At the Cafeteria, During the Break

Bella and Caden walked through the cafeteria, each carrying a tray, and sat at a table near the large windows. Bella was lost in thought, still haunted by what she had seen. Was it just an illusion born from her recent conversation with Zetch? Or was it real? She preferred to believe it was an illusion. The idea that it could be true terrified her.

Caden, sitting across from her, looked at her with concern. He called softly:

— Bella?

She didn't answer. Lost in her world, she didn't even realize he was speaking.

— Bella! he repeated louder.

This time, his voice startled her. In her haste, she nearly spilled her glass of water. She caught her tray just in time, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

— Sorry, she murmured.

Caden frowned.

— Are you okay? You've been acting strange since earlier.

Bella forced a smile.

— Yes, yes… I'm fine. Don't worry.

But her hesitant tone betrayed her words. Caden gently placed his hand on hers.

— Bella, look at me. I know you. I can tell that's not true. What's going on?

His sincere gaze made her falter. She opened her mouth to reply, but a familiar voice interrupted her.

— Well, you two seem to be having fun, said Morgan with a syrupy smile.

Caden immediately withdrew his hand, and Bella lowered her eyes, embarrassed. They sighed almost in unison, exasperated by her intrusion.

— We're fine, Morgan, Caden replied in a neutral tone.

— I just wanted to check on Bella, especially, Morgan added, emphasizing her name. You don't look well, my dear.

Her tone dripped with condescension. She continued with a sly smile:

— You know, the play is coming up soon. If you're not feeling confident, maybe you should let someone else take your place. Being on stage, admired by everyone… it's not for everyone.

Morgan stared Bella straight in the eyes, her words sharp as needles. Then, turning to Caden, she grabbed his hand.

— And let's be honest, Caden. I'd make a much better partner for you, unlike some who still lack experience.

Bella felt her heart tighten. Morgan's words deeply hurt her. She abruptly stood up, ready to leave, but Caden swiftly pulled his hand away from Morgan's.

— Thanks, but no thanks, he replied sharply. Bella is my partner, and she's perfect for the role.

Morgan raised an eyebrow, visibly offended.

— Oh, really? she hissed. You know she's not ready. She nearly ruined everything earlier.

Caden didn't flinch and replied with a provocative smile:

— Even the best can make mistakes. Bella will be ready for tomorrow, trust me.

Furious, Morgan turned on her heel, followed by her entourage. Before leaving, she shot Bella one last dark look.

Once alone, Bella timidly murmured:

— Thank you, Caden… but you didn't have to. If she wants the role, she can have it.

Caden shook his head vigorously.

— No way. You've worked hard for this role. Morgan doesn't want to help; she just wants the spotlight.

He paused, a mischievous smile spreading across his face.

— And between us… I'm not particularly eager to kiss her in one of the scenes.

Bella blushed furiously, her cheeks turning as red as her hair.

Meanwhile, Morgan was in an empty room with her friends. She was fuming with rage, nearly stomping the floor.

— That role MUST be mine! she roared.

One of her friends tried to calm her down.

— Morgan, it's not a big deal. There will be other roles for you.

— I don't want another role! she screamed. I want that one, and I'll get it, no matter what.

She stormed out of the room in a fury, leaving her friends stunned and silent.

Later, after school, Bella went to her job. The restaurant where she worked as a waitress was packed. While helping a colleague clean up, the chef called out to her:

— Bella, can you take out the trash?

— Sure, she replied.

Bella went out the back door of the restaurant, carrying two heavy garbage bags. The alley was quiet, lit only by a flickering light above the door. She wrinkled her nose at the smell of the trash, quickly tossing the bags into the metal dumpster.

As she wiped her hands on her apron, a strange sensation crept over her. A sudden coldness that had nothing to do with the night's chill. She froze. Someone was watching her.