Eva, a 20-year-old girl with a sweet, innocent face and a humble attitude, had always found comfort in her simple routines.
One morning, she woke up and began her day as usual. After freshening up, she walked toward the backyard, where her mother was planting flowers. Her mother looked up and smiled warmly.
"Oh, my little one, you're awake! Your breakfast is on the table," her mom said cheerfully.
Eva grinned, hugged her mother tightly, and rushed back inside to the dining area. She picked up her coffee mug and took a few sips, savoring the warmth. As she set the mug down, her eyes landed on an envelope with her name on it. Curiosity tingled through her as she reached for it.
Her heart skipped a beat when she read the contents — a scholarship letter from Greystone College. Eva's eyes widened in shock. She froze, gripping the letter tightly in both hands, as if afraid it might vanish.
Moments later, her mother entered the room. "Did you finish your breakfast?" she asked.
Eva didn't respond. Concerned, her mother placed a hand on her shoulder. "What's wrong?"
"I... I got a scholarship," Eva stammered. "From Greystone College."
Her mother's face lit up with joy. "That's wonderful!" she exclaimed, wrapping her arms around her daughter. But as she pulled back, she noticed Eva's expression was oddly blank.
"Isn't this good news?" her mother asked. "Why do you look so worried?"
Eva guided her mother to a chair and sat beside her. "Greystone is an elite college," she explained. "All the rich kids study there. It's super competitive, and honestly... I don't think I'd fit in. Not because I'm afraid of competition, but... I just don't feel comfortable being around spoiled, rich kids."
Her mother chuckled softly. "Why focus on the negative?" she said. "Greystone gives students the freedom to explore whatever field they're passionate about — academics, sports, creative arts — all in one place. This is a rare opportunity, Eva, and I don't want you to miss it. I know it's far, but the scholarship even covers your hostel stay."
Eva thought for a moment, uncertainty lingering. But her mother's encouraging words slowly eased her doubts.
"Alright," Eva said, a faint smile appearing on her lips.
"That's my girl!" her mother beamed, holding both of Eva's shoulders and jumping with excitement. She scooped Eva into a tight hug, both of them laughing and spinning around.
"I'll call Jiya and tell her the good news!" Eva exclaimed, hurrying off with her heart racing.
Her mother watched her go, still bubbling with excitement.
Ava stayed behind for a moment, absorbing the happiness in the room. She smiled — small, but filled with hope — and quietly made up her mind: she would give Greystone a chance.
She hurried off to call Ava's father, her voice filled with excitement.
Ava stayed behind, watching her mother's joyful chatter from afar. A soft smile tugged at her lips as she pulled out her phone, already thinking of what she would say when she called her best friend to share the news.
Eva and her mom spent the next few days packing her bags, preparing for her journey to College. The excitement was building, especially with the upcoming event called "N2MY" — short for (Nice 2Meet You). This college-hosted event was designed for new students to connect, socialize, and make friends before classes officially began.
Eva was bursting with excitement for the big day. Only a week was left before she left for college, and the days seemed to pass in a blur. Two full days went into packing, while her parents prepared a farewell party to celebrate the start of her new journey.
The house was filled with laughter, music, and chatter. Relatives and friends came together, congratulating Eva and wishing her luck. The atmosphere was warm and lively, with people dancing, singing, and sharing stories.
In the middle of the party, Jiya pulled Eva aside to a quiet corner. She clasped her friend's hands and said, "You're so lucky, Eva. No one in our town has ever received a scholarship to Greystone. Congratulations!"
"Thank you," Eva replied softly, "but I'm going to miss you and this town so, so much."
Jiya rolled her eyes dramatically. "Why, Eva? It's going to be amazing over there! You won't even get time to message or remember us. The city life is dazzling — they say people sleep in the morning and wake up at night. Trust me, you're going to have so much fun."
Eva shook her head with a small smile. "I'm going to study and gain knowledge, not to have fun."
Jiya let out a long sigh and dragged the word out teasingly. "Ahhh… you are hopeless—"
Before she could finish, Eva's dad appeared, his voice playful yet firm. "Of course you're going to have fun! Who told you you're just going there to study? Yes, academics should be your priority, but you should also enjoy life. And Jiya, I know my daughter — she will always find time to message us and remember home. Am I right, Eva? "
Eva smiled warmly. "You are always right, Daddy."
Her dad chuckled, patting her shoulder. "That's my girl. Now, you both go and enjoy the party. My friends just arrived."
Eva and Jiya exchanged a smile before slipping back into the sea of celebration, the music and laughter wrapping around them like a promise of memories to hold on to.