Chapter 1 Part 1

This isn't a fairytale about Cinderella meeting Prince Charming, or a tale about Romeo and Juliet. This is a simple story about an eighteen-year-old girl, starting a brand new chapter in her life- college.

......

"Rise and shine sis !" the voice of Rainie's mischievous little brother echoed as he galloped up the stairs. "You're going to be late !" called out Tom, tugging vigorously at her blanket.

"Late? LATE!!?? What time is it? Why didn't you call me up earlier?!" a disheveled Rainie asked frantically while jumping out of her seat, losing all feelings of grogginess.

"It isn't my fault that you fell asleep on your table yet again!" said Tom grudgingly as his eyes glanced over the table , "I see you've been up all night drawing?" His voice softened."Here, I helped you prepared some breakfast- your favorite peanut butter sandwich. Have it with some milk before you wash up and leave for school," said Tom as he handed Rainie her breakfast.

"Thank little monkey! Who knew you could be so endearing?!" Rainie said appreciatively as she gestured at Tom to come closer, "Come, let me give you a hug!"

"Eww...Don't be gross! Just empty that plate and rush off to school! It's your orientation for college today, or have you forgotten that as well?" Tom gave Rainie a questioning glance before leaving the room.

That's my brother Thomas, or more affectionately known as Tom. My name's Rainie. Ya, I know, it's an uncommon name. My dad gave me that name.He said that i was born on a rainy day. I remember my dad telling me that my name is special, just like me. "Rain brings hope and new life to earth. And, rain is so powerful that it can penetrate a solid rock. What's best about the rain? No matter how dark and gloomy it might seem to be, there will always be sunshine after a rain. My little girl, always remember the qualities of the rain and I'll be forever proud of you." I remember his words as if it was just yesterday.

My dad died in an accident when i was ten. Tom, was only five.

Today is my first day of reporting to InGe College. I would be lying if I say that I'm not nervous. Hoping for a good start to my college life, I chose my outfit for today with careful consideration- a grey cotton spaghetti-strapped tank top with a mini black pleated skirt and a short-sleeved, semi-formal black jacket. Even though dad has been long gone, I chose this outfit with his words in mind. He often reminded me that first impressions matter and that people often judge a person based on their appearance. Hopefully, this smart casual outfit would leave a good impression on my first day of college. With fashionable hoop earring adorning my ears, a necklace around my neck and a chunky bangle around my wrist, I am ready.

~~ Rainie

As today was the first day of reporting to college coupled with orientation, InGe College was filled with students. Some were gathered in mini groups, chatting animatedly, while others wandered around aimlessly, without a clue as to where they should go. The whole school was buzzing with activity and the atmosphere was welcoming. Feeling a little lost and alone, Rainie swept through the crowd until her eyes finally rested on a familiar silhouette. Heaving a sigh of relief, she made her way through the crowd.

"Emily! Sorry, I barely made it just in time!" Rainie said apologetically.

"Don't worry about it. I just arrived a few minutes ago myself!" replied Emily sheepishly. Grabbing Rainie by her hand, she made a beeline towards the hall, "Come on now, or we will really be late!"

Seeing Emily in a sea of unfamiliar faces, Rainie couldn't help but think silently to herself, "I really am lucky to have a friend like Emily. I've known her since secondary school. She was my best friend then, and still is now." Rainie reminisced of the times she worked part time at the tailor shop owned by Emily's family- those were tough times as she had to help support her family financially and still keep up with school work. Luckily, Emily was there to provide her with support through their friendship. Though those times were though, it was that twist of fate that ignited her passion and interest towards fashion design.

Feeling a slight jerk at her arms, Rainie was awoken from her thoughts. Emily was leading her towards the entrance of the hall. With some difficulty, they finally spotted two empty seats that were next to each other.

"I need to make a detour to the washroom. Will be back in a jiffy. Try not to get into any trouble while i am gone," cautioned Emily, eyeing Rainie knowingly.

Rainie rolled her eyes and shrugged, "Why would i do so?" With a convincing smile, she added with gusto, "Go, go, and do not worry about me! In case you are not aware, I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself.'

Within minutes of seating down, two rough looking guys caught Rainie's eye. They were shoving and mocking a fellow setudent.

Leng:

~~ Dressed in a grey spaghetti-strapped tank top and a mini black pleated skirt, Rainie looked smart and exuded an aura of elegance. The cross-shaped pendant, black hooped earrings and chunky bangle which she carefully chose also brought out her unique style and personality. The colour grey might seem dull but Rainie managed to pull it off with vivacity, as she injected her bubbly personality into the colour. Even so, the colour grey also reflects Rainie's maturity. (Losing her father at a tender age has forced Rainie to take a step forward towards adulthood earlier than her peers.) On a whole, this outfit gave Rainie a sophisticated look, as she appeared to be cool and poised. However, on closer inspection, the observant eye is able to pick out the lack of self-confidence that she is trying to hide. ~~