Chapter Text
The sun poured through the leaves on the trees, casting dappled patterns of golden light across Helen’s face as her father drove towards Siempre Viva Academy. Helen was in a long, flowing white dress, layered beneath a beige trench coat. Her bold black glasses framed her eyes.
Upon arriving at the campus, Helen's father stepped out and helped her to get her suitcase from the trunk. With a final hug, he departed, leaving her standing at the entrance, a mix of excitement and nerves swirling within her.
As she approached the dorm reception, filled with the distant laughter of students and the rustling of leaves in the gentle wind. Helen received her room keys, she then made her way to her dorm room.
Upon entering her dorm room, however, she heard music playing. Confused about the room arrangement, she pushed the door open with her suitcase.
In the middle of the room, a blonde girl with her hair cascading over her shoulders, in black vest top and white baggy trousers, was dancing. Helen’s sudden entrance startled the girl, and she quickly stopped the music.
“How do you…” the blonde girl began, her brow furrowing in confusion.
Helen raised her keys as a silent explanation.
“How? I thought I had a private suite,” the girl responded, her voice tinged with frustration.
“I…” Helen hesitated. “I applied later than usual. I guess that’s why I was put in here.”
Madeline, sighed dramatically, her hand resting on her temple while the other on her hip. “Oh my gosh. Fine. I’m Madeline.”
“Helen,” she replied, offering a small smile.
“That's your side, then,” Madeline huffed, gesturing towards the plain unmoved area of the room.
Helen took in the plainness of her designated space. She nodded and walked to her side. She changed the sheets on her bed, then began unpacking her belongings. She carefully organized her closet and desk.
With the final touches completed, a satisfied smile crept across Helen’s face.
Glancing over at Madeline, who sat motionless in the black office chair, staring blankly.
“Hmm… Madeline?” she asked gently.
Madeline’s gaze snapped back to reality, blinking as she readjusted her focus.
“Yes?” she replied.
“You okay?” Helen asked, tilting her head slightly.
Madeline nodded.
“I just thought you were dissociating,” Helen clarified with a soft chuckle, trying to ease the tension.
“No, I just zoned out for a few minutes,” Madeline explained.
Helen nodded, the initial awkwardness beginning to dissipate.
……