"New uniform. New hell."
Val yanked her hoodie on like armor. Not for fashion. Not for mystery. Just for survival. A warning sign: don't.
St. Lucia's gates loomed—too shiny, too perfect. Kids already split into their little galaxies. Section B strutted like they owned the place. Section A laughed too loud, like they were auditioning for royalty.
Val walked right through the middle. Alone. Always alone.
"Lost your ride, hoodie?"
The voice cracked across the air before she even made it to the courtyard.
A boy leaned against the wall like he'd been waiting just for her. Cold eyes. Sharp smile. Confidence carved into every move.
Kai Walson. Class president. Section B's untouchable leader.
He didn't even blink. Just watched her, like he was sizing up a new challenger.
Val didn't answer. Didn't slow down. His stare clung to her like heat on the back of her neck.
Good. Watch all you want.
Stay out of my way, I'll stay out of yours. Push me, though? Don't cry when I push back.
She shoved into the hallway. Students were already grouping up, orbiting like planets.
Ella Simmons ruled her corner with glossy hair, sharper tongue. Maya and Sophia shadowed her every move.
Ella's gaze slid to Val, her lips curling. "Cute. Section B's picking up strays now."
"Better than recycling," Val muttered, brushing past.
A laugh drifted from the lockers. Not mean. Almost amused.
Luke Santillan. Golden boy smile. Like life had never once said no to him.
"Don't let her get to you," he said easily, voice low so only she caught it. "It's boring when she wins."
Val blinked. Off-guard. Then rolled her eyes. Of course. Charming, untouchable, too smooth for his own good. Not my type.
Still… that grin lingered.
Classroom chaos hit her next. Roll call, Section B's loud energy filling the air.
Izzy Rivera—hoodie twin, instant hype machine—slid in next to her with a grin. Charles "C" Cole gave her a warm nod like they'd been friends forever. Miles cracked a joke that earned him a teacher glare before the lesson even started. Nina Brooks, perfect and ice-cold, ignored everyone.
Yeah. Section B was loud. Messy. But mess Val could handle.
The real problem? Section A, sitting across the aisle, watching with predator eyes.
The lesson blurred. Just voices, whispers, eyes flicking across the room. And through it all—Kai's stare. Front row. Silent. Heavy. Measuring.
By break, Val was shoved near the vending machines, Ella's pack circling like sharks.
"New girl," Ella purred. "Want advice? Stay out of our way. Section B burns fast."
"Thanks," Val said flatly, pressing a button. "But I don't flinch easy."
A packet clattered down. She bent to grab it—only to see another hand there first.
Luke again. Offering a chocolate bar this time, his smile still that effortless brand of warmth.
"You looked like you needed this," he said.
Val stared. "What is this—pity snacks?"
"Think of it as an investment," he said lightly, eyes steady.
She snatched it, more out of spite than thanks. No way she was letting him win whatever game he was playing.
But when she turned back, Ella's smirk had sharpened, Kai's stare was heavier than ever, and Luke's eyes were still on her.
The war had already started.
And Val? She'd never been the type to run.