Trials Of Thelma: Unbroken

Friends and Foes

All things seem to be going well with my roommates. We’ve settled in, and the dorm already feels like home. Emily and I often study together since we share a few courses. Sophia’s infectious laugh keeps the mood light, and Megan’s calm presence is a soothing balm during stressful times.

Liam is another story altogether. From the moment I met him in History 101 class, I can't quite figure him out. His charismatic personality draws people in, he’s friendly and always ready to help, but there's something about him that makes me curious and cautious at the same time. There's a mystery that lingers around that guy, I am mostly right about these things.

Then there's Ava. Yes, she's bright, competitive, and always present at every social function I find myself in. She makes it clear that she sees me as competition and I see her the same way as well, but do not tell her I said that. Our rivalry is very obvious, but I am determined not to let Ava's attitude affect me, and it’s not always easy.

**************************

Professor Jameson stands at the front of the lecture hall. His glasses sit low on his nose, and his gray hair gives him a wise look.

"Good morning, everyone," he says, smiling. "Today, we’re going to talk about something really important: how colonialism affected the world."

He pauses, letting the weight of his words sink in. The room is silent, every student focused on him. "Colonialism changed a lot of things," he explains. "It took resources from colonized countries and hurt their economies. It also messed up local cultures and social systems, and the effects of this are still around today."

Professor Jameson walks slowly across the front of the room, making eye contact with several students. "I want each of you to think critically about these impacts. Consider not only the immediate effects but also the long-term ramifications. How did colonialism shape the world we live in today?"

My hand goes up quickly, ready to share my thoughts, but before I can speak, Ava’s voice cuts through the room. It looks like another showdown is about to begin, and I am so ready for this.

"I disagree," she says sharply. "The real damage was to the indigenous cultures and social structures." I narrow my eyes. "But the economic impacts set the stage for long-term exploitation."

Professor Jameson watches us both. "Both points are valid," he says. "But can either of you provide specific examples?"

Ava smirks. "The British in India. The destruction of local industries—"

"And the extraction of wealth," I interrupted, feeling my cheeks heat up. "It left India impoverished."

The class watches, tension thick in the air. Professor Jameson steps in. "Alright, ladies. Excellent points. These issues are deeply interconnected."

I sit back, my heart pounding. I glance at Liam, who gave me an encouraging nod. Despite the clash, I feel satisfied. I held my ground.

*****************

That night, Emily and I decide to attend a study session in the library. We find a quiet corner and settle in. Just as we get comfortable, Ava and her group walk in. They take seats directly in front of us, talking loudly and laughing. I try to focus on my notes, but Ava’s voice was getting on my nerves.

"Could you keep it down?" I finally ask, my patience wearing thin. Ava looks over her shoulder, with a smirk. "Oh, sorry. Didn’t realize we were disturbing you."

I clench my teeth and return to my notes, but the noise continues. Emily gives me a sympathetic look. "Let’s just ignore them," she whispers. But I can’t. The constant chatter is like nails on a chalkboard and I can't concentrate on my reading. Finally, I snap my notebook shut. "I’m done," I mutter, standing up.

As I storm out of the library, I hear Ava laughing behind me. My anger simmers as I walk back to the dorm. “I’ll make sure she regrets this.”

Back in the dorm, I pace the room, my mind racing with thoughts of Ava’s smug face. Emily watches me, concern on her face. "Are you okay?" she asks gently. "I just don’t get why Ava has to be so awful. It’s like she goes out of her way to make my life miserable."

Emily nods sympathetically. "She probably sees you as a threat."

I sit down on my bed, my shoulders slumping. "I just want to focus on my studies and make the most of this experience. Why does she have to make my life so difficult?"

Emily reaches out and squeezes my hand. "You are tougher than you think. And remember, you have more friends than just Ava."

I smile weakly. "Thanks, Emily. You’re right. I’ll just have to find a way to deal with her."

The next day, I still brood over the library incident as I head to my next class. I run into Liam, who immediately notices my tense expression. "Hey, you okay?" he asks, falling into step beside me. "Just had a rough night. Ava and her minions decided to make a scene at the library."

Liam raises an eyebrow. "Ava?I thought she was more focused on her studies than causing trouble." I laugh bitterly. "Yeah....She’s definitely focused on making my life difficult."

Liam gives me a reassuring smile. "Don’t let her get to you. You’re doing great, Thelma. And if she’s trying to mess with you, it’s probably because she’s intimidated by you."

Why does everyone seem to be using that line so often? Even though I am getting tired of hearing it, I feel a little lighter hearing his words. "Thanks, Liam. I’ll try to keep that in mind."

*******************

Later that week, I find myself in another tense situation with Ava.

We’re both attending a student council meeting, where Ava is presenting a proposal for a new campus event. As Ava speaks, I can’t help but feel a sense of admiration for her confidence and eloquence, even though I would never admit it out loud. Don't give me that look.

When the floor opens for questions, I hesitate before raising my hand. "I think your proposal is interesting, Ava, but have you considered the potential logistical issues? Like how we’re going to manage the budget and coordinate with different departments?"

Ava’s eyes flash with annoyance, but she maintains a composed exterior. "I have considered those factors, Thelma, and I believe with the right team, we can handle it efficiently."

I nod, trying to keep my tone neutral. "I just think it’s important we address these challenges upfront to avoid any setbacks."

The tension in the room is unmistakable as the other students are watching the exchange. Ava’s expression softens slightly, and she gives a curt nod. "Fair point. I’ll make sure to include a detailed plan in the next meeting."

After the meeting, Ava and I exchange a look. It’s not quite a truce, but there’s a flicker of mutual respect. Maybe, just maybe, we can find a way to coexist without constantly being at each other’s throats.

Who am I kidding? This is not far from over. I just have to keep an eye out for Ava and her antics.