chapter 2

We arrived at Caleb University, and I was amazed by its vastness. Students were bustling in and out, and I couldn't wait to be one of them. My dad walked me to the Head of Department's office, where we were greeted by Mr. James, a friend of my dad's. After exchanging warm greetings, Mr. James turned to me and said, "Liz, you're all grown up now! Remember, you're now independent, and your parents won't be here to supervise. Make them proud!"

"I will, sir. I promise to make them proud," I replied.

"Don't worry, friend; she's in safe hands," Mr. James said to my dad. "You know how kids are these days; once they're left alone, they can get into trouble. But both you and her mother have spoken to her, and she's promised to behave."

My dad looked at me and said, "Liz, I'm leaving now. Take good care of yourself and don't let us down." I hugged him and said, "I love you, Dad."

"I love you too, Liz," he replied, looked at me once more, and then left.

Mr. James handed me a map and said, "Now, come over, and let's get you settled. You'll be staying in Akata Hall with three other girls." As I took the map, I was so focused on it that I bumped into another student.

"I'm so sorry; I wasn't looking! Please don't be upset," I said, scared of making a bad impression on my first day.

"It's nothing; are you new here? You look lost," the girl said with a smile.

"Yes, I'm new. I just arrived today and was assigned to Akata Hall, but I can't seem to find the way. I'm Liz," I replied.

"Wow, that's my hostel too! Which means we're roommates. I'm Peace. I'll show you the way," she said.

As we walked, three boys approached us. "Peace, who's your new friend?" one of them asked.

"Guys, this is Liz. Liz, meet my friends Alex, Michael, and Zack," Peace said, pointing to each of them.

"Nice to meet you," I said.

"Likewise," they replied in unison.

"Hey, Peace, don't forget the party tonight! Is Liz joining us?" Zack asked.

"What party?" I asked, curious.

"It's a party for freshmen; all new students will be there. You should come with us, Liz; it'll be fun!" Peace said.

"But I've never been to a party before," I admitted.

"What?!" they all exclaimed in surprise.

"My dad doesn't allow us to go to parties," I explained.

"Don't worry, I'll be there, and it'll be fun! Come on, say yes!" Peace encouraged.

"Okay, I'll go," I agreed, feeling a bit nervous but also excited.

"That's great! You'll love it. I'll see you guys later; I need to show Liz our hostel," Peace said, and the boys nodded and left.

As we continued walking, I couldn't help but wonder what the party had in store for me...