Aria's POV
Today is the first day of school after the winter holidays. I was heading down the stairs when I spotted my older sister, Grace Sullivan, just returning from her morning walk.
"Good morning, sis," I called out.
"Good morning," she replied with a smile.
After wishing me good morning, Grace headed straight to her room. I made my way to the dining hall for breakfast. The maids were already setting the table, placing the dishes neatly like always.
I took my usual seat and began eating quietly, enjoying the calm before the day truly began.
A few minutes later, my parents walked in.
"Good morning, sweetheart," my mother greeted warmly.
"Good morning, Mother. Good morning, Father," I replied with a smile.
They sat down and joined me at the table, we ate together.
Once I finished, I stood up from my seat. I leaned over to kiss them both on the cheek.
"Bye! See you later," I said, grabbing my bag.
I headed toward the parking area where my driver was waiting, ready to face the first day back at school.
Author's POV
Aria arrived at school, stepping out of her car as she walked toward her classroom, her eyes lit up at the sight of her best friend, Zoe Carter, waiting at the entrance with her usual bright smile.
"Good morning, Aria!" Zoe called out cheerfully.
"Good morning, Zoe," Aria replied with a soft smile as she approached her.
"How were your holidays?" Zoe asked as they walked side by side into the classroom.
"They were great, as usual," Aria replied with a small smile. "My sister came back from London to celebrate Christmas and New Year with us. But she's going back in two days. Her holidays are almost over."Her voice softened, tinged with sadness.
Zoe gave her a reassuring look. "Aww, that's really sad. But hey, at least she came home. And once she finishes her studies, she'll be back for good. You don't have to be too down about it."
Aria nodded, trying to smile. "Yeah, you're right. It's just… I miss having her around."
As they headed toward their seats, Aria suddenly stopped in her tracks.
There he was Ethan Walker, her ultimate enemy since sixth grade sitting comfortably in the seat right next to hers.
Her smile disappeared, replaced by a frown. "Why are you sitting in Jordan's seat?" she asked, arms crossed and eyes narrowed.
Ethan looked up, clearly annoyed to see her too. "Jordan transferred to another class," he muttered."And unfortunately because of that sitting arrangements are changed.
He leaned back in his chair and added with a sigh, "Trust me, I'm not thrilled about it either."
Aria rolled her eyes. Great. Just what I needed to ruin my first day back.