Over the next few weeks, George began visiting Anna more often. They studied together, laughed over shared jokes, and even stayed up late watching movies. The afternoons in her room became a little world of their own—a space where worries could melt away, replaced by lighthearted banter and the warmth of companionship.
Yet, Anna started noticing something that made her uneasy. George often mentioned spending time with someone named Rose. Sometimes she saw them walking together across campus, laughing easily, or sharing small, private conversations that made Anna pause.And from rumours, she got to know that George has a girlfriend from high school. A small knot of doubt began to grow inside her, though she didn't know what to do with it.
One evening, after George had lingered a little longer than usual in her room, Anna decided to confront him. They were sitting on the edge of her bed, a movie paused on the laptop screen, the room silent except for the hum of the fan.
"George…" Anna started carefully, "I keep seeing you with Rose. Who is she, really?"
George shifted slightly, leaning back against the wall. A flicker of surprise crossed his face, quickly replaced by a calm, practiced smile. "Rose? She's… my sister," he said casually, as if the matter were already closed.
Anna frowned, unsure if she wanted to believe him. "Your sister?" she repeated. "It… it seems like you spend a lot of time with her. Are you sure?"
"Yes," George said firmly. "I promise. She's just my sister. Nothing else. You don't have to worry."
Despite her doubts, Anna felt the tension ease slightly. There was something in the way he looked at her then—earnest, almost innocent—that made her hesitate. Maybe he was telling the truth. Maybe it wasn't her place to judge.
From that day on, their routine continued. George still visited Anna's room frequently. They watched movies, joked, and studied together, the old familiarity of laughter and companionship returning. But beneath it all, Anna remained slightly cautious, aware that George had a world outside her room that she didn't fully understand.
One evening, as they were sharing a snack and teasing each other about a movie scene, Anna caught herself watching George's expression. He seemed carefree, confident, and… charming, but there was always that little mystery surrounding him, the unspoken lives he led outside these walls.
Still, she allowed herself to enjoy his company. A smile, a laugh, a shared look—these were enough for now. George didn't demand more than what she was willing to give, and for the moment, Anna decided to accept the companionship at face value.
And so their days passed, filled with casual fun, gentle teasing, and quiet moments of connection. But in the back of her mind, Anna couldn't shake the question that lingered every time she saw Rose nearby:
Was George truly being honest with her?
Room 121.
The world inside that door felt safe, but outside, uncertainty waited. And Anna realized that sometimes, even the people you trust the most might not tell the whole truth.