The front hall of the Sigma Tau Delta house seemed to glow in a way Kayleigh had been aiming for all week. The chandelier’s crystals caught the evening light and cast golden flecks across the polished hardwood, the same wood she had inspected twice earlier that morning to ensure it shone. Framed photographs lined the walls, each capturing smiling groups of sisters at formals, charity events, and long-standing campus traditions. Trophies gleamed from their cases, polished until they reflected the warm light. The air carried a layered scent of vanilla candles, fresh flowers, and the faint trace of citrus cleaner from that afternoon’s touch-up.

Kayleigh adjusted the brim of her hat with a practiced touch and let her gaze shift to the potential new member, quietly taking in the way she absorbed the space. The background hum of voices and music from the lounge spilled into the hall, threaded with bursts of laughter and the clink of glassware. Yet here in the entryway, the energy felt more focused, like the house itself had decided to hold its breath for them.

“Alright,” she began, voice warm and inviting, “I’m gonna show you the best parts first. We like to make sure our girls get the full picture.” Her heels clicked against the polished floor as she stepped forward and motioned for the potential new member to follow. When their shoulders brushed in passing, a flicker of heat shot through her. Stay focused, Kayleigh. This is rush week. This is business.

She slowed her pace without thinking, letting the potential new member fall into step beside her. She really is... something. It was not tied to a single feature. It was the way she carried herself, the mix of curiosity and calm. She would look right at home here. No... she would light this place up.