Her number

The class representative walked to the podium and announced that classes were over for the day. I was surprised—I hadn’t expected just a single class. College is nothing like high school, where you'd sit through up to seven periods a day. “I’m already in love with this place,” I muttered to myself.

“We have the school excos here,” the rep continued. “They’ll be telling you everything you need to know about the school before you leave. Please, let’s give a round of applause for the vice president of the student union of Royalty College.”

Applause erupted as a tall, dark-skinned girl with striking beauty entered the hall and walked confidently to the podium, waving at anyone who cared. She looked like a supermodel and had an impeccable fashion sense. Raising her hand to quiet the room, she tapped the mic twice and spoke.

“Thank you for that warm welcome,” she said. People clapped again.

“You’re very beautiful!” one student shouted from the crowd.

“I heard that—thank you, and you’re beautiful too,” she replied with a smile, not even needing to see who said it. The room burst into laughter.

“My name is Princess Alvarez. I’m the vice president of this esteemed institution, and it’s an honor to be here. You may be wondering why I’m standing before you today. Well, it’s tradition here at Royalty College for upperclassmen to welcome the freshmen and guide them through what they need to know about the school—and a few other things too.

“So without wasting much time, let me tell you about the five clubs we have. You’ll be choosing the one that suits you best. But be warned—some clubs are selective. You’ll have to pass a screening to get in.

“Starting from number five, we have the Book Club. This is perfect for anyone who loves reading or feels too shy to dive into more social activities.

“At number four is the Jet Club—science and tech enthusiasts, this one’s for you.

“Now for the big three. These are the clubs that represent us in the annual interschool competitions. If you’re unfamiliar, it’s a social event where top schools in the state compete for the number one spot in each category.

“At number three is the Fashion Club. Think fashion gossip, runway events, and creativity. If you’re into style, that’s your place.

“Coming in at number two is the Boxing Club.”

A murmur spread through the crowd.

“How can boxing be second? Nobody watches that!” a student said aloud.

“I know, right?” she laughed. “That’s what I thought too when I was a freshman. How is it second? Well, you’ll find out soon enough—I’ll leave that as a surprise.

“And finally, holding the number one spot is the Music Club!”

The room erupted, especially from the girls.

“I guess I’m not the only one who loves music,” she said, chuckling. “That’ll be all from me. Enjoy the rest of your day—and welcome to Royalty College.”

“What club are you in?” one boy asked eagerly.

“Oh, I’m not in any club. Excos aren’t allowed to join clubs,” she replied.

“Awww,” several boys groaned in disappointment. She smiled and walked off the stage as students began filing out of the hall.

“The venue for each club will be posted in the class group chat,” someone announced.

“There’s a group chat?” I asked.

“Of course there is. You’re not in any of them?” Aalia replied.

“No, I’m not. Could you add me?”

“You’ll have to meet the class rep for that.”

“I don’t have his contact. Could you send me his number? My phone’s dead,” I said.

“Okay, no problem,” she responded, handing me her phone. I typed in my number, and we walked to the school’s parking lot.

Everyone was calling their drivers when a car pulled up in front of us.

“Get in. My driver will drop you at home,” Jeffrey told Aalia. “Looks like yours hasn’t arrived yet.”

“Where’s your house? We’re heading to Greenville. Maybe you could tag along?” Aalia asked me.

I caught the flash of annoyance on Jeffrey’s face, so I declined.

“My house isn’t far and doesn’t follow the Greenville route. I’ll just order an Uber,” I said.

“Okay, see you tomorrow then,” she smiled and got into the car.

I was so happy—I’d gotten her number on the first day. I couldn’t wait to tell my uncle. I could already feel a connection forming between us.