Divided

Human?

This storyline was created by me so do not COPY my work. However, the images are not mine so credit to the rightful owners. This is the first book out of the sequel I am making. There will be some parts containing deaths and cursing but that's about it. If you have read this chapter, you will notice that I edited it. It was written 08/10/24... but I messed up on the tense. I hope you enjoy:)

Caterina's POV

"Yes, Mom. I will." I push through the heavy school doors, the familiar creak of hinges echoing as I hold my phone to my ear. "Bye. Love you." I finish the call just as I step down the front steps, my mom's voice fading away as I turn my phone off and tuck it into the warmth of my sweater pocket. Looking around, I see groups of students clustering, their fun conversations contrasting with my solitary exit.

Making acquaintances or friends might seem effortless for some, but for me, it's been a challenge since elementary school. I've spent years observing rather than participating, finding solace in the sidelines rather than the spotlight. It's not that I've wanted to be alone, but the company of others has often felt elusive. A part of me wonders what it would be like to connect with others, even if just occasionally.

The chatter around me is a blend of typical high school chatter: a group of boys eagerly discussing the latest football game, students rushing to their after-school commitments, and a cluster of girls excitedly planning their shopping trips. I overhear Becky's enthusiastic proposal, "Omg, we should! The mall is perfect!" followed by her friends' high-pitched squeals of excitement.

Jake from the football team teases her, "Ladies, settle down... I know you can't wait to see me on the field, but you don't have to make so much noise." He playfully wraps an arm around Becky's shoulders. She responds with a playful smack and a smirk, "Ha! You wish," before smacking him with her pink purse and walking away with her friends, their laughter trailing behind them.

I smile to myself, finding a moment of simple joy in their interaction. As I turn and start walking home, the bustling scene behind me slowly fades, leaving me to ponder the world of connections I've observed but not yet fully experienced.

-15 minutes later

Ugh, my feet are killing me...

I've walked home countless times before because Mom's always working and can't pick me up.

I mutter to myself, "Why couldn't we just live closer to the school?" and stop to glance at the forest looming ahead. A shortcut through the woods might seem tempting, especially with my aching feet and the pile of homework waiting for me.

Despite warnings about the forest's dangers, I'm drawn to the idea of reaching home sooner. I look into the forest, spotting only trees and a few curious squirrels. It doesn't look too dangerous...

"But... I shouldn't," I debate with myself. Still, the idea of a quicker route is appealing. My feet ache and my homework looms large in my mind. It won't hurt to try... will it?

Taking a deep breath, I step into the forest, my senses immediately enveloped by the cool, earthy scent of nature. As I venture further, I stumble upon a hidden glen, bathed in dappled sunlight. Unique flowers, vibrant and otherworldly, stretch out in a riot of colors. One enormous pink bloom catches my eye with its oversized petals, nearly my height.

"Wow... it's so beautiful here," I murmur, enchanted by the scene. The air is fragrant with a medley of sweet, floral scents. I reach out to touch the flowers, admiring their textures and colors. I carefully pick a bright yellow flower, holding it to my nose and closing my eyes to savor its delicate fragrance.

This would make Mom so happy. I think while tucking the flower into the pocket of my sweater. With a renewed sense of wonder and a lighter heart, I continue through the forest, appreciating the unexpected beauty that momentarily eases the burden of my day.