LYNETTE

The following afternoon, Priya took the elevator down to Tonya’s floor. The wall pulsed with Top 40 beats coming from her friend’s room. Priya knocked, then hammered the door until a salon-fresh blonde opened up.

“I’m here for Tonya.”

“What?”

Priya shouted over some kind of autotuned Michael Jackson clone.

“Tonya!”

“Check the library.”

Tonya’s roommate did not turn the music down. She was too busy staring at Priya’s clothes.

“Pleased to meet you, I’m Priya.” She stuck out her hand.

“Lynette.” Blondie defended the entrance like a goalie.

Priya thumbed Tonya a quick text.

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“We’re going out tonight. Can I wait here?” Priya moved forward.

Lynette took a step back, allowing her to see the twin chairs and beds on either side of the room.

“Thanks.” Priya breezed in past Lynette. “Tonight, she’s joining the best club on campus. Do you like film?”

“It’s a cheap date.”

“Want to make a movie?”

“Oh, absolutely!” Lynette laughed. “Too bad I’m busy, going out with my boyfriend.”

“Rain check?”

“You’re funny.”

Priya put on a smile. “How lovely to meet Tonya’s friends.”

“What friends?” Lynette shook her head. “She hates music, always wants quiet. It’s like living with a grumpy librarian!”

“Don’t worry, I’ll do my best to corrupt her.” Priya checked her phone, again.

Lynette crossed her arms. “So, is she coming or not?”

“She’s not responding.”

“Game over. Thanks for playing.” Lynette hurried Priya to the door. “Better luck next time.” Lynette forced Priya into the hall and slammed the door.

I think this makes us besties. Priya glanced up the hall for witnesses but she was alone.

Her phone pinged. It was Tonya, calling to say she was finished at the library.

“Let’s meet at the pub,” said Priya. “I just met your wonderful roommate, and while I’d love to stick around and lap up her charm, I wouldn’t want to impose on her generosity.”