The faint hum of chatter and laughter filled the air as Reina stepped out of the car. The late morning sun spilled over the wide gates of Evermore University, catching the silver glint of the emblem above. The campus buzzed with energy — students running around with banners, confetti, and music as preparations for the annual sports day filled every corner.
For a moment, Reina just stood there — one hand clutching the strap of her handbag, the other gripping the small silver locket around her neck. Her breath hitched. Crowds. Noise. Too many faces. Too many eyes.
She started walking, slow and cautious, her white sneakers pressing softly against the pavement. Every step felt heavier than it should. Students passed her in groups, laughing, yelling, teasing each other with easy familiarity. She envied that — the simplicity of belonging somewhere.
But what struck her harder were the stares.Not malicious — just curious.New faces always drew attention, but Reina could feel the weight of their gazes digging under her skin.
Her beauty wasn't loud — it was quiet, almost haunting. Her mid-length straight hair was tied into a clean but slightly messy ponytail, a few loose strands brushing her cheek whenever the breeze passed. Her eyes — deep hazel and tired — carried the kind of sadness that didn't belong on someone her age. The simple shirt and pleated skirt she wore made her look effortlessly neat, but her fingers still trembled slightly as she adjusted the strap of her bag.
Inside, her thoughts were spiraling.They're staring again. They always stare. As if they can see through me.
She clenched her jaw, forcing a smile when a group of girls passed her, giggling. But behind that smile hid the familiar ache — the one that reminded her of all the nights she couldn't sleep, of all the memories that refused to fade.
A flash of laughter nearby jolted her. The sound was too sharp, too much like that night.Her chest tightened. For a second, she couldn't breathe.
She closed her eyes. Not here. Not again.
The scent of freshly cut grass from the sports field drifted toward her. The sound of a whistle cut through her haze, grounding her back to reality.
She forced herself to keep walking, her sneakers echoing faintly against the cobblestone path until she reached the grand entrance of the university building. She paused, looking up at the tall, arched doors — a gateway to a future she wasn't sure she was ready for.
Her heart whispered, Maybe this time will be different.But somewhere deep inside, another voice murmured — colder, truer —Or maybe your past will find you again.