The Fire Decit

Alexia and Alfred's friendship blossomed like a wildflower in the sun-kissed fields of their youth. At 12 and 14, they sat together in class, their desks a mess of scribbled notes and shared secrets. They whispered to each other during lessons, their eyes sparkling with mischief.

"I can't believe we got detention again, Al!" Alexia giggled, her ponytail bobbing up and down.

"Hey, it's worth it for the laughs we had, Lex!" Alfred replied, his grin infectious.

Bryan, sitting nearby, rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "You two are something else," he chuckled.

During recess, they raced around the playground, their laughter echoing off the swings and slides. They shared their dreams and fears, their hearts still pure and full of wonder.

"We're going to change the world, Al!" Alexia declared, her eyes shining with excitement.

"Together, Lex, we can do anything!" Alfred replied, his smile mirroring hers.