Chapter 12 : “Gossip”
*Roanne’s POV*
The clatter of silverware and the murmur of voices created a familiar comfort in the university's dining hall, a backdrop to my own swirling thoughts. I was picking at my salad when Lila slid into the seat opposite me, her eyes wide with the kind of excitement that usually heralded some juicy piece of campus news.
"Roanne, you won't believe what I read today," Lila said, barely containing her glee as she leaned in closer. The scent of her peach perfume wafted over the table, a sweet note amidst the savory smells of lunchtime fare.
I put down my fork, my interest piqued despite myself. "What's the latest scandal then?" I asked, trying to keep my tone light, though part of me dreaded what fresh drama might be unfolding.
"Okay, so you know Joe Atkins, right? The senior who always brags about his stock portfolio?" She barely waited for my nod before continuing, "Turns out he bought his grades. And he was caught! Can you imagine? He's been suspended."