04: Friends and Family

04: Friends and Family

Zara’s POV:

We left for college, wishing our mother a wonderful day ahead. "Can I put on some music?" I asked my sister as soon as we got in the car, and Charlotte nodded and handed me an aux cord.

"So, sis, what do you want to listen to?" I asked her, linking my phone to the car's sound system.

Charlotte advised putting on something decent. I turned on one of my favorite tunes, "City of Stars," and nodded.

"Hello, City of Stars. You know it's my favorite, too." Charlotte shouted enthusiastically.

"I understand, but your favorite is the original one. This is a cover by the popular Korean actor Lee Dong Wook. His rich, velvety voice adds to the song's addictiveness. I mentioned synchronizing with the tune.

Our trip to college was calm and serene. Charlotte, I, the City of Stars, and the overcast weather all contributed to a positive experience. I merely wished for a wonderful day ahead.

Charlotte dropped me off 30 minutes later in front of the college on the opposite side of the street. I said her farewell, exited the car, and she drove away. I crossed the street and made my way to campus. The main campus building is a considerable walk from the front entrance, surrounded by excellent green grass and a few trees. The trek along that trail is mentally rejuvenating. I still have some time until my first lesson, so there was no need for me to rush. I made my way to the main building slowly and methodically.

On my walk, I observe numerous students going past. Some people are alone, like myself, while others are with friends. They were teasing one another, and their giggles filled the air. When I think of my loved ones, family, and friends, a beaming smile spreads over my face. Each one is unique and valuable to me.

It's Charlotte's birthday. Mom and I had been planning this for several days. And today's party and my sister's reactions will be our reward for a week's plan.

Every year, it has been the same. It's always been mom, myself, and Charlotte. I haven't seen my father in twenty years. He left when I was one, and Charlotte was maybe five. Then, five years ago, we received death news. To be honest, we three felt nothing after hearing of his death. For instance, why would we feel horrible or sad for someone who left us alone? My mother worked really hard to raise us since she was a developing artist who faced several challenges. Growing up, I would see her cry quietly at night so as not to disturb our sleep. I was young, but seeing my mother in that situation crushed my heart. So, despite being the youngest, I vowed to build my physical and mental strength so that I could protect my family when the time came.

I vividly remember how tough it was to persuade my mother to allow me to pursue martial arts and fencing. Of course, mom didn't agree at first since she wanted her daughter to pursue ballet or art lessons. But, seeing my tenacity, she had to give in.

I recall when all the girls at my school, including my best friend, were chatting about Disney princesses and ballet while I was going through difficult and severe training. When all the other girls were treating themselves to new lovers, I would stay in the gym alone to heal my wounds because I didn't want my mother to find out and get concerned.

Someone basically pushed itself on me, interrupting my thoughts. Catching that guy in my arms, I saw I was standing just in front of the university building.

 "Woah! "Easy, girl..." I corrected my posture while holding my closest friend, Gina, in my arms. Gina is a young, attractive girl standing 5'2 with sky blue eyes, long black hair, and a light complexion. "You're late, Bitch," Gina smirked, smacking my shoulder and wrapping her arms around my waist. 

"Sorry, Bitch." I responded with a wicked wink at her.

"Let's go." She murmured, letting go of my grip and tugging me inside the building. We soon entered the classroom. 

"Here comes our champion." Rocky, the college's heartthrob, spoke in a teasing and envious tone. He is a gorgeous lad with a playboy reputation. Every other female in college adores him, and he never passes up an opportunity to flirt with her. He's been like this since middle school. Teasing me and flirting around. It is his pastime.

"Welcome…welcome." Said Benjamin, nicknamed Ben, Rocky's right hand kneeling in front of me as if greeting a queen. She was a little taller than me, with curling black hair, huge black eyes, and a child-like mentality. He is a wonderful kid, but hanging around with a spoiled brat like Rocky has turned him into one as well.

"Shut up," Gina muttered, angry. She is constantly irritated when Rocky and Ben pester me or when any other male attempts to speak to me.

 She is really protective of me.

"Zara, don't talk to them." Gina grumbled, tugging towards our seat and entirely ignoring the guys.

"Good morning, guys." Nick and Nielle, our group's lovebirds, entered the classroom together, grins pasted on their faces.

After that, everyone took their seats, and class began.

Hello my dear readers; I am here again with a new book. Thank you so much for spending time to read my book. The story has just began and a lot more has to come so stay with me until the very end.

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