CHAPTER 5
299 Words
Ava smiled politely at everyone who greeted her.
"Welcome to Crescent Moon College," one student said.
"We've heard so much about you."
"Thank you," Ava replied softly, lowering her gaze with a modest smile.
As they walked through the corridors, more students greeted Ariel. Because Ariel was the daughter of a respected Alpha and Luna, many people naturally treated her with admiration.
To Ariel, the attention meant nothing.
She greeted everyone with the same warmth she showed anyone else.
For Ava, however, it felt different.
Every smile directed at her made her heart race.
Every compliment filled a space inside her that had been empty since childhood.
When a group of girls praised her beauty, she blushed happily.
"You're so kind," she replied.
One of them laughed.
"No, we're just telling the truth."
Ava smiled even wider.
For the rest of the day, she found herself wondering what she could do to make people continue smiling at her.
At lunch, she helped another student carry a stack of books.
Later, she volunteered to clean up after class before anyone asked.
Each "thank you" and every word of praise made her feel warm inside.
Victoria noticed the change during dinner that evening.
"You seem happier today," she said.
Ava smiled brightly.
"I think... people actually like me."
Victoria reached across the table and gently held her hand.
"You don't have to earn love by trying to please everyone, Ava. The people who truly care about you will value you for who you are."
Ava nodded with a smile.
"I understand."
But deep inside, another thought quietly settled into her heart.
If people stop admiring me... will they stop loving me too?
It was a small fear.
One that would slowly grow over the years until it became impossible to ignore.
- Writer
