfect! Now let’s just hope I can make the party happen… After spending the morning around Clemence… I realise how badly I need to let off some steam. When I was at the register paying, I noticed the time. I kind of overdid it… I only have a few minutes left to make it to class! I crossed the courtyard at full speed!

The class started just minutes ago. Miss Paltry watched me as I went to find a seat. Priya ended up waving at me to come and sit next to her. I whispered softly as I took out some paper and a pen.

Me: “Thanks. I ran like crazy but still got here late.”

Priya: “Perfect timing, she was just saying she wouldn’t put up with tardiness.”

I shut up quick and turned to look at Miss Paltry. She didn’t make a comment but her gaze was enough to get me refocused on class right away.

Missy Paltry: “So as I was saying before: Today we’re going to get right into the heart of the matter. There’s no school for tolerance and yet it should set the tempo for our everyday life. To sum things up, this is a class that teaches us to break the silence. Talking can get us out of lots of situations.”

What does she want us to talk about…?

Missy Paltry: “Since this is the first class, I don’t want to put you in an uncomfortable position. I’m going to pick the topic.”

Phew… I didn’t want to suggest a topic aloud like last time.

Missy Paltry: “We’re going to talk about politicians…”

A barely audible wave of protest rose among the students.

Missy Paltry: “Well! You’re adults now! If you aren’t already interested in the topic, it’s high time you were.”

The course is likely to bore us to death…

Missy Paltry: “You didn’t let me finish. The topic is Men in power, can we criticise everything? And in any way we want?”

She had written the topic nice and big on the board at the front of the lecture hall.

Missy Paltry: “That’s the only thing I’m going to write during the course. The rest is done orally.”

I guy I didn’t know stood up and said that obviously we could say anything we wanted to because that’s what makes up our freedom of speech.

Chani: “I agree pretty much… If we didn’t have that freedom, we all would’ve been arrested a long time ago.”

I admire Chani and how she always has a ready answer. She doesn’t think twice about giving her opinion in class.

Missy Paltry: “And do you think that’s the case everywhere? For example, has anyone here ever held their tongue, out of fear of being judged or afraid of retaliation?”

Me: “We can say what we think, so long as we do it with respect.”

Missy Paltry: “Interesting, so in a way, you hold back.”

Me: “No, not really…”

Missy Paltry: “But yes, you specified ‘so long as you do it with respect’.”

Me: “I just think that no matter the criticism, it should be done with respect.”

Priya: “And when the government doesn’t respect us, should we do it back, whatever the circumstances?”

Priya surprised me. She said that without standing up, and staring at the table.

Me: “Well I don’t know, I admit that I’ve never been confronted with the question, Priya…”

Priya: “It’s not your fault Tetrakys, rest assured. But that’s exactly the problem…”

Priya sneaked a look at me; she was acting really serious.

Priya: “No one knows what you’re talking about.”

I was caught off guard by Priya who lightly banged her fist on the table as she looked at Miss Paltry.

Missy Paltry: “Miss? Please, say what you think. This class is meant for that. Speak up if you disagree.”

Priya’s staring at the table. Her knuckles are white from tightening her fist so much… I whispered softly.

Me: “Priya… Are you OK…?”

Priya: “Ma’am, your question is stupid!”

Everyone turned around to look at Priya, and Miss Paltry’s jaw practically dropped.

Missy Paltry: “Excuse me?”

Priya: “I’m sure the majority of the people here don’t understand the crux of the issue. You’re talking as if it were a light topic.”

Next to Priya I’ve shrunk farther and farther down in my seat…

Missy Paltry: “Not at all, it’s a real issue. I’m raising it seri…”

Priya: “If you criticise your president right here and now, what’s going to happen?”

No one dares answer.

Priya: “I’ll tell you what: Nothing because you’re protected, nothing because you’re not in a Tarantino movie. Nothing because people fought for the right to speak their minds freely and now you’re benefitting from their courage. But it isn’t a luxury everyone gets.”

All of a sudden, Priya stood up.

Priya: “My parents and I fled our native country our whole life, pursued by a government that wanted to hush up an incriminating story.”

What? I thought Priya and her parents had just moved because of her parent’s jobs…

Priya: “Now, that’s behind us and I’m free to talk about it. But you have the proof that these are things that don’t just happen to others, or in the movies. And I’m here today to testify that.”

Priya voice was loud and clear; I was the only one to see her hand shaking on the tabletop in front of us…

Priya: “Owning up to your opinion has a price in my country. And I know how lucky we are here.”

Yeleen: “What happened?”

I gave Yeleen a nasty look. But her eyes were set on Priya. In fact, everyone had stopped talking and was watching Priya. Yeleen just asked the question that was burning the lips of everyone in the class…

Priya: “I’m not going to go into details. My parents were fighting for women’s rights in India and for recognising the violence suffered by the country’s women. They found a video that could have brought down a high-placed Parliament member.”

Her hand is shaking more and more…

Priya: “Except that the video was never released. Threatened, my family and I had to hide for several years. The whole ordeal has only been over for a year.”

I wasn’t aware of any of that… I know very little about her in the end… I’ve hung out with her since high school… And not until now did I learn all this. All these years, she kept quiet…

Priya: “To get back to the topic, freedom of speech is crucial and must be protected but don’t take it for granted.”

With that Priya sat back down amidst the heavy silence that reigned. All the students’ eyes were on Priya. Miss Paltry remained speechless for a few seconds before speaking again.

Missy Paltry: “T-thanks for sharing your experience with us, young lady.”

Priya didn’t say a thing.

Missy Paltry: “It was very… Interesting, intense as well. Please feel free to come see me at the end of class if you want to talk more about it in peace and quiet. That’s why I set up this class. You’re going to learn more about yourself, and others. You’re going to do some soul-searching, about yourself and others. This may also bring back painful memories… You’re each free to decide whether you share or not. Thanks again young lady.”

I turned to face Priya… Her lower lip was shaking…

Missy Paltry: “Let’s go on. Do you have any facts, or current examples that might illustrate the topic?”

Several hands went up; the classroom hubbub slowly resumed its initial level… Priya was no longer shaking… But she was lost in thought, still staring into space. I didn’t say a thing, but I lay my hand on Priya’s forearm, to show my support… She looked up at me, half a second, surprised by my move. And answered me with a joyless smile.

I understood she no longer wanted to talk about it… All I could do was grant her my silent presence. It seemed to make her feel good. She laid her still shaking hand on mine, just under the table. And we went on listening to the lecture like that. The bell ending the class finally rang. We got up without saying a word. She gave me a smile and left the lecture hall. Knowing Priya, she’ll talk about it herself when she needs to. I started following the crowd of students leaving the class.

Missy Paltry: “Wait before going out! Don’t forget to leave a paper with a topic you’d like to discuss during the next class.”

That had totally slipped my mind.

Missy Paltry: “Remember, the suggestions are anonymous, and I’ll choose the next topic from them.”

I have no idea… I am going to suggest ‘Harry Potter fans need a follow-up’. A little humour never hurt anyone! Who knows maybe we’ll do a real class topic on it; it’s sure to be on a lighter note than today’s topic… I rushed to put my paper in Miss Paltry’s box. I saw Alexy and Rosa head out. I ran out the classroom door to catch up with them. This student lounge is really nice. I should spend more time here.

Rosa: “That class was really… I didn’t realise Priya had been through that… I feel…”

Alexy: “Useless? Personally, I feel like a moron for not having wondered about it before… With her lifestyle, and all the moving, and we didn’t even ask each other about Priya’s life…”

I just walked into the lounge but they haven’t noticed me yet.

Me: “You aren’t the only ones… The class we just had got me all upset… I feel bad knowing that Priya was in that situation for so long without being able to talk to her friends about it… It must’ve been horrible…”

Rosa: “Don’t worry, Priya’s strong. Did you hear how articulate she was in class just now? All that’s behind her.”

Me: “Yeah…”

Rosa didn’t see the upset Priya who sat back down next to me after her monologue. I had never seen her so vulnerable…

Alexy: “She know we’ll always be there for her. She’ll turn to us if she needs to.”

Me: “Right… I hope so…”

Alexy: “You, for that matter, were almost late to class!”

Rosa: “Does that happen to mean a party is in the works with Hyun and Morgan?”

Me: “It’s not a done deal… We’re going to have to organise the party in my dorm room, and I have to see if it’s possible with Yeleen…”

Rosa: “Oh, I would’ve offered my place, but now isn’t a good time… Leigh’s relatives are visiting.”

Me: “Is Lysander coming?”

Rosa: “No, no, just distant cousins.”

Me: “Bummer, it would’ve been nice to see him again.”

Rosa: “He’s really busy; I doubt he’ll show up around here anytime soon.”

Meanwhile, I still don’t have an alternative location for the party.

Alexy: “As for me, if Morgan comes… I’d like it to be in a more neutral setting than my room…”

Rosa: “Right. We wouldn’t want to feel like a third wheel, Alexy.”

Alexy: “No, but you know what I mean, Tetrakys? I’d like for it not to seem like a trap.”

Me: “Sure, I understand Alexy, don’t worry. I’ll talk to Yeleen and keep you posted… By the way Rosa, I didn’t answer your text…”

Alexy: “I’m out of here. I have a class starting soon.”

Alexy took his bag and started rummaging through his pockets frantically.

Alexy: “Noooo!”

Me: “What’s wrong?”

Alexy: “I think I left my phone in the park.”

Me: “What?”

Alexy: “I don’t remember using it in class earlier… Armin’s going to kill me. It was0a birthday present.”

Rosa: “Personally, I have class right now. I won’t have time to go look for it… Sorry, Alexy!”

They both turned to face me. I have a spare hour before next class…

Me: “I’ll go look for you, Alexy.”

Alexy: “Oh thanks Tetrakys! You will have my eternal gratitude if you find it!”

Me: “I sure hope so. That’s the bare minimum.”

Alexy: “I’m out of here. I can’t afford to be late!”

Alexy hugged and kissed me on the cheek before clearing out of the student lounge, with Rosa on his heels.

I went back to the Quad. Here I go, now all I have to do is take a walk to the park. Just to make sure I look around in case I found it miraculously in this area. No… It doesn’t seem to be here. I reached the area of the park around the bench where we were sitting earlier today. His phone doesn’t seem to be here…! Maybe he dropped it when he was walking. Oh darn, might as well have a look around to try to find it.

I found it on the floor in the alley. Yes, at last! I’m going to make someone happy!

Chani: “Hi Tetrakys! Are you going to work?”

Me: “No, I was looking for Alexy’s phone. He’s lucky I found it before someone else.”

Chani: “Really lucky for sure. Hey the self-help class was kind of… interesting earlier, wasn’t it?”

Me: “Sure was… you can say that again.”

Chani: “Did you know Priya had been through all that?”

Me: “No… And in a way, I’m mad at myself for not having questioned her about it before…”

Chani: “We all have guilty secrets or things from the past that are hard to talk about.”

Me: “Sure…”

Chani: “So where are you going? Back to campus?”

Me: “Yes.”

Chani: “Well then, I’ll walk with you.”

Me: “Cool!”

Chani stopped walking. She turned to face me.

Chani: “Have you heard of Crowstorm?”

Here we go again…

Me: “Yeah. Do you listen to that kind of band, Chani?”

Chani: “Well… It’s not Dimmu Borgir, but it’s still a band that blows you away. I like ‘em.”

Me: “That doesn’t surprise coming from Castiel… It’s definitely his style to play music that ‘blows you away’ like you said.”

Chani: “Do you know Castiel?!”

Me: “Um… it’s a long story.”

Chani: “I see… So maybe you could introduce him to me?”

Me: “Am I dreaming or is that name all anyone can talk about?”

Chani: “I just like people who have a sense of taste in clothes. I love the way he dresses.”

Me: “No, seriously, he and I haven’t talked in a really long time. So I’m not even sure he’ll recognise my face.”

That being said, he’d better recognise me… I’ll take it badly if he doesn’t.

Chani: “How about going to the concert together?”

Me: “Thanks, but may be going with someone else.”

Chani: “No problem! So I don’t know if I’m going to go anyway…”

Me: “Sorry…”

Chani: “No, don’t worry. I hope we’ll get another chance.”

Me: “You can count on me Chani!”

I kind of feel bad… I hope I didn’t hurt Chani’s feelings too much…

Chani: “I’m going to the library before the medieval and ancient art class later… I can’t wait! See you later, huh?”

Me: “Yikes, I forgot we had that class this afternoon. I’m going to try to stay awake.”

Chani: “It’s one of the most fascinating classes. You’re really missing something.”

Me: “Um… I wouldn’t have said that…”

Chani: “Try to get interested in it at least, you’ll see.”

Me: “Well, yeah… I’m not promising anything.”

Chani: “Meet you in the auditorium. See ya later!”

Me: “See ya later, Chani!”

I walked across the Quad to reach the dormitories.

Nath: “You, here?”

Me: “I’m really the one who should be surprised to see you here!”

Nath: “I enrolled at the university like you, and sometimes I actually come…”

Me: “Except this isn’t the university… just the dormitories. And… as far as I know this hall only goes to the girls’ rooms.”

He ran his left hand through his hair, grinning. Then he started fiddling with one of his ear-piercings.

Nath: “Well, you’re the one I was coming to see. Obviously.”

Me: “Well, here I am. What were you coming to tell me?”

Nath: “To see how you were doing. I’m just making sure you’re still alive.”

Me: “How nice of you. As you can see, I’m surviving, between my job and days of classes. A routine about as basic as they come.”

Nath: “If you wanna spice up your routine, you know where to find me, Tetrakys. I’d be thrilled to do you the favour.”

Me: “Hmm, I manage the dose of spice in my life just fine without you adding your grain of salt.”

Nath: “Too bad. You’re missing out on something!”

Me: “More like, YOU are missing out on something.”

Nath: “That’s quite possible.”

Me: “So anyway, I seriously never see you over on the university side of campus… Don’t you go to class at all? Why did you enrol?”

Nath: “It’s the only way I figured out to get the money my parents had saved up for me to ‘study’. I use it to enjoy life a little more.”

Me: “After all, do what matters to you. I just hope you won’t regret your choices.”

Nath: “Oh, what a serious tone of voice all of a sudden. Don’t worry about me dear Tetrakys. I’m very aware of the choices I make.”

Me: “Let’s hope so.”

Nath: “You’re cute when you worry about me, above all never stop.”

I frowned and didn’t say another word on the topic. Not worth playing his little game.

A few seconds went by before I figured out how to bounce back.

Me: “Other than that, what are you up to next week?”

It’s the first topic that came to mind.

Nath: “Next week? Are you inviting me to the little redheaded rocker’s concert or am I dreaming?”

I said that, just because, without thinking.

Nath: “Everyone in town will be there. There’s never a good reason to miss a promising night-out. Even if it’s Castiel…”

Me: “Have you been out of touch since high school?”

Nath: “As if he and I had ever been close…”

Me: “True, it was always a little heated between you two, but we all had some good times together, all in all.”

Nath: “I get the impression you and I didn’t live through the same years.”

Me: “You’re exaggerating.”

Nath: “No, not really, high school wasn’t all fun and games for me…”

I know it was never easy for him… Everyone knew it… But I don’t remember him bringing up what happened so easily. He looked away.

Me: “No, I wasn’t especially thinking about the concert, besides I still don’t know exactly who I’m going with…” I’d rather wait and see what Priya or Rosa have planned…

Nath: “OK. It’s a deal. Usually when there’s a crowd I’m always around. So there’s a good chance you’ll run into me there.”

Me: “Great. OK, so see you next Friday then.”

Nath: “Who knows, maybe we’ll run into each other before then. You’re likely to see me go down these halls from time to time. Maybe one of these days it’ll be coming out of your room.”

Me: “Stop being so sure of yourself.”

Nath: “It’s just a way of getting an answer to my question without asking it.”

Me: “With that behaviour, the answer is no. So there. Are things clear now?”

Nath: “Very clear. But nothing ventured nothing gained.”

Nath: “Your cheeks are on fire, Tetrakys, are you sure you’re OK?”

I can’t believe he’s so haughty.

Me: “I’ll leave you to your questionable activities in this hallway… I have things to figure out.”

Nath: “Fine… Have a nice day!”

With that, he got into the elevator as he pulled out his phone. And winked at me before the elevator doors closed. Nathaniel… Things have really changed.

I still have time before my class this afternoon. I’m going to take the opportunity to see if Yeleen is around. I’m not hoping for much on her behalf… But you never know.

The room is empty. She isn’t here. It goes without saying that we don’t have each other’s phone numbers. She and I are a far cry from that stage. Whew… I’m going to take a little break. I’ve been running around non-stop since this morning. I put my bag down, took off my shoes and lay down on my bed. I picked up my phone and connected to YouTube… I feel like seeing if I can find stuff by Crowstorm… Much to my surprise, there are two videos with several thousands of views already. They’ve really reached a certain level of fame… I clicked, too excited to wait for the concert. I really want to see what Castiel looks like now. It started with a few piano notes… I wasn’t expecting that. Then guitar. And finally Castiel’s voice… That’s definitely him singing. The music is… awesome! Already back in high school what he was doing with Lysander was excellent… But this… He really has what it takes. I watched the whole video; Castiel doesn’t appear anywhere in it. There are only actors. I tried another video. This time, the band members are all in it… But the band is playing inside an abandoned house, in the shadows. Seems like they do everything they can to stay mysterious. You can hardly make them out. The last note ends on a close-up of Castiel’s mouth against the mike… I definitely saw a strand of red hair but that’s it!

I was about to search the web for more info about the band when I got a text from Priya. “Hey Tetrakys, do you have class now? Do you want to join me in the break room? I need to talk a bit…” I guess after what happened in class earlier, Priya is kind of down in the dumps… I answered right away: “Yes, still have a little time. On my way!” I’ll never have time to see Yeleen before tonight. I’m going to have to cancel it I think…

Right when I was about to leave the dormitory, the door jammed and hit me in the nose.

Me: “Ouch!”

Melody: “Sorry! I didn’t see you. I was coming in at the same time!”

As I massaged my face, I looked at Melody who was picking up the papers that had flown when we collided.

Melody: “Seriously, how clumsy can I get. I’m really sorry. Are you OK? Did you hurt yourself?”

Me: “It’s nothing. Don’t worry. Stuff like that happens.”

Melody: “Right…”

Melody’s eyes filled up with tears…

Me: “Melo? Is everything OK…?”

Melody: “I… I don’t know. This year, I have too much to do, it must be making me feel all mixed up.”

I can imagine… with studying, working as an assistant and all the rest… It must not be easy.

Me: “You’re making too big of a deal.”

Melody: “You think so? Yeah, that’s it. I must be putting too much pressure on myself…”

Me: “Want to talk about it?”

Melody: “That’s sweet, but no thanks… there’s not much to say. I have a lot of things on my plate, that’s all…”

Me: “You should really put things into perspective… I don’t know, go out, do something. It’s just the start of the year. You’re gonna have a meltdown.”

I picked up the last few of her papers that were still on the floor. She sniffled noisily.

Melody: “You’re right… For that matter, I heard Rosa say she was going to make some food for a party you apparently have tonight…”

Me: “Yeah, that’s right…”

Melody: “Do you think that…? I need to take my mind off things.”

I feel bad about the shape she’s in… I can’t refuse… We’re going to be crammed inside my little room.

Me: “But we’re not even sure it’s going to happen, Melody.”

Melody: “Oh… I see.”

Me: “No, I’m not saying that because of you, I swear, for the time being I still don’t have my roommate’s agreement. It’s supposed to take place in my dorm room… Listen, give me your phone number, and I’ll let you know the time and location.”

Melody: “Oh thanks!”

She recited her number and I put it in my cellphone.

Melody: “Thanks, so I’ll wait for a text from you.”

Me: “For sure.”

Melody: “Anyway, I’ll let you be on your way, and sorry again. See you tonight!”

Me: “Right, see you tonight.”

One more person. If things keep going like this, the party is going to end up with the whole darn university.

I joined Priya in the break room.

Priya: ”Thanks, it’s nice of you to have come…”

Me: “It’s only normal. I wanted to text you after the class earlier this afternoon… But I didn’t dare.”

Priya: ”You could’ve… I’m sorry if I was a bit disconcerting…”

Me: “Oh, no, you don’t have to justify yourself… If I had known…”

Priya: ”If you had known, what would you have done? Believe me, the best thing to do was to keep it to myself, to protect my family.”

Me: “I can’t believe how you had to live in fear for so long… That must’ve been awful.”

Priya: ”To tell the truth, the worst happened when I was really young. I didn’t realise until later how serious things were. That’s also what drove me to study law.”

Me: “I understand better now…”

Priya: ”There’s so much injustice, ad so many corrupt countries, I really want to focus on international law.”

Me: “You’re really articulate on the topic, I’m sure that’ll suit you.”

Priya: ”Well, anyway… I was kind of withdrawn after class… So, I wanted to apologise.”

Me: “No really, there’s no need, I totally understand.”

Priya: ”In any case, I’m not sure I’ll be able to attend Miss Paltry’s class again after having behaved that way.”

Me: “Don’t be so sure, she really seemed to appreciate your participation.”

Priya: ”You think so?”

Me: “Yes, really. She said that this type of class was intended to make us think. You brought us back to reality, Priya. I’m sure that’s exactly what she was trying to trigger.”

Priya: ”Definitely, that seems to be her type… Thanks, having talked to you has cheered me up. I got the impression I went too far…”

Me: “No! Not at all. You were yourself and that’s the best thing to do.”

I smiled back at her. She bit her lip as if she were thinking.

Priya: ”Hmm…”

Me: “What?”

Priya: ”A little night out would do me good… I don’t know if you remember, but Castiel’s band is giving a concert next week. You and I already talked about it.”

Me: “Right, I get the feeling the whole world is going to it.”

Priya: ”Given their fame it could be true!”

Me: “Nothing surprises me anymore.”

Priya: ”Have you made plans to go to it with someone or would you agree to us going together?”

Me: “I’ve already made plans to go to it with Rosa… But we could meet up there?”

Priya: ”I’d love to. I have other friends who should be going anyway, so chances are we’ll run into each other.”

Me: “Cool!”

I looked at the time on my phone.

Me: “I’m going to have to go to class. Want to hook up later?”

Priya: ”It’s a deal. Have a nice afternoon.”

I smiled at Priya, and headed for the exit.

On my way to the auditorium, I felt my phone buzz in my pocket. It’s Rosa! “Tell me you found Alexy’s phone? He is on the brink!” I answered right back: “Yep, found it in the street! He got lucky. I’ll give it back afterwards, right now I have class.” “No need, you can give it to him tonight, don’t worry. He’ll be very grateful!” The party! Gosh, nothing’s ready for the time being. If I don’t manage to see Yeleen now, I’m likely to make everyone come for nothing. I didn’t answer and I scanned the hallway to see if I couldn’t find Yeleen before going into class. My cellphone buzzed again. A message from Hyun this time! “Morgan said yes for tonight! It was a good idea to push me into inviting him! He actually seems really nice. Thanks. Can you give me your room number on campus? And what time should we come?” Yikes, I’m a real pro at organising! I invite everyone before even having a place to throw the party. There’s Yeleen! She’s going into the auditorium. I’ll never manage to talk to her before class starts! Everyone is seated, the auditorium is already full and the teacher is getting settled in. A few seats are free next to Chani. I went to put my stuff down next to her. The class is going to last at least two hours… And Yeleen is on the first row… I consider sending a message to everyone to tell them it’s postponed.

Chani: “Are you OK Tetrakys? You look worried?”

Me: “Fine, fine… (I said that without taking my eyes off Yeleen at the front of the class.”

Argh, it’s definitely screwed. I’m going to send a message to Rosa… As I took my phone out inconspicuously under the table, I saw that I already had another message from her: “Fixing some nibbles to eat at the party tonight! Don’t bother with that. You just need to go to the store to pick up some drinks! Xoxo, see you later, can’t wait!” Ahhh, honestly, the girl is faster than lightning!

Chani: “Uh, Tetrakys…”

Me: “Hold on, I’ll be with you in a sec, I just need to answer Rosa.”

I started to answer her quick: “Rosa, it’s not gonna be possible for th…” I got interrupted in my rush by an unpleasant clicking. A little pudgy hand was tapping its nails on my desk…

Mr Lebarde: “I know we are at the university… And that my class isn’t one of the most… popular. However, if I don’t have your attention, Miss, I require at least your respect.”

I felt my cheeks climb in temperature immediately. Mr. Lebarde had gone to the trouble of walking all the way up to my desk to tell me that. The whole auditorium was watching me.

Me: “Um, I-I uh… ”

Mr Lebarde: “As I said during my first course, I’m not very concerned about what you do, but I do not tol-er-ate cellphones.”

Obviously, I must have missed the part of the class that dealt with that issue…

Me: “I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean to disturb…”

Mr Lebarde: “The harm is done, Miss… May I, as of now, count on your mental presence in my class?”

Me: “Y-yes, Sir.”

He seems much more impressive like that then when he speaks in a trancelike voice about medieval and ancient art. I put my phone into my bag immediately and laid my hand on my desk. I feel like I just got scolded like a little girl. Mr. Lebarde went down the auditorium steps slowly, as all eyes followed him attentively. He stood in front of the board, and took a deep breath.

Mr. Lebarde: “Now. As I was saying… Celtic art in the 5^th century is a major extension of the period…”

He resumed his class as if nothing had happened. I wonder how he managed to see me. I’m seated on the other side of the auditorium. Because of that, I don’t dare take my phone back out. I’m going to have to wait until the end of the class. The class moved on without any other interruptions, I guess mine was enough to calm the whole class down. The two hours seemed to last forever… I was thinking of Rosa making tons of little appetisers for tonight. I really hope Yeleen is going to say yes. What am I thinking… Yeleen? Saying yes to me organising a party in our room?! The sunlight is fading outside… The end of the afternoon is drawing near. The end of the two-hour class finally rang. I stood up right away as I saw Yeleen leave. I have to catch up with her!

Chani: “Well, well, you sure got chewed out by Mr. Lebarde! I didn’t think he was the type to do that. I didn’t dare console you while we were still in the auditorium. I didn’t want him to go after you again.”

Chani followed me as we came out of class, but I have to catch up with Yeleen on the double.

Me: “Yeah, I’m sorry Chani, I really have to run!”

Chani: “OK, no prob! We’ll talk about Cistercian art some other time, then? I really wanted your point of view about it.”

Me: “Sorry Chani, Cisterthing is not really my thing... And I really have to run!”

Chani: “I know, I am well aware that is far from being your favourite course. I just said that to tease you. Run, you are in a hurry!”

Me: “Thanks Chani!”

I don’t see Yeleen in the hall anymore. She must have left.

I spotted her in the dorm in front of the door of our room.

Me: “There she is!”

Yeleen: “Are you talking about me?”

Me: “Yes, I mean, you’re here.”

Yeleen: “I’m going to bed… What’s up?”

Me: “You’re going to bed?”

Yeleen: “Yes… Got a problem with that?”

Me: “Do you have another place to sleep?”

Yeleen: “What the…? Am I dreaming or are you throwing me out of my own room?!”

Me: “No! Really I’m sorry… It’s just that I had planned to have a little party, and I see you’re tired so I…”

Yeleen: “A party? In the room?”

Me: “Yes… The usual bars are closed… This was the only place that seemed feasible… Right, listen, just drop it. I don’t know what made me think it would’ve been possible, I’ll call it off.”

I walked towards the door of the room, digging in my pocket to pull out my phone. I don’t know why I’m forcing myself to have the party tonight at all costs. I should have guessed that with Yeleen it wasn’t conceivable.

Yeleen: “Will your gothic girlfriend be coming?”

I turned to face Yeleen who was looking at me, her arms folded across her chest.

Me: “Uh… No, she wasn’t part of the plan, why?”

Yeleen: “So, have your party. I don’t mind.”

I must have misheard.

Me: “What?”

Yeleen: “What time does it start?”

Me: “W-well, I haven’t set the time yet… I guess around 9 pm…”

Yeleen: “So are there a lot of people coming?”

Me: “There’ll be five of us…”

Yeleen: “OK… Are they art history students? Do I know them?”

Me: “No… I mean, I don’t think you know them... They’re students but not in our major.”

Yeleen: “Hmm… OK, but I’m warning you, I’m not cleaning up, or doing the shopping!”

Me: “O-OK. Thanks Yeleen.”

I guess that means she’s going to stay for the party, too…

Yeleen: “Don’t mention it. You’ll owe me one.”

Me: “Uh…”

Yeleen: “Try not to forget it.”

Why does she want to be part of the party so badly all of a sudden? I stood there with a blank look, my jaw hanging wide open in front of her. Tonight with her… I’m not sure this is a good idea…

Yeleen: “What are you doing? Aren’t you going to need to go buy what you need for tonight?”

Me: “Mind me telling me why you want to be at the party so badly…”

Yeleen: “I don’t want to be there so badly, you’re the one forcing me to be there.”

Should’ve guessed.

Me: “I’m not forcing you to do anything at all, if it’s not possible, I’ll call off the party. It’s not a problem.”

Yeleen: “So if I got it straight, you don’t want me to be there.”

Me: “That doesn’t seem all that shocking to me. You and I have never been best buddies before.”

Yeleen: “That’s the least you can say.”

Me: “Listen, I don’t really get what you plan on…”

Yeleen: “You won’t be the only one at the party. I could make conversation with other people. In hopes that they aren’t as narrow-minded as you are.”

Rosa: “Hi!”

Me: “Rosa?”

Rosa: “You haven’t been answering my texts. I was starting to worry.”

Me: “It’s just that…”

Rosa: “Hi, you must be Yeleen. I’m Rosalya, an old friend of Tetrakys’. It’s nice of you to agree to the party, we had no other solution…”

Rosa is too nice… I looked at her, my eyes wide.

Yeleen: “To tell the truth, we were just talking about it and…”

Rosa: “You’ll join us, obviously, won’t you, Yeleen? No way we’re kicking you out of your own room.”

I held back a little scream of protest. What in the world is she up to?! Despite her knowing how things are between the two of us!

Yeleen: “Well… yes, I’ll be there.”

OK, great. I looked at Rosa questioningly, but she kept on like nothing had ever happened.

Rosa: “OK, I’ll go get Alexy, I’m just going to put the hot appetizers in the room. And we can meet back here at… 9 pm. Sounds good?”

Yeleen: “Sounds good to me! I’m going to get ready. See you later.”

With that, Yeleen did an about-face and went into the room. I ended up alone with Rosa in the hallway.

Me: “What got into you?”

Rosa: “I’m sorry, I panicked! I got the impression she was going to say no, so I played it sassy.”

Me: “Geez, Rosa…”

Rosa: “Maybe you’re judging her a little fast. She seemed nice just now.”

Me: “Am I dreaming or don’t you remember the first day I arrived on campus? You and I both saw her hassling Chani. You know what she’s worth.”

Rosa: “Hmm… Maybe we got there at the wrong time.”

Me: “You’re being too nice in this particular case.”

Rosa: “An old Chinese proverb says you have to stay close to your friends, and even closer to your enemies. At least, it’ll let you find more about her.”

Me: “That’s not a Chinese proverb! It comes from the movie The Godfather!”

Rosa: “Besides you invited Melody without telling me! I ran into her earlier, she told me she was bringing some fruit and quinoa salad. Did you tell her we were having a vegan party or what?”

Me: “Geez, Melody, I’d totally forgotten about that!”

Rosa: “Don’t worry, I’ll get in touch with her and tell her the time.”

Me: “That means there won’t be 5 or 6 of us, but instead 7 of us in my room! We’ll never fit. And on top of that, with Yeleen, I sense the atmosphere’s going to be special.”

Rosa: “Come on, relax, we’ll be there. Everything’s going to be fine, even if she’s there.”

Me: “Seriously you don’t know Yeleen and her devastating talent for wreaking havoc. Besides your room isn’t as small.”

Rosa: “You’re hardly exaggerating.”

Me: “No, seriously, I’m not exaggerating.”

Rosa: “Stop moaning. We’re throwing a party and you have alcohol to buy! So, go!”

I folded my arms across my chest and put on a grumpy face. Rosa wrapped her arms around me and whispered in my ear

Rosa: “I’d like to remind you that Hyun will be there tonight. The party may be more important than you think.”

Me: “I like Hyun, but he’s my co-worker. You’re imagining things.”

Rosa: “Yeah, right! We’ll see tonight when you’re not so inhibited dear!”

Me: “You’re losing it, Rosa.”

Rosa: “I’m going to put the appetisers in your room! 9pm: be on time!”

I dragged my feet down the hall to the elevator…

Rosa: “Hey! By the way!”

Me: “Wow, you’re faster than lightening, I thought you were putting the appetisers in my room!”

Rosa: “Done! I ran down the stairs. I wanted to make sure you were headed to the store and not standing us up.”

Me: “I wouldn’t want to run against you in a sprint.”

Rosa: “No, but especially, I forgot to get Alexy’s phone back. He won’t think it’s really his until he’s seen it with his own eyes.”

I took Alexy’s phone out of my bag and handed it to Rosa.

Me: “Here, you can reassure him.”

Rosa: “In fact I think it’s just an excuse, he’s more stressed out about tonight than he wants to admit.”

Me: “About Morgan?”

Rosa: “Yeah, he isn’t even sure he’s coming for the time being…”

Me: “I forgot to tell you, but yes! Hyun told me Morgan would come!”

Rosa: “Really? Excellent! Well, yes, about Morgan! I think the guy really caught his eyes… It’s love at first sight.”

Alexy is pretty comfortable when it comes to this kind of thing… Maybe you’re right and it’s more important than it looks.

Me: “I hope it’s going to be OK for him tonight. Tell him to relax.”

Rosa: “I will, for sure. Well, I’m going to meet up with Alexy and find out what Leigh’s up to, this time let’s meet back up at 9pm without fail.”

Me: “OK, I’m going to do the shopping.”

Rosa: “See you later!”

Rosa headed through the campus gate. I hardly feel like spending an evening with Yeleen when I was supposed to spend it with my best buddies… It annoys me to think that she dared to invite herself so shamelessly. But Rosa is going to so much trouble to get us all together… I get the impression she wants to relieve her high school years… I can’t blow her off.

Part 3 – The party

I am going to hurry to the store. I crossed town, walking fast. Just when I arrived in front of the store, my phone rang. Hyun! I totally forgot to answer him.

Me: “Hello!”

Hyun: “Hi… Uh, is it still on for tonight?”

Me: “I’m really sorry, Hyun, I’ve been running around like crazy and I haven’t had time to answer.”

Hyun: “No problem, don’t worry.”

Me: “Tonight, the party’s at 9, on campus, my room number is 719.”

Hyun: “Great! Do you have everything you need? Need help for anything else?”

Me: “No, thanks a lot. I’m taking care of everything, see you later.”

Hyun: “Later. And… I’m glad the party isn’t cancelled. Beep-beep!”

It cut off… OK, time’s flying, I’m going to end up managing to be late on my own party in my own room. I walked through the store door and headed to the alcohol aisle. What should I get… Hmm, a little tequila, salt and lemons. That should be pretty good. Everything is next to the register, you’d think that tequila slammer parties are popular around here. I went up to the register and smiled at the cashier as I put my items down.

Me: “Evening!”

Cashier: “Your I.D., please.”

He doesn’t seem very accommodating.

Me: “I’m 23. I’m way over the legal drinking age.”

Cashier: “Your I.D. or I won’t sell it.”

Come on, I don’t think I look like a child! Slightly offended, I rummaged through my bag noisily. I always put my I.D. in the little inside pocket with my earbuds and my datebook. There’s nothing there anymore! I always have my billfold and my notebooks, but part of my stuff is lost.

Me: “I’m sorry I lost my I.D., but I’m really 23.”

Cashier: “Always the same excuses! And afterwards, I end up with the parents knocking on my door.”

Me: “I swear, I’m not lying, Sir. I’m old enough to…”

Cashier: “I can’t do a thing for you, go get some soft drinks and lemonade or I’ll call the police.”

Me: “What?! But…” He isn’t going to call the police for so little! “I didn’t do anything wrong. I just want to buy what I need! Why do you want to call the police?” I don’t like this situation at all…

Cashier: “It’s always my fault. Well, now, that’s over! I’m taking action. You’re the one buying, you’re the one with problems!”

Me: “He said that in a crabby voice, banging his big fist on the edge of the checkout counter.”

I leaped backwards, frightened by his gesture. He seems especially wound-up. He picked up the phone next to him and started dialling the number for the police.

Me: “I already told you I’m 23, you’re going to make them come for nothing!”

Rayan: “Tetrakys? Is everything OK?”

Me: “Mr. Zaidi?”

Cashier: “Who are you?”

Rayan: “I think what you meant to say in fact is ‘Hello, how can I help you?’, right?”

That cashier seemed caught off guard by Mr. Zaidi’s tone.

Me: “As far as I understand the issue is about buying alcohol. You deserve credit for paying attention to the age of your costumers.”

Cashier: “Yeah, if I’m not careful, I’m the one who gets blamed and there’s no way that’s happening again for…”

The cashier started getting worked up again…

Rayan: “I totally understand. Don’t worry, the young woman is going to give me the money, and we’re going to act as if I were buying alcohol. That way, there shouldn’t be a problem, right?”

Mr. Zaidi had taken what I was holding, and placed my items on the counter. The cashier finally let go of the phone and started scanning the items. I realised that I was short-winded. The cashier’s reaction scared me.

Cashier: “That’ll be $45.”

I pulled out my billfold. I gave the money to Mr. Zaidi.

Rayan: “Here you go.”

Cashier: “Hmm… Thanks.”

Rayan: “Don’t mention it. Have a nice evening.”

Mr. Zaidi picked up the bottles and the rest before heading straight for the exit.

Rayan: “Here.”

He gave me everything I had bought.

Rayan: “In hopes that no one sees me giving alcohol to one of my students, that could definitely be misinterpreted.”

Me: “Thanks a lot. I don’t know what got into him, in two seconds the situation changed dramatically, I…”

Rayan: “Don’t worry, he’s pretty wound up, people around here know it. You should always carry your I.D.”

Me: “I know, I do… I must have dropped it.”

Rayan: “Not just for buying alcohol but in case of a problem. If anything whatsoever happens to you, it’s better to have it. Especially for someone like you who comes home extra late.”

Me: “Right…”

I smiled at him. We did see one another in the alley the night it was raining.

Me: “You are right. Still I was convinced I had it…”

I searched for it in my bag again frantically. Unsuccessfully. I don’t get it… What could I have done with it? All of a sudden, I had a stroke of genius.

Me: “In ancient art class!”

 I ran like crazy to catch up with Yeleen, I must have grabbed my bag and split part of things. 

Rayan: “You left it in the auditorium?”

Me: “I think so…”

Rayan: “At this time of day, the auditorium doors are locked… However, I happen to have the keys.”

Me: “Could you go there with me?”

Rayan: “Of course, anyway, I was planning on going there to work later tonight… Follow me.”

Me: “Thanks a million.”

I looked at the time: 9:02… Oh no, it’ll be OK, I’ll hurry. At worst, Yeleen’s there now to welcome them. At that thought, I make a face. I hugged my arms tighter to protect myself from the cold and I fell into step behind him all the way to campus. We headed to the art building fast. After rushing into the hallway of the art building, we both gave a sigh of relief, we realised we were finally sheltered from the wind. Mr. Zaidi started looking through his stuff for the keys to the room.

Rayan: “Talk about nasty weather! It’s the kind of cold evening that makes me want to sit by a fire and watch a silly Christmas movie, like Love Actually.”

Me: “Ohhh, the scene between Mark and Juliet with the signs… I’d give anything to see that movie again!”

Rayan: “I didn’t think it would be your thing! Most art students spend their time watching pedantic films to get ‘cultured’”

Me: “I don’t know if it’s really a good thing to do or not… in any case, I’m not all that into so-called art films supposedly essential for excelling in high society.”

Rayan: “For me, people excel more by admitting their little weaknesses that seem shameful rather than by spewing out names of filmmakers the general public’s never heard of. People showing off what they know isn’t attractive.”

I smiled at him. He dug his hand down into the pocket of his jacket.

Rayan: “Here it is! You’re going to be able to get your card back at last.”

I climbed the auditorium stairs two at a time up the place where I had sat a little earlier in the day. Nothing. There wasn’t the slightest little trace of my card. Someone else must have picked it up.

Rayan: “Find it?”

Me: “No…”

I came all the way here for nothing! I pulled my phone out of my pocket: 9:25pm! There are 2 missed calls from Rosa and 4 unread messages from Alexy. Uh-oh, they’re going to lecture me.

Rayan: “There’s always lost-and-found. You can go there tomorrow.”

Me: “That’s true… Thanks all the same.”

Rayan: “Seeing that you weren’t buying notebooks and pens for reviewing my class tomowwor, I bet people are waiting for you.”

Me: “Uh, yes, that’s true.”

Rayan: “Is it a party on campus…?”

I know parties in the rooms aren’t allowed…

Me: “Yes. I confess I… We couldn’t find anywhere else.”

Rayan: “What’s a dorm room for if parties aren’t allowed in them?”

I didn’t say a thing, I just smiled at him.

Rayan: “Your secret’s safe with me. On the contrary, I’d love a good party like that to let off some steam. And considering what you picked at the grocery store, it’s sure to be memorable!”

Me: “I hope so. In any case, thanks for everything, the card, the grocery store earlier…”

I smiled shyly…

Rayan: “Before you go… I have something for you. I was thinking about giving it to you after class tomorrow, but… So long as I’m here.”

Me: “Really? What is it?”

He pulled an object out of his bag that looked like a small black can of spray deodorant.

Rayan: “I’d feel bad if something bad happened to one of my students…”

Me: “It’s…”

Rayan: “Pepper spray. I was worried when I saw you walking home alone the other night.”

Me: “Th-thanks…”

Rayan: “Especially, apparently it’s kind of my fault if you got the job. Better safe than sorry.”

Me: “It’s really… Thanks.”

I felt a little embarrassed in front of him. He had even taken the time to put a little ribbon on it. I looked at the ribbon, holding back a smile.

Rayan: “Yeah, I know, it might seem a little ridiculous but for me all gifts deserve wrapping!”

Me: “Haha!”

I let out a little ridiculous giggle that caught me off guard. He smiled kindly at me, leaning his hips against his desk.

Me: “I don’t know what to say… Thanks. Really.”

Rayan: “It isn’t much. I just hope you’ll never have to use it.”

He seems really serious when he says that… I put the little can of pepper spray away in my bag. Slipping it in, my phone screen lit up. It’d 9:38 pm! Pretty soon I’m going to be an hour late if this keeps up.

Rayan: “Go on, don’t keep your friends waiting any longer…”

Me: “Right, thanks. Have a nice evening…”

Rayan: “Thanks. See you tomorrow, Tetrakys.”

Me: “See you tomorrow… Sir…”

I looked at Mr. Zaidi one last time before going out the door.

I ran until I was out of breath, all the way to room 719. I didn’t even take the time to contact Rosa; I preferred coming straight here to keep from wasting any more time. As I got close to my room, I heard bursts of laughter and the Ratatat’s song ‘Wildcat’ making the door hinges vibrate. Apparently, the party has already started, and sounds like it’s a pretty good start. Considering the rumbling of the bass against the wall, there’s no sense knocking, might as well go straight in.

Everybody: “Goyiizaaaaaa”

Me: “Huh… ? What?!”

Rosa: “No, no! GY-O-ZA, you really don’t get it!”

At that, everyone burst out laughing. Even Yeleen was holding her stomach as she laughed.

Me: “Uh… Are you talking about me?”

My remark only triggered the hysterical laughter again with everyone getting a fit of the giggles.

Melody: “We are talking about gyozas, the Chinese dumplings Rosa made for tonight.”

She pointed to the tray set down on my bed where a dozen little appetisers were spread out.

Rosa: “They were making fun of me because I couldn’t pronounce it right. I’d finally succeeded just before you opened the door!”

Hyun: “Don’t worry Rosa, it’s never easy, but anyway it was still cute for you to try something like forty times.”

Laughing, Rosa gives him a little swat on the shoulder.

Hyun: “He called her ‘Rosa’. Apparently, the introductions were made fast, and they didn’t need me for that…”

Morgan: “Well, take off your coat and have a seat. It’s kind of crammed, but we’ll make room for you.”

I was surprised by the way Morgan spoke to me. He seems really comfortable. Like everyone for that matter. Obviously they didn’t need me to break the ice.

Alexy: “Oh, sure, make yourself at home!”

Yeleen burst out laughing, slightly overdoing it if you ask me. As I tried to make my way through the people seated on the floor, with little dishes and bottles scattered here and there, the conversations resumed, even livelier, as if I weren’t there. I managed to reach my closet, although not easily. Once my head inside, I stuffed my coat in on the top of everyone else’s. I took a deep breath before turning around. I’m practically regretting this party. I feel like I’m in the way and strangely out of place. I sat down cross-legged on the floor between Hyun and Alexy. Through the animated discussions, Rosa called out to me.

Rosa: “Did you manage to find what you wanted?”

Me: “Yes, I got everything. Sorry for the wait…” My feelings are kind of hurt about the way everyone welcomed me.

I said that kind of bluntly, as I set down the bottles.

Rosa: “Is everything OK?”

Me: “Yeah, yeah.”

I answered coldly. I can’t help it, my feelings are hurt, seeing them all having fun before I even get here. Even Yeleen. Especially Yeleen. Rosalya looks me over as if she were trying to figure out what’s on my mind. She slipped behind Alexy to grab me by the shoulder and talk to me without anyone hearing.

Rosa: “What’s wrong?”

Me: “Nothing. I’m a little… I don’t know, maybe we shouldn’t have thrown this party.”

Rosa: “Stop it. You feel excluded because we were laughing when you got here. We were waiting for you, nothing else. We’re all happy you’re here.”

Me: “Hmm.”

I didn’t say anything, but what Rosa just whispered to me reassured me a little.

Rosa: “Didn’t you see my texts? I was mad at myself for leaving you to go alone to the grocery. I was even going to take off looking for you if you hadn’t answered in the next two minutes.”

I looked at my phone. For sure, I had new messages including one from Rosa that said “I’m worrying, let me know you’re alive!” I smiled when I read it.

Me: “There you go again, always imagining the worst.”

Rosa: “You see? Stop imagining things. Come on, now you’re here. I’m reassured. We can really get this party started.”

She looked at me with an infectious smile. And I couldn’t keep from winking back. She sat back down. I spoke again in the middle of the prevailing racket.

Me: “That being said, you weren’t very far from the truth… I came close to not ever getting back.”

Rosa: “Meaning?”

Me: “The cashier refused to sell me alcohol without showing my I.D., and I didn’t have it on me.”

Alexy: “Really? It’s not like we were still in high school. And even if we were, back then I don’t think anyone asked me for mine one single time.”

Melody: “That guy sounds crazy!”

Me: “For sure, and I wasn’t feeling too brave at the time. And that’s precisely the problem, Alexy. It must have gotten out that he accepted to sell alcohol to underaged kids and so he doesn’t want to anymore. At one point, I seriously thought he was going to call the police.”

Hyun: “That doesn’t surprise me, it’s not the first time that he’s made that kind of scene.”

Melody: “The police! You weren’t even in the wrong. How’d you work it out?”

Me: “Well… I got help from… another customer.”

I don’t feel like talking about what Zaidi did for me in front of Yeleen and Melo; you never know, I wouldn’t want it to blow up in his face…

Rosa: “Whew. That stinks. Anyway, I’ll know for next time, I’ll make sure I have my I.D. on me.”

Yeleen: “That guy’s got a problem, same thing happened to me last time. Except that, well… in your case, it’s understandable, but in my case…”

Me: “But in your case? Go on, finish your sentence.”

Yeleen: “Yeah, that’s what I was going to do before you cut me off. But in my case, I had my I.D. on me. And he still made the assumption that it might be a fake I.D. or who knows what.”

I wasn’t expecting her to say that… I thought that she was saying I looked much younger than her. I felt like a moron. Everyone had started serving themselves generously in the dishes Rosa fixed.

Hyun: “Rosa, this is really yummy. You have a gift for Asian food.”

Alexy: “She can’t pronounce the names of the dishes but she knows how to make them, that’s not a bad start!”

Rosa laughed and pretended to roll her eyes.

Rosa: “I have a hunch it’s going to take all year to shake this pronunciation business off.”

My stomach started growling all of a sudden; I hadn’t served myself a single time. I picked up a dumpling and hewed it greedily. It is really delicious!

Me: “For sure, Rosa, this is excellent!”

Rosa: “Don’t at so surprised. You’re going to hurt my feeling!”

Morgan laughed cheerfully at Rosa’s answer. I feel much better than when I first arrived… The conversations are flowing and everyone is talking with everyone… Ends up, it’s not so bad being here. It’s crowded but that makes us have to interact.

Melody: “Taste my salad, too! It’s my grandmother’s recipe. I added shallots simmered with nuts and lemon. I know it’s not the kind of thing you’re used to eating but…”

Sure enough, no one had touched it for the time being. We served ourselves in little plastic bowls.

Alexy: “Yum-yum! Melody, it’s excellent!”

Melody: “I told you so!”

Me: “It’s really good, It’s original!”

Melody: “I was fed up with eating macaroni and cheese every day on campus, so I started learning how to cook.”

Rosa: “Definitely don’t stop now, you’re doing so well. I want your recipe.”

Melody: “No problem.”

Melody seems to be doing much better than when I saw her earlier today… She needed this.

Alexy: “So, it’s about time we made a toast to what we’re eating, huh?”

He grabbed one of the bottles set down across from us and took some plastic cups out of his bag.

Rosa: “To think we have class tomorrow… What do you have first?”

Yeleen: “We have Modern Art with Mr. Zaidi.”

True, the first class is tomorrow.

Morgan: “The much talked-about Mr. Ow-aidi?”

Melody: “No, it’s Zaidi, with a ‘Z’”

Morgan: “I know it is, it’s just that e and a friend call him Ow-aidi just between us.”

Me: “What for?”

Morgan: “Because it burns when you look at him. If you see what I mean…”

Rosalya glanced at Alexy right away. How discreet! I stifled a giggle.

Alexy: “Oh… I agree with you. The man is charming…”

Morgan: “Incredibly. Incredibly charming. Who doesn’t want to walk all over him, literally?”

They both laughed and I saw their gaze linger over each other. Rosa and I gave each other a knowing smile, but we didn’t add a word... Hyun looked surprised to hear Morgan talk that way. Considering how he described him to me as someone a little withdrawn, I get the impression that it’s the exact opposite, haha.

Yeleen: “That reminds me of a game. Have you heard of ‘Never Have I Ever’?”

Melody: “Yeah, it’s not a bad game for getting to know each other.”

Right away, Alexy poured everyone a little shot from a bottle of whisky he had brought.

Rosa: “Is it a drinking game?”

Yeleen: “Well, you can play without alcohol, but it’s more fun with, the goal being to loosen up people’s tongue…”

Morgan: “I’m into it.”

Morgan said that as he looked Alexy straight in the eye. I couldn’t keep from biting the inside of my cheek. Looks like Morgan has noticed Alexy, too.

Me: “Yeah, I’ve heard of it.”

Yeleen: “So I’ll let you explain it to everyone then.”

Me: “It’s really easy. Someone asks a question and the others have to drink if the question is true for them. For example: ‘Never have I ever eaten chocolate.’ All the people who have never eaten any, have to take a sip from their glasses.”

Rosa gave everyone a glass.

Rosa: “We’re gonna do a few examples. I’m going to make an unsurprising, routine statement to see if everyone gets it. Never have I ever swum across the Atlantic Ocean. OK, those of you who agree with the statement, take a little sip. The others, leave your drink in front of you.”

Like me, everyone drank.

Rosa: “Let’s do one more as a test: Never have I ever worn nail polish.”

Rosa left the glass in front of her and didn’t drink anything.

I didn’t drink. I love nail polish. Rosa smiled at me. Yeleen, Melody and Rosa didn’t pick up their glasses and Alexy and Morgan drank a sip. Hyun left his glass alone, without saying a thing.

Rosa: “Hyun?! Aren’t you gonna drink?”

Hyun: “Well… Don’t tell me none of you has never played with your mother’s makeup and stuff?”

Everyone started laughing and Hyun smiled at me, giving me an apologetic look.

Me: “We won’t judge, Hyun, haha.”

Hyun: “At least that’s proof of my happy childhood!”

Rosa: “I’m sure there are pictures to prove what you say. And we want to see them!”

Hyun: “I hid them in a place that can’t be found and no one will ever lay their hands on them! All you need is an afternoon at my mother’s and she’ll pull out the stack of pictures of all the embarrassing moments in my childhood.”

Hyun laughed and shrugged his shoulders. The snickering started back up even stronger and everyone told stories about their childhood. You can tell the alcohol is starting to warm everyone up. Everyone’s giggling at the drop of a hat. Hyun leaned on my shoulder as he laughed at a joke Alexy made. Rosa turned the sound of the music up; it was ‘Arcades’ by C2C, and I started wiggling my shoulders and tapping my foot to the beat.

Hyun: “Since you teased me, now it’s my turn. I’m making the next statement.”

We all turned to face Hyun.

Hyun: “Never have I ever lied.”

I left my glass in front of me. That’s been my case more than once. Like everyone.

Morgan: “I guess it’s natural, we’ve all been led to lie at least once.”

Rosa: “That’s true.”

Yeleen stuck a strand of hair behind her ear.

Yeleen: “Never have I ever fantasized about one of my teachers.”

Little giggles could be heard.

Rosa: “We all agree you said ‘one of my teachers’ so if it’s a teacher we’ve never had for a class, it doesn’t count.”

Yeleen: “Yeah, yeah.”

I took a sip. The idea has never crossed my mind.

Yeleen: “Really, never?”

Me: “Well… No. No one comes to mind, right now, just like that.”

Alexy: “Not even Mr. Zaidi?”

Me: “No, seriously, he leaves me cold.”

Hyun: “Really?”

Me: “Yes, haha, is that so surprising?”

Hyun: “No, but I feel like everyone’s talking about him. I’m in media and communications and even I know who he is. He’s the back-to-school phenomenon.”

Rosa, Yeleen, Alexy and Hyun drank, Morgan left his glass alone with a little grin and Melody didn’t touch hers either.

Alexy: “Melody?! You kept that secret from us!”

Melody: “Huh? What?”

She glanced at her still-full glass.

Melody: “No, but anyway, I’m going to go. I-I have a lot of things to do.”

Me: “Already? The party has barely started.”

Melody: “Yeah, I know… But I’m exhausted. I really have to go, I still have things to do for tomorrow.”

Me: “Do you want someone to walk you back to your room?”

Melody: “Thanks, that’s really nice, but it should be fine.”

She got up without looking at anyone in the eye.

Melody: “Thanks again for inviting me Tetrakys, it was nice to meet you all.”

Rosa: “Uh wait, before you go Melo, you didn’t even give me the recipe for your great salad!”

Melody: “You can count on me, I’ll send you a text.”

Me: “See you tomorrow in class, then.”

Melody: “Yeah, see you tomorrow.”

Everyone: “Bye, Melo!”

She took her coat that was stuck in the stack of clothes on my shelf. We all watched her go. And she left discreetly as the conversation picked up again. The atmosphere got even better. Everyone talked and joked, bringing up teachers and the Admin Officer.

Hyun: “Tetrakys, I think Melody forgot something.”

He handed me a pretty heavy notebook.

Me: “Oh, it looks like her notebook for her classes, she may need it tonight!”

Rosa: “Maybe we should take it to her, huh?”

She left a good fifteen minutes ago.

Yeleen: “She’ll come back if she really needs it, anyway, it’s too late to study.”

Me: “Or we could send her a text message? Is your phone charged, Rosa? Mine’s dead.”

Rosa: “Darn, same for me.”

Me: “Too bad for her. I’ll give it to her at the first class tomorrow morning.”

Morgan: “Yeah, maybe she’s going to realise it and come back to get it.”

Me: “Yeah, most likely.”

Alexy: “So let’s keep playing then! Wait. I’ll fill your glasses!”

Alexy served everyone reasonably, then slowed down at Morgan’s glass, filling it practically to the brim.

Alexy: “Oops, hold on.”

He raised the brim of the glass to his mouth and drank a sip to keep it from overflowing. He gave the glass back to Morgan and their hands touched. Their fingers stayed entwined too long around the glass for it to be an accident. Rosa and I looked away laughing discreetly. Hyun’s the only one who doesn’t seem to notice anything. Even Yeleen blushed seeing them do that.

Hyun: “I’ve never kissed anyone who’s here in this room!”

I drank half my glass at once, and I felt the liquid warm my throat. That got me relaxed right away. They all took a sip out of their glasses as they laughed and started moving to the beat of the music at the same time.

Morgan: “Never have I ever been attracted to someone of the same sex as me!”

Rosalya and I looked at each other, smiling. We were thinking the same thing. The guys don’t need us at all… We all looked at each other. I drunk. I’ve never been attracted by a girl. I turned to face the others to see what each of them was doing. Rosa, Yeleen and Hyun drank a sip without hesitating. We all turned to face Morgan and Alexy. Neither one of them had touched his glass and they were staring at each other big time.

Rosa: “Hmm. Do you mind if I turn the sound up? I feel like dancing a little.”

Hyun leaped up.

Hyun: “Sure! Go ahead!”

Rosalya burst out laughing and turned the volume knob almost as high as it would go. I stood up and followed Rosalya and Hyun’s example. Rosa was hopping to the beat of the music, shouting the lyrics while I had a good laugh. I attempted to wiggle as best as I could, trying not to knock anything. Given my legendary clumsiness, anything is possible. With the alcohol in my blood, I didn’t really care what I looked like right then. I just wanted to have a good time. Morgan and Alexy stood up in turn and joined the ‘dance floor’ laughing. Yeleen pulled out her phone and just stared at the screen without looking at what was going on around her.

Morgan: “We can easily keep playing while we dance!”

Alexy: “Yeah, your turn Tetrakys, you haven’t made a statement yet!”

Me: “Never have I ever wanted to kiss anyone who’s here.”

Everyone laughed, Yeleen was the first to pick up her glass and take a sip. At least that’s clear. Rosalya followed suit. Hyun kept dancing and didn’t touch his glass… I set my glass down in front of me without taking a drink. And I immediately looked at Hyun without meaning to. We made eye contact and he blushed immediately. That’s precisely when Rosa grabbed me by the wrists and forced me to dance with her. I laughed and let myself get dragged into it. Morgan took the cellphone from Yeleen’s hands and forced her to stand up, too. All six of us were up, the room was big enough for us to move freely. Morgan was dancing with Yeleen and Alexy stepped in between Rosa and me. We were jumping up and down like crazy on the floor of the room. I’m surprised no one has showed up yet asking us to tone it down. Alexy grabbed me by the hips and pushed me backwards, laughing. I felt my foot land on a show. I turned around, Hyun was behind me, scratching his head looking embarrassed.

Me: “Sorry!”

Hyun: “Don’t worry, I didn’t feel a thing!”

We practically had to scream to hear each other speak. We danced like crazy without stopping. Then I finally set down on the bed, completely out of breath. Hyun looked at me, smiling, and started doing one ridiculous dance move after another as I burst out laughing.

Everyone ended up dropping the game, letting themselves get carried away by the music. Rosalya kept choosing the most kitsch songs ever from our teenage years and we all danced, laughing and wailing the lyrics. After a while, Yeleen left the circle and flopped down onto the bed, out of breath. I followe suit and sat down on mine. I picked up my phone to see what time it was. 3:30 am! Never will I manage to get up tomorrow morning.

Hyun: “Ughh, I’m kind of dizzy!”

Alexy caught him just in time before he fell onto my closet door.

Alexy: “Haha, someone kind of overdid it.”

Hyun: “I’m not used to it, I hardly ever drink.”

Me: “Can you make it home alright?”

Morgan: “Don’t worry, we share a room, I’ll walk him home.”

Alexy: “I’ll walk you home… I mean… in case he falls, at least there’ll be two of us.”

Morgan couldn’t keep from smiling.

Morgan: “Good idea, thanks…”

Alexy: “Don’t mention it.”

I got their coats and turned the music down a little.

Me: “Here you go, I’ll open the door for you. Alexy, send me a text when you get there. Are you sure everything’s going to be OK?”

Morgan: “Don’t worry, if worst comes to worst, it’ll be my turn to walk him home.”

Well, I’m not worried about those two.

Hyun: “Thanks Tetrakys, it was a great party! Let’s do it again tomorrow!”

Morgan: “Hahaha, maybe not tomorrow, but sure, I’d be thrilled to. Have a safe walk home.”

Hyun: “Thanks, you too, have a safe walk home!”

Rosa: “Tetrakys is already home, Hyun!”

Hyun: “Oh, yeah, right!”

Alexy and Morgan stood on either side of Hyun and led him into the hall.

Rosa: “Uh… Considering it’s time to get up soon… Is there any way we could squeeze together and I could sleep with you? Otherwise, we could pile some blankets on the floor and I’ll roll up into a ball like a cat!”

Me: “I’m not going to let you sleep on the floor!”

Yeleen: “And in any case, we don’t have enough blankets, if you don’t mind me saying so… Right Tetrakys?”

Me: “Are you still stuck on that mess!”

Yeleen: “I’m just subtly reminding you-”

Me: “Oh yeah, talk about subtle.”

Rosa: “Uh… What’s the deal?”

Me: “Nothing…”

Yeleen: “Oh, it’s just Tetrakys who decided to put paint all over my sheets before the year even got started.”

Rosa: “Seriously?”

Me: “You make it sound as if I did it on purpose!”

Yeleen: “I still have my doubts.”

Rosa: “I’ve had too much to drink for your nonsense… Can I go to bed?”

Me: “Go ahead, please. Wait, I’ll lend you some pyjamas!”

I rummaged through my closet and took out a basic tank top and a pair of shorts. But by the time I had searched and turned around, Rosalya was already half asleep and lying completely stretched out on the bed. I covered her up with the blanked and let her sleep. Yeleen turned off the music, slipped into her bed, and turned her back to me. What was her goal at the party? Change the image that my friends had of me? Whatever she meant to do, I don’t think it succeeded. My head started spinning… I picked up the glasses and trays that were still on the floor and piled them up any old way on my desk. I put on the pyjamas I had taken out for Rosa, turned off the light and slipped in bed next to her. Rosa is taking up the whole bed; I’m halfway lying on the wooden edge of the bed frame. Tomorrow is going to be rough… Images of the party run through my head… I wonder if Alexy made it home alright. With that though, I smiled. I have no reason to worry, I’m not sure that the party is over for him… I finally fell into a deep sleep…