Chapter 2: Her Dream is to Closer to Him

Six years had passed since that fateful introduction to Denver, and Ariadne Bardell had blossomed into a confident and intelligent young woman.

Her once-curly chestnut hair now cascaded in gentle waves down her back, and her bright hazel eyes sparkled with excitement.

Ariadne's passion for understanding the human mind and helping others had led her to pursue a degree in psychology at Leyland University.

But her reason for choosing Leyland university is not so simple!

Over the past six years, Ariadne had always concerned herself with her brother’s life, acting so caring about his well-being. Caspian couldn’t be prouder being cared for by his darling little sister, but was she really caring as it seems?

Hell No!

Ariadne wouldn’t give a damn about her brother’s private life. She was only interested in prying information concerning the young man that had mesmerized her six years ago. Hence, she appeared to be so caring on the surface.

Ariadne could never forget the image of Denver’s endearing figure standing before her when she was barely twelve years old, with his handsome face that shone brightly like the fierce sun.

She couldn’t help but remember the events of the past. Even though it happened a long time ago, she still remembered every detail.

Back then, she was but a 6th grader who had all her experience about life, dependent on her parents and her elder brother.

Hence, he would probably only look upon her like a younger sister at most.

Back then, Ariadne still had no idea what love or attraction was. She merely fantasized about having a big brother as handsome as Denver and possesses such elite demeanor.

But she didn’t forget the mesmerizing feeling his appearance at her family house that day elicited in her.

That feeling was something she had never forgotten over the years. Thinking about it again, her cheeks turned pink and she quickly covered her cheeks with her palms to hide her blush.

As she couldn’t lay her eyes on him at all times just as she desired, she has therefore kept this piece of a precious memory with her.

She remembered an occurrence while in high school. Her classroom teacher has counseled them on the importance of dreams and how it is essential to their choice of colleges.

As far as she could remember, she has always been oblivious of the dream she wanted to pursue. She has always been clueless as to what her future will be like.

That day, she listened with rapt attention and enthusiasm. She noted all the relevant points, and went home thinking about what her dream was.

She got so livid and decided to think heavily on what the teacher said. She pondered on this more in her room, pacing around.

Staring at the decorations on the pink walls of her room, her mind slowly drifted to her meeting with Denver once again. She remembered her brother once made mention of Denver returning back to Leyland after his graduation.

And so, it hit her! And she came up with a decision.

Her dream is to get closer to Denver, as close as possible. She quickly browsed through the college choice brochure she was given at school and searched frantically, and she found it; Leyland University.

She figured that if she can get admitted into Leyland university, then she will naturally have more chances of meeting him again.

When her family found out she entered Leyland university in her university application form, they were flustered. They thought that her choice was fickle and she would regret it if she didn’t make the eligible required mark.

They had wanted her to apply for Pendelton State university in their city.

Their reason was simple: they wanted her to be close to home so that she can drop by easily whenever she misses home or come home for dinner on weekends.

Moreover, her elder brother Caspian attended Pendelton university too.

They asked her reason for choosing Leyland university instead of Pendelton state university, and she claimed to have chosen because their psychology department is more reputable than that of Pendelton’s.

Ariadne checked the eligibility criteria for admission into Leyland university and discovered that although her grades were good, it was still poor compared to the requirements for admission into Leyland university.

For the first time, Ariadne felt a strong drive to become dedicated to her studies, unlike her lackadaisical attitude towards her education in the past. She became engrossed in her books, solving multiple assessments and acing every monthly exam.

Seeing how determined she was and how much more dedication she had paid to her education that period, her parents duly relaxed their resolve and decided to let the matter be.

Leyland university is not a bad choice anyway. They thought.

Her hard work and persistence paid off. She was overjoyed when the scores for the university entrance exam was released and thrilled upon realizing that she was admitted into Leyland university.

She will finally have a reason to see him again.

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At Leyland University

Ariadne stood in front of the towering gates of Leyland, her heart pounding with anticipation. This was the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

And most importantly, a life that draws her closely to Denver!

With her acceptance letter clutched tightly in her hand, she took a deep breath and stepped onto the campus grounds.

As Ariadne walked through the grand entrance of the university, she made her way through the bustling crowds of students, excitement plastered over her face. She couldn't help but marvel at how the campus buzzed with activities.

Making her way to the student registration office, Ariadne eagerly completed her registration as a fully fledged student, and after that she was assigned to her dorm room.

She had heard tales of how great friendships are mostly formed within the four walls of a university, especially among dorm roommates, and she hoped to find hers too.

With her heart full of excitement, Ariadne entered the dormitory where she would be staying for the upcoming academic year and walked towards her assigned room.

She turned the doorknob and stepped inside, and was greeted by a cozy space adorned with colorful posters, twinkling fairy lights, and an inviting warmth that instantly put her at ease.

It was then that she noticed three other teenage girls in the room. Their eyes lit up the moment she stepped in.

"Oh, hello!" Ariadne exclaimed, her voice filled with warmth. "I'm Ariadne Bardell. It seems we'll be roommates."

The three girls exchanged glances before breaking into welcoming smiles. They seemed just as excited as Ariadne to meet their fourth roommate.

"I'm Vanessa Baker," said the girl with vibrant purple streaks in her short, spiky hair. Her hazel eyes shimmered with a mischievous glint. She exuded a zest for life that was impossible to ignore. Vanessa’s vibrant personality seemed to light up the room.

"I'm Katniss Gables," spoke the girl with a cascade of golden curls and a contagious smile, a calm and composed young woman with an air of maturity. Her voice held a gentle warmth that matched her soft blue eyes.

"And I'm Connie Blair," chimed the girl with short hair, her green eyes twinkling with intelligence. Her most remarkable feature was her glasses which rimmed at the tip of her nose, passing her off for what she is - a nerd.

Ariadne couldn't help but feel an instant connection with her new roommates. Their vibrant personalities and welcoming demeanor put her at ease, making her feel like she had found a second family away from home.

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One week into the academic session

Ariadne sat at her desk, engrossed in her notebook, when her roommate and dear friend, Katniss Gables, burst into the room with uncontainable excitement. Her wild, curly hair bounced with each step, and her eyes sparkled with anticipation.

"Hey girls, guess what?" Katniss exclaimed, her voice filled with glee.

Looking up from her notebook, Ariadne tilted her head towards the direction of the voice and smiled warmly. "What's got you so excited, Katniss?"

"It's my birthday today! I've planned something grand for a celebration!" Katniss announced, a wide grin spreading across her face. She fanned herself with her hands, unable to contain her enthusiasm.

Cheers and well wishes filled the room as the girls exchanged excited glances. Birthdays are always a cause for celebration.

Katniss is the first girl to celebrate her birthday in their room, so they will certainly ensure she has a fun and special day, and her birthday will be nothing short of amazing.

Ariadne lifted her gaze and her whole face lit up immediately. She knew Katniss had a knack for being a crazier bitch than Vanessa whenever she wished to, and Ariadne could not help but be intrigued by her friend's plans.

"Well, spill the details, Katniss! What have you got in store?" Ariadne asked, her curiosity piqued.

With a mischievous grin, Katniss began to share her grand plans. "To celebrate my birthday this time, I’m thinking we should hang out at the newly launched Karaoke bar on South street. It’s got private rooms, dazzling lights, and the latest music selection. It'll be a night to remember! What do you think?”

Ariadne's face lit up with excitement. She had always loved singing and dancing, and a karaoke party sounded like the perfect way to celebrate Katniss's birthday. But there was more to Katniss's plan.

"Oh, and that's not all," Katniss continued, her voice filled with mischief. "I've invited Arthur Heathcliff, you know, our sports student friend from the gym? Well, he's bringing a few of his friends too. It's going to be a massive celebration!"

Ariadne composed herself, trying to hide her displeasure. "That sounds incredible, Katniss! I can't wait to celebrate with you. Partying would be much more fun if there are more people, so it should not be a bad idea having Arthur and his friends join us too."

Katniss winked mischievously, knowing full well the effect the mention of Arthur had on Ariadne. "I thought you might like that. It'll be an unforgettable night for all of us."

Vanessa clapped her hands in delight. "Count me in! I've been dying to show off my singing skills."

Connie kept quiet all along. She pinched the bridge of her nose, and looked on as the other three girls went wild in euphoria, and let out a cackle. She pursed her lips, contemplating on what to say.

After some thoughts, she mustered some courage and walked up to Katniss, "Happy early birthday, Katniss. I'd love to be part of the celebration."

However, Katniss barely nodded her head in response to her. She further waved her hands in the air signaling their attention once again.

The trio were confused, as they couldn’t guess what she was about to say next.

“Wait, that’s not all. I have something to ask of you girls. I was thinking if you girls can accompany me for shopping. I want to splurge for my birthday”, she cajoled, darting her eyes across the room to grasp their reactions.

Upon hearing her words, they hastily agreed to accompany her shopping, and use the chance to do some little shopping for themselves too.

Of course, whatever the birthday girl says stands! She can act all coyly today and she will be indulged!