Chapter 32: Post-Birthday Reality
(Lyra's POV)
The morning sunlight spilled through my window, warming my face, and for the first time in days, I felt… almost normal. Almost.
I glanced down at my necklace, the delicate star-shaped pendant Evan had given me for my birthday, sparkling faintly in the light. My fingers brushed it unconsciously. I can't believe he actually did that… My cheeks warmed at the memory of him leaning so close, whispering, "You're mine, Sol. Always." I shook my head, trying to act casual, but my heart was already racing.
After the events with the suspension, I was actually… glad to be back at school. Even if it meant facing teasing friends, crowded hallways, and Evan. Especially Evan.
By the time I reached Saint Valley High, I was already on edge. The school smelled of polished floors, cafeteria food, and autumn leaves pressed between the windows. I adjusted my uniform slightly, tugged at the hem of my skirt, and took a deep breath.
"Hey, Sol!" Soraya's bright voice cut through my nerves like sunlight through fog. I turned, and there they were — Soraya and Saphira, both practically glowing with energy, waiting for me near the lockers.
"You look…" Saphira trailed off, smirking. "Like someone who just survived a hurricane."
"Or a birthday party where you got way too many presents," Soraya added, nudging me playfully.
I laughed nervously, clutching my bag. "I… guess it was kind of a lot."
"And?" Saphira pressed, leaning in conspiratorially. "Did Evan see you? Did he… notice the necklace?"
I flushed red. "Of course he noticed. Duh."
"Good. Keep him on his toes," Soraya teased.
As we walked into the bustling school, I saw him. Of course. Evan Lucius Vale. Tall, impossibly golden-haired, and casually leaning against the lockers like he owned the place. His gaze swept the hallway and locked onto me instantly.
"Morning, Sol," he said, voice low, smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. My chest fluttered as my fingers clenched around my bag strap.
"Uh, hi!…" I muttered, trying not to sound like a complete idiot.
Soraya and Saphira exchanged knowing glances and immediately launched into teasing mode.
"Sol! Why are you blushing?" Soraya giggled. "It's not like you just woke up in front of him or anything…"
Saphira nudged me. "Yeah, is your heart okay?"
I glared at them but couldn't stop the warmth spreading through my chest. Evan, meanwhile, didn't say anything else — just a slight raise of his eyebrow, tall frame radiating calm yet somehow possessive energy. I'm not imagining that possessiveness, am I?
Classes flew by. I was actually glad to be in school again, focused, surrounded by friends, laughing, and… noticing Evan's subtle glances. During lunch, we all gathered at our usual spot in the café. Cassian was sprawled in his chair, smirking, clearly ready to tease.
"So… the birthday girl," Cassian drawled, eyes twinkling. "How does it feel to have everyone obsessed with you?"
"Obsessed?!" I squeaked, nearly spilling my drink.
"Oh, come on, Sol. You got the giant teddy, the necklace, the locket, the bracelet… even the journal. You're basically Saint Valley royalty now," Soraya said, waving a hand dramatically.
"And don't forget the attention of the golden god," Saphira added, nodding toward Evan, who just leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, pretending not to notice while I melted internally.
"Hey!" I protested. "You're exaggerating."
Evan's lips twitched in a smirk. "I don't exaggerate, Sol. You're mine, remember?"
I choked on my drink, nearly sputtering. Why does he have to be so tall and close right now?
The rest of the day was a mix of teasing, laughter, and tiny moments that made my heart skip:
Evan subtly brushing my arm as he reached for a book.
Cassian smirking as he passed a note: "lyra, stop flustering him."
Soraya whispering about how he clearly notices you more than anyone else.
By the end of the day, as we walked out of school, my chest still fluttered. Evan fell into step beside me.
"Walk you home?" he asked, casually.
I hesitated. "Uh… sure."
His height was overwhelming as always. Even walking side by side, I felt small and… safe, somehow.
"Sol," he murmured, leaning slightly closer. "Don't ever… forget. You're mine. And I don't share."
I froze, my heart hammering. "I-I… okay…"
He smirked, walking ahead just slightly, making me stumble to keep up. My mind whirled. I really… really like him. But does he feel the same?
When I finally reached home, my mom noticed the faint flush on my cheeks and the way I hugged my bag closer.
"Long day?" she asked, smiling.
"You could say that," I murmured, slipping off my shoes. "But… good."
I held my necklace, feeling a mix of warmth, nervousness, and the tiniest hint of longing. Today had been chaotic, teasing, fluster-filled… and perfect.
And somewhere deep down, I knew this was just the beginning.