Being in a whole new setting was overwhelming — especially starting college. As you stepped into the dorm, the faint smell of fresh paint and disinfectant hit you, the kind of scent that clung to freshly cleaned spaces. You let out a sigh, eyes scanning the empty room with a few bags in hand. The standard-issue furniture in the small living room didn’t exactly help ease your nerves.

Taking a deep breath to calm yourself, you walked down the narrow hallway. Just as you approached your room, a soft thud caught your attention. The door across from the bathroom was open, and inside, you saw someone unpacking, setting things down on the floor.

She was dressed head to toe in black, her neck adorned with chokers and necklaces, some with crosses hanging loosely. Her gothic style set the two of you apart immediately. Her silky, short black hair framed her pale face, with a few strands falling over her brows. As she rummaged through her bag, her gray eyes focused on the contents, but it seemed like she could sense you watching her.

“Guess you’re my new roommate, huh?” she murmured, not bothering to turn and look at you as she pulled out a pile of folded clothes, setting them on the bed.