starlaced_heart

Lina wasn’t invisible — she had just learned how to blend in.

Sitting at the back of the class, doing favors no one thanked her for, walking home alone while others laughed in groups — that was her world. No drama. No friends. No expectations.

But all it took was one moment.
One act of courage.

When Lina stood up for a bullied freshman, someone captured it on video. She didn’t expect anything to come from it… but the internet had other plans.

Suddenly, everyone wanted to know who she was.
The once-ignored girl became the name on everyone’s lips.
Upperclassmen smiled at her. Her classmates saved her a seat.
Snacks appeared on her desk. The cold student council president? He started walking her to class.
Even those who used to mock her were now asking, “Are you free this weekend?”

Lina never asked to be admired. She never wanted to be someone worth noticing.

But when the world finally sees her…
Will she be ready to accept the love she’s always thought she didn’t deserve?

All Eyes on Lina

Lina didn't expect to be called to the student council room.

She stood at the door, heart ticking faster than usual, before knocking twice.

The room was neat and focused, like every corner had a purpose. A few student council officers sat quietly at their desks. At the center sat Tyron Rivas — crisp uniform, unreadable face, and the kind of authority that made the room adjust around him.

"Ms. Mirasol," he greeted. "Thank you for coming."

"Did I do something wrong?" she asked, quietly.

Tyron gave a slight shake of his head. "No. Actually, we're inviting selected students to assist in the upcoming outreach event. Your name was nominated. By more than one person."

"You've been visible lately," he said, carefully. "In a way that matters. Calm. Collected. People notice that."

"I don't really know how to lead," Lina admitted.

"That's fine," Tyron replied. "You don't need to lead. You just need to show up."

She nodded slowly. "Okay. I'll help."

He gave her a small smile — polite, but approving. "Glad to hear it."

The Day of the Event – School Gym

The gym buzzed with chatter, laughter, and chaos. Students arranged tables, hung up signs, and darted around in their event shirts.

Lina tugged at the hem of hers. It felt too big. Too bright. She stayed near the logistics table, folding forms and taping signs. She liked the background — it was safer.

He jogged over, balancing two drinks. "Iced choco or apple juice?"

"I panicked," he said, handing her the iced choco. "You looked too serious earlier. I figured this might save the day."

"Thanks," she said, trying not to smile too much.

"You're really good at this, you know," he added. "The organizing stuff. Quiet boss energy."

She laughed softly. "I'm just taping things."

She rolled her eyes but held onto the drink.

Later During the Program

She was arranging chairs when someone stepped up behind her.

"You weren't sure at first," he noted.

"I still don't know what I'm doing," she said honestly.

He nodded, then added quietly, "You don't need to. Just showing up is enough for most people. But showing up like this — focused, composed — that's rare."

Lina didn't know how to respond to that.

"If someone makes you uncomfortable," Tyron said, eyes briefly scanning the room, "stand near me."

"Proximity," he said. "It sends a message."

Before she could reply, a new voice interrupted.

They both turned. Renzo, hands in his pockets, gaze steady on Tyron.

Tyron didn't move. "That wasn't an insult."

Renzo replied coolly, "It sounded like one."

Lina stepped in, voice low but firm. "I'm not an object you two need to defend."

She turned back to the chairs — heart thudding.

Later That Evening

The event wrapped up. Volunteers trickled out one by one. Banners were folded, tables cleared. The noise faded into tired chatter and footsteps.

Lina stayed behind to help pack the last boxes, her back aching but her mind strangely full.

And when she stepped out for some air…

Chapter 14: Caught in the Middle