chapter 3

A week had passed since Lily and James first met, and the days had flown by in a whirlwind of classes, study sessions, and new friendships. They enjoyed their time at Hamilton University, finding a rhythm in their daily routines and making the most of their experiences.

One afternoon, Lily, Emma, James, Theodore, and Felix were gathered in the corridor, chatting animatedly. They were speculating about when the much-anticipated fresher's party would be held.

"I wonder when the party will be," Emma mused, leaning against the wall.

"Probably soon," James said, his usual nonchalant tone masking his curiosity.

Suddenly, the loudspeakers crackled to life. "Attention, students! The fresher's party is scheduled for two days from now. Get ready to celebrate!"

Excited chatter erupted around them. Emma and Lily exchanged gleeful looks, while Theodore and Felix high-fived each other. James simply grinned, a sparkle of anticipation in his eyes.

As the excitement settled, Lily's face fell slightly. Emma noticed immediately. "What's wrong, Lily?"

"It's just... I don't have the perfect dress for the party," Lily admitted, her voice tinged with disappointment.

They continued their classes and all went home in excitement to prepare for the awaited event.

Back home, Lily's parents noticed her subdued mood. "What's the matter, sweetheart?" her mother asked gently.

Lily sighed and explained the situation. Her parents exchanged a knowing look and chuckled. "You’re in luck," her father said, smiling. "Your aunt from America just sent you a beautiful black dress and all the accessories you’d need for the party."

Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.

Lily's eyes lit up with joy. "Really? Oh, thank you so much!"

Two days later, the night of the party arrived. Lily and Emma got ready together, laughing and chatting as they prepared for the event.

As Emma was curling Lily's hair, she accidentally tangled the curling iron. "Oops, looks like your hair is staging a rebellion," Emma said with a giggle.

Lily winced, laughing. "Just don't set it on fire, okay?"

Emma managed to untangle the iron without any damage, and they both sighed in relief. "Crisis averted. I knew I'd make a great hairdresser," Emma said with mock seriousness.

When they finally stepped into the venue, all eyes turned towards them. Lily's entrance was nothing short of spectacular. Her long, dark hair cascaded in soft waves, her hoop earrings glinting under the lights. The fitted black dress hugged her figure perfectly, paired with high heels that added an elegant touch. She looked like a celebrity gracing the red carpet, leaving everyone, including Theodore, in awe.

Theodore's breath caught in his throat as he saw Lily. "You look... amazing," he stammered. "Like a... like a... uh, a really shiny penny."

Lily giggled. "Thanks, I think?"

Emma, overhearing, whispered to Felix, "He's got the smoothness of sandpaper."

As they danced, Theodore, trying to impress Lily with a twirl, accidentally stepped on his own foot and stumbled. "Whoops, my bad," he said, flushing with embarrassment.

Lily laughed, helping him regain his balance. "You're doing great, don't worry."

Theodore was captivated by her beauty, but Felix, standing nearby, observed them with a thoughtful expression. Felix was known for his quiet demeanor and sharp intelligence, and he couldn't shake the feeling that something was off.

Meanwhile, James was running late. His excitement to see Lily was palpable, and he drove his black Lamborghini at full speed to get to the party on time. As he zipped through the streets, he yelled at the traffic lights, "Come on, turn green! Don't you know true love is waiting?"

When he finally arrived, he nearly collided with a trash can while parking. He burst through the doors, scanning the room frantically. His heart sank and a flash of anger crossed his face as he saw Lily dancing with Theodore.

James stood there, his fists clenched, as the music played on. His mind raced with jealousy and confusion. Why was Lily dancing with Theodore? He was determined to find out. As he started towards them, the lights dimmed, and a spotlight suddenly shone on Lily and Theodore, making them the center of attention. The room's focus shifted, and James's anger simmered, turning his expression into a mask of determination.