My days at Laurel High: Iris

"I stared at my phone, my heart racing as two mysterious texts appeared on my screen. 'Come to the school cafeteria,' one read.

'If you don't want everyone to know the real reason you transferred schools, come quickly,' the other threatened.

I'm Omoluabi Tobilola Iris, a sixteen-year-old Nigerian high schooler with a secret that could destroy my reputation. But who is behind these menacing messages, and what do they want from me?

Well let me tell you how it got to this point...

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On Saturday, I had suddenly decided to end my life. I know you must wondering why... As you read further you will get to know the reason.

I heard my mum screaming from outside my door, "Iris! Please open the door!", I knew I had to make a choice. Today, I had decided to end it all, to escape the pain and the secrets that haunted me. Tears streamed down my face as I clutched the bottle of poison, my hands trembling with fear and uncertainty. I gulped down the contents in one swift move, feeling my body weaken and the white fumes dripping from my lips. I fell to my death, or so I thought...

As I lay there, I heard the door being forced open, and my mum's screams filled the air. "Iris! Iris! Please wake up" she cried, her voice piercing my consciousness. I tried to open my eyes, but they felt heavy. Goodbye, Mum. Goodbye, Dad. Goodbye, Sofia. I'll miss you all...

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As I slowly opened my eyes, I was met with the harsh glare of the hospital lights. Disoriented and groggy, I wondered if I had finally reached the end. But the beeping machines and antiseptic smell told me I was still very much alive.

"Doctor, the patient is awake!" a nurse exclaimed, her voice piercing through the fog in my head.

A doctor and nurse rushed to my side, checking my vitals and asking me questions I could barely answer. My mind was a jumble of thoughts, but one thing was clear - I had failed.

My family soon arrived, their faces etched with worry and relief. My mum's eyes were red-rimmed, and my sister's tears flowed freely. Even my dad's scowl couldn't hide his concern.

"Iris, we were so scared," my mum whispered, her voice trembling. "Please don't ever do that again. We can't lose you."

I felt a pang of guilt and regret, knowing I had put them through hell. My dad spoke up, his voice gruff but gentle. "We've decided you'll come live with me in Lagos, Iris. A fresh start."

I nodded weakly, unsure what the future held but knowing I had to try.