The morning bell rang through the corridors of Crestwood High, echoing like a summons to destiny.
Students flooded the halls, laughter and chatter weaving through lockers and classrooms.
Aria Dawson, a quiet girl with a heart full of dreams and a sketchpad full of secret wishes, tucked a strand of chestnut hair behind her ear and walked toward her chemistry class.
She didn't know her life was about to change.
Across the hallway, Liam Carter—tall, confident, and with a mischievous spark in his eyes—leaned casually against his locker, pretending to look at his phone.
But in truth, he had noticed Aria. He always had.
He was the kind of guy people noticed. Star athlete, top of his class, born leader.
She was the kind people overlooked.
But not him. Not today.
Their eyes met.
It lasted a second. Maybe less. But something shifted.
She looked away first, cheeks flushing.
He smiled—the kind of smile that hinted at secrets and challenges.
He didn't believe in fate. But he knew that moment meant something.