Morning arrived, filling the dormitory once again with stillness as graduates hurried away for interviews. Only Scarlett lingered, her exhaustion compelling her to rest a little longer. When firm knocking crashed through her reprieve, she rubbed her eyes and trudged lethargically to the door.

Standing outside was Emily, her mother, purse and packages in hand, poised as though waiting to invade.

"Why are you still in bed?" Emily chided, every word sharp as her ...