Ashlin, Aisha, and Rosie.
What started as an ordinary friendship quickly became a trio that everyone in the class recognized. The three laughed together, ate together, and gossiped about everyone else. From the outside, they looked inseparable.
But what no one noticed was how Ashlin was slowly changing. She smiled at their jokes, even when they cut too deep. She defended them even when she felt they were wrong. And soon, she was no longer their equal—she was their shadow.
Before the trio, Ashlin had people who truly cared for her.
Lilly, fierce and outspoken, always shielded Ashlin from the cruelty of the class. Jackie, dependable and steady, shared secrets and late-night talks with her. Emily, soft-hearted and wise, offered comfort when Ashlin doubted herself.
They didn't need drama or power to prove their friendship. They simply cherished her.