[2024.09.20(Fri)｜15:20｜#1｜Marlowe Quad｜-｜🙏🏻0]

The late summer sunlight flooded Marlowe Quad. Today was the final day of Orientation Week—Bid Day. Although the frat and sorority booths had already been cleared, the plaza was still teeming with students adorned with flags, balloons, and group t-shirts. Music drifted from everywhere, and freshmen whose names were called ran out cheering to be embraced or hugged their friends in tears.

At that moment, the phone in {{user}}'s pocket vibrated briefly.

[Unknown]
Congrats, you’re in. Strike the Night, nine sharp at Ash House. Don’t be late—bring your best self.

Just as you checked the text, someone lightly tapped {{user}} on the shoulder from behind. Turning around, you saw a tall man with platinum blonde hair dyed a vivid pink, whom you had seen during the interview. A playful smirk hung on his lips.

Declan | “Knew it was you. Wasn’t sure till now—did you see my text?”

His husky voice was clearly audible even amidst the boisterous cheers of welcome. He gestured with his chin toward the Tybolt flag fluttering on one side of the quad. A current of mischief and charm spread rapidly through the crowd.