The Rebirth Of Liora

Just take a look at you, b***h, Diana hissed under her breath as she and Liora passed each other on the winding trail through the Adirondack Mountains. Liora was just ten years old, while Diana was eleven but the tension between them had already taken root a rivalry born the moment Diana was told Liora wasnt a werewolf like the rest of them. She was human. A stranger, yet she walked among them. Liora's heart sank. She had hoped Diana could be a friend. But hearing those words so sharp, so full of disdain hit harder than she expected. Her chest tightened. She began to pant, unsure whether it was fear or sadness swelling in her lungs. In that moment, she didnt know what to do, where to look, or how to make it stop. Though just a child, Liora had never dared talk back to anyone, especially not to someone older like Diana. But why would Diana call her a b***h? Heart pounding, Liora hurried down the path toward the grocery shop, determined to ask her father about what shed heard. Good day, Dad,she greeted, trying to smile. Hows sales today? Mr. Alex looked up, and the moment he saw the tears in his daughters eyes, his heart sank. He knew something had changed, and it might be time to finally tell her the truth. You dont seem happy, my little damsel,Mr. Alex said gently. Whats wrong today? Did your mom scold you before you came here? No, Dad,Liora replied, wiping her cheek. Something happened... and I just want to figure it out. Mr. Alex leaned in, concerned. What is it? Can you tell me briefly or in detail? Liora hesitated. Someone someone I thought was better than me called me a b***h. Mr. Alex sighed, his heart tightening. Oh, dearie… maybe she said it jokingly,he offered, not wanting to stir things further. You can wipe those tears now, Liora. I dont think its worth crying over. Meanwhile, Diana lingered near the path, still waiting for Liora to walk by again. She muttered under her breath, I really hate her. I dont know why they let humans live among us werewolves. Even if Liora didnt know her place now, Diana swore shed remind her later. Ill deal with her, she thought darkly. One way or another. With a sharp hiss, she turned and walked away, already planning her next move. Back at the grocery shop, Mr. Alex was distracted. He could see that Liora was still uneasy, her eyes distant. He sighed and began thinking about closing early. She needed comfort, not canned goods and customers. I think we should go home,Mr. Alex said, watching Liora closely. Yes, Dad,she nodded quietly. I need to tell Mom about this... and I want you to explain what b***h really means. Alright,Mr. Alex replied, closing up the shop. Together, they walked home in silence, the weight of the moment pressing between them. When they arrived, they sat down on the old wooden sofa in the small sitting room. So early?Mrs. Alex asked, surprised. Why are you both back already? Mr. Alex gave a tired sigh. You might want to ask your daughter. But youre not a b***h, Liora. Not even close,Mrs. Alex said gently, brushing a strand of hair from her daughters face. Dont worry kids say hurtful things sometimes. Its just childish nonsense. Keep your head up, okay? She smiled warmly. Now come eat. I was just about to call you both for dinner when I saw you walking in. They moved to the dining table, where the warm aroma of home-cooked food filled the room. The family sat together, eating a quiet but comforting meal. Later that night, Liora lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. Sleep wouldnt come. Her thoughts spun. Why would Diana call me that? she wondered. Even Amira... she avoids me now. Is it because Im not a werewolf? Or just because Im not friendly enough with Diana? She turned over, clutching her pillow tighter, questions hanging heavy in the silence of the room. Liora couldnt sleep. Restless, she left her room and sat in the living room, trying to calm her thoughts. Mrs. Alex checked her room, expecting her to be asleep—but found it empty. Surprised, she walked into the sitting room and saw Liora murmuring to herself. Youre still awake? Why arent you in bed, dear? I just wanted to be here for a while,Liora said softly. I dont feel like sleeping. Because of what happened today?her mom asked, sitting beside her. Liora nodded. Yes, Mom. It felt awful. Even Amira wouldnt say something like that. Maybe Diana doesnt like me… maybe thats why she called me that word,she whispered. Dont mind her,Mrs. Alex said gently. Shes just a child too. Maybe shes trying clumsily to get to know you. Sometimes kids say silly things to start a friendship. You understand that, right? Liora sighed. Hmmmm… okay, Mom. But I still feel like staying here tonight. I want to read something. At this hour?her mom frowned. You should be resting, especially after such a stressful day. I dont agree with that,she said firmly. Mrs. Alex hurried upstairs and gently tapped Mr. Alex, who was already fast asleep. She knew he was the only one Liora would listen to. Whats going on? Why are you disturbing my sleep? And why arent you in bed at this hour? Is something wrong?Mr. Alex asked groggily. Liora refuses to sleep,Mrs. Alex explained. Shes in the sitting room and says she wants to stay there alone. I tried to get her to bed, but she wont listen. Mr. Alex sighed, rubbing his eyes. Goodness, whats wrong with this child? Alright, Ill talk to her myself. Mr. Alex and Mrs. Alex found Liora sitting in the living room. He bent down gently and asked, Oh, beautiful, why arent you in bed at this hour? No, Dad. I just wanted to stay here tonight,Liora replied softly. Its cold here,Mr. Alex said, starting to sing his favorite song. Liora cracked a fake smile. Stop, Dad, dont make me laugh you always make me laugh,she said. Well then,he smiled, will you climb into bed now? Liora chuckled and raised her hands. Okay, Dad, you win. After Mr. Alex pacified her, she headed to bed. Mrs. Alex tucked her in with a warm duvet before joining her husband.