The Stray Souls ["The Diary Keeper" Sequel; "The Dark Legacies" Series]

Chapter 27: The cat on the loose

I couldn't believe it. Stormy, our mischievous little cat, had managed to slip out of the dorm room. How could I have been so careless? Caroline and I searched everywhere - the dorm, the school, the yard, and even ventured into the Hazelford surroundings. No sign of Stormy. It was like she vanished into thin air.

Caroline and I retraced our steps in the dormitory, calling out her name, hoping to hear her distinctive meow. The thought of Stormy wandering alone made my heart ache. We peeked into classrooms, asked fellow students, but it seemed like she left no trace behind. The dormitory was like a puzzle with a missing piece.

As we expanded our search outside, we combed the school grounds and even checked the nearby woods. I kept hoping to catch a glimpse of Stormy's distinctive fur, but there was nothing. The worry gnawed at me, realizing we might have lost our beloved feline friend. I regretted not being more vigilant, not keeping a closer eye on our furry escape artist.

As the sun started to set, the realization sank in - Stormy was still missing, and we were left with no clues. The empty dorm room felt colder, emptier, without his playful presence. I couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt, wishing I could turn back time to prevent his adventurous escape.

"Liandra, I've been thinking. What if Stormy wasn't just wandering off? What if someone took her?"

I couldn't help but laughed nervously. "Stolen? Seriously, Caroline? Who would steal our little troublemaker? She's more likely hiding in some cozy corner plotting her next mischief."

"I get it, Stormy loves adventures, but we've checked everywhere. It's not like him to be away for so long."

"Come on, Caroline, she's probably found a new spot to nap, and we'll discover her in the most unexpected place. Cats are sneaky like that." I wanted it to be true.

"I know Stormy is mischievous, but it's been hours. What if someone saw her and thought she was a stray or something?"

"Stormy doesn't look like a stray. Besides, who would take a cat from a school dorm?"

We will just keep looking. Maybe she's just waiting for the perfect moment to surprise us. At least, I strongly believe in it.

***
Finally, last days of school before summer holidays. Walking through the hallways, I remember all the good and tough times of the school year. Saying goodbye to the routine feels a bit sad, but I can't wait for the freedom that summer brings.

In the classrooms, teachers are finishing lessons, and students are counting down to the final bell. The yearbook is going around, filled with pictures and nice messages. Each signature tells a story of friendships and fun moments we had this year - a year of learning and laughter.

The school courtyard is busy as friends make plans for the summer. Some are going on trips, others are excited about lazy days at the beach. We share our plans and dream about the things we want to do.

As I head back to the dormitory after my lessons, I realize that living here isn't so bad after all. In the beginning, I was unsure, but the shared experiences, late-night chats, and spontaneous adventures with dorm mates have created a sense of belonging. It's become a second home, and I'm grateful for the memories we've made together. Summer break might bring a change of scenery, but the dormitory has become a special part of my school journey.

However, a part of me can't be completely happy because my dear cat is still lost. The uncertainty about where she is and if she's okay casts a shadow over the joy of summer break. I hope to find her soon and bring her home.

Where are you, my little Stormy?

***
I spent tonight just chilling with my laptop 'cause I didn't feel like going out - felt lazy and a bit down. I was just scrolling social media calmly.

Suddenly, I stumbled upon a vibrant advertisement that instantly caught my attention:

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Bummer alert! So, I stumbled upon this super cool photo contest, all hyped up to join, and guess what? They drop the bomb that you gotta be over 18 to enter. Ugh! I'm like almost 16, and it's such a letdown. I was all ready to show off my photography mojo and maybe snag some sweet prizes, but nope, age restrictions had to rain on my parade. Seriously, who even came up with that rule? Now I'm just sulking with my camera, feeling like I got left out of the coolest party in town.

But then, an exciting idea came to my mind...

Feeling a mix of nerves and excitement, I fill out the form, tweaking my birth year to fit the age rule. Clicking that submit button, I get this rebellious vibe, knowing I'm bending the rules a bit. But hey, the chance to show off my photo skills and maybe snag a prize is too good to pass up.

Now, I'm all pumped, picking out my best shots for the contest. Editing away, I forget about feeling sad earlier. This contest thing is turning my night around, giving me a creative boost. Maybe bending the rules a tad is just what I needed to shake off the blues.

What will be the consequence? We'll see...