WHO AM I

NEW FACES, NEW CHALLENGES

The following week passed in a whirlwind of whispers and anxious glances. Lila and her friends kept their heads down, trying to avoid any run-ins with Jordan. However, as fate would have it, the universe had other plans. The school was buzzing with talk about new students joining the class—specifically three intriguing characters who had recently moved to town.

"Are you guys ready for this?" Lila asked her friends as they gathered around their usual lunch table. "I hear the new kids are actually super cool. Like, movie-star cool."

"Movie-star cool?" Noah repeated, raising an eyebrow. "Does that mean they'll be dramatic and over-the-top? Because I can't handle any more drama than we already have with Jordan."

"Come on, live a little!" Cathy exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "What if one of them is a heartthrob?"

"I'll be the judge of that," Jasper chimed in. "And if they're not, I'll just distract them with my four noses fact!"

"I think you mean four noses on slugs," Eli corrected with a grin. "But I'll be honest; I'm just here for the snacks."

The New Arrivals

When lunch ended, the group made their way to the courtyard, where the new students were supposedly going to be introduced. Just as they arrived, a tall girl with striking blue hair stepped forward, her confidence palpable.

"Hey everyone! I'm Kira!" she announced, her voice lively and inviting. "I just moved here from New York, and I'm ready to shake things up!"

Lila couldn't help but admire her style—edgy yet effortlessly cool.

Next to her stood a boy with tousled blond hair and a charming smile. "I'm Jason," he said, leaning against a nearby tree as if it were the most relaxed pose in the world. "I'm from L.A. and yes, I brought my surfboard, even if there's no ocean. Surfing the waves of high school is what I'm here for!"

Lastly, a quieter boy with dark hair and piercing green eyes introduced himself. "I'm Eric. I, uh, play guitar," he mumbled, glancing down shyly, his fingers fidgeting with the strap of his backpack.

The crowd erupted into laughter, charmed by their energy. Lila felt a flicker of hope that maybe, just maybe, these new students could bring a fresh perspective to their chaotic lives.

An Unexpected Invitation

"Hey, Kira! Are you going to the big school dance next week?" Cathy asked, trying to break the ice. "You have to come; it'll be a blast!"

"Absolutely!" Kira grinned. "I love dancing! Plus, I hear there's going to be a talent show. Are any of you participating?"

"I could juggle!" Jasper suggested, his eyes lighting up. "Or maybe do a dramatic reading of my slugs fact?"

"Oh, I think I might sing," Eric said quietly, surprising everyone. "If I can find the courage."

"Count me in for some epic moves!" Jason added, winking playfully. "Just wait until you see my 'Surfing the Dance Floor' routine."

"Great! We'll all have to practice," Lila suggested, excitement bubbling within her. "Let's form a group and make this dance unforgettable!"

The Surprise Announcement

As the chatter continued, Noah felt a sense of urgency creeping back in. "Guys, maybe we should also keep an eye on Jordan. He might try to crash the dance and stir up trouble."

"Leave that to us," Kira said confidently. "I'm not one to back down from a challenge. If Jordan wants to mess with our fun, he'll have to deal with me!"

"Is it too late to sign up for backup dancers?" Jasper quipped, raising his hand dramatically. "I'll throw in my best dance moves as a distraction!"

Lila laughed, appreciating the humor in the moment. They needed it more than ever, especially with the looming uncertainty surrounding Jordan.

Suspenseful Twist

Just as the group began to lighten the mood, a figure emerged from the crowd—Jordan, with his smug grin plastered across his face. "Well, well, well. Look who's making friends," he drawled, his eyes zeroing in on Kira. "You all better watch your backs. I don't think you know what you're getting yourselves into."

Lila felt a chill run down her spine. "What do you want, Jordan?" she demanded, trying to keep her voice steady.

"Just wanted to welcome the new kids. But trust me, high school isn't what it seems. You'll learn that soon enough," he said, turning on his heel and sauntering away.

As he left, Kira glanced at Lila. "Is he always like that?"

"Pretty much," Lila replied, a mix of frustration and determination washing over her. "But he doesn't get to ruin this for us. We're going to have the best time at the dance, no matter what!"