The Lies That Built Us

Chapter 1 Winny stood in the middle of her neatly packed room, her gaze sweeping over the familiar space that had been hers for as long as she could remember. The walls were lined with posters of fashion icons and sketches of designs she had drawn over the years. Her suitcase sat by the door, packed and ready, a silent reminder that her life was about to change in ways she had only dreamed of. Her full name was Winifred Ethan, but her father had always called her Winny. “My sweet little Winny,” he would say, a name wrapped in love and warmth. Now, as she prepared to leave home, she realized just how much she would miss hearing those words every day. She exhaled slowly, hands resting on her hips. She had spent the last couple of months preparing both herself and her father, Mr. Ethan, for this transition. Although her university was in the same city, she had made the decision to stay on campus. It wasn’t a necessity, but she knew it was something she needed to do. She had spent her entire life by her father’s side, and while she would always cherish that bond, she was ready to carve out her own space in the world. Winny took a slow walk around her room, running her fingers over the wooden desk where she had spent countless nights sketching designs, finishing homework, and daydreaming about her future. It felt surreal to be leaving. The walls held memories of late-night phone calls with Kathryn her bestfriend, childhood fears comforted by her father’s presence, and the endless self-pep-talks she had given herself in front of the mirror. This room had been her sanctuary, and now she was stepping out into the unknown. “Are you sure you’ve packed everything?” Mr. Ethan’s voice pulled her out of her thoughts. He stood at the doorway, his eyes soft but filled with a quiet sadness. He was a strong man—had to be, raising Winny alone after her mother passed away during childbirth. Yet, despite his strength, Winny could see the hesitation in his stance, the reluctance in his voice. “I’ve checked twice already,” she said, forcing a reassuring smile. “I’ll only be a short ride away, Dad.” He nodded, stepping into the room. “I know, sweetheart. It’s just… it’s been just the two of us for so long.” Winny swallowed the lump in her throat. “And it still will be,” she assured him, reaching for his hand. “I’ll come home on weekends, I’ll call every day if you want me to.” He chuckled, squeezing her hand. “I don’t want you spending all your time calling your old man instead of making friends and enjoying university life.” At that, Winny smiled for real. “I’ll make time for both.” Mr. Ethan sighed, his thumb brushing the back of her hand. “You’ve always been independent, Winny. Ever since you were a little girl, you have wanted to do things your way. And I always admired that. But just know that you don’t have to do everything alone. I’ll always be here.” Winny bit her lip, fighting the emotions that threatened to spill over. She knew her father had sacrificed so much for her—working long hours, skipping out on things for himself just to ensure she had a comfortable life. They weren’t rich, but she never felt like she lacked anything. Her father made sure of that. She took a deep breath and said softly, “You’ve always been here, Dad. You’ve never let me feel alone, not even once. And that’s why I know this isn’t goodbye. "It’s just a new beginning for both of us." A small smile touched his lips, though his eyes still held the weight of change. “A new beginning,” he echoed. The sound of a honking car outside broke the moment. Winny peeked out the window and grinned. “Kathryn’s here.” Her best friend had insisted on picking her up and helping her settle into the dorms. Kathryn was already a year ahead at university and had been a constant source of encouragement throughout the application process. Winny couldn’t wait to experience this new chapter with her. Mr. Ethan followed her to the door, his hands tucked into his pockets. “Alright, let’s get your things to the car.” As they carried the bags outside, Kathryn jumped out of the sleek black car, her long brown hair bouncing as she rushed over. “Finally! I was starting to think you had changed your mind.” Winny laughed. “Not a chance.” Kathryn turned to Mr. Ethan, giving him a warm smile. “I promise to look after her.” “I know you will,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. After loading her things into the car, Winny turned to her father and wrapped her arms around him in a tight hug. She held on longer than usual, taking in the scent of his cologne, the steady rise and fall of his chest, the warmth that had always made her feel safe. “I’ll be okay, Dad,” she whispered. “I know you will, sweetheart.” He kissed the top of her head. “Go make me proud.” She pulled away and slid into the passenger seat. As the car drove away, she watched her father shrink in the distance, standing at the edge of their home—the only home she had ever known. A mix of excitement and nervousness filled her chest. Before heading to the dorms, Kathryn insisted they grab lunch at a small café near campus. The place was bustling with students, some chatting excitedly about classes while others worked on assignments. As they sat with their food, Kathryn launched into a breakdown of everything Winny needed to know about university life—professors to avoid, the best study spots, and where to get the best coffee on campus. Winny listened intently, absorbing every detail. “Sounds like I have a lot to look forward to.” “You do,” Kathryn grinned. “And don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of everything in no time.” After lunch, they headed to the dorms. The building was massive, filled with students dragging suitcases and greeting new roommates. Winny’s room was on the third floor, and as she stepped inside, she took a moment to take it all in. The walls were plain, the furniture minimal, but it was hers for the year. She ran her hand over the desk, already imagining late-night sketching sessions. She unpacked, carefully putting up her favorite fashion posters. They made the space feel more like home. She wondered what her roommate would be like—friendly? Quiet? Messy? Kathryn, being in a different dorm, couldn’t offer much insight. Winny flopped onto her bed, staring at the ceiling. Tomorrow, orientation and class introductions will begin. A new journey was ahead, and though nerves swirled in her stomach, excitement overpowered them. “Ready for this?” Kathryn asked, leaning against the door frame. Winny smiled. “I think so.” As night fell, she curled under the covers, thinking about all that lay ahead. She had dreamed of this moment for so long, and now, it was real. A new beginning. A new chapter. And as she drifted into sleep, she knew—this was just the start of something great.