Chapter 3: Tensions Rise

The weekend passed in a blur of study sessions and restless nights for Ella. The memory of Chloe’s intense gaze and possessive words haunted her, making it difficult to focus on anything else. As Monday morning dawned, Ella steeled herself for the day ahead, knowing she would have to face Chloe again.

Monday Morning: Bennett Academy

Ella walked into her first class, her eyes scanning the room for Chloe. She found her seated at the back, surrounded by her usual entourage. Chloe’s eyes met hers, and a small, knowing smile played on her lips. Ella quickly looked away, her heart pounding.

During the break, Chloe approached Ella. “Hey, Ella. Can we talk?”

Ella hesitated, but nodded, following Chloe to a quieter corner of the courtyard.

“I’ve been thinking about you all weekend,” Chloe said, her voice low and intense. “Have you thought about what I said at the party?”

Ella took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. “Chloe, I appreciate your interest, but I’m here to focus on my studies. I can’t get involved in anything complicated right now.”

Chloe’s smile faded, replaced by a look of cold anger. “So, you’re rejecting me?”

Ella shook her head. “It’s not that, Chloe. I just... I need to focus on my goals, and it's just too fast we just meet each other.”

Chloe’s eyes darkened, and she took a step closer, her voice dangerously soft. “You don’t know what you’re turning down, Ella. You’re making a big mistake.”

Ella felt a chill run down her spine, but she stood her ground. “I’m sorry, Chloe. I have to go.”

As Ella walked away, she could feel Chloe’s eyes burning into her back. The encounter left her shaken, but determined to stay true to herself.

Cafeteria: Lunch

Ella found a quiet corner in the cafeteria and sat down with her lunch. She had just started eating when Chloe appeared, her expression unreadable.

“Mind if I join you?” Chloe asked, not waiting for an answer before sitting down.

Ella swallowed nervously. “Sure.”

Chloe leaned in, her voice low. “You know, Ella, I don’t like being told no.”

Ella looked up, meeting Chloe’s intense gaze. “I’m sorry, Chloe, but I can’t give you what you want.”

Chloe’s eyes flashed with anger, but she forced a smile. “We’ll see about that.”

Ella felt a sense of foreboding as Chloe stood up and walked away. She knew that Chloe’s obsession was only growing stronger, and it scared her.

After School

As Ella was leaving school, she felt someone grab her arm. She turned to see Chloe, her face a mask of fury.

“Why are you doing this, Ella? Why are you pushing me away?” Chloe demanded.

Ella tried to pull her arm free. “Chloe, you’re scaring me. I just want to focus on my studies.”

Chloe’s grip tightened. “You can’t ignore me, Ella. I won’t let you.”

Ella’s heart raced as she finally wrenched her arm free. “Leave me alone, Chloe.”

She ran away, tears streaming down her face. She could hear Chloe shouting after her, but she didn’t look back. The encounter left her shaken, but more determined than ever to keep her distance from Chloe.

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