The Crush

Rachel had hoped he would engage her in conversation, yet he remained distant. As the English lecturer commenced the class, the enchanting tale of Romeo and Juliet enveloped her, transporting Rachel to a realm of romance and dreams.

She found herself captivated by his striking features—his sharp jawline, defined chin, and sculpted cheekbones. Those deep, dark eyes blazed with intensity, framed by elegant brows and soft, warm curls of chocolate brown. His midnight-black locks contrasted beautifully with his pale skin, giving him an almost ethereal quality, like a seasoned warrior illuminated by the sun’s rays. There was an unreadable depth in his gaze, a magnetic allure that sparked her imagination, causing her to envision herself entwined with him in a timeless love story.

His alabaster skin radiated an irresistible charm, drawing her in and slowing her breath. Just then, Percy’s cough broke the spell, his knowing smile suggesting he had caught her in a moment of reverie. Flushed with embarrassment, she returned her attention to the lecture, but the spellbinding atmosphere lingered.

Justin glanced at Rachel, his eyes filled with an intensity that made his lips move in silent words. He admired the graceful sway of her hair, the beauty of her eyes, and the allure of her rosy lips, feeling an undeniable connection that made him think, “She is mine.” For a fleeting moment, the classroom faded away, and all that mattered was her presence.

He shook off the distraction, whispering to himself, “No, I shouldn’t,” as he refocused on the lesson. When the class concluded, a collective buzz of excitement surrounded the students, all still entranced by the story of Romeo and Juliet. As they prepared to leave, Rachel stood up, her gaze fixed on him, offering a warm smile that he, unfortunately, did not return. Disheartened, she sighed, feeling as if her efforts were in vain.

Together with Eli and Percy, the trio made their way to the canteen, where they hoped to lift their spirits. But their path was soon blocked by Mia, Lisa, and Anna, the notorious trio of troublemakers. Mia, tall and bold, pushed Rachel and demanded an introduction. Eli, protective and fierce, defended Rachel, igniting a confrontation that simmered with tension.

“Stay out of it, or else…” Lisa threatened, her voice sharp. Percy, known for his strength and reputation, intervened, causing the girls to retreat. Anna, with a piercing glare, warned Rachel that they would settle the score later, leaving Rachel anxious and uncertain in her new environment.

As they entered the bustling canteen, the aroma of delicious food filled the air, and Percy playfully commended Eli for his bravery. Their camaraderie lightened the mood, but Rachel couldn’t shake the feeling that someone was watching her. To her surprise, it was Justin, his piercing gaze locking onto hers, making her heart race. She thought he wouldn’t notice her, yet here he was, his eyes assessing her with an intensity that left her breathless. Whispering to herself, she couldn’t help but think, “Justin looks even more handsome than before.”

But in an instant, his expression shifted, his eyes darkening, and he abruptly left the room, leaving Rachel bewildered. After finishing their meal, the trio parted ways, and Rachel hurried to Professor Williams’ room to collect her assignment. On her way back, she saw Lance and smiled, but he turned away, leaving her puzzled about his mixed signals.

As she read a headline that sent chills down her spine, her heart raced, and her necklace glowed ominously. “Your necklace,” Roh remarked, noticing the change. They exchanged stories about their day, and Rachel resolved to seek Eli’s and Percy’s help with her assignment. Roh, amused, teased her about her newfound friendship with Percy, which only made her laugh.

But as they walked home, they approached a dark forest, and Rachel felt her birthmark throb painfully. “Ouch, it’s hurting again,” she exclaimed, pointing to the forest where glimmering red eyes peered out. Fear gripped her, and Roh urged her to move quickly, sensing the danger lurking within the shadows.

Together, they stepped forward into the unknown, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.

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