The following week felt like a blur of classes and city noise, but Lila noticed Sasha everywhere. In the cafeteria, in the library, even leaning against a lamppost outside, sketching the street in violet and black ink. Every encounter was small, subtle, yet electric.
But not everything in the city—or in school—was quiet or kind.
It started with whispers. A group of students passed by, their laughter sharp, directed, though not openly at anyone. Lila felt the tension tighten in her chest. She knew enough to know that being different, being seen as different, came with its own weight. And though Sasha hadn't said a word, Lila could sense the same awareness in her.
During lunch, Sasha slid into the seat beside her. "You okay?" she asked, eyes scanning the crowded tables.
Lila nodded quickly. "Yeah… just… some people are loud."
Sasha smirked, brushing a strand of violet hair behind her ear. "Some people always are. Ignore them. Focus on what matters."
Author's Thought: It's in the smallest acts of bravery—speaking softly in a loud room, holding someone's hand in secret—that courage finds its voice.
Their hands brushed briefly as they reached for their drinks, and neither pulled away. Lila's heart stumbled. She wanted to say something—anything—but words tangled with fear. Instead, she pulled out her notebook, hiding it just enough that Sasha could see a corner of her messy script.
"You write a lot," Sasha observed. "Do you ever show anyone?"
"Not really," Lila admitted. "It's… safer this way."
Sasha's gaze softened. "Sometimes safe is just code for lonely."
A pause lingered between them, electric and quiet. Then, Sasha's phone buzzed. "Hey, there's a city mural contest next week. We could… maybe enter it. Together?"
Lila blinked. Together? The word made her chest tighten with something like hope and terror all at once.
"I… yeah," Lila finally said, her quill-heavy notebook pressed to her chest. "I think I'd like that."
Author's Thought: When sparks ignite in the dark, they can either fade unnoticed or light the path to something unforgettable. Lila had no idea which this would be—but for the first time, she wanted to find out.
As the bell rang, breaking their quiet moment, Lila realized the city outside wasn't just alive—it was waiting. Waiting for the letters she'd written, the feelings she'd hidden, and the story that was only just beginning.