Chapter Three: Whispers and Shadows

The next morning, Aria stood outside her locker, sorting through her schedule when Vammy appeared beside her, holding two coffee cups.

"For you," Vammy said, offering one. "Because you survived day one without strangling Liana."

Aria chuckled. "Tempted though."

Vammy laughed and leaned on the locker beside her. "You've got guts, Vale. Most people here either kiss up or break down. But you stood up to Cassie and Liana on your first day. That's legendary."

Aria smiled softly, grateful. "Thanks, Vammy. I didn't expect to find someone like you here."

"Someone like me?" Vammy teased.

"Someone… real," Aria said.

That made Vammy pause. Her teasing grin softened. "Well, stick with me and I'll help you survive Evercrest. I got your back, Vale."

They clinked coffee cups in an unofficial pact.

---

First Period – Advanced Literature

The class was quiet, the air thick with boredom as the teacher handed back the first written analysis assignment—a surprise essay they had to write the day before.

Aria hadn't thought much of it. She just did what she always did—lost herself in words.

"Top marks," the teacher said, holding up a paper. "Miss Vale. 19.5 out of 20. Exceptional work."

The class froze.

Heads turned.

Murmurs began.

"She beat Zephyr?"

"Who is she?"

"She's new and already topping?"

Aria ducked her head, cheeks flushing. She hadn't meant to cause a scene.

Across the room, Zephyr whistled low. "Well, sunshine just stole my title."

Kael leaned back in his seat, smirking. "Interesting."

Rowan blinked once. That was his version of surprise.

And Ares?

He just watched her, jaw ticking, the ghost of a smirk threatening the edge of his lips.

---

Lunch – The Buzz Spreads

"Girl," Vammy whispered, eyes wide. "You just committed social homicide. Zephyr has never been beaten in Lit."

"I didn't mean to," Aria mumbled.

"I love it," Vammy grinned. "You shook the beehive."

The cafeteria was buzzing again—but this time, not because of drama. This time, it was because of her. Aria.

Everyone whispered her name as she passed. Some curious. Some envious. Some amused.

When she and Vammy reached their table, Leo stood and clapped. "And the new record-breaker arrives!"

Troy offered her a mock bow. "We are not worthy."

Xander grinned. "Brainy and beautiful. Dangerous combo."

Aria laughed nervously. "You guys are exaggerating."

Kael, now lounging across his chair with dangerous ease, smirked. "Nah. You're starting to grow on me."

Zephyr leaned in, eyes gleaming. "We're having a poetry contest tomorrow, You in?"

Aria blinked. "What?"

"You beat me once. Let's make it a fair duel this time."

Before she could respond, a tray slammed onto the table beside Ares.

Cassie.

Again.

She looped her arm around his, glaring at Aria with venomous charm. "So, our little prodigy made waves. How cute."

Ares didn't even blink at her. His eyes were still locked on Aria.

Cassie noticed—and her smile sharpened.

But before she could open her mouth, a voice behind them cut in.

Liana.

Of course.

"Top marks?" she scoffed, arms crossed. "Is that what you're clinging to now, Vale? One essay? Please."

Aria opened her mouth, but Vammy beat her to it.

"At least she's known for her brain and not her fake followers, Liana."

"Ooooh," Leo sang under his breath.

Liana huffed and stormed off.

Aria turned to Vammy, stunned. "You didn't have to do that."

Vammy shrugged. "I wanted to."

Aria grinned. "You're officially my favorite person here."

Vammy smirked. "Told you. I got you."

---

Later That Day – Ares POV (brief)

Ares stood on the rooftop, watching Aria from above as she crossed the courtyard with Vammy.

He hadn't spoken to her again. Not properly. He couldn't. Not yet.

But she remembered none of it.

Not the camp.

Not the nights they stayed up counting stars.

Not the last day. Not the scream.

He closed his eyes.

"She doesn't remember you," Kael had said. "Let it go."

But how could he?

How could he forget the only person who had once made him feel anything?