In the beginning, I didn't believe in magic or faith. I didn't feel special—I was just a normal child, adopted by a middle-class family. Yes, I am adopted. My name is Laina, and this is the story of how my whole world changed in just one week.
The day before my 18th birthday started completely normal. I woke up early, took a cold shower, brushed my teeth, and wore my favorite outfit—a red crop top and baggy pants—that made my blue eyes and golden hair shine even more. I ran downstairs and smelled sweet pancakes and hot chocolate milk.
There, my adopted parents were waiting for me, along with my boyfriend, James.
James and I have been best friends since middle school, but I always loved him. He had light brown hair and emerald-green eyes, and he was kind and sweet.
After breakfast, James and I walked to school. We sat in our usual seats when our teacher, Mr. Hamel, introduced a new classmate: "Students, meet Lucas."
Lucas entered quietly but heavy somehow, like the air grew thick around him. He had raven-black hair and deep gray eyes that seemed stormy. When he locked eyes with me, a chill ran down my spine. It felt like he could see right through me.
"Lucas just transferred from another state," Mr. Hamel said. "Please welcome him."
James whispered, "Weird vibes already, don't you think?" He laughed, but I felt uneasy. Lucas made my heart pound—not from excitement, but warning.
Lucas sat two rows behind me, staring at me with a piercing gaze every time I glanced back. At lunch, James dragged me to the cafeteria, saying, "You're too tense. It's just a new student."
But Lucas was sitting alone, like a shadow swallowing the room's noise and laughter.
Then he spoke, without looking up: "Happy early birthday, Laina."
I froze. My tray almost slipped. I'd never told him my name or birthday. James frowned. "How does he know that?"
Lucas gave the faintest smile, then stared at his untouched food.
I couldn't shake the unease all day. Something was starting, and I wasn't ready.
That night, brushing my hair before the mirror, I saw something that made my blood run cold. For a moment, the reflection wasn't mine. The girl in the glass had golden hair and blue eyes—but her face was twisted in fear, and behind her stood a dark, glowing crown.
I dropped my brush, heart pounding, as shadows in the glass whispered my name…
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