Silence

Chapter 1: A New Beginning in the Unknown

In her softly lit room, Anezya sat cross-legged on her bed, completely absorbed in her novel. The pages turned like whispers, inviting her into a world far beyond her own. Her long golden hair cascaded down her shoulders, framing a delicate face that brightened with each imagined adventure. Despite her natural beauty—fair skin, long eyelashes, and alluring rosy lips—Anezya often felt more like a shadow than the radiant character she read about.

“Anezya, why are you still reading? It’s getting late, and you don’t want to miss your flight tomorrow,” her mother called, concern flickering in her eyes.

“I just want to finish this last chapter,” Anezya replied, her voice barely a whisper as she buried her head deeper into the book, lost in a realm of possibilities.

“No more reading! Hand me the book,” her mother insisted firmly, a parental authority that always pulled Anezya back from the pages.

Reluctantly, Anezya placed the book in her mother’s hands. “Have you packed everything for your trip?” her mother asked, raising an eyebrow, concern etched on her face.

“Yes, Mama,” she responded, anxiety gnawing at her insides.

“Get some sleep now,” her mother commanded softly, brushing a hand across her daughter’s hair as she often did, soothing her worries.

That evening, as Anezya lay on her bed, she reflected on the journey ahead. The next day, her mother returned to wake her.

“Anezya, wake up! It’s getting late!” her mother urged, gently shaking her shoulder.

“I’m awake, Mama,” Anezya murmured, still wrapped in the fog of sleep.

“Go freshen up before breakfast,” her mother said, her voice filled with excitement.

After a quick shower, Anezya tied her hair into a simple bun and slipped into a white blouse paired with a floral skirt. The familiar smell of breakfast wafted through the kitchen as she stepped inside.

“What are you doing?” her mother questioned, noticing Anezya’s eagerness to help.

“Let me wash the dishes; I can help,” Anezya offered, reaching for the sponge.

“You will do no such thing! I’ve prepared breakfast for you—go eat before it gets cold!” her mother insisted playfully.

Anezya grinned but quickly finished her meal, savoring each bite.

“Are you still eating?” her mother called from the other room.

“No, Mother,” she replied, clearing her plate.

“Come to my room,” her mother said, beckoning her with warmth.

Anezya entered her mother’s room to find her sitting on the bed, holding an old, decorated box.

“Come sit beside me,” her mother invited, her expression a mix of warmth and seriousness.

As her mother opened the box, a delicate necklace glimmered inside. “This necklace was given to me by my mother when I married your father. It is meant to protect you from harm. Now, I’m passing it on to you. I hope you will treasure it and wear it always.”

Anezya felt tears welling up as her mother continued, “I never had the chance to attend college because I had to care for you. You have an amazing opportunity to study abroad at Stenious College. Don’t take it for granted. I’m so proud of you, and I know your father would be proud too. Stay focused and avoid distractions.”

“I promise, Mama. I will focus on my writing and make you proud,” Anezya vowed, the weight of her mother’s expectations mingling with the bright glimmer of hope in her heart.

After gathering her belongings for the trip, Anezya’s mother escorted her to the airport.

“I will miss you, Mama,” Anezya said, embracing her tightly.

“Whenever you miss me, just place your hand over your heart. That’s where I’ll always be. And remember to call me every day,” her mother replied, tears threatening to spill despite her efforts to remain strong.

With one last wave to her mother, Anezya stepped onto the plane, her heart racing with anticipation for the journey ahead.

The plane landed in London at 4 PM, and Anezya retrieved her luggage, a mixture of excitement and anxiety bubbling within her as she waited for her designated pickup. After a few moments, a girl around her age approached, holding a sign with her name displayed.

“Hi, are you Anezya?” the girl asked, assessing her with bright eyes.

“Yes, that’s me!” Anezya responded, feeling a flutter of nerves.

“Sorry for the wait! I’m Rena. Let’s get you settled at the college,” Rena said cheerfully, leading her toward the car.

As they drove toward Stenious College, Anezya gazed out the window, marveling at the bustling city, her heart racing with anticipation. Majestic buildings loomed large, each representing a world of possibilities waiting to be explored.

When they arrived, the campus took her breath away—elegant architecture adorned with vibrant flowers and the energetic buzz of students animated the atmosphere.

“This place is incredible!” Anezya exclaimed, stepping out of the car with wide eyes.

“Welcome to Stenious! I hope you’re ready for an unforgettable experience,” Rena replied, her enthusiasm infectious.

Upon entering the dorm, Rena explained, “Your roommate isn’t here yet, so you can settle in first.”

Anezya set her bags down in the spacious dorm room, taking a moment to absorb her new surroundings, her heart filled with mixed emotions. Just then, a girl with bright red hair entered the room.

“Hey! You must be Anezya! I’m Roda, your roommate,” she greeted warmly.

“Hi, I’m Anezya,” she replied, relief washing over her at the friendly welcome.

“You have really fair skin—what’s your secret?” Roda asked, curiosity sparking in her eyes.

“I just use regular skincare lotion. I’ve always had this complexion,” Anezya said shyly.

“Lucky you! So, what’s your major?” Roda inquired, arranging her belongings.

“I’m studying creative writing and hope to become a novelist,” Anezya shared, excitement bubbling within her.

“That means you’re a top A student!” Roda said brightly.

“You could say that; it’s the reason I got a scholarship to study here,” Anezya added, pride shining through despite the nerves.

"Well, there were other scholarship students, but many ended up dropping out. This place isn't easy for those who come from less privileged backgrounds," Roda stated seriously, her tone shifting.

“Why did they drop out?” Anezya asked, concern knitting her brow.

“Family and status matter more here. If you’re seen as poor, people look down on you and make your life miserable. Just remember to keep a low profile,” Roda advised, a hint of caution in her voice.

“Seems like a lot to deal with,” Anezya said, a sense of unease creeping in. “I’ll make sure to stay out of trouble.”

Roda smiled. “Just be yourself! And, you should be careful of Ama. She’s the wealthiest girl at this college, and her parents are influential. They donate a lot of money here, giving her a lot of power. Even the professors are wary of her.”

Anezya nodded, feeling both apprehensive and intrigued. “I’ll do my best to stay under the radar.”

As her stomach grumbled, Roda grinned. “You must be hungry! I have some snacks if you’d like.”

“Thank you!” Anezya replied gratefully, appreciating the friendly gesture. “You’re very kind.”

“We’re dorm mates; it’s the least I can do,” Roda said with a wink.

After sharing snacks and laughter, Anezya felt a growing sense of belonging and excitement for this new chapter in her life.