“My name’s Esme Godfrey, but you can just call me Esme.” Her eyes were clear and direct; everything about her exuded confidence and warmth. Alessia could tell she was the type who’d grown up well–loved, someone who’d always had her family’s protection.

“Nice to meet you, Alessia.” Esme turned her attention to the other two girls in the

room.

“H–hi, I’m Joyce Danton.” Alessia recognized her instantly–her new roommate, the one who’d seemed nervous about whether they’d get along. Joyce wore her brown hair in a ponytail, thick black glasses perched on her nose, shoulders hunched as if she were trying to disappear. Her clothes were a little worn but spotlessly clean.

“Mia Linden.” The last girl’s introduction was as breezy as her look: wild curls, a crimson dress that suited her bold energy.

“Have you had dinner yet?” Esme asked, her tone casual.

“Yeah, I have.” Alessia sat at her desk, adjusting a few bottles and jars she hadn’t managed to organize earlier.

“Are you from out of town?” Esme asked.

“No, I’m local.”

“Local? How come you got here so early, then?”

in the morning,”

arrived around ten or eleven, they hadn’t even dropped off their bags before heading to registration. The lines had already stretched

know each other–since we’ll be roommates for the next four years. What

at the group. Joyce was clearly anxious, watching her for any sign of approval. Mia was picking

Have you picked a

debating–maybe that fondue place across the

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Chapter 288

been to those two, but there’s a place nearby called The Ivy

Esme’s eyes widened in

thinking, *Of course, she’d suggest the fanciest

wrong with that?” Alessia glanced at Mia, and for a split second, the tension thickened. Sensing the impending standoff, Joyce

don’t think I can really afford someplace

place you need a reservation just to get in. Even if we somehow made it inside, I couldn’t even afford a cup of tea there!” Esme’s exaggerated tone, paired with Mia’s

said calmly, without a hint of arrogance.

tea there costs a

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