Page 28 of Queen’s Gambit

“Is that so,” I asked.

“He’ll have to learn to talk to people before he can take over as Dean,” Lawrence said, rolling his eyes.

“Careful, Lawrence. The quiet ones will surprise you the most,” I said, smiling at Paul. “Besides, Dean Henry has a nice ring to it.”

Paul’s whole demeanor changed, and he stood taller. I hated bullies, and I got the distinct impression that Lawrence could easily turn bully. But...I’d only just met him five minutes ago, so what did I really know?

“Why don’t we get your stuff up to your room, and then I can give you a tour,” Eddie said.

“I’d love that.”

It was amazing how casual Eddie was here. He was like a whole new person and yet not in a bad way. He tapped on the glass of the car, and our driver popped the trunk. Lawrence whistled as he stared in at the massive suitcases, making me blush.

“I went overboard, didn’t I?”

Eddie smiled. “Well…maybe a little. But that’s why you have four guys out here.”

“Oh, you thought we were helping you,” Marcus said and then laughed.

“Rossi, don’t make me kick your ass and embarrass you in front of Yulianna,” Eddie teased.

“Kick my ass? More like I’ll kick your ass. Whatever, give me a suitcase,” Marcus grumbled as I grabbed my purse and jacket from the car. I walked up the stairs and waited for them.

“Ready,” Eddie asked as he and Lawrence carried the largest piece of luggage. I nodded and held open the door for them.

Between all four guys, my stuff was carried inside all at once. My smile had become permanent as I took in the wide sweeping foyer. People were chatting all over the place, sunshine poured in through the skylights, and the hum of activity fed my deprived senses. It might have only been a few minutes, but this place…it felt like being at Eddie’s in Italy.

It felt like home.

Yulianna

“This is your room. Your roommate’s name is Ella. She tends to keep to herself,” Eddie said.

“Oh? Why is that?”

“She’s deaf, and there are only a couple of teachers who can sign with her. But she can lip-read really well,” Eddie said, pulling a key from his pocket and handing it to me. “I got this for you earlier.”

Smiling, I took the key and slipped it into the lock. I opened the door and spotted Ella sitting on her bed with a large sketchpad on her lap. She looked up and smiled as we walked inside. Ella was beautiful, with strawberry hair, green eyes, and a smattering of freckles on her cheeks. Her warm smile reminded me of Frida, and I instantly felt connected to her.

Not waiting for her to take the lead, I walked over and signed.

Hello, I’m Yulianna.

She jumped up off the bed.

You sign?

I do.

Are you not able to hear?

Yes, I can, but I spend a lot of time alone. I learned multiple languages and then one day decided to learn sign language.

She squealed, grabbing me and pulling me into a hug. I held her back, falling in love with her immediately. Eddie’s eyes were on me as the guys put my stuff down, but I sat on Ella’s bed as she tugged my hand.

I don’t even know what to ask first. Other than my interpreter, I don’t have anyone to talk to. I’ve thought so many times about transferring schools, but it felt like I was giving in.

I nodded.