Orion had never experienced the feeling of being defended by someone before. Taking her gloves, he said, Alright, I’ll let you stand up for me this time. Lemira then headed to the locker room to change. Orion looked at the red gloves in his hand, lowered his head, and kissed them gently, his expression a swirl of complex emotions. He was afraid to voice his feelings, afraid she’d look at him with eyes full of resentment. So he retreated.
When Lemira emerged from the locker room, Orion was nowhere to be found at their usual spot. Just as she was about to text him, she noticed a message from him: [Something came up at work. I had to leave early. Left something for you at the front desk.]
Had he really gone? Lemira made her way to the front desk and found a bag containing a large box of sushi. She wasn’t particularly hungry, but she could manage sushi. She texted Orion, [Got the food, thanks. Don’t work too hard.]
On her way back to campus, Lemira pondered whether Orion’s sudden work commitment was related to the Al project. When she returned to her dorm, she overheard Janice’s anxious voice, Stella, are you okay? Do you need to go to the hospital? Lemira watched as their new roommate, Stella, collapsed to the ground. She rushed forward to catch her, knowing Janice’s petite frame wouldn’t suffice. Stella was pale and shivering. No hospital, I just haven’t eaten.
Lemira handed the sushi to Janice. Hold this for me, I’ll carry her to the infirmary.
I’m coming with you, Janice said, sprinting alongside them towards the infirmary. Once there, Lemira gently laid Stella down. Doctor, she fainted. She says she hasn’t eaten. Could it be low blood sugar?
The doctor examined her briefly, then spoke up, If she doesn’t have any other conditions, it’s likely hypoglycemia. She’s also a bit undernourished. Lemira sighed with relief; at least it wasn’t anything more serious.
She looked at Stella lying on the bed. Do you want to eat something? I can order us a delivery. No, thank you, Stella Waverly’s voice was soft, and no sooner had she spoken than her stomach growled.
Lemira took the sushi from Janice. Let’s eat together. There’s plenty to go
around. Though she hadn’t been very hungry initially, the rush had worked up her appetite.
Janice joined them. This sushi is from a famous place and it’s quite pricey. Your boyfriend must really care about you.
Is it? I didn’t even check the brand. Lemira tasted a piece, realizing it was indeed delicious.
She offered one to Stella. Don’t be shy. I can’t finish all of this on my own. Help me out.
Stella accepted the sushi, glancing at it before murmuring, “Thanks, you two.
Janice smiled warmly. It’s nothing. We’re all roommates; we should look out for each other. Stella bowed her head, taking small bites. Lemira and Janice exchanged a glance, neither prying into why Stella hadn’t eaten, treating it as if it hadn’t happened. They stayed with Stella while she received a glucose drip.
Janice turned to Lemira, About the inheritance your parents left, any chance you can get it back? I’ need to go through court. It’s complicated without a will
“Asher is just awful, giving your stuff to Evelina and forcing you to back down. It’s you who’s been wronged! Janice was indignant on Lemira’s behalf.
Lemira tried to appear nonchalant. I know, but I have a plan. I won’t let Evelina take what’s mine.
Do you think Asher’s got something going on with Evelina? Why else would he favor her so much? Hearing this, Stella’s eyes flickered with intrigue.