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Chapter 1 - Collision of Shadows

The moment Elena stepped onto the campus grounds of Halston University, she felt the weight of every expectation pressing down on her. New city, new people, new life. But old secrets clung to her like a second skin — ones she wasn't ready to share.

She tightened her grip on the strap of her backpack and adjusted the scarf around her neck. The chilly autumn air whispered promises of change, but also threats she wasn't prepared for.

Lost in her thoughts, she didn't see the dark figure rushing toward her until it was too late.

"Watch where you're going!" a voice snapped.

Elena stumbled back as a cup of steaming coffee collided with her chest. The sharp sting of hot liquid was nothing compared to the icy glare burning through her.

Jayden Cruz—the golden boy of Halston, with his expensive jacket and smug smile—stood before her, his eyes narrowed.

"Sorry, I wasn't looking," Elena said, attempting calm, but her voice betrayed a flicker of defiance.

"Clearly," Jayden said, wiping the coffee off his shirt with a crisp handkerchief, eyes still on her.

A crowd started gathering, drawn by the unexpected clash. Elena felt exposed, vulnerable. But more than that, irritated. Who did he think he was?

Before either could say more, a stern voice cut through the tension.

"Enough."

Professor Langston stepped forward, arms crossed. "Elena, Jayden—you're partners for the semester project in Advanced Literature. I expect cooperation, not conflict."

The words hung heavy in the air. Partners. Together. For weeks.

Elena glanced at Jayden, whose arrogant smirk softened just a little — maybe annoyance or surprise. She clenched her fists, determined not to let this ruin her start.

This was only the beginning.

Elena brushed the cold coffee from her scarf, her heart pounding—not from the spill, but from the unexpected tension between them. Jayden's sharp eyes held a mix of challenge and curiosity, and for the first time, she caught a glimpse beneath the surface of the golden boy's facade.

"Looks like we're stuck together," Jayden muttered, voice low enough only she could hear.

Elena forced a smile, though her mind raced. This project could either be a nightmare or the start of something she hadn't anticipated.

As the afternoon sun dipped behind the buildings, casting long shadows across the campus, Elena found herself walking alongside Jayden to the library. The awkward silence stretched between them, filled with unspoken questions.

What secrets did he hide? Could she trust him? And more importantly—could she let someone in?

She pushed the thoughts away, focusing on the project ahead. But deep down, she knew their story was just beginning, tangled in shadows neither of them fully understood.

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