The atmosphere at school felt different today.
Posters were hanging across the corridors.
"Annual Cultural Event"
Everyone seemed excited. "We're all staying together, right?" Ethan said enthusiastically.Ryan shook his head with a smile.
"With you around, it's going to be noisy for sure." Maya laughed softly. Aria smiled brightly.
"I like this… it's been a while since something like this happened." There was a natural warmth in her eyes. A simple, carefree joy. Lila stood quietly.
She watched them Their laughter… their conversations… their normal life. For a brief moment.
She felt empty. That Night
Lila sat alone in her room.
The room was silent.
On the table lay an old photograph.
Dust had gathered over it.
She picked it up slowly.
Two little girls…
The same face… but different smiles.
Her fingers trembled slightly.
"Aria…"
She whispered.
For a brief moment, softness appeared in her eyes.
But it quickly disappeared.
"I can't forget…" Elsewhere…
Aria returned home. "Aria! You're back?" a woman said warmly as she opened the door."Yes, Mom," Aria replied with a smile."How was school today?" Aria paused. "It was good… but things feel a little strange lately." The woman gently placed her hand on Aria's head. "Everything will be fine." A warm, safe feeling. Aria smiled softly. The Day of the Event The school was decorated.
Lights, stage, and busy preparations everywhere.
Everyone was enjoying the moment. Lila walked alone. Then Her eyes stopped at something near the stage. An old banner. Covered in dust. She stepped closer. Some of the words had faded ounded by Noir Family Her breath caught. Noir Her eyes darkened. "You're searching again…"
A voice came from behind Lila turned. Mrs. Carter.
There was something strange in her gaze.
"Some truths are better left hidden," she said Lila gave a cold smile. "All truths come out eventually. Their eyes locked. That same silent battle again. From a distance, Aria was watching them. A strange feeling rose in her chest again. But why She didn't know.