Secrets and Surprises

Colin walked alongside a group of students from Ridgewood Preparatory Academy, her steps steady and confident.

She held herself with a calm dignity, her posture straight, and her expression composed.

She wasn't the same as before, it was clear she wasn't someone who could be easily pushed around.

There was strength in her quiet demeanor, but it wasn't something harsh.

She was polite and poised, the kind of person who naturally commanded respect without needing to demand it.

"Hey, Sunshine!" Liam called, the boy with the soccer ball.

He jogged to her side, whistling in an exaggerated, playful way with a wide grin.

"We're all thinking of going bowling later. What do you say? You in?"

Behind him, his friends chuckled, nudging each other. The girls in the group exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of curiosity and mild annoyance.