We walked slowly through the school compound. For the first time in a long time, I wasn't thinking about my worries, my strange roommate, or even Mr. Unknown.
I was just… present.
And happy.
I didn't know what kind of story was beginning here, but for the first time in weeks, I felt like maybe—just maybe—someone had noticed me without me having to fight for it.
But happiness? In this school? It never lasts long.
As Erica and I turned the corner of the main building, a tall figure blocked our way.
Mr. Unknown.
My heart skipped.
His jaw was tight, his eyes dark and unyielding, locked on me like he'd been waiting.
Erica froze beside me, sensing the sudden tension.
He stepped closer. "You think I don't know it was you?"
I blinked. "Excuse me?"
"The prank. The humiliation. You made a fool of me in front of everyone."
"I don't know what you're talking about," I said, folding my arms, forcing calm into my voice.
He gave a short, bitter laugh. "You think you're clever. But I know it was you. And trust me—you'll pay for that little show."
My throat tightened, but I raised my chin. "If you're so sure, prove it. Otherwise, stop throwing empty threats."
"Racheal…" Erica whispered.
But I didn't move.
He leaned closer, his voice low enough for only me to hear. "You've started something. Make sure you know how to end it."
Then he turned and walked away, his back stiff with rage.
I stood frozen, trying to slow my heartbeat. Trying to hide the tremor in my hands.
Erica touched my arm gently. "Are you okay?"
I nodded slowly. "Yeah… yeah. I'm fine."
But I wasn't.
We walked in silence, the warmth from earlier shattered. The sun still burned, students still laughed around us—but I felt cold.
"Was it really you?" Erica asked softly.
I forced a small smile. "Let's just say… I didn't think he'd take it that seriously."
She didn't smile back. "He looked dangerous. Not joking dangerous—real dangerous."
"I know," I whispered.
We found a bench by the school garden and sat. I stared ahead, watching a group of students laughing near the cafeteria, wishing I could trade places with any of them.
"I've pulled little pranks before," I murmured. "Harmless ones. But this… it feels like I poked the wrong bear."
Erica's gaze was steady. "You don't deserve threats like that. Whatever you did, it shouldn't have gone this far."
"I don't know if I should be scared," I admitted, "or just annoyed."
"Maybe both," she said softly. "But either way… you're not alone in this."
I turned to her, surprised. "You barely know me."
"I know enough," she replied.
And somehow, that was enough to make me breathe again.
Still, deep down, the question refused to leave me.
What exactly had I started?
And how far would he go to make me regret it?