"Understandable. I have lab on Monday and don't expect to get a batch going before then at the earliest."

They can talk about other things in the meantime. The other freshman are happy to ask Ennis a bit more about what he's tried already with cosmetics, which is enough dinnertime conversation for the first day.

Hira tunes out the conversation until she's made enough progress on her food to fuel tonight's workout, and then asks her own questions- is it true that [vague stereotype about Britain]? How did he first find his affinity?

"We are fond of tea, yes. My grandmother makes her own mascara and I was her lab assistant at times." They let him try that after he kept stealing Isla's makeup and trying it on, and mercifully it was in fact his affinity, which is a good excuse for being interested in makeup.

"That's pretty cool. Looking forward to lab?"

"Yes, I have it before lunch Monday, I'm glad to have the slot."

"I don't envy you it. I look forward to seeing what you make"

And then they can move into small talk, as everyone gets some much-needed nutrition.