That was when she heard it. "A new transfer student joined today."
Aurora barely reacted. Until she saw her. Alana.
For a moment... Aurora's steps slowed. '…Wow.'
Alana was stunning.
Golden-brown skin that seemed to glow under sunlight.
Soft black hair cascading like silk.
Her features carried a distinct Latina beauty, sharp yet gentle, striking yet approachable.
Even Aurora's lips parted slightly in surprise. When Alana took the seat beside her, she smiled.
Warm. Natural. Aurora returned it instinctively. The two began talking.
Casual topics. Nothing deep. Nothing forced.
Alana didn't try to cling. Didn't push for friendship. Sometimes she chatted with Aurora. Other times, she mingled with others.
It was all so… normal. So effortless.
That Aurora let her guard down.
After classes ended, the sky had begun to dim slightly, the golden hue of evening stretching across the streets.
Aurora walked along the road when... voices broke the calm.
