Anvaila Emerson, a vibrant party lover, juggles her crush on Kevin Diaz, the basketball team captain, and the return of mysterious Austin Smith to senior year. Caught in a high school drama, Anvaila faces the complexities of emotions, friendships, a...
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It's Monday morning, and I’m practically bouncing through the hallways of St. Lauren High. Why? Pearl Smith is finally back in town, and nothing could ruin my mood—not even chemistry class with Kevin breathing the same air as me. I make a beeline for Rachel’s locker, my heart buzzing with excitement.
"Heyya, baby Jones!" I greet Rachel with my usual enthusiasm, giving her a playful nudge.
"Heyya, baby Emerson!" she replies, grinning back. We both burst into laughter like we always do. I mean, it’s not a proper greeting if we don’t giggle like maniacs.
"What's got you skipping through these depressing hallways?" Rachel asks, already knowing the answer.
"Being in your amazing company, duh. But mostly, Pearl’s back!" I can’t keep the grin off my face.
"Same old Vinny, always hyped," Rachel chuckles. "So, where’s the woman of the hour?"
Right on cue, I feel a gust of wind and suddenly Kiwi’s voice fills my ear. "Introducing the return of Pearl Smith, our favorite Aussie queen back from the land down under!" Kiwi’s got her arms flung wide, and I can’t help but laugh.
Turning, I see Pearl striding down the hallway like she owns the place, hair flowing, looking like she’s been on a reality TV show instead of surviving Australia. She’s all dramatic flair, as usual. "Alright, alright, no need to applaud," she jokes, her Australian accent thicker than I remembered. "But feel free to stare!"
"Pearly! Welcome back, friend!" I leap toward her for a hug, with Rachel not far behind.
"Oi! Watch out!" Pearl’s laughing but nearly topples over. "Blimey, I’m not made of bricks, Vin!"
"Well, we missed you that much," Rachel says, her arms around Pearl. "It’s so good to see you again."
Pearl leans back with a smirk. "Don’t get too sappy on me. I didn’t come back for all that."
Kiwi jumps in. "You came back for our excellent company, of course. And maybe because you missed Ms. Thompson’s boring lectures."
Pearl fake-gags. "Oh lord, I’d rather eat Vegemite with a spoon than sit through one of her classes again."
