Lizzie's pov
I sat on my bed, surrounded by the familiar walls of my childhood bedroom, taking a moment to absorb the memories one last time.
My gaze wandered to the window, where sunlight cast a warm glow across the room. I remembered the countless times I'd sat there, lost in thought, watching the world outside.
I took a deep breath, emotions swirling inside me, trying to etch the memory into my mind forever.
After one last look to make sure I hadn't forgotten anything, I closed the door behind me.
As I stepped outside into the crisp morning air, Dad was already waiting by the car with a warm smile on his face.
Mom had gone to the bakery, and Philip said something urgent had come up at the studio.
"Ready to start this new chapter, princess?" he asked, opening the trunk to load my luggage.
I nodded, trying to hide my mix of nervousness and excitement. "Yeah, Dad. I'm ready."
We drove off into the morning sun, the familiar streets slowly giving way to the highway. After three hours of driving, we finally arrived.
As we pulled up to the entrance of Timberline University, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The sprawling campus was even more beautiful than I'd imagined—towering trees and lush greenery surrounded sleek, modern buildings. The warm sunlight cast a golden glow over everything, making it feel like a dream.
Dad smiled, noticing my admiration. "Impressive, isn't it?" he said, parking the car and turning off the engine.
I nodded, still soaking it all in. We got out of the car, and I stretched my arms, nerves and excitement battling in my chest. This was it—my new home for the next four years.
As we walked toward the entrance, I noticed a stream of freshers like me, all chatting and laughing as they headed toward their new adventure. Some looked confident and carefree, while others seemed a bit lost—just like me. I felt a sense of solidarity with them. We were all in this together.
"Ready to start your journey, kiddo?" Dad asked again, placing a hand on my shoulder.
I took a deep breath, a sense of determination rising. "Yeah, Dad. I'm ready."
Dad helped me move into my dorm room, my home for the next few months. My roommate hadn't arrived yet, so Dad took it upon himself to help me settle in.
He carefully unpacked my bags, hanging my clothes in the closet and arranging my books on the shelf. I smiled as he plugged in my laptop, a wave of gratitude washing over me. I kissed him on the cheek.
We chatted about my classes and hopes for the semester. I could feel the pride and love radiating from his eyes.
After everything was unpacked, Dad gave me a tight hug and a kiss on the forehead. "I'll miss you," he whispered before heading out.
My dorm room was cozy, divided into two small rooms—each a mini sanctuary for me and my roommate. The common area was a combo living room and kitchen, with a comfortable couch, a coffee table, and a small kitchenette. The walls were a soothing gray, and a soft carpet covered the floor.
A large window let in plenty of sunlight, and we had a great view of the campus. Our bedrooms were on either side of the common space, each with its own door—perfect for privacy.
Thanks to Dad, all my stuff was already neatly arranged.
I opened my laptop and started jotting down my schedule for the upcoming weeks. I wanted to stay organized and make the most of this new beginning. Once that was done, I leaned back on my bed and started watching The Vampire Diaries.
The show's familiar theme song filled my room, and I sank into the world of Mystic Falls, watching Elena, Damon, and Stefan's supernatural adventures. It was my go-to comfort show.
Just as Damon and Elena were about to share a romantic moment, I paused the episode and got up to grab some water from the kitchen. I hadn't even realized how thirsty I was.
As I walked into the kitchen, I heard the door open behind me.
I turned—and my jaw dropped.
A girl walked in wearing a fitted red crop top that showed off her toned abs, paired with high-waisted black lace shorts that left little to the imagination. Her long legs were wrapped in black fishnet stockings, and her black stiletto ankle boots added a fierce touch. Her hair fell in loose waves, and her makeup was bold and sultry. She looked like she'd just stepped out of a fashion magazine—oozing confidence and sensuality. She radiated an aura of don't mess with me.
My eyes locked on her striking figure. I couldn't help but stare. Her piercing green eyes sparkled with mischief.
She sauntered into the room, her hips swaying with subtle swagger. Her smile widened, her eyes dancing with amusement.
"Well, well, well. Look at you. You're drooling," she teased, her voice low and husky. "I didn't know I had that effect on people."
My face flushed bright red. I snapped my mouth shut, looking away in embarrassment. "I-I was just... admiring your... outfit," I stammered, trying to play it cool.
She chuckled, her laugh low and throaty. "Sure you were. Keep telling yourself that." She walked closer, locking eyes with me. Her voice dropped to a whisper. "But don't worry, I like the attention."
"I'm Scarlet," she said, voice smooth as silk.
"Lizzie," I replied, barely above a whisper.
Scarlet's gaze softened. "Lizzie. I love that name. It's so... sweet."
"Thanks," I muttered, my heart racing.
Her eyes swept over me—face, hair, clothes—and lingered. "You know, Lizzie, you're really beautiful. I mean, stunning."
"You're one to talk. You look like you just stepped off a runway."
Scarlet's smile turned sly. "Well, someone has to keep up with you. You're the one making my heart race like a runway model."
Her words sent a thrill through me. I felt strangely comfortable around Scarlet, like she was pulling me out of my shell.
After flashing me a final, satisfied smile, Scarlet disappeared into her room. But I couldn't stop thinking about her. I hesitated, then walked to her door and knocked.
"Come in!" she called.
Scarlet was unpacking, clothes and accessories spilling out onto the bed.
"Need help?" I asked, gesturing to the chaos.
She smiled. "I think I can handle it, but thanks for offering."
We chatted as she unpacked, the conversation flowing easily. I quickly realized that Scarlet wasn't just a fierce fashion icon—she was also kind, flirty, and maybe even a little vulnerable.
When we were done, she turned to me. "Hey, want to watch a movie? I've got a good one picked out."
"I was just binge-watching The Vampire Diaries before you got here."
Scarlet's eyes lit up. "No way, I love that show! Niklaus is my favorite."
My eyes sparkled. "Really? I'm more of a Damon fan. His brooding gets me every time."
Scarlet laughed. "I get it. But Niklaus's complexity—his darkness and vulnerability... swoon."
We both giggled. I got up to grab my laptop. "Let me get it, and we'll watch the next episode."
As I returned to the living room, Scarlet grinned. "Wait—should we order pizza for our binge marathon?"
My stomach growled. "Yes! That sounds amazing. I'm starving."
Scarlet grabbed her phone. "I knew you'd be on board. What's your favorite topping?"
"Pepperoni and olives, please."
We got cozy on the couch, laptop ready with the next episode. Halfway through, the doorbell rang.
"That must be the pizza!" Scarlet said, jumping up.
She returned with the hot, delicious box and a proud grin. "Dinner is served."
We dug in, savoring the gooey cheese and toppings as our favorite show played on. The room was filled with laughter, warmth, and a budding friendship that already felt special
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A/N:
Yeah, I know I wrote this late, but I didn't get the encouragement I needed.
I really love The Vampire Diaries—so I had to include it!
Please like and follow for more!
And feel free to point out any mistakes—I'm always open to editing and improving.
I just hope someone out there is actually reading this.