Entangled Fates

The late autumn air nipped at Aria's skin as she stepped onto the Maple High courtyard. The faint scent of damp leaves filled the air, but her mind lingered on Samuel’s cryptic words from the night before: “We were alike, Alex and I.

She replayed the moment, trying to decipher its meaning. Samuel’s tone had carried a weight that didn’t align with his usual aloof demeanor. It was a thread, faint but tangible, one she couldn’t resist pulling on, even as it frayed her sense of security.

“Earth to Aria.”

Anya’s voice cut through her haze. Aria blinked, finding herself in the company of Anya and Kai. They stood together near the edge of the fountain, the morning sun casting long shadows over the stonework.

“You’ve been zoning out all week,” Anya teased, her head tilted with concern.

“Sorry,” Aria said, shaking her head. “I’ve just had a lot on my mind.”

Kai raised an eyebrow. “Let me guess—Liam?”

Aria managed a small laugh. “Not this time.”