Afflicted: WORKING GIRL SERIES, #2

CHAPTER 1: Exciting times. 

I am so happy for autumn , as it heralds a momentous occasion: the commencement of your academic journey into higher learning, I never thought I would see a child of mine go to university, especially my daughter. The mere thought of this milestone evokes a profound sense of pride within me, your papa would have been so proud of you, if he had been here to witness this remarkable achievement. God bless his departed soul.  Sabrina's mother tenderly pressed her lips against her daughter's cheek, a fleeting gesture of affection as she prepared to leave to go shopping. Mama, I must go, Kira is waiting for me, so we can get all the things we need for our halls of residence. I love you mama, arrivederci.  

With a determined stride, Sabrina hastened towards the bus stop, her heart pounding in her chest. The relentless pursuit of the approaching bus had ignited a sense of urgency in her, compelling her to push her physical limits. As fortune would have it, the bus came to a halt just in the nick of time, allowing Sabrina to embark on its welcoming embrace. Today held a special significance for Sabrina, for she was to meet with her dear friend Kira, in the bustling high street. A palpable excitement coursed through her veins, intertwining with the anticipation danced in her eyes. Together, they would go on a shopping expedition, seeking out the essential accoutrements required for their forthcoming university journey.

In this shared pursuit, Sabrina and her friend found their spirits buoyed by the prospect of acquiring the necessary provisions. The high street, a vibrant tapestry of commerce and human connection, beckoned them with its siren song. Sabrina’s enthusiasm grew, her mind brimming with possibilities and her heart alight with the promise of a fruitful day ahead. The bus, teeming with passengers, was packed to the brim, with no vacant seat for her petite frame. She found herself positioned in the heart of the aisle, her grasp firmly secured on the sturdy handrail. Her mother, in her exuberance over her daughter's acceptance to Bath University, had inadvertently caused her to be late. When Sabrina boarded the bus, her eyes were immediately drawn to a man of extraordinary beauty. His jet-black hair cascaded down to his shoulders, forming delicate ringlets that framed his handsome, chiselled face. With his olive complexion, he exuded an air of undeniable allure. Serendipitously, he found himself seated directly across from Sabrina, his gaze fixed intently upon her. She made a valiant effort to avert her eyes, yet the task proved arduous, for he occupied a position directly within her line of sight, commanding her attention from the vantage point where she stood. Throughout the entire journey into town, his gaze remained fixed on Sabrina, his deep, intense, dark blue eyes captivating her. Under different circumstances, such unwavering attention might have unsettled her, but his undeniable attractiveness mitigated any discomfort. He made no attempt to divert his gaze, instead continuing to stare directly into her eyes. With each passing moment, Sabrina could feel an intense heat building within her, all consuming. As the bus glided into the bustling high street, its imminent halt prompted the man to rise from his seat, poised to join the awaiting passengers eager to disembark. However, the abrupt application of the brakes unleashed a cacophony of shrill sounds, jolting the passengers into a disoriented collision. During this chaotic commotion, the man found himself hurtling towards Sabrina, their destinies intertwined for a fleeting moment. In an unforeseen twist, his powerful arms instinctively caught her, providing an unshakeable anchor amidst the tumultuous sea of bodies. Their gazes locked, time stood still, their connection unyielding. Sabrina's senses were immediately attuned to his aura, a palpable strength emanating from him as he assisted her in regaining her composure. His words, delivered in a mellifluous timbre, carried a distinct Italian cadence that stirred a sense of familiarity deep inside her. With a gentle smile gracing his lips, he nodded to her, then positioned himself in the queue just behind her. His warm breath delicately brushed against the nape of her neck, a delightful shiver coursed through her entire being, leaving her with a tingling sensation that electrified every inch of her body. The moment she disembarked from the bus, her dear friend Kira materialised before her, a playful reproach dancing in her eyes. Your late again, a hint of amusement lacing her words. Kira gestured towards her watch, as she spoke. I am always fashionably late, Sabrina declared with an air of confidence, as their arms intertwined, and they commenced down the bustling high street. During their shopping excursion, laughter and mirth filled the air, mingling with the shared sense of camaraderie. Whilst they were in pursuit of acquiring essential items for their impending pathway to higher education, revelling in the joyous moments that unfolded as they shopped. I’m hungry, Kira declared, her voice laced with a sense of urgency, as she gently tugged at Sabrina's arm, leading her towards the closest establishment that offered swift sustenance. You’re always hungry, I don’t want fast food, can we go to a pub for lunch instead? Sabrina's delicate features contorted as she wrinkled her nose, her voice dripping with a hint of disdain. Only if you’re paying, getting ready to attend university is costing me a small fortune, Kira uttered with a tinge of bitterness. With a hearty chuckle, Sabrina playfully ribbed her friend, before agreeing to treat her to lunch. With them both in agreement they made their way towards the cheapest establishment in the  city. The two friends made a mutual decision to sit in the beer garden, basking in the resplendent rays of a scorching summer's day. Such climatic conditions were a rarity in England, compelling them to seize the opportunity and relish every moment of it. On perusing the menu with a discerning gaze, Sabrina  made her way towards the bar, where she intended to place her order. There, she requested two pints of lager for her companion and herself. She stood at the bar, waiting for the pints to be poured, an inexplicable sensation overcame her. It was as if an unseen force was intently fixating on her being. Succumbing to her curiosity, she pivoted her gaze towards the pub's patrons, only to discover the very same gentleman who had gallantly prevented her from stumbling aboard the bus. Their gazes locked in a silent dance, as she collected her pints of lager and made her way towards the beer garden. 

With a graceful flourish, Sabrina  placed the pints on the polished surface of the table. Settling herself into a seat, she raised her pint to her lips and took a generous sip, relishing the cool liquid. A momentary pause ensued before she spoke, her voice carrying a hint of excitement. I forgot to tell you what happened on the bus on the way here, there was a guy, he was gorgeous, the bus abruptly braked, causing a chaotic commotion amongst the passengers. Well, I went flying, but this guy he caught me and prevented my fall. I didn’t tell you earlier as I had forgotten the whole thing, until I just noticed him whilst I was at the bar. Hardly had the words escaped Sabrina's lips when, like a conjured apparition, the waiter materialised before her, bearing two frothy pints in his grasp. These drinks, he intoned, have been bought for you by a gentleman. Kira's mouth stretched open in a wide arc, her lips parting to form a grateful utterance directed towards the waiter. Who is it, what does he look like. I'm going to have a look? Kira insisted. Sabrina, her pint in hand, offered her response with a casual air. Just look for the most attractive man in the bar, he’s got that Mediterranean look, but he has most unusual deep blue eyes. Jet-black curly hair to his shoulders, tall with a muscular build, he really is quite beautiful, you won’t miss him. Please don’t make it obvious though. 

Deep blue eyes, but looks Mediterranean, this I have got to see. Kira said with a wink . 

With a swift and calculated glance, Kira surveyed the bustling bar, cleverly disguising her true intention as a mere trip to the toilet. In a seamless display of timing, she reappeared just as their  lunch was being served. Sabrina's anticipation grew palpable as she awaited the revelation that was about to unfold. With bated breath, she observed Kira  taking her seat at the table. Then, with a tone of disappointment lacing her words, Kira uttered, Regrettably, there is no trace of him. I swear there is no one in the bar that matches your description. Sabrina couldn't help but feel a tinge of disappointment, yet without dwelling on it, they both promptly delved into their midday meal. 

CHAPTER 2: University life. 

In the crisp autumn of September 1987, Sabrina found herself standing before the grand entrance of her student halls, a place that would become her sanctuary for the next chapter of her life. With a mix of anticipation and nerves, she awaited the arrival of Kira. The air was abuzz with the excitement of fresher week, a time of orientation and exploration, as Sabrina prepared to immerse herself in the vibrant tapestry of university life. During a flurry of activity, the friends found themselves immersed in a whirlwind of tasks.  

Their days were filled with the imperative duty of procuring their student identification cards, a necessary step in their academic journey. Additionally, they were compelled to partake in the process of registration, ensuring their enrolment in the appropriate courses. To further acquaint themselves with their chosen fields of study, they dutifully attended introductory lectures for their respective modules. These few days gave them both great insight, into the demanding nature of their academic pursuits. In the realm of academia, Kira had made the conscious decision to embark on a journey of knowledge in the field of social work. Conversely, Sabrina, with a discerning eye for intellectual pursuits, had chosen to immerse herself in the intricate study of Psychology. As a result of their divergent academic paths, the inseparable friends would find themselves traversing separate corridors of learning, their shared presence in classes becoming a rarity. As they graced the halls of every social gathering hand in hand, a solemn vow passed between them, a pledge to defy the forces that sought to pull them apart, their divergent paths be damned. They reached a mutual understanding to convene on a regular basis, as frequently as their social calendars would permit. Fortune had smiled on them, for they found themselves blessed with the serendipitous circumstance of sharing the same sleeping quarters. Sabrina found solace in the fact that she would not have to share her room with a stranger. The pangs of longing for her beloved mother had already begun to assail her, despite the solemn vow she had made to return home every weekend. She missed her Mama, she missed her dinners, she missed her hugs and most of all she missed her motherly advice. This commitment did little to assuage the incessant stream of anxious thoughts that plagued her weary mind. Sabrina loved her mother dearly, she was the sole pillar of support in her world.  Since her father’s death, they stood united, facing the challenges that life threw their way. Her mother, a resilient figure, had endured countless hardships, often juggling three jobs, all in the pursuit of securing a brighter future for Sabrina. 

In the world of academia, the advent of the second fresher's week brought forth a plethora of intellectual pursuits and the forging of social connections for the two kindred spirits. Fortuitously, they had procured an ample supply of stationary, only to be informed of the necessity to acquire certain books for their courses, books that resided on the more exorbitant end of the price spectrum. Sabrina, in her diligent pursuit of cleanliness and familial connection, faithfully embarked on the journey homeward each weekend. Seeking the warmth of her Mama and the practicality of being able to tend to her laundry. Meanwhile, Kira, embracing a more spirited and social approach to her weekends, opted to remain in the confines of the hall, engaging in jovial revelry alongside fellow students. At the mere culmination of the third week, their lives had already diverged significantly. Kira, a social butterfly, was perpetually engrossed in the company of her friends. While Sabrina, on the other hand, preferred solitude, dedicating her days to acclimating to her new surroundings and embracing a frugal lifestyle due to financial constraints. 

Listen, you’ve got to come out tonight, I will pay. Its Friday night. You can always go to your mams tomorrow, oh come on,  please, for me. With an air of determination, Kira extended her offer to Sabrina, her countenance subtly contorting into a semblance of a spoiled child's pout. Sabrina's gaze lifted from the pages of her books, meeting the eyes of Kira, her only friend. With a nod of acquiescence, she uttered, Alright already, I will go out with you tonight. I need a break anyway, but tomorrow I must go see my mama, okay. My dear mama is lonely, I can tell, she misses me. In a swift motion, Kira seized her, drawing her closer, and pressed her lips against Sabrina’s cheek. Eek you won’t regret it, she whispered, her voice laced with a tantalising promise. Sabrina went to the pay phone in the hall , her  fingers dialling her mother's number with a sense of purpose. She conveyed her decision to postpone her arrival until Saturday. Meanwhile, the two young women, their spirits buoyed by the anticipation of the evening ahead, indulged in the harmonious melodies emanating from their radio. The dulcet notes mingled with the clinking of glasses, as they savoured the rich taste of wine, only served to heighten their mirth and enhance their preparations for the forthcoming night of revelry. Kira and Sabrina found themselves in a local student haunt, renowned among students for its lively atmosphere and copious drinks at affordable prices. A large group of students, familiar to Kira, converged on them, engaging in lively conversation. They indulged in the consumption of shots, their glasses clinking together in a harmonious symphony.  Encouragement flowed freely among them, each member goading the others to partake in the game of  downing various shots. A young guy by the name of Michael appeared to harbour a distinct fascination for Sabrina, positioning himself in close proximity to her and engaging in conversation whenever an opportunity presented itself. Sabrina’s lack of interest was palpable, for she had not pursued higher education with the intention of exuding flamboyance or indulging in overt sexuality. Her purpose in being here was to work hard and fulfil her mother's expectations. 

Michael was a young man of affluence,  he  possessed a singular attribute that accounted for his popularity, his propensity for generously covering the costs of drinks for his companions. His golden locks, reminiscent of the sun-kissed shores, added to his charm. A regular visitor to the gym, he diligently sculpted his physique. In the limited span of their university experience, Michael had garnered a reputation among his peers as a ladies’ man. His nights were spent in the lively ambiance of pubs and clubs, where he bragged to his companions about his conquests, leaving an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of those who crossed his path. He would frequently ply his conquests with an abundance of drinks, rendering them oblivious to their own actions, as he led them through the corridors of the halls to engage in sexual encounters. Sabrina harboured a certain indifference towards Michael, yet she found herself acquiescing to his offers of drinks, even  Kira, was partaking in his generosity. She engaged in a logical deduction, concluding that if he displayed the willingness to cover the expenses for the entire group, it would be impolite on her part to decline his offer. Sabrina's sole concern arose from Michael's disconcerting proximity, for he persistently engaged in unwarranted physical contact and encroached upon her personal space, as though staking a claim to his territory. Sabrina, was blissfully ignorant of his notorious reputation, rendering his overtly amiable demeanour, a mere facade in her eyes. 

The collective ventured forth, traversing the bustling high-street adorned with numerous inviting establishments. Their footsteps carried them from one pub to another, each imbued with its own distinct charm and libations. As their nocturnal odyssey unfolded, their destination became clear - Pulteny bridge, a picturesque landmark that beckoned them to conclude their night of merriment. With unanimous accord, they descended on the Underground club, a haven of pulsating rhythms and vibrant energy, where their revelry would find its ultimate culmination. Sabrina found herself intertwined with Kira, their arms linked in a delicate embrace, as they traversed the entire route. Throughout their journey, Sabrina, was engaged in a discreet dance, skillfully evading any encounters with Michael, whilst maintaining the utmost politeness. When they crossed the threshold of the club, Sabrina seized Kira's arm with an urgency that could not be ignored. With a determined stride, she led her companion towards the toilets. Michael’s, relentless, every time I turn around, he’s there, like a space invader? Sabrina whispered, her voice tinged with a husky timbre. Yes, I did notice, just keep him at arm’s length, unless you want a rich boyfriend and you think you could keep him interested, as he has a bad reputation as a player.   

Goodness gracious, you can’t be serious! I would never entertain such a notion, he is not my type, Sabrina exclaimed, her voice filled with a jovial lilt.   

CHAPTER 3: Stranger  Danger.

In that moment, the two friends emerged from the lavatories, making their way back to their group. Along their path, Kira leaned in close to Sabrina, her voice a mere whisper, as she imparted her sage advice, Be nice though. He buys everyone drinks most nights. That doesn’t mean you have to sleep with him. She declared Sabrina, with a feigned gesture, mimicked the act of inserting her delicate fingers into her throat, as if to provoke the expulsion of her innermost being at the mere insinuation. The friends ventured into the busy bar, their hearts aflutter with anticipation. As they approached the counter, Micheal materialised before them.  With a charming smile adorning his countenance, he inquired, What are you drinking ladies?  

Malibu and cokes please, Kira responded, pre-empting any potential dissent from Sabrina. With a swift motion, he retrieved his wallet from his pocket. Without hesitation, he proceeded to pay for their drinks, a gesture that exuded both chivalry and generosity. The drinks were consumed with haste by the two friends, their thirst quenched in an instant. Sabrina seized the moment and grabbed hold of Kira's arm, leading her  towards the pulsating heart of the room, where the dance floor beckoned. During their rhythmic gyrations and graceful movements, Sabrina and  Kira engaged in a lively conversation, their voices struggling to be heard above the cacophony emanating from the powerful speakers. With each visit to the bar, like a spectre emerging from the shadows, Michael materialised unannounced, extending his generous offer to procure their drinks. With each attempt Sabrina made to voice her dissent, Kira and Michael brushed her concerns aside, rendering