The announcement came during morning assembly and spread like wildfire across campus. The university was organizing a mandatory weekend leadership retreat for all final-year students at a luxury resort two hours outside the city. Team-building activities, leadership workshops, networking dinners the whole thing framed as a prestigious opportunity to “prepare for the real world.” Attendance was non-negotiable. Absences would affect final grades.
The campus buzzed with excitement. Students chattered about the resort’s pool, the famous chefs, and the chance to network with alumni. I felt nothing but dread. Sophia would be there. Julian would be there. Three full days and two nights of them finding new ways to make my life miserable. The thought alone made my stomach twist.
By the time I met
