Whispers of Shadowed Hearts

Chapter 3

Summer Brooks

A few weeks had passed since my arrival in Blackthorn, and now the start of school was just around the corner. Even though I was bored at home, the idea of going to a new school in this new town and blending in with new people seemed a bit daunting.

After losing my family, I had gone from being someone in the spotlight to someone who faded into the background. Popularity and recognition now seemed like pointless things. I just wanted to finish high school without any trouble and move on with my life.

The town's high school was so prestigious that I couldn't help but be surprised. I had already realized that most of the families in the town were wealthy, but it was still strange.

There was no need to mention that the uniforms looked like something straight out of a TV series. The plaid navy blue skirt matched the tie of the same pattern over my white blouse. My previous schools didn't have uniforms, but this wouldn't be too hard to get used to.

I left my hair down and wore a headband in the same color as the skirt. Once I was sure I was ready, I grabbed my bag and left the room. I had no idea how I was going to get to school every day. It was too far to walk, and there wasn't even a bus.

Amanda was already dressed, sitting in the living room with her usual grace, waiting for me.

"I thought I should give you some allowance, but then I remembered this credit card. It was just lying around unused. It's limitless, so you can spend as much as you want." I thanked her and took the card. Amanda was indeed a wealthy woman. She had no one to leave all this fortune to.

"There's more." I turned to her again. "I know getting around here is difficult, and I'm afraid the roads won't be safe enough for you to walk alone. Adam told me you have a driver's license. I wanted to give you my car. After all, I'm too old to drive now."

"Amanda, that's really not necessary. I'll find a way." She shook her head and jingled the car keys.

"Summer, this wasn't a request. The roads are too dangerous to walk."

"Thank you, really." When she smiled, her wrinkled face became even more wrinkled.

"If you don't leave now, I'm afraid you'll be late for your first day. In fact, you already are." I widened my eyes, said goodbye, and rushed to the door. I definitely didn't want to leave a bad impression by being late on the first day of school.

Amanda's car was parked in front of the house. The white SUV, though as elegant as she was, made me feel a bit guilty for accepting so much kindness from her.

The year I lost my family, I hadn't wasted any time getting my driver's license as soon as I turned sixteen. Back then, all I cared about were parties, boys, and gossip. Now, I could see how unnecessary it all was, but once you entered that world, everything around you seemed rosy.

I started the car and entered the school's address into my phone. I was still going to be a few minutes late for the start of class. I hoped it wouldn't leave as bad an impression as I feared.

When I finally arrived at the school Amanda and I had visited a week ago, I drove through the iron gates this time. As I parked the car in the lot, everyone was heading toward the school's entrance to go to their classes. I noticed a few glances in my direction but decided to ignore them. After grabbing my bag, I got out of the car and hurried into the school.

"Excuse me, can I ask you something?" I stopped a passing student on duty. "Where is the principal's office?"

"Are you a new student?" I nodded in confirmation. "Follow the stairs up to the third floor, fifth room on the right."