“Our entire last meeting was devoted to identifying our mission. You should remember since you dominated that conversation, even though Alejandro and I are the co-chairs. We’ve covered the mission. It’s in our shared folders. If you’d like to return to it, please let us know through email, and we’ll put it on the agenda for the next meeting. This month, we’ll be identifying student organizations and offices we can partner with for Welcome Week outreach. I hope everyone came with ideas,” she said, smiling at the table as if she hadn’t just set Caroline firmly in her place.

They were all silent for a few seconds — except for Caroline’s shocked, flapping gums — until Mike broke the ice.

“I talked to the Students of Color Art Collective. They’re new and want to focus on recruitment next year, so they’re definitely open to whatever we put together,” he said, each word full of barely suppressed laughter.

“Uh, yeah,” Toni added, “same with the NPHC and NABJ.”

Marie coughed, announcing her tentative intention to speak as if she was worried someone — Caroline — would interrupt her. “I talked to the International Students Association, and they want to make sure that we don’t forget them since international students usually get here before move-in day and don’t have as much support.”

“That’s a great point,” Alejandro said, smiling at Marie and then turning to Deja. He really just wanted any reason to look at her. “We didn’t even think of that.”

Deja looked at him, finally, with a nod and a small smile. “Yeah,” she whispered. “I love that idea.”

He felt warm all over at her words. It was probably ridiculous, but he could have sworn that she’d said that sentence for him.

About him.

“Get a room,” Mike coughed.

The meeting continued.

“Ooooh, Caroline hates you,” Toni laughed as they walked from Mark Hall to the faculty parking lot.

“She’s gonna run and tattle on you to the Dean,” Mike laughed.

“Good,” Deja said.

They were walking slowly. Their classes and meetings were over, but none of them were in a hurry to get home where they would probably have to keep working for another hour or two.

Marie was the first person to peel away.

“See you guys tomorrow,” she called with a wave.

“We’re celebrating on Saturday,” Deja said.

“Celebrating what?” Mike asked.

“Marie got the job!” Toni yelled at Marie’s retreating back.

“Alright. Chill out,” Marie said, turning and walking backward.

“Only until Saturday, then we’re going all out,” Mike said excitedly.

“Who invited you?” Toni asked, drifting away toward her car.

“Me,” Mike said, following her.

“Congratulations,” Alejandro said to Marie.

Marie smiled wider. “Thanks.”

“We’re all really happy for you,” Deja added.

Marie nodded and waved before turning and walking toward home.