Entwined souls

“Silence!” the teacher shouted as she walked into the classroom. Everyone scampered to sit down. Jade grinned as her hulky best friend, Kim, adjusted her rumpled uniform—she had been flexing her muscles just moments ago. A few students joined Jade in laughing at Kim’s dilemma. The teacher cleared her throat sternly, and the class immediately fell silent. “Good afternoon, everyone. I assume you are all ready for my class. Before we begin, we have a new transfer student joining us today. I’d like you all to give him a warm welcome. Come in, dear,” Miss Jane said. A tall guy with disheveled dark-brown hair walked in, a backpack slung over one shoulder, his hands stuffed casually into his pockets. The room went still. Everyone was mesmerized. He looked like a Greek god. His piercing golden eyes resembled those of a beast that could devour you whole. His face was exquisitely sculpted—high cheekbones accentuating a sharp jawline—and his luscious lips were so alluring that several girls in the class began to swoon. Jade was just as enthralled as the rest but quickly pulled herself together. She studied the newcomer more closely. Despite his exceptionally handsome features, he dressed like a nerd. He wore oversized glasses, a loose checkered shirt, and faded jeans. Something isn’t right, Jade thought. She looked up—and froze. The guy was staring directly at her. Their gazes locked, and she sucked in a sharp breath. After what felt like an eternity, he finally looked away, and she exhaled in relief. “My name is Zane, and it’s a pleasure to meet you all,” he said. The girls erupted—screaming, screeching, and swooning over his husky voice. Jade rolled her eyes in irritation. “Could you girls shut up?” Kim growled. “Zane, take the seat next to Jade,” Miss Jane said. “She’s the class representative. She’ll guide you through the school’s rules and policies.” At the sound of her name, Jade snapped back to attention. She had been so lost in thought, trying to figure out what felt off about Zane, that she almost missed it. Zane strolled toward her with an almost regal air and took the seat beside her. Jade felt her heart skip a beat. She inhaled deeply, steadying herself, then smiled brightly. “Nice to meet you, Zane. If you need help with anything, just let me know,” she said sweetly. Zane turned to look at her. A few locks of hair fell seductively across his forehead. Jade caught her breath again. His eyes pierced straight into her soul—unreadable, intense. After a moment, he gave a slight nod. Jade simmered with fury but kept her pleasant smile intact. Who does he think he is? she thought angrily. As the lesson continued, Miss Jane asked a question. The class remained silent. After a pause with no volunteers, Jade raised her hand—she was, after all, the smartest student in class. “Yes, Zane,” Miss Jane said. Jade froze. She turned sharply to see Zane’s hand raised as well. Without standing or even glancing in her direction, Zane delivered the correct answer flawlessly. The classroom exploded into chaos. The girls screamed in awe over the new, hot, smart guy, while the boys struggled to restrain Jack—the school’s basketball captain—who was boiling with rage, his face red and twisted. Jade’s emotions churned violently: anger, frustration, jealousy… pain. Miss Jane asked another question. Zane answered again. And again. This continued until the bell rang, signaling lunch break. The students poured out of the classroom, buzzing with excitement. Jade remained seated. “Jade, let’s go,” Kim said, lightly tapping her shoulder. “I’m coming,” Jade replied softly, trying to calm herself. “Don’t let it get to you. The new dude can’t take your place—you’re the campus belle. Besides, he’s clearly obsessed with you,” Kim added. “Me? Hell no. You must be mistaken,” Jade scoffed. “He is. The whole class saw it. He didn’t stop looking at you the entire time. You probably didn’t notice because you never looked up,” Kim said. “Gross! I’d rather have that annoying empty-headed Jack obsessed with me than him. He’s not my type. There’s something seriously off about him,” Jade said as she stood up. As they left the classroom, Zane emerged from where he had been hiding and frowned slightly.