-willow tree-

todays the day

The morning sun streamed through Jane's bedroom window, casting a warm glow on the cluttered room filled with books and sketches. She groaned softly, rolling over in bed, reluctant to leave the comfort of her blankets. Today was a school day, and the thought of facing her classmates after her encounter with Adeline stirred a mix of excitement and anxiety within her.

With a deep breath, Jane finally swung her legs over the side of the bed and stood up, stretching her arms above her head. She shuffled to the bathroom, her mind still replaying the moments from the night before. What would she say if she saw Adeline again? Would her father still be angry?

After brushing her teeth and quickly washing her face, Jane moved to her closet, rifling through her clothes. She settled on a black band t-shirt featuring her favorite rock group, a bold choice that made her feel a little more confident. Pairing it with her trusty jeans, she felt ready to face whatever the day would throw at her. As she got dressed, she glanced at her reflection in the mirror, adjusting her thick glasses and tugging at the hem of her shirt. With her short red hair tousled, she couldn't help but feel a pang of self-consciousness.

"Just be yourself," she whispered to her reflection, trying to muster some confidence.

Once she was dressed, Jane made her way to the kitchen, where the smell of toast and coffee filled the air. Her mother was already bustling around, preparing breakfast. "Good morning, sweetie," her mom called out, a smile crossing her face. "How did you sleep?"

"Okay, I guess," Jane replied, pouring herself a glass of orange juice. "I was thinking about school... and, um, Adeline."

Her mother paused, glancing over her shoulder. "Still thinking about that girl, huh?"

"Yeah, I just wonder if I'll see her again. She was really nice," Jane said, her voice tinged with hope.

Her mother's smile faded slightly, replaced by a look of concern. "Just remember what we talked about, Jane. It's important to be cautious."

"I know," Jane replied, her heart sinking a little. "But it feels wrong to just ignore someone who could be a friend."

"Just keep your distance, honey. And focus on your studies," her mom advised gently, her tone firm yet caring. "You have your own friends to think about."

Jane nodded, feeling a familiar mix of disappointment and determination. She poured her cereal and sat at the table, trying to push aside her worries. As they ate breakfast, she couldn't shake the image of Adeline from her mind, wondering if she would see her in the halls, or if the chance to be friends would slip away forever.

After finishing her meal, Jane grabbed her backpack, slinging it over her shoulder as she prepared to leave. "I'll be back after school," she called to her mom, who was already busy cleaning up the table.

"Be careful, and remember to keep an open mind," her mother reminded her, giving her a reassuring smile.

With a final nod, Jane stepped out of the house and into the fresh morning air, her heart racing with anticipation and uncertainty. As she walked toward the school, she hoped that maybe today would bring another chance encounter, one that could bridge the gap between her world and Adeline's.