dfw_yesha123

Ava thought starting university would be exciting, but between getting lost on her first day, struggling with online classes, and surviving off snacks, she quickly realized she had no clue what she was doing. With her best friend Lydia joining her a year later, things started looking up—until a party changed everything.

At the party, Ava comes face-to-face with her longtime crush—a ridiculously handsome, smooth-talking guy she’s only admired from a distance. He’s got silky hair, stunning eyes, and an effortless charm that makes everyone fall for him. Ava never thought he’d notice her… until he did.

But when he finally approaches her, she panics so hard she chokes on her drink and embarrasses herself in front of everyone. Lydia watches in horror (or amusement), while Ava wonders if she can ever recover from the most humiliating moment of her life.

With her current boyfriend, Elijah, giving off major red flags, and a crush who’s a known player suddenly showing interest, Ava’s university life is about to get way more complicated.

Between friendships, romance, and reckless decisions, will Ava find herself—or just more trouble?

campus days and coffee breaks

The morning sun streamed through my window, but I barely noticed. It was three days to my birthday, and I had officially given up on seeing my name on any admission list. I had checked a hundred times already—nothing.

So, I did what any reasonable girl in my position would do: I moved on. If I wasn't getting into school, I was at least going to have the best birthday party ever. My mood instantly lifted as I grabbed my notebook, scribbling down ideas. A rooftop party? Too risky. A beach getaway? Too expensive. Maybe something cozy but still epic. I was deep in thought, already picturing the decorations and outfits, when my dad's name flashed on my phone screen.

"Check again," he said the moment I picked up.

I almost rolled my eyes. "Dad, I already—"

With a sigh, I refreshed the page, expecting the usual disappointment. But then—

My name was there.

For a second, I just stared, my brain refusing to process what I was seeing. My heart started racing. My fingers trembled. I got in.

The excitement from planning my party vanished in an instant, replaced by a wave of emotions so strong I didn't know whether to scream or cry. Maybe both.

A slow smile spread across my face as I stared at the screen. I had actually gotten in. My heart was still racing, but instead of screaming, I decided to have a little fun.

My younger sister sat beside me, watching me closely. "What?" she asked, impatient.

I shrugged, biting my lip to keep from grinning too much. "Nothing," I said casually, locking my phone.

Her eyes narrowed. "Did you get in?"

I stretched my arms and yawned dramatically. "Maybe."

I laughed, finally showing her the screen. Her scream could have shattered glass.

Since Mom had already left for work, I decided not to call her just yet. Instead, I grabbed my phone and sent a message to the group chat with my high school friends.

Me: GUYS. I GOT IN!!!

Within seconds, the chat exploded.

Tolu: Omg omg! No way!

Esther: WHATTTT?? WAIT. Checking now!!

David: Hold up, did they drop another list??

They rushed to check the portal, and I held my breath, hoping for good news. But then…

Lidya: I didn't get in.

Amara: Me neither.

David: Still showing "not admitted."

My heart sank. I didn't even know what to say. I had been so excited, and now… they were crushed.

Me: Guys… I'm so sorry.

Lidya: It's fine. It's not your fault.

But I could tell they were disappointed.

With a sigh, I put my phone down. School was resuming next week, and while I was happy, reality hit me—I had so much to do. Shopping, documents, packing… this was really happening.

And my epic birthday party? It had just taken a backseat.

Two days to my birthday