Heaven's Rebel Heart

Chapter Five: Mind Games

When I wake up the next morning, my first thought is that I could really use another twelve hours of sleep. My second thought is that I'm not nearly ready to deal with another day at Silver Ridge High.

But skipping isn't an option, so I opt for my go-to "baddie" look, but with a twist. I slip into a fitted, high-waisted leather skirt that hugs my curves and hits just above the knee, striking the perfect balance between edgy and sophisticated. Paired with it is a sleek, black, long-sleeved crop top that shows just the right amount of skin, with bold, metallic detailing across the chest that makes a statement without saying a word.

I layer on a cropped moto jacket, the kind that cinches at the waist and has enough zippers and buckles to let everyone know I mean business. For footwear, I choose my knee-high leather boots with chunky heels that not only add height but also scream confidence with every step.

To complete the look, I apply a sharp winged eyeliner that makes my piercing blue eyes pop even more, and a swipe of matte red lipstick for that extra touch of fierceness. My hair is left loose, cascading in effortless waves around my shoulders, giving the whole outfit an almost rebellious elegance.

When I glance in the mirror, I see a girl who's ready to take on the world—unapologetic, fierce, and absolutely not in the mood to be messed with.

"Okay, Heaven," I mutter to myself. "You've got this."

---

When I pull into the parking lot at school, I instinctively glance over at Klaus's car. Thankfully, it's empty. No Klaus leaning against the door with that smug grin. No unreadable stares. Just an ordinary parking lot with ordinary cars.

"Okay," I mutter to myself as I grab my bag and step out of the car. "Maybe today will be different."

Emerald and Esmeralda were waiting for me near the entrance. Emerald's bright and bubbly smile lights up the entire area, while Esmeralda stands beside her, arms crossed, looking like she'd rather be anywhere else. They're total opposites—Emerald practically bouncing on her feet with excitement, and Esmeralda... well, let's just say she's giving off major Wednesday Addams vibes with her cold stare and cutting wit.

Emerald waves me over with a grin that could rival the sun. "Morning, Heaven! Ready for another exciting day?"

I make my way to them, hoping some of Emerald's boundless energy will rub off on me. "Exciting isn't the word I'd use."

Esmeralda raises an eyebrow, her voice deadpan. "You survived Day One. That makes you practically invincible now. Or maybe just lucky."

I smirk. "Right. Because nothing says invincible like being stared at all day."

Emerald laughs and throws an arm around my shoulders as we walk inside. "You're fine. Besides, with an outfit like that, who's going to mess with you? You look like you could take over the world."

---

The morning passes relatively uneventfully. I manage to navigate through classes without too much drama, although the whispers haven't entirely stopped. At least the staring has toned down... slightly.

When lunchtime rolls around, I brace myself for another round of cafeteria madness. But when we walk through the doors, the room feels a little less tense than it did yesterday. People still glance in my direction, but it's less of a shock now. Maybe Emerald was right—people are already starting to move on.

We grab our food and head toward our usual table in the back, and I can't help but feel a small sense of relief. Maybe today will actually be normal.

That is, until Klaus walks in.