Dark Forest

Eyes gazed upon her as the first rays of sunlight caressed her skin, awakening a new day. Suddenly, a hand whisked away her bed sheet, jolting her from slumber. Heart racing, she shot up, drenched in sweat and gasping for breath. Rachel blinked, her senses sharp, and let out a startled scream, "What is wrong with you, Roh?"

"Wake up! We can't be late on the first day!" he exclaimed, rushing out of her room. She twitched her lips, shaking off the remnants of her fright.

With determination, she rose from her bed, brushed her teeth, and tamed her hair. Dressed in a cozy outfit, she stood before the mirror, her blue jeans and top radiating confidence. Wrapping herself in a scarf, she let her blonde hair fall freely, embracing her natural beauty.

As she held her necklace, a familiar sensation coursed through her fingers—a spark of change. The necklace glowed softly, and a warmth spread from her birthmark, making her feel lighter than air. "Ouch, it's hurting. Here we go again," she murmured, applying balm to soothe the discomfort.

Gathering her books and bag, she slipped in her cellphone and earbuds before heading downstairs. The aroma of sandwiches filled the air, and she couldn't resist grabbing one. "Yum! Mom, I love you!"

Mrs. Hudson beamed, "Love you too, sweetheart."

From outside, her brother's voice echoed, "Oh Rachel, we’ll be late!" She kissed her mom goodbye and hopped into the car, her dad already at the wheel.

"Are you dropping us off every day, Dad?" she asked.

"Only today, honey. The school is nearby; you can walk after this," he replied.

Roh and Rachel exchanged eye rolls, murmuring, "Typical dad."

As they drove through town, the beauty of their surroundings captivated her—the charming buildings, winding lanes, and the vibrant garden filled with people rushing to their destinations. A young woman with a bucket of roses caught her eye, likely preparing to share beauty with others.

But then, through the window, she glimpsed a dark, foreboding forest, its haunted presence sending shivers down her spine. The wind howled, intertwining with the dying leaves, while shadows loomed ominously. The air was thick with an unsettling energy, and Rachel felt as if unseen eyes were watching her from the depths of the woods. A shadow darted away, and she couldn't help but shout, "Oh Rachel, it’s just a forest! Don’t create stories!"

Finally, they arrived at school, a magnificent structure that resembled a grand university. The dome-shaped pillars and intricate brickwork were breathtaking. As they stepped out of the car, their dad encouraged, "Do well and make us proud."

Rachel gazed at the entrance, but Roh dashed off, leaving her feeling isolated. "Roh, wait!" she called, her heart sinking.

Entering the bustling center, she passed a dolphin statue, instantly the center of attention. Whispers and wide-eyed stares met her as she walked, her simple dress somehow amplifying her beauty. A few boys stumbled over one another while some girls shot her envious glances, flipping their hair with casual disdain.

Lost in the crowd, she stood at the front hallway, unsure of where to go when a friendly voice broke through. "Hi! I’m Eli... Eli Richardson. New here, right?"

"Hi, I’m Rachel Hudson. I just moved to Slant Veer a few days ago. Nice to meet you," she replied, a smile growing.

Eli’s cheeks flushed with warmth. She stood confidently, her hip jutting out, her casual attire exuding a sense of relaxed charm. "Come with me; I’ll show you to the locker room, where many stories begin. I don’t have a story yet, but I'm enjoying my own company."

"Thank you, Eli! That's so thoughtful of you," Rachel said, grateful for the friendly gesture.

"You’re welcome! I know I can be a bit chatty, but I promise it won’t be a bother. I’m a good listener too, you know my mom—" Eli's words were cut short by the ringing bell. She dashed towards the classroom, leaving Rachel no choice but to follow.

In her rush, Rachel collided with someone, but before she could fall, he caught her, steadying her with a gentle grip.

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