THE SECRET OF BLACKWOOD ACADEMY

The moment Andrea stepped out of the car, she knew Blackwood Academy was unlike any school she had ever seen. Towering iron gates surrounded the enormous stone buildings, while ancient trees stretched their branches across the courtyard. Students in elegant uniforms walked in groups, laughing and chatting beneath the morning sunlight. A few turned to stare at the expensive car parked near the entrance. Andrea adjusted her bag on her shoulder. “Dad really couldn’t choose an ordinary school, could he?” she muttered. Her mother stepped out of the car beside her and laughed softly. “You know your father. Once he makes up his mind, there’s no changing it.” Andrea rolled her eyes playfully. “Unfortunately.” Her mother turned toward her, took both her hands, and rubbed them gently. A bright, proud smile spread across her face. “My little girl is all grown up,” she said, her eyes shining with emotion. Andrea immediately frowned. “Mom, don't cry. Please, don't start crying.” Her mother laughed softly. “Oh, I wouldn't dare. I'm not crying, sweetheart. I'm just happy. It feels like only yesterday you were too small to carry your schoolbag, and now you're starting at Blackwood Academy.” Andrea smiled, trying to hide how emotional she was becoming. “Well, it happens,” she replied. She walked to the trunk and pulled out her suitcase. After wheeling it beside her mother, she noticed the older woman's proud smile hadn't faded. Her mother reached into her handbag and brought out a tiny velvet box. Andrea tilted her head curiously. “What's that?” “Something I've been saving for this day,” her mother answered with a smile. She opened the box, revealing a delicate silver necklace with a dark pendant engraved with unusual markings. Andrea's eyes widened. “Mom, it's beautiful!” “I'm glad you like it.” Her mother lifted the necklace carefully. “My mother gave this to me on my first day at college. She told me it had been passed down through our family for generations. Now, it's your turn to have it.” Andrea watched as her mother fastened the necklace around her neck. The pendant settled against her skin, and for a fleeting moment, she felt a strange warmth spread across her chest. She touched it, admiring its intricate design. “I'll treasure it,” Andrea promised. Her mother's smile softened before her expression grew unusually serious. “There's one thing I need you to remember, Andrea.” Andrea looked up. “What is it?” “Do not take this necklace off.” Andrea blinked at the firmness in her mother's voice. “Ever?” “Ever,” her mother confirmed, holding her gaze. Andrea let out a nervous little laugh. “Why are you saying that with so much seriousness? It's just a necklace.” “Because it is that serious,” her mother replied. For a moment, neither of them spoke. Then her mother offered a small smile and gently squeezed Andrea's hand. “I'm not overreacting, sweetheart. Please don't take it off, okay?” Andrea studied her mother's face, trying to understand her sudden concern. “I'll try,” Andrea answered. Her mother raised an eyebrow and gave her a pointed look. Andrea immediately surrendered. “Okay, okay! I won't take it off. Happy now?” Her mother laughed, finally relaxing. “Very.” She pulled Andrea into a tight embrace. Andrea closed her eyes, breathing in the familiar scent of her mother's perfume. “Mom, it's okay,” Andrea murmured after a few seconds. “I have to go.” “I know.” Her mother reluctantly pulled away. “I'm going to miss you.” “I'll miss you too. I love you.” “I love you more, sweetheart.” Andrea laughed. “That's not possible.” “Believe whatever you want.” They hugged one last time before Andrea stepped back. Her mother returned to the car, lowered the window, and waved. “Call me when you get to your room!” she called. “I will!” “And remember what I told you!” Andrea touched the necklace and smiled. “I won't forget!” Her mother smiled proudly before the car pulled away. Andrea watched until it disappeared beyond the iron gates. Only then did the reality of being alone at Blackwood Academy finally sink in. She reached for her suitcase. “Need some help?” Andrea turned. Two handsome boys stood before her, both dressed in neatly pressed uniforms bearing the Blackwood Academy crest. “Oh, yes. Thank you,” Andrea replied. “I'll take your suitcase,” one offered, reaching for the handle. “The student porters help new arrivals with their luggage.” “And I'll show you where to register,” the other added. Andrea smiled gratefully. “Thank you. I'm Andrea, by the way.” “Nice to meet you, Andrea. Welcome to Blackwood,” the first boy replied. The admissions hall was just as impressive as the exterior. Dark wooden walls, polished floors, and enormous chandeliers gave the place an old-fashioned elegance. After registering, Andrea received her student ID, class timetable, uniform, room key, and a folder containing her school documents. The admissions officer smiled at her. “Your room is in the girls' residence. Your timetable and other documents are in your folder. If you need anything, report to the administration office.” “Thank you, ma'am,” Andrea replied politely. One of the boys helped carry her belongings to the residence, while the other pointed out the main staircase and the corridor leading to the classrooms. Once everything had been delivered, Andrea thanked them and returned to the main building. She was studying the directions on her timetable when she turned a corner and collided with someone. Her folder slipped from her hands, sending several papers fluttering across the floor. “Oh my goodness! I'm so sorry,” Andrea exclaimed, immediately crouching to pick them up. “It's all right,” a calm male voice replied. The young man crouched beside her, gathering the scattered papers. Their fingers brushed as they reached for the same sheet. Andrea looked up. And suddenly forgot what she was about to say. He was strikingly handsome, with dark hair, captivating eyes, and a smile that seemed effortlessly charming. His immaculate uniform and quiet confidence made him stand out without even trying. He handed her the papers, then glanced at the folder in her hands. Her name was printed clearly on the front. “Here you go, Miss Andrea,” he said with a slight smile. Andrea looked at him, surprised. “You know my name?” He lifted the folder slightly. “It was written right here.” “Oh.” She laughed at herself. “Right. Of course.” His smile widened. “I'm Stefan,” he introduced himself. “Are you new here, Miss Andrea?” “Is it that obvious?” Andrea asked, raising an eyebrow. “I'd remember seeing you around,” Stefan replied. She felt her cheeks warm slightly and hoped he hadn't noticed. “Have you had a tour yet?” he asked. “No. I'm still trying to figure out how a school can be this big.” Stefan chuckled. “Then you're in luck. I can show you around.” Andrea smiled. “I'd appreciate that.” “Come on, then.” As they started down the corridor, Stefan's gaze briefly fell to the necklace resting against Andrea's chest. His smile vanished. For one fleeting moment, he stared at the pendant, his expression tightening with recognition—and something dangerously close to fear. He quickly looked away, forcing himself to appear calm. “Everything all right?” Andrea asked, noticing his sudden silence. Stefan met her eyes and smiled. “Everything's fine.” But as he continued walking beside her, one thought haunted him. How had that necklace found its way back to Blackwood Academy? And why was it around her neck?