Elena Cruz
Elena drove to campus the next morning in her new car, still not quite believing it was hers.
The engine was smooth. The seats were comfortable. Everything smelled new and expensive. She kept glancing at the maroon paint gleaming in the morning sun, kept touching the steering wheel like she needed to confirm it was real.
By the time she pulled into the student parking lot, she’d almost convinced herself this was normal. That people just gave other people brand new cars all the time. That it didn’t mean anything.
But the stares started immediately. Students turned to look as she parked. Heads swiveled. Conversations paused. Elena could feel their eyes tracking her as she got out and grabbed her bag.
She kept her head down and walked toward the main building, trying to ignore
