Chapter 13: Suspicion Grows

Liam walked through the school hallway, lost in thought. His mind replayed the conversation with his father. Alex's illegitimate child. Victor's wife and brother involved. But what about Julian? Liam couldn't shake off the feeling. Something was off about her.

During lunch, Liam spotted Julian leaving her locker open. He casually walked over, peeking inside.

Julian's black notebook caught his attention. Sketches of Aria with X's marked through them sent a chill down Liam's spine. And a note: "Eclipse Operation - Phase 2."

Liam quickly snapped a photo and closed Julian's locker, unnoticed.

Liam's unease grew. What did this mean? Was Julian plotting something against Aria?

He texted Kai, requesting a meeting in the library.

"Meet me in the library," Liam typed. "Got a minute?"

Kai replied immediately. "Be right there."

Kai arrived with Anya, his arm around her shoulders. "What's up?" Kai asked.

Liam showed him the notebook photo. Kai's eyes widened.

"This is serious," Kai said. "We need to tell Aria."

Anya leaned in, curiosity sparked. "But what does 'Eclipse Operation' mean?"

Liam explained. "I have no idea, but I think Julian's involved in something big."

Anya's determination grew. "We'll help you investigate."

Together, they pored over the photo, searching for clues.

"I think we should look into Victor's family," Anya suggested. "See if there's any connection."

Kai nodded. "I'll dig up some info."

Liam's gratitude grew. "Thanks, guys. I couldn't do this alone."

Meanwhile, Maya and Ethan worked on their group project, their hands touching.

Ethan's eyes locked onto Maya's, his face inches from hers.

Maya felt a flutter but hesitated.

Ethan leaned in, expecting a kiss.

But Maya turned her face, avoiding his lips.

"Sorry, Ethan," Maya said softly. "I'm not ready."

Ethan's expression fell, confusion etched on his face.

"Is everything okay?" Ethan asked.

Maya forced a smile. "Yeah, just need some space."

Ethan nodded, though his eyes betrayed disappointment.

Scene Shift: Julian's Plan

Julian received a message from her mysterious accomplice.

"Eclipse Operation underway," the text read.

Julian smiled, unaware Liam had discovered her secret.

"Aria's elimination is imminent," Julian thought. "Liam will soon be mine."

The accomplice's identity remained shrouded in mystery, known only by their IG handle: "Nova."

Nova's motives were unclear, but their loyalty to Julian's family was unwavering.

A hidden message from Nova revealed a shocking connection to Aria's past:

"Aria's roots run deeper than she knows."

Julian's eyes gleamed. "Phase 2" was about to begin.

Aria's world was on the brink of collapse.