Chapter 23
Tuesday morning felt heavier than usual. Liana could sense it the moment she stepped into the crowded hallway. Brianna's presence wasn't subtle this time—she was prowling the lockers with an intensity that made every glance feel like a calculated strike. Liana's chest tightened, but she reminded herself of the strength she had been building, the quiet courage that Aiden had helped her discover.
Brianna caught sight of her and smirked, sharp as a blade. "Morning, shadow girl," she said, voice deceptively soft. "I hope you're ready for what's coming."
Liana stopped for just a moment, meeting her gaze steadily. "Morning. I'm ready," she said firmly, her voice calm.
Brianna's smirk widened, but she didn't respond. Instead, she walked past, leaving a lingering tension behind her. Liana exhaled slowly, feeling a mix of triumph and unease. She had spoken her truth and held her ground—but the feeling in her chest told her that Brianna wasn't done yet.
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Second period dragged, and Liana's attention kept flicking to the side, where Brianna was subtly watching her. The other students seemed oblivious, but Liana felt every glance like a small test. She forced herself to focus on her work, letting Aiden's presence in her mind provide a quiet strength.
A gentle tap on her shoulder brought her back to reality. Aiden leaned slightly over her desk, eyes soft and concerned.
"You okay?" he whispered.
"I… I think so," Liana said, forcing a smile. "She's… everywhere today."
He gave her a reassuring glance. "Ignore her. She can try all she wants, but she won't change who you are. You're braver than you think."
Liana's chest swelled with gratitude. Every small encouragement from him reminded her that she wasn't facing Brianna alone.
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Lunch brought the familiar, comforting corner table, but today's calm was quickly tested. Liana arrived to find Aiden waiting with the usual juice bottles and snacks, but as she sat down, she noticed Brianna approaching, deliberately slow, every step calculated.
"Mind if I join you?" Brianna said, sweetly but with a hidden edge.
Liana felt a flash of panic but forced herself to remain composed. "No, you don't need to," she replied, calm but firm.
Brianna laughed lightly, ignoring her words, and leaned against the table, smirking. "I just want to make sure everything's… fair. You're enjoying yourself a little too much, aren't you?"
Aiden's hand brushed lightly against Liana's, a subtle gesture of support. "She doesn't get to decide that," he said softly, his voice calm but protective.
Liana felt warmth spread through her chest, the reassurance giving her courage. "I'm fine," she said, smiling slightly. "We're just talking."
Brianna's eyes flicked between them, a mix of irritation and curiosity evident. After a tense moment, she straightened and stepped back. "Enjoy your little bubble," she said mockingly, before walking away.
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As the lunch bell rang, signaling the end of their break, Liana felt a rush of triumph. Brianna had tested her again, but this time, Liana had stood her ground, supported by Aiden's quiet presence. She realized that these small confrontations were shaping her confidence, teaching her that she didn't have to shrink away or let fear dictate her actions.
Walking alongside Aiden toward their next class, Liana felt an exhilaration she hadn't expected. The hallway was crowded, noisy, and chaotic, but she was no longer shrinking. Her shoulders were squared, her head held high, and her heart carried the thrill of small victories.
The space between Liana and Aiden had transformed into a quiet sanctuary. Even with Brianna's interference, it remained a place where trust, courage, and understanding could flourish. And as they entered their next class, Liana realized that whatever challenges lay ahead, she was ready to face them—because she wasn't alone.
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