The party had been going on for hours, and the energy in Eden Hall was electric. One game after another kept the freshmen on their feet, laughter echoing throughout the spacious venue. The host had organized a series of fun, interactive games designed to bring everyone closer together, icebreakers, dance-offs, and even a trivia contest about campus life. Each game drew cheers and playful jeers from the crowd, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and excitement. Students formed teams, shouted encouragements, and cheered wildly for their friends. The DJ kept the music pumping between games, ensuring the energy never dropped.
By 2 a.m., the party was winding down, but the buzz in the room hadn't faded. Many students were visibly tipsy or outright drunk from the free drinks served earlier. Kathy was swaying slightly, her laughter louder and more carefree than before; she was definitely feeling the effects of the night's fun. Bella, on the other hand, had been more cautious with her drinks, she was tipsy, her cheeks flushed with a rosy glow, but still in control. Her eyes scanned the crowd, soaking in the moments while also keeping an eye on her best friend.
Justin, who had been watching the party unfold from across the room, had something else on his mind. He was quietly determined to find Bella once the party ended to talk to her properly, to maybe start something new. He leaned toward Jonathan, his closest friend and confidant, and shared his plan. Jonathan grinned and promised he'd help him out; the two were ready to make sure Justin's moment came.
The host stepped back onto the stage, the microphone cutting through the hum of chatter and fading music. "Alright, everyone! What a night, huh? I hope you all had fun because this is just the beginning of your journey here at Lifetime University!" The crowd erupted into applause and cheers. "Classes start next Monday, so enjoy your last few days of freedom. Remember, this campus is your home now. Make the most of it, and welcome again to the Lifetime Freshman Party 2025 Glitz and Afterglow!"
As the applause died down, students began gathering their things and preparing to leave. Kathy, now clearly drunk, stumbled slightly as she laughed and hugged Bella. Bella steadied her, taking care to make sure her friend wouldn't fall. Justin's gaze darted toward where Bella and Kathy had been seated, but they were gone.
His heart skipped. "Jonathan, where did they go?" he whispered, a slight edge of panic in his voice.
Jonathan scanned the room. "I don't see them either. Maybe they left already?"
"No way. I need to talk to Bella," Justin said, his voice low but urgent.
The two friends quickly weaved through the crowd, their eyes searching for the two girls. Outside, the cool night air was a relief from the crowded warmth inside Eden Hall. They spotted Bella supporting Kathy toward the car. Kathy looked exhausted but happy, swaying as Bella gently helped her into the backseat.
Justin's breath caught. "There she is," he muttered and broke into a run. "Bella!"
Justin caught up with them, slightly out of breath but smiling warmly. "Hey," he said softly.
Bella turned toward him, her cheeks still flushed from the party and a little tipsy from the drinks. "Hey," she replied, returning his smile.
They exchanged polite greetings, both a little shy but genuinely happy to see each other again. Justin cleared his throat nervously. "How are you? I hope the dance didn't make you uncomfortable."
Bella shook her head, laughing lightly. "Not at all. It was fun, really. I'm just more worried about Kathy she's pretty out of it now." She glanced back at her best friend, who was already asleep in the seat.
Justin nodded understandingly. "Yeah, I get it. You've got to look after your friend."
There was a brief pause as Justin awkwardly shuffled on his feet. "Uh… can I… maybe get your number? Or your socials?"
Bella smiled warmly, feeling a flutter in her chest. "Sure "
Justin quickly pulled out his phone and handed it to her . She entered her own details and handed the phone back. "Thanks, Bella. I'll text you."
She smiled again, and he waved goodbye before turning to leave.
As Bella got into the driver's seat, she caught her reflection in the rearview mirror and saw Justin walking away. Her eyes lingered on him a little longer than she expected. She whispered to herself, "He's really cute… Oh my God, am I falling?"
With a soft smile, Bella started the car and drove off, her mind buzzing with new feelings and the promise of what might come next.
As Justin watched Bella's car pull away, he let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. Turning to Jonathan, he said, "Man, that was so awkward. I didn't know what to say half the time."
Jonathan chuckled, nudging him playfully. "Hey, at least you got her number. That's a win, bro. You're one step closer."
Justin smiled, feeling a bit more confident now. "Yeah, you're right. I just hope I don't mess this up."
Jonathan grinned. "Nah, you got this. Just be yourself."
The two friends went back into their car, the night still buzzing in their minds. As they drove back to their apartment, they laughed and chatted about the party, already excited about what the next day might bring.