Aria's POV

The morning sunlight spilled through the blinds of my bedroom, painting golden stripes across the floorboards. The house felt hushed, as if holding its breath, with only the occasional creak of settling wood to break the silence. It was the kind of stillness that used to wrap around me like a heavy blanket, reminding me that my parents had left for work long before I'd even stirred. Once, that kind of quiet had made me feel small, invisible, like a forgotten piece of something bigger.

But today, that emptiness felt different—less sharp, more like a distant echo than a heavy weight. I drew in a breath, savoring the warm sunlight on my skin, and let it out slowly, feeling a little of that old ache dissipate. My heart didn't squeeze as hard as it used to, and the longing for my parents' presence no longer clawed at me in quite the same way. It wasn't that I didn't wish they cared more, but the hollow parts of me had begun to feel less empty.

Then, my phone buzzed on the nightstand, and I couldn't help the smile that pulled at my lips. Jack's name lit up the screen, and just like that, the morning brightened a little more. His presence, even through a simple text, filled the quiet with something warm, making the house feel less empty. Little by little, he was helping me fill in those spaces with something I hadn't known I needed. Maybe I wasn't fully healed, but for the first time in a long time it's like another new version of keeps on growing each day.

Jack.

A grin spread across my face as I read the notification from Mahal 💜.

Mahal 💜: Morning, gorgeous. Sleep well? Or is someone too sore from last night? 😏

Heat rushed to my cheeks as last night's memories unfolded in my mind, each one sparking a warmth that I could still feel. Jack had this way of bringing out parts of me I hadn't even known were there, and reading his playful, teasing words now only made it all more real. I could hardly believe I'd taken that step with him—it felt like our relationship had deepened in a way I was still finding my way through. But somehow, it felt right, like I was exactly where I needed to be.

Thinking about him kept me grounded, each thought reminding me not to slip back into old habits. I'd always craved love, but last night felt like more—a kind of care and understanding I hadn't expected but desperately needed. Jack made sure I knew I was cherished, loved in a way that made everything else fade away. A blush spread over me again, filling me with the kind of warmth I could carry through the day.

I quickly fired back: Jack stop it! Fine, I am still sore from last night. It did hurt a little at first. 

His reply came within seconds: Oh, sore, huh? Guess I might've overdone it a bit. Or are you ready for round two? 😉

A blush crept up my neck as I read his response, the heat spreading warmly across my cheeks. The memories of last night replayed vividly in my mind, and it still felt surreal that we'd crossed such a significant threshold together. A nervous laugh escaped me, breaking the stillness of my room. Jack had always known how to tease me, effortlessly drawing out reactions, but this time, it felt different—more intimate and grounded in everything we'd shared.

Even though I blushed from the embarrassment of my first time, there was a newfound sense of warmth. Jack had made me feel safe and cherished, and now, as we exchanged playful texts, I realized how our dynamic had shifted. Where there had once been shyness, there was now a growing sense of comfort. It was still new, and I was still navigating what it all meant, but I was learning to embrace this part of our relationship. Bit by bit, I felt myself opening up, growing alongside him, and discovering that being bold didn't feel so impossible anymore.

I grinned, my heart thumping as I typed back: I want a round two then, since you're asking.

Jack's reply came almost immediately.

Mahal 💜: Whoa there. Did I just corrupt my girlfriend? As much as I'd love a round two, we have school. But don't worry—I can think of some ways to make that happen where we won't get caught. 😉

A blush crept up my neck as I imagined all the scenarios he could be thinking of. My mind whirled, but I couldn't help the laugh that slipped out, echoing in the quiet stillness of my house. His texts always had a way of making everything feel a little brighter, a little less lonely. I playfully rolled my eyes, a smile spreading across my face. Even in the silence of an empty home, Jack's teasing words brought warmth, filling the space in a way that made me feel undeniably connected and cherished.

But as I tucked my phone away, the playful warmth lingering from Jack's texts began to fade, replaced by a small, nagging feeling that settled like a whisper at the back of my mind. It was the kind of feeling that sent a shiver down your spine, even when you couldn't pinpoint why. School loomed on the horizon, and though it promised the usual chaos—tests, whispered gossip, and the occasional drama—I couldn't shake the sense that today might hold something different, something heavier.

I drew in a slow breath, trying to push away the unease, but it lingered, stubborn and unrelenting. The peace I felt from Jack's reassurance suddenly felt fragile, like glass waiting for a crack. The calm I had now was about to be tested in ways I never saw coming. And for the first time in a while, I wondered if my heart was ready for the storm that lay ahead.

Jack pulled up to my house, his car idling in the driveway as I grabbed my bag and stepped out into the crisp morning air. The sight of him leaning over the center console to greet me made everything feel warm and inviting. I slid into the passenger seat, and before I could even buckle in, Jack leaned closer, his lips brushing mine in a soft, familiar kiss.

But this time, the simple greeting wasn't enough. Maybe it was the memories of last night still fresh in my mind, or maybe it was the new, bolder side of me that Jack had awakened. I found myself leaning in, deepening the kiss, my fingers tangling in his shaggy brown hair. The world outside the car dissolved into a blur—school, responsibilities, and the weight of everything pressing on me seemed to disappear. My worries about Brent's exhaustion, Eli's distance, my unpredictable mermaid powers, the mystery of the new mermaids, and the ever-present threat of the mermaid hunter all slipped away, replaced by the warmth of Jack's touch.

In this moment, all I wanted was more. More of him, more of this feeling that made my heart race and drowned out every fear and doubt. My fingers tightened in his hair, pulling him closer, craving the way his lips made everything feel right. My whole body hummed with need, a desire to lose myself in the connection between us and forget everything else—even if just for a while.

Being here with Jack, wrapped in his arms, made me feel safe, cherished, and more alive than I had in ages. I didn't want to think about anything beyond this moment—beyond the way he made me feel so wanted, so completely seen. The worries that loomed over me felt far away, and I wanted to keep them there. I wanted this closeness, this escape, to last a little longer.

Jack pulled back with a breathless chuckle, his thumb brushing over my flushed cheek. "Holy shit, babe. Looks like someone missed me enough to want a repeat of last night," he teased, his voice warm and laced with playful mischief. "My girlfriend is being a bit naughty today, and I'm definitely not complaining."

A grin spread across my face, playful and a little shy, despite the heat creeping up my neck. "Maybe just a little," I confessed, surprising myself with my own boldness.

His laughter filled the car, making the air between us feel lighter, warmer, and so full of life. His gaze softened, but the spark of mischief still danced in his eyes. "Goodness, babe," he murmured, his voice dropping to a whisper that sent shivers racing down my spine, "you're going to be the death of me if you keep that up. After a kiss like that, I'm not sure I can promise to behave."

He leaned in, his lips hovering just near my ear, and the warmth of his breath made my pulse race. "But," he added, his tone teasing yet regretful, "unfortunately, there's this place called school."

I groaned dramatically, rolling my eyes. "Come on, babe. After that whole speech you gave last night about me being a 'regular girl,' it doesn't sound so bad to skip school and... make some memories."

His grin widened, a playful gleam in his eyes as he leaned back, turning the key in the ignition. The engine roared to life, but the teasing energy still crackled between us. "Yeah, but not in my car," he said, his voice dropping with just enough restraint to send a shiver down my spine. "I guess I really did create a monster, huh? My sweet, innocent girlfriend, now completely addicted."

I crossed my arms, pouting playfully. "You're no fun," I muttered, though my heart raced at the memory of last night and the way he could make me feel. "I was hoping you'd help me forget about my other life, just for a little while."

Jack smirked, his hand finding mine as he laced our fingers together. His thumb traced gentle circles over my skin, a grounding touch that somehow made the world feel a bit steadier. "Oh, trust me, it's tempting," he said, his voice a mix of warmth and mischief. "I'd love to make you forget everything else. But we've got time, babe—plenty of it. And believe me, there will be more moments, better ones."

His gaze softened, and I could tell he was serious even as he joked. "But as much as I'd like to see those clothes off you again, skipping school probably isn't the best idea. I have to keep this junior year on track so I'm set for senior year, you know? Can't let my future quarterback dreams slip."

I rolled my eyes, but his words melted away some of the tension I didn't even realize I was holding. "Fine," I said, pretending to sulk. "But you owe me, Carter. Big time."

He laughed, giving my hand a reassuring squeeze. "Deal, peppermint girl. Consider it a promise for more adventures, just the two of us."."

Despite his words, the way he looked at me told me he was just as caught up in the memories of last night as I was. And even though reality was waiting, it was moments like this—teasing, stolen glances, and warm touches—that made everything else feel a little less daunting.

As we pulled out of the driveway, I let the warmth of his touch and the sound of his laughter push away some of the unease. Jack had a way of making the weight on my shoulders feel just a little lighter, and for a brief moment, I allowed myself to get lost in the comfort of this ordinary morning ritual. But even as I smiled at the way his thumb gently traced circles on my skin, reality still lingered, like an unwelcome guest at the edge of my thoughts.

The stress of Brent's exhaustion, Eli's distance, and the growing unpredictability of my mermaid powers were ever-present, threading tension through my day-to-day life. The looming mystery of the new mermaid and the shadowy threat of the mermaid hunter gnawed at me, constant reminders that normalcy was a fragile illusion. Yet, here and now, with Jack by my side, the chaos felt a little more manageable, as if I could actually hold it together.

What I didn't expect, though, was that was something was coming at my way one that had nothing to do with mermaids or hunters. And as Jack and I made our way to The Cozy Corner for our morning coffee, I remained blissfully unaware of the storm that was about to change everything.

As we pulled into the school parking lot, the air felt thick with anticipation, like the calm before a storm. Jack parked the car, and I took another slow, deliberate sip of my iced peppermint mocha. I caught his eyes drifting to my lips, a flicker of heat sparking in his gaze.

"Really?" he asked, raising an eyebrow, his voice dropping into a playful murmur. "You're trying to tell me something there, peppermint girl?"

I tilted my head, feigning innocence. "Me? No idea what you're talking about," I replied, my lips curving into a sly smile before taking another exaggerated sip. The cold, minty sweetness felt almost sinful, especially with Jack's gaze locked on me.

He groaned, running a hand through his shaggy brown hair. "You're impossible, you know that?" His voice was equal parts frustration and admiration, and it made me feel bolder, like I could push the teasing just a little further.

I leaned closer, lowering my voice. "You love it."

Jack sighed dramatically, but the grin that spread across his face betrayed him. "Damn right, I do," he muttered, leaning in as if to steal a kiss, but stopping just short. "But if you keep teasing me like that, don't blame me if I lose my self-control."

I laughed, feeling the tension from the morning melting away, replaced with the warmth only Jack could bring. He got out of the car, coming around to open my door like the gentleman he always pretended not to be. As we stepped into the cool morning air, the buzz of school life surrounded us—friends catching up, laughter echoing across the lot, and the usual pre-class chaos.

But something felt different today, an undercurrent of energy that made my stomach twist. Jack seemed to sense it too, his hand finding mine and giving it a comforting squeeze. "You good?" he asked, concern flickering in his eyes.

I nodded, but the feeling didn't go away. Maybe it was nothing. Or maybe it was everything waiting to go wrong.

Brooke's POV

Across the courtyard, I couldn't help but feel a thrill run through me as I leaned in close to a group of students gathered around their lockers. With a practiced smile—sweet enough to hide the venom behind my words—I dropped my bombshell, carefully weaving the rumor about Aria being seen with another guy.

"Can you believe it?" I whispered, my voice a mix of disbelief and false sympathy. "Poor Jack. Imagine thinking you're with someone special, only to find out she's playing you."

The reaction was immediate. The students' eyes widened, and gasps and murmurs quickly followed, just the way I'd planned. It was almost too easy, like setting a fire and watching the flames spread. The story picked up momentum, slithering through the crowd, twisting and morphing with each retelling.

I stepped back, satisfied as I watched the chaos unfold. Whispers rippled through the courtyard, students turning their heads and nudging each other, eyes darting around for any sign of the supposed drama. I knew that soon, it would reach the people it was meant for.

And as Jack and Aria made their way toward the entrance, hand-in-hand and looking so damn happy, I felt a surge of satisfaction. The peace on Aria's face—the smile that I hated so much—wouldn't last for long. Not if I had anything to say about it.

This was only the beginning.

Aria's POV 

Jack and I walked through the school entrance, his hand warm and steady in mine. The buzz of the hallways felt normal at first—just the usual hum of laughter, locker doors slamming, and friends calling out to one another. I held my iced peppermint mocha a little tighter, savoring the familiar sweetness that had been missing yesterday. Jack glanced down at me with that playful glint in his eyes, a small smile tugging at his lips.

"Enjoying that a little too much?" he teased, leaning closer. "If I didn't know any better, I'd think you were trying to turn me on or something with the way you're savoring that drink."

I raised an eyebrow, pretending innocence. "Me? Never," I said, taking another slow sip just to see him shake his head with mock exasperation.

"You're trouble, you know that?" he murmured, his thumb brushing over the back of my hand.

I grinned, feeling that comforting warmth settle in my chest. Being with Jack like this made everything feel easier, lighter. But as we turned the corner toward our lockers, something shifted in the air. It was subtle at first—a few heads turning, whispers cutting through the usual noise. I caught snippets of conversation, phrases that made my stomach twist even though I couldn't quite piece them together.

Jack must have noticed, too, because his grip on my hand tightened slightly. He glanced around, the playful smile from earlier fading into something more serious. "You okay?" he asked, his voice low, protective.

I nodded, but the unease was creeping in, prickling at the edges of my mind. I tried to brush it off, chalking it up to paranoia, but the way people were looking at us... it didn't feel right. It felt like something was wrong.

And then I saw Brooke, standing near the lockers with a smile that didn't reach her eyes. She caught my gaze for a split second, and something in her expression sent a chill down my spine. She looked way too pleased with herself, and I knew—deep down—that whatever this was, she had something to do with it.

Jack followed my line of sight, his jaw clenching when he saw Brooke. He didn't say anything, but I could feel the tension radiating from him. The peace we'd felt that morning? It was gone, replaced by a storm brewing just beneath the surface.

I swallowed hard, bracing myself as the whispers and sideways glances closed in around us. Brooke's self-satisfied smirk only deepened the gnawing fear in my gut, but I refused to let it show. Instead of crumbling, I forced myself to stand a little taller, gripping Jack's hand tightly for strength. My heart hammered against my chest, and every breath felt like a struggle, but I couldn't let them see that. I had to be confident Aria, the vlogger Aria—the one who stood up to Brooke before and didn't let people get to her. Come on, what's the worst she can do? I told myself, willing my facade to hold.

But then, as if the universe was mocking me, a group of girls strolled by, their voices sharp and cutting. The confidence I was clinging to wavered, and I felt my shield start to crack, the weight of their judgment pressing down on me.

"Oh my gosh, Aria is such a slut," one sneered.

"Yeah, she totally cheated on Jack," another added, her voice dripping with mock sympathy. "I feel so bad for him. Weren't they supposed to be the golden couple?"

The words hit me like a punch to the gut, making it hard to breathe for a moment. In the past, this would've shattered me completely, but now... I fought to keep my composure. Still, the old doubts whispered in the back of my mind: Why would someone like Jack choose me, the invisible girl, over anyone else? The insecurities I'd worked so hard to push aside began clawing their way back, but I tried to focus on the present, on the warmth of Jack's hand holding mine.

Jack seemed to sense behavior. His grip tightened, and he turned to face me, concern etched into his features. Before he could say anything, one of his football teammates, Kaden, approached. His expression was a mix of unease and curiosity, his eyes flicking between Jack and me.

"Hey, Jack," Kaden said, his tone hesitant. "Are you... okay, man? I mean, I heard some stuff about Aria cheating on you, and—"

Jack's jaw tightened, and I could feel the tension radiating off him. But he didn't let go of my hand. Instead, he squared his shoulders, his voice steady but edged with frustration. "Kaden, you should know better than to believe rumors," he said. "Aria was with me last night. We had a date at the beach, and I don't appreciate people spreading lies about her."

Kaden shifted uncomfortably, clearly taken aback by Jack's fierce defense. "Yeah, I get it. Just... it's all over school. People are talking."

"Then let them talk," Jack said firmly, though I could hear the tension simmering beneath his words. "They don't know her like I do. And if you're really my friend, you'll help shut that rumor down."

Kaden raised his hands in surrender. "Alright, man. Didn't mean anything by it."

As Kaden walked away, the noise of the school buzzed around us, the rumors like a storm cloud I couldn't escape from. I took a shaky breath, trying to hold on to the strength I'd built over the past year. But deep down, I couldn't help the worry gnawing at me: What if this was too much for us to handle?

I glanced at Jack, and for a moment, the trust between us felt fragile, like glass. He was popular, well-loved, and admired. I was just... me, still learning how to fit into his world. The insecurity was real, and I couldn't pretend it wasn't there.

Sensing my struggle, Jack turned to me, his gaze softening. "Hey," he said gently, his voice pulling me back from the edge. "Don't let them get in your head. You know us. You know me."

I bit my lip, nodding, but my voice was small. "It's just... hard, you know? Sometimes I wonder if... if I'm really enough for you. If I'm strong enough to handle this."

Jack's eyes searched mine, and he sighed, his expression serious but full of care. "Aria, you are more than enough. But I know this isn't easy. I can't tell you it won't hurt or that doubts won't creep in. All I can say is that I'm here, and I'm not going anywhere."

The sincerity in his words made something in my chest ache, and I managed a small smile. "One wave at a time?"

He nodded, a flicker of a grin breaking through his frustration. "One wave at a time. And we'll ride them together."

It didn't erase all my doubts, but it was enough to keep me standing, even if my knees still felt a little shaky. Our relationship was still so new, fragile and full of challenges, but I was determined to keep fighting for it—and Jack was, too. His support felt like a lifeline, but the fear of losing control, of everything spiraling out of my grasp, still lingered at the edges of my mind. A small voice in the back of my head reminded me that the day was far from over, and there were still battles left to face. But for now, I held onto the hope that, together, we could weather whatever came next.

<>

Each step Jack and I took through the crowded school hall felt heavier than the last. The whispers closed in, pressing from all sides, and I could feel every judgmental stare like tiny daggers against my skin. My chest tightened, and my pulse raced, anxiety crawling up my spine like icy fingers. Even with Jack's hand wrapped securely around mine, the vulnerability felt suffocating.

Jack's grip tightened slightly, a silent attempt to shield me from the onslaught. His brown eyes scanned the hall, narrowing at anyone who dared to whisper too loudly. Yet even his protectiveness couldn't drown out the pounding in my chest or the whispers in my mind.

They think you're guilty. You'll never escape this. Even Jack might believe them...

A cold panic surged through me, and I felt my moon ring warm ominously, glowing brighter. The heat traveled up my finger, and before I could stop it, the water fountain a few steps away erupted. A stream of water shot out, splashing a nearby student who yelped and stumbled back, wiping his face in bewilderment.

"Hey!" the student protested, shaking droplets from his hair. Laughter and gasps erupted around us, and I felt my cheeks burn with embarrassment. My vision blurred, the world spinning around me as my pulse thundered in my ears.

Jack was quick to react. His hand cupped my face, turning me toward him. "Aria, breathe," he said, his voice gentle but commanding. "Right here. Focus on me."

But it was like I couldn't hear him, the doubts crashing like waves in my mind. The whispers twisted and echoed until, finally, Jack's voice broke through the noise.

"Look at me," he repeated, firmer this time. His thumb brushed over my cheek, his eyes searching mine. "One wave at a time, remember?"

The chaos ebbed, and the glow of my moon ring faded. The water fountain sputtered back to normal, and the murmurs slowly began to die down. My hands were still trembling, but Jack's presence was a lifeline, pulling me back from the edge.

He held my gaze, his eyes steady with a blend of concern and determination. "You're not facing this on your own," he said softly, his voice firm but warm. "No matter how chaotic or overwhelming it gets, we'll face it together."

The sincerity in his words hit me, but the weight of my powers, the threat of exposure, and the impact on our relationship still loomed. I took a shaky breath, nodding, but I knew that this was not the first time it happened. And as Jack's hand stayed locked with mine, I couldn't help but wonder how long we could keep holding on before something broke.

The whispers grew louder with each step and goddamn, it felt like a never-ending journey just to get to my first class of the morning. The stretch of the hallway seemed infinite, every step dragging as the weight of judgment pressed on me. Almost everyone seemed to be watching my every move, dissecting my presence with their stares, and I hated it.

I couldn't decide which was worse: the way people started paying attention to me the moment Jack noticed me, or the biting accusations that labeled me as a cheater. A slut. It didn't make sense. How could anyone believe that? I'd only ever been close to Jack, Eli, and Brent—my two other friends who didn't even see me in that way. And yet, the whispers felt like a condemnation, a public trial where I was already found guilty.

The progress I'd made with Jack in our relationship felt like it was slipping through my fingers, and I fought against the urge to let it unravel completely. I'd come so far, worked so hard not to let my fears and insecurities control me, but under the weight of their judgment, it was hard not to feel small. Everyone seemed so determined to hold me to some impossible standard, like being Jack's perfect girlfriend was something I had to constantly prove.

Deep down, the seeds of doubt Brooke had planted still clung to me, rooted in the back of my mind. Because realistically, Jack was still the golden quarterback who took our school to the championships, and I couldn't help but question if he really believed the things he said about relationships being messy. Was he prepared to face all of this with me, or was he just saying what he thought I needed to hear? He was here, glaring at the whispers and judgmental eyes, but a part of me couldn't shake the feeling that even his protective presence wasn't enough to make the suffocating pressure disappear.

"I will not support any girl who cheats."

"Once a cheater, always a cheater, right?"

"Jack, why are you still with her?"

My heart hammered in my chest, each cruel word landing like a punch, and my vision blurred as panic set in. It felt like icy needles keep pricking at my skin every minute, and I could hardly breathe. My hands started to shake, a coldness seeping into my fingertips, and I clenched them tightly, trying to stop the tremors.

Jack's grip on my hand tightened, grounding me, his touch warm and steady. He leaned down, his voice low and even, the way he spoke when he was trying to pull me back from the edge. "Ignore them, babe. They don't know anything."

I forced myself to nod, to pretend the cruel words didn't sting as deeply as they did. But no matter how hard I tried, they still seeped into my mind, tightening around my throat like a vice. My whole body felt wound so tight I thought I might shatter with the slightest pressure. Jack moved to pull me closer, his attempt to shield me from the storm of gossip, but I instinctively stepped back, needing space to breathe. Even comfort could feel like confinement sometimes. Jack was supposed to be my safe space, right? So why did it feel like his reassurances were slowly boxing me in?

His gaze softened, and I could see the worry etched into his features, but beneath that, there was a flicker of hurt. It was as if he thought I was slipping away from him, that I was retreating into myself, and the guilt that twisted in my chest made it hard to breathe. I wasn't trying to pull away—I was desperate to hold on. But the harder I clung, the more it felt like I was drowning, like the space between us was filled with expectations and misunderstandings I couldn't articulate.

I glanced up at him, my expression a fragile attempt to convey everything I couldn't find the words to say. The longing to be understood pressed heavily in my chest, the silent struggle to not feel so small and breakable in a world that seemed intent on wearing me down. I needed him to see me—to really see me—but the words wouldn't come, and the space between us felt thick with unspoken tension. The weight of it all pressed harder, making the burden feel almost unbearable.

And yet, somehow, I was still standing. Still moving forward, even if it felt like I was taking unsteady steps on uncertain ground. Maybe that counted for something—maybe that was progress, no matter how fragile it seemed. But the nagging feeling of inadequacy held on tight, whispering in the back of my mind, reminding me that no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't shake the sense that I wasn't quite enough.

<>

I stepped into my first class, the whispers following me like a storm cloud. The buzz of gossip didn't die down when I walked in. If anything, it grew louder, each comment feeling like a tiny needle pricking at my skin. Jack wasn't here to steady me, and I'd have to handle this on my own.

One step at a time, I reminded myself, though my legs felt heavy as I made my way to my seat in the back.

"Did you hear what she did?" someone whispered, not bothering to be discreet.

"Yeah, poor Jack," another voice chimed in, dripping with fake sympathy.

I clenched my hands in my lap, my fingers trembling. The anxiety pressed down on my chest, making it hard to breathe. Focus, I thought, opening my notebook and pretending to jot down notes. My vision blurred for a moment, the words on the page swimming as I struggled to ground myself.

Breathe. One wave at a time. I repeated the mantra, trying to calm my racing heart. The cold sensation seeped into my palms, and I rubbed them against my jeans, hoping no one would notice.

"Why would Jack even stay with her?" another voice cut through the fog. "She doesn't even seem his type."

The words stung, but I forced myself to keep my head down, not giving them the satisfaction of a reaction. My hands were still clammy, and I willed my powers to stay under control. The last thing I needed was an accidental burst of water giving everything away.

"Aria, are you okay?" a quiet voice broke through my spiraling thoughts. I glanced up to see Mia, a classmate I barely knew, looking at me with genuine concern.

I mustered a small smile, swallowing the lump in my throat. "Yeah, I'm fine," I lied, my voice wavering.

Mia didn't look convinced, but she nodded and turned back to her notes. Her concern was a tiny thread of comfort, something to hold onto. Even if I didn't believe my own words, I had to act like I did. I had to hold it together.

The teacher started the lesson, and I latched onto the routine, using it to steady myself. The whispers didn't stop, but they faded into the background, and I clung to that small mercy. Without Jack beside me, I felt exposed and vulnerable, but I was still standing.

One wave at a time, I repeated, holding onto the mantra like a lifeline.

The whispers followed us through the hallway, each one digging under my skin like tiny, invisible thorns. I tried to ignore them, to focus on putting one foot in front of the other, but the fluorescent lights felt blinding, and the constant hum of conversation pressed down on me like an unbearable weight. Jack walked beside me, his hand hovering near mine, but I couldn't bring myself to hold it. When he'd offered earlier, I'd pulled away, needing the space to breathe, to feel even a sliver of control. He let out a small sigh, and I couldn't tell if it was frustration at me or the whole situation.

As we passed by clusters of students, I could see the tension in Jack's posture, his jaw clenched, his eyes narrowing at anyone who dared to look our way. But that protective energy only made the storm inside me rage harder. His reassurances felt suffocating, like he was trying to shield me from a world I needed to face on my own terms.

Ahead of us, Eli and Brent were leaning against their lockers. Eli's usual spark was missing, his expression distant, and it hurt to see the light in his eyes dimmed. Brent offered me a tired smile, but it didn't reach his eyes. He looked worn down, humor stretched thin, like he'd been carrying something far too heavy for far too long.

Jack's hand clenched into a fist, then relaxed, a wave of helplessness crashing over him. "I'm worried about them," he admitted quietly, his voice rough. "I feel like I'm losing them, and I don't know how to help."

His raw honesty tugged at something deep inside me, and the guilt twisted harder. I wanted to reassure him, to say something that would make it better, but the weight of my own fears kept me silent. "I'm sorry," I finally managed, my voice barely above a whisper. "I feel like... like I'm just adding to everything you're dealing with. You shouldn't have to worry about me too."

Jack stopped, turning to face me. His expression softened, a mix of concern and something warmer. "Aria," he said gently, tucking a stray piece of hair behind my ear. "You're not a burden. We're in this together. I don't have all the answers, and I'm scared too. But that's okay. What matters is that we keep choosing to be here, even when it's hard."

I tried to let his words sink in, but the doubts still gnawed at me. His thumb traced small circles on the back of my hand, a familiar comfort, but it felt like a temporary shield against a storm that refused to let up. His reassurances were kind, but they didn't touch the depths of my struggle, didn't soothe the ache for something deeper.

"I'm here for you too," I whispered, the words feeling fragile and raw. "Even if I'm falling apart." The vulnerability in my voice was an unspoken plea, a hope that he'd hear the deeper pain I couldn't quite name.

Jack's lips curved into a smile that didn't reach his eyes, and he tried to ease the moment with humor. "Well, at least we're falling apart together," he said with a forced laugh. The attempt at levity only deepened the ache in my chest. He still didn't see it, didn't catch the way I was desperately trying to reach out to him. His words skimmed the surface, missing the parts of me that felt like they were breaking.

I swallowed back my disappointment, giving him a small nod. The storm inside me was still there, swirling and relentless, and I wondered if he'd ever truly understand. How could we be partners in this mess if he couldn't see how deeply I was struggling? My fingers tightened around his, clinging to the hope that one day he would.

<>

The cafeteria buzzed with lunchtime chatter, the usual noise and energy of students catching up over trays of questionable school food. Jack and I were sitting at our usual spot, his arm casually draped across the back of my chair as we quietly planned the weekend. For a moment, everything felt almost normal.

Then I sensed her. Brooke's voice rang out, cutting through the noise like a blade. "Wow, Aria," she called, dripping with mockery. My heart sank as I turned to see her, standing a few tables away, eyes glinting with satisfaction as she commanded the room's attention. "It's honestly shocking how you've managed to keep Jack interested. I mean, who knew a girl who used to hide behind those ugly glasses could suddenly transform into... this?" Her gaze swept over me like a physical slap. "You're definitely playing a role. How long until you drop the act?"

The laughter and chatter around us died down. The air felt thick and heavy, and every eye in the cafeteria turned toward me. Heat flushed my face, and I gripped the edge of the table, willing myself not to crumble. My stomach twisted painfully, and my vision blurred.

Jack was on his feet in an instant. "Enough, Brooke," he said, his voice hard and unwavering. "You don't know a damn thing about Aria. If tearing her down is what makes you feel good, maybe it's time to look in the mirror." His jaw was tight, and his fists clenched, but he kept his composure.

Brooke's smirk faltered for a split second, but she recovered, rolling her eyes. "Oh, come on, Jack. Are you seriously defending her? Everyone knows you used to go for girls more... in your league. You think this will last?"

Jack stepped forward, his presence radiating protective anger. "You think you know me?" he shot back. "Aria is more than any of this, more than your pathetic gossip. So yeah, I'm defending her. If you can't handle that, that's your problem."

For a moment, the entire cafeteria held its breath. Brooke's cheeks flushed with embarrassment, but she quickly masked it with a forced look of defiance before storming off. As soon as she disappeared, the whispers flooded back, cutting through the air and sinking into my skin.

"Have you noticed? Jack's been defending her all day."

"Yeah, even against Kaden this morning."

"Where's confident Aria now? She just lets Jack do everything for her."

"She stood up to Brooke once, so why is she letting him fight all her battles now? That's not exactly what I'd call girlfriend material."

"She's so fake. Can't even stand up for herself. Pathetic."

"I'm unfollowing her on Instagram."

"Brooke was right. Aria's nothing but a fraud."

The words hit me hard, like a punch straight to the gut, and I struggled to keep my breathing steady. The cafeteria came back into focus, but every gaze and every whisper pressed down on me, suffocating. They were right. Jack had been defending me all day, and I hadn't spoken up once to defend myself.

The realization twisted in my chest, cold and unforgiving. Jack's reassurances, his protectiveness—all of it felt like flimsy band-aids over deeper wounds he didn't understand. He couldn't see how desperately I needed to find my own strength, to prove that I wasn't just the silent girl leaning on her boyfriend.

Jack's hand found mine again, his grip firm but his expression softening. "You okay?" he asked gently, his voice filled with concern. He searched my face, but I could feel the frustration building like a storm.

I couldn't take it anymore. The knot of hurt and confusion inside me unraveled, and I stood up, my legs unsteady but determined. The whispers grew louder, and I felt every eye in the cafeteria on me as I walked out, my heart pounding and vision blurring.

Jack called after me, his voice tinged with confusion and worry, but he didn't follow. He didn't understand—couldn't see the chaos his well-meaning protection had caused. This was too much. I needed space, needed air, needed to breathe without feeling like a burden or a shadow.

The whispers from the cafeteria still echoed in my ears as I stormed out, my heart pounding with every step. Jack caught up with me quickly, and when he gently grabbed my arm to stop me, I spun around, my emotions finally boiling over.

"Aria, what's going on?" Jack's voice was tight with concern, his brow furrowed. "You just walked out without saying anything. Talk to me."

I felt my chest tighten, the words I'd been holding back finally bursting free. "Talk to you?" I repeated, my voice cracking with the weight of everything I'd been holding in. "Jack, all day you've been defending me, stepping in like I can't handle anything myself. Do you really think that helps?"

He blinked, taken aback, and a flicker of confusion crossed his face. "I was trying to protect you," he said, his voice a mixture of frustration and hurt. "You shouldn't have to deal with all this on your own."

"But that's the thing, Jack!" I snapped, my emotions spilling over. "You keep protecting me, but you don't really see me. You don't understand how much this is tearing me apart inside. It's like you think saying 'we'll get through it' is enough. But it's not." My voice dropped to a whisper. "It's not enough when I feel like I'm barely holding myself together."

He ran a hand through his hair, exhaling sharply. "Aria, please, tell me how I can help," he said, his voice tight with frustration, though his eyes were still filled with worry. "I'm giving it everything I have, but it feels like I'm coming up short. I hate seeing you like this, knowing I can't just make the pain go away. I'm here, and I want to do better, but I don't know if what I'm doing is enough. What do you need from me?"

The vulnerability in his voice tugged at something deep inside me, but the sense of being misunderstood still lingered. "I don't need you to fix everything," I replied, my voice softer but carrying the raw edge of my emotions. "I need you to really listen, to understand that just being here isn't enough if you're not present with me emotionally. I need you to see how hard I'm fighting to keep it together, even when I feel like I'm falling apart."

Jack's jaw clenched, and for a moment, we stood in the charged silence, both of us breathing hard. The tension between us felt almost suffocating, but then his gaze softened, and his shoulders slumped, the weight of his emotions breaking through.

"I'm scared too," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. "Afraid that no matter how hard I try, it won't be enough to make things right for you. But I want to be here, Aria. Even if I don't always have the right words or the perfect answers."

Something inside me twisted at the raw honesty in his voice. The anger and hurt hadn't disappeared, but beneath it all was a love that felt real and imperfect. We were both fighting battles we didn't fully understand, both trying in our own flawed ways.

I let out a shaky breath, feeling the tension slowly drain from my body. "I'm scared too," I admitted, my voice quieter but carrying the weight of everything I was feeling. "I need you to recognize how hard I'm fighting, Jack. To see that even when I'm barely holding it together, I'm still trying. I just need you to understand me, to see the effort behind the struggle."

He stepped closer, his hesitation barely noticeable before he wrapped his arms around me. His embrace was warm and steady, and though it didn't erase the pain, it helped me feel a little more grounded.

"Okay, babe. I'm sorry." he murmured, his voice carrying a blend of hope and uncertainty. "One wave at a time."

I clung to him, feeling the storm inside me calm, even if only slightly. We were messy and imperfect, both stumbling through our struggles, but we hadn't given up on each other. We were learning together, navigating the unknown, and somehow that felt like progress. Even though nothing about this was perfect, the hope that we could keep growing and building something meaningful gave us the strength to move forward.

Brooke's POV

I stormed out the back of the school, my cheeks flaming with a mix of humiliation and boiling rage. Jack's words kept echoing in my head, slicing through any shred of dignity I had left. Defending Aria—that backstabbing little nobody—in front of everyone, like she was some goddamn saint. The cafeteria had turned into a circus, all eyes on me as if I were the villain. It made me want to scream, punch a wall, break something.

"Fucking Aria," I spat, kicking a stray rock across the pavement with enough force to send it clattering against the brick wall. "And Jack! How fucking blind can he be?" My nails dug into my palms, leaving angry red crescents. "How does he not see through her act? It's pathetic."

"Rough day?"

That voice again. The smooth, almost taunting drawl cut through my anger, making me whirl around. There she was—the same girl from before, standing there with that lazy, infuriating smirk. It was like she enjoyed watching me lose it, like my anger was some kind of twisted entertainment for her.

"Are you fucking following me?" I snapped, crossing my arms like a shield. I was in no mood for her bullshit.

She raised an eyebrow, completely unbothered. "Relax," she said, her voice calm, almost bored. "You looked like you were about to throw someone off a cliff, so I thought I'd check in." Her eyes flicked toward the school, where Jack and Aria had probably resumed their little love-fest. "Rough seeing your ex play knight in shining armor, huh?"

My jaw clenched, my teeth grinding together. "It's bullshit. He used to be mine. And now he's bending over backward for her, defending her like she's some innocent angel. She's nothing—just a pathetic, fake little slut who doesn't deserve to breathe the same air as him."

The girl's eyes glinted, and she took a step closer. "Sounds like you need a better plan," she said, her voice low and deliberate.

I glared at her, my curiosity piqued despite my fury. "What the hell are you talking about?"

She leaned in, her smile widening in a way that sent a shiver down my spine. "You really want to take her down? Make her regret the day she ever crossed you?" Her tone was almost seductive, like she was offering me a taste of something dark and dangerous. "You need to get creative. Find out what she's hiding. Everyone has secrets."

Her words slithered into my brain, igniting a spark of something far more dangerous than anger: calculation. A secret. Something to expose, to rip that fake halo off Aria's head and show everyone who she really was.

"And how the fuck am I supposed to find that?" I demanded, though a thrill of anticipation began to mix with my rage.

The girl's smile turned predatory. "That's for you to figure out," she said, like she was daring me. "Keep your eyes open. Watch, listen, and when you find your moment... strike." She tilted her head, her eyes practically dancing with delight. "Make her wish she'd never crossed paths with you."

My lips twisted into a grin, dark and full of promise. "You know what?" I said, my voice dripping with venom. "I think I will. Aria doesn't know what's coming."

The girl's laughter was soft, almost mocking. "That's the spirit," she said, stepping back with a careless shrug. "Just remember, the best moves are the ones they never see coming."

She sauntered away, leaving me standing there with a wicked plan forming in my mind. I had been humiliated, but now I had a weapon. Aria was going to pay for every single thing she'd taken from me, and with this girl's advice, I was ready to make her life a living hell.

<>

Aria's POV 

The parking lot was quieter than usual, shrouded in the kind of stillness that settles only after a long, draining day. Jack and I sat in his car, the air between us heavy with everything left unsaid. The events of the day—rumors, Brooke's attack, our argument—hung over us like a storm cloud, unresolved and raw.

Jack ran a hand through his shaggy brown hair, his fingers catching halfway as he exhaled, the silence between us heavy and charged. Despite our earlier attempts at communication, an unspoken tension lingered in the air, a quiet reminder that we still had more obstacles to face. His eyes flicked toward me, hesitant, his concern etched into the lines of his face as he finally broke the silence.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice gentle but uncertain, like he was afraid of the answer.

I released a shaky breath, my hands twisting together in my lap. "Define okay, Jack," I murmured, my voice wavering. "I feel like everything's slipping out of my control. Like I'm so exposed, so vulnerable. And no matter how hard I try, I can't hold it together." Tears burned at the corners of my eyes as I looked down. "And... I'm scared. Scared that all of this is becoming too much, not just for me, but for you too. Today hurt, especially when you didn't understand where I was coming from. Your reassurances... sometimes they make it worse."

His brow furrowed, discomfort flickering across his face. Vulnerability had never been easy for him, and seeing him wrestle with it made my heart ache. "Aria," he began, his voice cracking. "You're not a burden. But... I feel helpless. I want to do more, to fix things for you, even when I don't know what 'more' should be."

I swallowed hard, my frustration bubbling to the surface. "That's the thing, Jack," I said, my voice breaking. "You always try to fix everything, to protect me from every hit. But when you do that, it makes me feel... invisible. Like you don't think I can be strong on my own. It's suffocating, feeling like you're carrying everything without letting me in."

His jaw tightened, and his gaze dropped to the steering wheel, his hands clenching around it. "I never realized," he admitted, voice low. "It's just... it's what I know. Growing up, I held things together for my family when life got tough. It's how I learned to care for people."

His honesty softened something inside me, though the ache remained. "I know you're trying," I whispered, wiping away the tears that slipped down my cheeks. "But when you treat me like something that needs fixing, it feels like you don't trust my strength. I'm fighting so hard to keep it together, even when I feel like I'm breaking."

Jack lifted his eyes, and I saw the rawness in his expression. He reached for my hand, threading our fingers together. "I thought I was helping," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "But maybe I've been so focused on protecting you that I haven't let you be part of the fight. I'm sorry."

Jack's words lightened some of the weight between us, but the path ahead still felt uncertain. I drew in a steadying breath, my voice soft but resolute. "We need to be strong together," I said. "I don't want to stand on the sidelines while you carry everything alone. I want to face the hard stuff with you. You always said relationships are messy, and if that's true, then we have to consider each other's emotional needs. I overthink, I have fears, and I'm not always put together, but I need more than reassurances. I need you to really understand me, not just say, 'We'll figure it out' or 'We got this.'"

My voice wavered, but I pushed on. "You've told me that being emotionally available isn't your strong suit, and in the past, you blamed football or other priorities. But now that we're in this relationship, I need you to see me as your partner. Sometimes, I need more than words—I need to feel heard."

Jack's eyes softened, a flicker of understanding finally lighting them. "I can try to be better," he said, his voice raw but sincere. "I know I'll mess up, but I'll work on truly hearing you. I'll learn to let you be strong, even if it scares me."

A tearful smile formed on my lips, my heart aching but feeling a little more secure. "That's all I need," I whispered. "We don't have to be perfect. We can be a mess, but we need to face it together. Not with you trying to carry everything or me pretending it's all fine."

He squeezed my hand, his grip steady and reassuring. This time, it didn't feel like he was trying to hold me together; it felt like he was beside me, ready to face whatever came next, side by side.

The exhaustion of the day still clung to us, persistent and heavy, but something between us had shifted. We were starting to grasp what it truly meant to be partners—imperfect, real, and willing to learn together. We were messy, human, and flawed, but committed to facing every challenge together.

Brooke's POV

I gripped the steering wheel so tightly my knuckles turned white, the afternoon sun casting long shadows across the empty parking lot. The echoes of laughter and whispered gossip from earlier still rang in my ears, each one a dagger twisting deeper. My jaw clenched, the sting of humiliation burning in my chest. Aria had taken everything from me—my reputation, my place at Jack's side, and now, even my confidence.

I slammed my hands against the steering wheel with enough force to send a jolt up my arms. "That bitch," I spat, my voice a growl of barely-contained fury. The day's events replayed in my mind like a broken record: Jack's fierce defense of Aria, her innocent act that fooled everyone, and the judgmental stares that made it seem like I was the one who had crossed every line. Like I was the one who didn't belong.

They were wrong. So, so wrong.

A twisted smile pulled at my lips as a plan began to take shape. "Aria won't know what hit her," I whispered, the venom in my voice curling around the words. "I'm taking back what's mine." This wasn't over—not by a long shot. I refused to let her win, to let her walk around like she was untouchable.

A flicker of movement caught my eye, and I turned my head just in time to see a shadow disappear around the corner of the building. My heart raced for a moment, but then I shook it off. Probably just a student leaving late or some stray cat.

But little did I know, in the fading light of the afternoon, someone was watching. the mystery girl stood hidden, her eyes gleaming with a knowing, amused glint. She'd done her part, whispered just the right words, set the pieces in motion. Now, she'd watch and wait, her own games unfolding in the shadows, eager to see how far this would all go unsettling sense of something darker brewing, the tension wrapping tighter. The storm was coming—and everyone, especially Aria, better be ready.

<>

A/N: Welp, Brooke still not finished. Come on, Brooke. Get over it! I guess not! Writer says she's not. Uh-oh, she wants to dig deeper. Now, what is the mystery girl true motives? I don't know. Please comment, vote, and feedback is greatly encouraged.