Knocking at the Harringtons

Westminister Academy

The car finally pulled up in front of Westminster Academy's main entrance. The school was massive and built entirely of stone with a huge courtyard--almost as if it was something out of a Harry Potter movie. Amaya's pulse quickened at the sight. 

Sebastian was first to get out, not waiting for her as he strode ahead without a word. Amaya followed, gripping her bag tightly as she stepped onto the school grounds. 

A girl with dark hair seemed to closely observe Sebastian  off before turning her attention the Amaya. Amaya swallowed hard as she noticed, quickly glancing at Sebastian, who disappeared into the crowd of students. 

Amaya felt a surge of determination. She had survived worse than this.

It felt like a different world as she walked further into the courtyard. She spotted a group of students gathered around a central fountain, their laughter ringing in the air. She took a moment to observe, trying to gauge the social dynamics. 

There were cliques everywhere, each with their own vibe, and it felt daunting to navigate through the sea of unfamiliar faces. 

Her attention turned back to the girl. She had shiny dark hair and a confident stance. She was chatting with a couple of others, clearly the center of attention. 

The bell echoed through the courtyard, signaling everyone to head inside. Amaya straightened her shoulders and joined the crowd streaming into the building.

Since Sebastian hadn't bothered to help her navigate the chaos of the school, she decided to take matters into her own hands. She definitely wasn't going to be a loner for the rest of her senior year. 

Inside, the students gathered in a large hall with high ceilings and tall windows lining the walls. Rows of seats were quickly filling up as everyone settled down, excitedly chatting and exchanging stories. 

Amaya spotted an open seat beside a blonde girl. She made her way over, taking a deep breath. She felt a mix of determination and anxiety bubbling within her.

As Amaya approached, she cleared her throat, trying to summon the courage to speak. The blonde was surrounded by a couple of other students.

"Um, hi," Amaya said, forcing a smile as she stepped closer, "Could I sit here?" she asked.

"Yes, of course," the girl answered with a small smile. "Do I know you?" she asked, as the people around her focused on Amaya.

Amaya felt her cheeks flush at girls lack of recognition, and she quickly tried to compose herself. "I'm Amaya, the new transfer student," she answered, her voice steadier this time. "I just started today."

The girls expression shifted as she processed the information. "Oh, right! The new girl. Yeah I heard you were coming. How exciting!" she beamed. "Welcome to Westminster! I'm Chloe. This is my territory," she added with a playful smile, gesturing to the students around her.

The other students, who had been watching with a mix of curiosity and judgment, seemed to relax a bit as Chloe welcomed her.

"Thanks! It's a little overwhelming," Amaya admitted, glancing around at the bustling room. She could sense the eyes of others on her. She felt like their prey, ready to be hunted down.

Chloe leaned in slightly, a smile forming on her lips. "Don't worry, we've all been there. It's a bit chaotic at first, but you'll find your way. Just stay clear of Veronica and her asslickers," she advised, nodding discreetly towards a dark-haired haired girl a few rows ahead. "Veronica can be a real piece of work if you cross her."

Amaya realized that Veronica was the same girl she'd seen outside. "Got it," she replied, making a mental note.

"So how is the first impression of our lovely school?" Chloe asked.

"Honestly, it's a lot to take in. It's very different from my previous school," Amaya answered as she looked around to find Sebastian and a group of guys talking on the other side of the room. He seems so different around them, she thought to herself before he turned his gaze towards her. Their eyes met for a brief moment before she looked away.

Chloe nodded as she started speaking. "Yeah, it can be a lot to take in. But trust, once you settle in, you'll love it here. Just stick with the right people and go to the right parties," Chloe chuckled. Amaya smiled trying to match Chloe's energy as they continued their conversation, but her attention drifted toward Sebastian, who was now engaged in conversation.

Chloe followed Amaya's gaze and smirked. "Ah, yes, the mysterious Sebastian Harrington. He's definitely a hard one to read, isn't he? He has this whole, 'I'm too cool for school' vibe going on. You might want to steer clear of him too. From what I've heard he can be... complicated." 

Amaya nodded, staying silent about her living situation, and continued talking with Chloe. Just then, a loud voice interrupted them as a teacher stepped to the front of the hall, calling for everyone's attention.

"Welcome, students, to a new year at Westminster Academy!" the teacher began, her voice carrying over the crowd. "We're thrilled to see familiar faces back and to welcome our new students. This year will be one of growth, challenges, and, of course, opportunities to excel."

Amaya listened, glancing around. Some students were attentive, while others whispered among themselves. As the teacher spoke, Amaya's gaze drifted back to Sebastian. He seemed disinterested, leaning back in his chair with his arms crossed.

Soon the speech was over and the students headed off to their classes. Amaya turned her attention to Chloe. "I have to get to class, but you should totally come sit with us at lunch," Chloe exclaimed, and Amaya nodded before they parted their ways.