Elie’s stormed out of the cafeteria, her mind swirling with unwanted thoughts. Her feet carried her toward the quiet school courtyard as she tried to push away the image of Bianca smiling at Damien, her heart pounding despite her attempts to stay calm. Just as she reached a shaded bench under a large oak tree, she heard hurried footsteps behind her. Turning around, she saw Janna jogging toward her, looking concerned and slightly out of breath. **“Elie’s!”** Janna called, waving her hand. **“Wait up!”** Elie’s groaned inwardly but stood still, knowing she couldn’t avoid her best friend forever. **“Why did you run out like that?”** Janna asked, panting as she finally reached her. **“What’s going on?”** Elie’s crossed her arms defensively, shifting her gaze to the ground. **“Nothing’s going on. I just... needed some air.”** Janna narrowed her eyes, unconvinced. **“Air? Really? You were perfectly fine before Bianca walked in.”** Elie’s scoffed, avoiding her gaze. **“Her show
The classroom buzzed with excitement and nervous energy as students prepared to present their projects. Mr. Robert, their literature teacher, stood at the front, clipboard in hand. His sharp gaze scanned the room.“Alright, class,” he announced. “Today, you’ll be presenting your projects. Each pair has ten minutes to present and defend their work. Impress me.”The students exchanged anxious glances. Elie’s tapped her pen nervously while Damien, seated beside her, appeared perfectly relaxed, twirling a pencil between his fingers.“We’ve got this,” Damien whispered, noticing her tension.Elie’s nodded, still unconvinced.First Pair: Chris and Tiffany“Chris and Tiffany, you’re up,” Mr. Robert called.Chris and Tiffany rose from their seats, walking confidently to the front. Tiffany adjusted her flawless hair, flashing a dazzling smile.“Our project is on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, focusing on how impulsive decisions led to tragedy,” Tiffany began, her voice clear and steady.Chris
Elie’s walked into the school parking lot, her mind swirling with anticipation. Today was the day Mr. Carter would announce the results of their project presentations. As much as she hated to admit it, she was nervous. She adjusted her bag and headed toward her first class, trying to suppress the uneasy feeling in her chest.From the corner of her eye, she saw Damien approaching from across the school grounds. He walked with his usual confident stride, his hands casually tucked into his pockets, exuding effortless charm."Hey, partner," Damien greeted smoothly as he fell into step beside her. "You look like you’re about to sit for another test. Nervous about our results?"Elie’s gave a small, tense laugh. "A little... I just hope we did well."Damien smirked. "Hope? Seriously? We crushed that project. You’ve got me as your partner—there’s no way we’re not getting a perfect score."She rolled her eyes. "You and your oversized ego...""Confidence," he corrected with a wink. "Trust me, M
The school courtyard buzzed with activity as Damien sat with his group of friends at their usual hangout spot near the basketball court. His closest friends included Jake, the charming prankster; Ryan, the athletic captain of the soccer team; Lucas, the tech genius with a quiet but intense aura; and Caleb, the smooth-talking ladies’ man. Together, they were known as the “Elite Five” — admired, envied, and practically untouchable. Jake playfully tossed a basketball between his hands. **“So, who’s ready for the game after class? We’re totally crushing them.”** Caleb smirked. **“As long as you don’t miss another free throw like last time.”** Jake laughed. **“I was distracted! Not my fault the cheer squad was practicing right behind the hoop.”** Ryan rolled his eyes. **“Excuses.”** Just then, Bianca approached with her usual air of confidence. Her long blonde hair shimmered in the sunlight, and her perfectly styled outfit turned heads as she made her way toward the boys. **“He
Bianca sat with a forced smile plastered on her face, surrounded by Damien’s friends—Caleb, Lucas, Jake, and Ryan—while Damien himself was noticeably absent. She had watched him walk off toward Elie’s without a second thought, leaving her standing there, humiliated. Caleb smirked, leaning back casually. **“So... that didn’t go as planned, huh, Bianca?”** Bianca’s jaw clenched, but she maintained her composure. **“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”** Lucas chuckled. **“Come on, we all saw it. You were laying it on thick, talking about that gala. Thought you had him hooked... until Elie’s walked by.”** Bianca’s fists tightened on her lap, nails digging into her palms. **“Damien was just being polite. He’s coming to the gala. He said he’d think about it.”** Ryan raised an eyebrow. **“Yeah... after ditching you to run after Elie’s. Face it, Bee, you’re not his priority.”** Her smile faltered for a split second before she covered it with a cool laugh. **“Damien and I ha
The cafeteria buzzed with its usual lunchtime chaos. Students crowded the long tables, talking, laughing, and sharing stories about the latest school gossip. The aroma of freshly baked pizza and fries filled the air as trays clattered against tabletops. Tiffany, Mandy, and Lucy sat at their usual spot near the large windows that overlooked the school courtyard. Tiffany’s tray remained mostly untouched, her fork hovering over her salad as she stared intently across the cafeteria. Her focus was locked on one particular table—where Damien and his friends sat. Damien’s usual crew—Jake, Lucas, Caleb, and Ryan—were laughing loudly at some joke Jake had cracked. But what made Tiffany’s stomach twist with irritation wasn’t their laughter—it was the presence of Bianca sitting far too close to Damien. Bianca was practically glued to Damien’s side, tossing her long, shiny hair and flashing her perfect white smile. Every few seconds, she would touch his arm, giggle at something he said, or
The sound of rushing water echoed softly in the girls' restroom as Bianca stood at the sink, washing her hands. She checked her reflection in the mirror, adjusting her long, shiny hair with a satisfied smirk. She couldn’t stop thinking about how close she’d gotten to Damien earlier. *He’ll come around eventually,* she thought confidently. Suddenly, the restroom door slammed open, breaking the peaceful silence. Bianca glanced up just in time to see Tiffany, followed closely by her loyal friends Mandy and Lucy, strut into the restroom with determined expressions. **“Well, well,”** Tiffany sneered, folding her arms as she approached. **“Look who’s here.”** Bianca raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. **“Is there a reason you barged in like you own the place?”** Tiffany’s eyes narrowed. **“I’m here to set things straight.”** Before Bianca could respond, Tiffany roughly shoved her shoulder, causing Bianca to stumble back against the sink. **“Stay away from Damien,”** Tiffany hissed,
Elie's yawned as sunlight streamed through her window, gently pulling her from sleep. She stretched lazily, her messy hair falling over her face. The smell of pancakes wafted through the air, making her stomach grumble. It was another peaceful morning at home, though she had no idea how awkward it was about to become.She quickly dressed in casual clothes, tied her hair into a messy bun, and headed downstairs. Her parents were already seated at the dining table. Her dad, James, was reading the newspaper, and her mom, Linda, was busy pouring coffee. The breakfast table was set with pancakes, scrambled eggs, and toast. "Good morning, sweetheart," Linda said warmly, smiling at Elie as she entered the dining room. "Morning, Mom. Morning, Dad," Elie said, trying to sound cheerful. Her dad lowered the newspaper and gave her a curious look. "Morning, Elie. How's school going?" Elie froze for a second, grabbing a plate and serving herself some pancakes. "It's fine, Dad. Just the usual.
Elie’s was still smiling at Jenna’s words, her cheeks slightly flushed. She didn’t know if it was the attention from Chris or the way Jenna was hyping her up, but she felt different tonight—more confident, more seen.Chris had been sneaking glances at her all night, and every time their eyes met, he would smirk, making her heart race. This was the kind of night she had always dreamed of—a night where she wasn’t invisible.But while Elie’s was basking in this newfound attention, Damien was anything but pleased. His jaw was clenched, and his dark eyes were locked on Chris, who was laughing at something Elie’s had just said.Jenna noticed Damien’s expression and smirked. “Oh boy,” she whispered under her breath. “This is about to get messy.”Elie’s, oblivious to Damien’s growing rage, took a sip of her drink when Chris suddenly leaned in. “You look amazing tonight, Elie’s,” he said smoothly, his deep voice sending a shiver down her spine.Elie’s nearly choked on her drink, her eyes widen
Evening at Elie’s HouseThe sun had begun to set, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink as a soft breeze flowed through the neighborhood. Inside Elie’s house, things were quiet—too quiet for a night that was supposed to be one of the biggest events of the year.Elie’s was curled up on the couch, lazily flipping through channels, a bowl of popcorn resting in her lap. The house was empty, her parents weren’t home, and honestly, she preferred it that way. No one to force her to go to that ridiculous prom.She sighed as she settled on a romance movie, stuffing a handful of popcorn into her mouth.But just as she was getting comfortable, the doorbell rang.She groaned, already knowing exactly who it was.Dragging herself off the couch, she walked to the door and opened it slightly. Before she could react, Jenna stormed in like a hurricane.“Elie’s, I swear to God—” Jenna’s eyes widened when she took in Elie’s outfit. “You are sitting here, in pajamas, watching a movie, while the re
The entire school was buzzing with excitement. Ever since the announcement of the prom night on Saturday, students couldn’t stop talking about it. The girls, especially, were busy discussing their outfits, hairstyles, and who they would be going with.Elie’s sat at her desk, listening to the chatter around her. Jenna was beside her, flipping through her phone, looking at different dress styles.“Elie’s, have you decided what you’re wearing?” Jenna asked, nudging her.“I don’t even know if I’m going,” Elie’s admitted, playing with the hem of her shirt.Jenna gasped dramatically. “What do you mean you don’t know? It’s the biggest event of the semester! Everyone is going!”“I just don’t feel like dressing up and all that,” Elie’s said, shrugging.Jenna rolled her eyes. “Girl, I swear, you’re impossible. You have to come! Do you know how many guys are dying to ask you out?”Elie’s chuckled. “I doubt that.”“Doubt all you want, but it’s true.” Jenna smirked. “Besides, Damien is going to be
The air in the hallway was thick with tension as Tiffany stormed into the empty classroom where Bianca and her gang, Mandy and Lucy, were already seated. Her face was red with anger, her fists clenched tightly by her sides. Mandy and Lucy, still trying to process the humiliation they had faced in the cafeteria, muttered under their breath."How dare she!" Tiffany yelled, slamming her palm on the desk, startling the others. "That little nobody thinks she can humiliate me in front of everyone?"Mandy nodded, her face equally flushed. "She’s too bold for her own good. Elie's and that annoying Jenna—ugh, I can’t stand them!"Lucy added, "Tiffany, we need to do something. We can’t let them get away with this."Bianca, however, sat quietly in her seat, an odd smirk on her face. She was the only one who seemed unfazed by the situation. Her calm demeanor was unnerving, and it caught Tiffany’s attention."What’s so funny, Bianca?" Tiffany snapped, glaring at her. "Don’t tell me you’re not furi
The cafeteria was alive with chatter and clinking trays as students bustled around. Elie’s and Janna sat at their usual table near the window, eating and laughing at one of Janna’s terrible jokes. “I’m telling you,” Janna said through a mouthful of fries, “if this school had a competition for the weirdest cafeteria food combinations, I’d win hands down.” Elie’s shook her head, chuckling. “You’d also lose for originality. Who puts fries in their milkshake?” “It’s a delicacy!” Janna declared, pointing a fry at her. The lighthearted mood was interrupted when Tiffany walked into the cafeteria, flanked by Mandy and Lucy. They looked as though they owned the place, heads high and sneers on their faces. What caught Elie’s attention, though, was Bianca trailing behind them. Janna leaned closer to Elie’s and whispered, “Is it just me, or does it look like the Mean Girls have recruited Bianca?” Elie’s frowned. “What’s she doing with them?” Before they could speculate further, the
The day had ended, but Damien found himself wandering through the empty hallways of the school, his hands stuffed into his pockets and his usual smirk replaced by a pensive frown. He leaned against one of the lockers, the events of the previous day replaying in his mind like a movie he couldn’t turn off. The memory was sharp, vivid, and painfully fresh. --- It had been early morning, and the house was unusually quiet. Damien had been seated at the breakfast table, his plate untouched. His father entered the room, his face set with the same serious expression he always wore. “Damien, we need to talk,” his father had said, his voice calm but firm. “About what?” Damien replied, though he already had a sinking feeling about where this was headed. His father took a seat across from him, clasping his hands together. “I’ve been meaning to discuss this with you for a while now. I’ve decided to remarry.” The words hit Damien like a punch to the gut. He stared at his father, his h
The next day, Elie’s walked into the school building, her heart racing as she glanced around. The moment she spotted Damien near his locker, she felt an unexpected wave of relief wash over her. Without thinking, she rushed toward him, her steps quick and determined. Damien was casually leaning against his locker, his usual smirk playing on his lips as he chatted with Jake. The moment he saw Elie’s hurrying toward him, his eyebrows raised in amusement. “Damien!” she called, stopping right in front of him. “Good morning to you too, Elie’s,” he said, grinning. She ignored his greeting, her words tumbling out in a rush. “Why didn’t you come to school yesterday? Are you okay? Were you sick? Did something happen?” Damien chuckled, clearly entertained by her barrage of questions. “Whoa, whoa, slow down, Elie’s,” he said, holding up his hands as if to calm her down. “Take a breath.” Elie’s blinked, suddenly realizing how fast she had been talking. She took a step back, her cheeks
The next day, the school was buzzing with its usual noise, but something felt off for Elie’s. As she entered the classroom, she noticed Damien’s seat was empty. She frowned slightly but quickly shook the feeling away. “Maybe he’s just late,” she muttered to herself, heading to her seat. Jenna was already there, arranging her books. “Morning, Elie’s!” Jenna chirped. “Morning,” Elie’s replied, though her voice lacked its usual energy. Jenna gave her a curious look but didn’t say anything. As the class began, Elie’s found it harder to concentrate than usual. Her eyes kept darting toward the door, hoping to see Damien walk in with his usual confident stride and teasing smirk. But the door remained closed, and Damien’s seat stayed empty. When the teacher gave them an independent task, Elie’s turned to Jake, who was sitting a few seats away. “Hey, Jake,” she whispered. Jake looked up from his notebook. “What’s up?” “Do you know where Damien is? He’s not here today.” Jake s
Brittany entered the cafeteria, her heels clicking against the tiled floor as she scanned the room. Her eyes landed on Damien’s table, and as usual, he was surrounded by his friends. Her gaze softened momentarily as she observed him. His charm and effortless confidence were magnetic, but what truly enraged her was how his attention was focused elsewhere. Turning her head slightly, she followed his line of sight and saw Elie’s sitting at a table with Jenna. A scowl formed on Brittany's face, though she quickly masked it with a neutral expression. “Her, again,” she muttered under her breath. With calculated steps, Brittany walked toward Damien’s table, carrying her tray. As she reached the group, one of Damien’s friends noticed her and nudged the others. “Brittany, fancy seeing you here,” one of them said with a smirk, though his tone was more teasing than welcoming. Brittany ignored him, pulling out a chair next to Damien and settling down. She placed her tray on the table and