Freshman week

A brand-new day dawned at the bustling American international airport, as two bright-eyed girls from India stepped into a world far from home. Ashera and Zubiya, both brilliant scholars who had topped their classes back in India, arrived with hearts brimming with hope and dreams that stretched across continents. Every sight—the rolling luggage carts, the chatter of travelers, and the hum of airplanes—felt both exhilarating and overwhelming.

They had come to America to pursue their studies, eager to embrace new experiences and carve out a future of limitless possibilities. A freshman week had been specially organized for international students, giving them a head start before the semester officially began.

From the airport, they made their way to the sprawling college dorms, excitement and nervousness intertwining with every step. Ashera’s eyes widened as she gazed at the towering building.

Ashera: “This is it… our new beginning.”

Zubiya: “Let’s go in then,” she said, pushing the door open.

Inside, they were greeted by two unfamiliar faces—already unpacking and chatting in their dorm room.

Alya: “Hey there!”

Alya: “I guess you two are our new roommates?”

Zubiya: “Yes! I’m Zubiya, and this is Ashera. We’re from India.”

Ashera: “Hi!”

Alya: “I’m Alya. I was born and raised here, so if you need anything, just ask.”

Cassie: “And I’m Cassie, from Canada. Nice to meet you both!”

Ashera and Zubiya: “Nice to meet you too!”

Alya: “Unpack your things, and let us know if we can help with anything.”

Cassie groaned, collapsing onto her bed. “Rest while you can,” she murmured, a hint of playful warning in her voice. 🥲

Zubiya gave a sheepish grin, stretching her arms. “Yeah… I’ll try,” she said, though exhaustion clung to her like a heavy blanket. 😅

Ashera and Zubiya exchanged excited glances, feeling a flicker of comfort in this new, foreign place. The journey ahead was unknown, but somehow, standing in that sunlit dorm room, it already felt like the first page of an extraordinary adventure.

The next morning, sunlight poured through the thin curtains, casting golden streaks across the cozy apartment. Ashera was already in the kitchen, the rhythmic clatter of pots and pans mingling with the smell of sizzling spices. The aroma of freshly toasted bread and simmering eggs wafted through the air like a warm embrace.

Alya stirred in her bed, blinking sleep from her eyes as she finally rose.

“Good morning,” she yawned, rubbing her eyes.

Ashera looked up, cheeks tinged with pink from the early morning rush. “Oh! You’re up! Good morning! Sorry if I made too much noise cooking,” she said, gesturing helplessly toward the organized chaos of the kitchen.

Alya burst into laughter, the sound bright and musical. “🤣 You’re hilarious! I usually wake up around this time anyway, so it’s not your fault.”

Ashera wiped her hands on a towel, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Oh… I guess it’s already late. I better wake the others too, before they miss breakfast of first day of college,” she said, glancing toward the bedrooms with a mock sense of urgency.

Ashera and Zubiya had no idea what awaited them at school that day. New friendships, surprises, and even love were waiting to catch them off guard, ready to change their hearts forever.

To be continued....

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