The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the sprawling campus of Crestwood High. It was the first day of senior year, and the air buzzed with excitement.
Students flooded the parking lot, laughing and chatting as they navigated the familiar pathways, some clutching last-minute schedules while others basked in the freedom of a new beginning. But for Kentrell, today was not about celebration. It was a return.
Kentrell stepped out of his sleek black car, the engine humming to a stop. He adjusted the hem of his fitted black t-shirt, the fabric stretching over his broad shoulders. His jeans hung low, slightly distressed at the knees, and his dreads cascaded just to his mouth, swaying gently with each step he took.
He was no longer the awkward boy from middle school. And it was very evident.
He surveyed the scene with a detached curiosity, his dark eyes scanning the crowd, absorbing the chaos that was high school life.
Kentrell continued walking, pretending not to notice all the commotion around him, but he relished the moment. He could feel eyes lingering on him. It was a power play, and he was enjoying every second of it.
As he reached the first classroom of the day, Kentrell felt a thrill rush through him. He was no longer the target. He felt as if he was in control now and he couldn't wait to see how this year would unfold.
Entering the English classroom, Kentrell found a seat in the back, away from the prying eyes of the kids and their cliques. The room was a burst of color, posters of classic literature lining the walls, and various supplies scattered across the tables.
He pulled out his notebook, flipping to a blank page and letting his pencil glide over it, capturing thoughts that danced in his mind. The rhythmic scratch of pencil against paper was calming, a familiar solace amidst the chaos of the school year.
Lyric strolled into the classroom moments later, her nerves evident in her fidgeting fingers. She scanned the room, feeling the weight of her presence looming over her, even when she wasn't physically there.
The 'queen bee' of Crestwood High, Sage ruled with an iron fist, her two loyal followers, Raevyn and Simone, by her side. Lyric had spent most of her life in Sage's shadow, and the thought of senior year with her stepsister as a rival made her stomach churn.
