chapter sixty three

The most shocking encounter Alina had that day was with Lizzy. The school day was in full swing when the doors to the main entrance burst open, causing a wave of whispers and gasps to ripple through the hallway. Lizzy strode in, her makeup a dramatic mix of dark eyeliner and black lipstick, her face painted almost ghostly pale. She wore a long, flowing white dress that resembled a wedding gown, the kind that might be worn by a bride in a horror movie.

Students stared, some giggling, others whispering amongst themselves. "Is she serious?" one girl murmured. "She looks like she walked out of a zombie movie," a boy added, trying to stifle his laughter.

Alina, who had been standing by her locker, turned at the commotion. Her eyes widened in shock as she saw Lizzy. Without a moment's hesitation, she rushed over and grabbed Lizzy's arm, pulling her through the gawking crowd to the science lab where they could be alone.