ã€ŠEVAã€‹


 The Curse Of Burial.

    Zayn froze at the sound.

    At first, it was faint¡ªjust a rustle, a whisper of movement in the night air. Nothing unusual. But as he took a cautious step forward, it shifted. A sharp, chilling scream tore through the silence, cutting through his chest like a blade. His breath caught. His entire body went rigid, instincts screaming louder than the noise itself.

    Something was wrong.

    For a moment, his feet refused to move, his mind wrestling with the instinct to run or investigate. But self-preservation won out. He turned sharply on his heel, walking away¡ªfast. His heartbeat pounded in his ears, drowning out the lingering echo of the scream as he rushed back home.

    By the time he reached his front door, his chest was heaving, his breaths shallow and rapid. The moment he stepped inside, his mother¡¯s sharp eyes landed on him, sensing something was off.

    ¡°Zayn, what happened?¡± she asked, her voice laced with concern.

    He hesitated, still catching his breath. The words sat heavy on his tongue. What could he even say? That he had almost stumbled into a murder? That he had heard something he shouldn¡¯t have? His instincts told him to stay quiet.

    ¡°Nothing¡­ just ran into a scene,¡± he muttered, avoiding her gaze.

    His mother¡¯s worry twisted into frustration. ¡°I¡¯ve told you a hundred times not to stay out so late! But do you ever listen to me?¡±

    Zayn ignored the scolding, brushing past her and heading straight for the kitchen. He grabbed a glass, filled it with water, and downed it in one go, trying to steady himself. But the uneasy feeling in his chest refused to settle.

    The commotion had stirred Lateen, his cousin, from her room. She leaned against the doorway, raising a brow. ¡°What¡¯s with all the noise?¡±

    Zayn set the empty glass down with a quiet thud. Instead of answering, he brushed past her and walked straight into her room.

    Lateen followed, unimpressed. ¡°Seriously?¡±

    Zayn sat heavily on her bed, rubbing his temples. ¡°I was about to witness a murder.¡± His voice came out flat, but the weight behind his words was real.

    Lateen sighed, leaning against the wall with crossed arms. ¡°You¡¯ll never learn, will you?¡±

    ¡°But I¡¯m safe,¡± he said, lying back on her bed as if the night¡¯s events hadn¡¯t just shaken him to his core.

    ¡°Yeah, well, not for long if you keep walking into trouble.¡±

    Zayn smirked. ¡°Your mattress is softer.¡±

    Lateen rolled her eyes. ¡°That¡¯s because you and your dumb friends have been jumping on yours like kids.¡±

    When he made no effort to move, she huffed in annoyance. ¡°Fine. But don¡¯t get comfortable.¡± Without warning, she shoved him off the bed.

    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

    Zayn hit the floor with a grunt. ¡°You¡¯re the worst.¡±

    ¡°Still better than you,¡± she retorted, curling up under the blankets.

    With no other choice, he pushed himself up and trudged to his room. But sleep didn¡¯t come easily. He lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, his mind replaying the scream over and over.

    What if I had kept going? Would I have seen who it was? Could I have stopped it? Or¡­ would I have been the next one to scream?

    The thoughts twisted in his head until exhaustion finally took over, dragging him into a restless sleep.

    <hr>

    The next morning, Zayn sat in class, his chin resting in his palm as he absentmindedly watched the juniors playing outside. His mind was elsewhere¡ªstill stuck on the events of the night before. He didn¡¯t even register the teacher¡¯s voice until it was too late.

    ¡°You! Get up!¡±

    The sharp command barely reached him.

    ¡°Zayn, the teacher is calling you,¡± a classmate whispered, nudging him from behind.

    Zayn turned his gaze toward the front of the class, blinking slowly as if seeing the teacher for the first time.

    ¡°Get out of my class!¡± the teacher barked.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m teaching, and you¡¯re staring out the window like this is your personal daydreaming session! Out!¡±

    Zayn sighed. ¡°Sorry.¡±

    ¡°Sorry?¡± The teacher scoffed. ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear it. Just leave! And bring your parents tomorrow!¡±

    Zayn considered arguing but decided against it. There was no winning this. He nodded, grabbed his bag, and stepped out of the classroom, leaning against the wall with his hands in his pockets.

    When the class ended, the teacher shot him a sharp glare on the way out, but Zayn barely reacted. He scratched the back of his neck and exhaled.

    As he lingered near his desk, a folded piece of paper landed in front of him.

    ¡°Come at 8 p.m.,¡± Jack muttered as he walked past.

    Zayn picked up the note and unfolded it. Meet at 8 p.m.

    Katherine, appearing beside him out of nowhere, glanced at the crumpled paper in his hand. ¡°You¡¯re coming over?¡±

    Zayn hesitated. He hadn¡¯t expected her to be involved. But after a moment¡¯s pause, he forced a small, lazy grin. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll be there.¡±

    Later, in the cafeteria, Zayn waited in line for his food. When his turn came, he ordered, ¡°Two sandwiches.¡±

    As he reached for his tray, the cafeteria lady, an older woman with sharp eyes, leaned in slightly. ¡°You kids are planning to perform the Curse of Burial, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    Zayn stiffened. His fingers curled around the tray. ¡°Who told you that?¡±

    The woman smiled knowingly. ¡°Everyone knows.¡±

    Zayn¡¯s stomach twisted. This was supposed to be a secret. How had it spread so fast?

    She placed a hand lightly over his. ¡°Listen, kid. Think before you act.¡±

    Zayn forced a smirk, though unease lingered beneath it. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ll prove it¡¯s just a rumor.¡±

    But even as he said it, doubt crept into his mind.

    At a nearby table, Katherine waved at him, chatting casually with her friends. Zayn narrowed his eyes. So she¡¯s the one who told everyone.

    Rick suddenly plopped down beside him, practically vibrating with excitement. ¡°I¡¯m so pumped for this!¡±

    Zayn raised an eyebrow. ¡°Then why don¡¯t you do the ritual?¡±

    Rick faltered. ¡°What? You guys haven¡¯t picked who¡¯s doing it yet?¡±

    ¡°Not yet,¡± Zayn replied, watching him carefully. ¡°We¡¯ll play a card game. Whoever¡¯s name comes up will do it.¡±

    Rick swallowed nervously. ¡°Y-yeah¡­ I¡¯m in.¡± Then, almost immediately, he stood and scurried off.

    Zayn smirked, shaking his head. Coward.

    Just as he was leaving the cafeteria, Jack stepped in front of him, blocking his path.

    ¡°What did you say to Rick?¡± Jack demanded.

    Zayn tilted his head. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t play dumb. You scared him. Now he¡¯s saying he won¡¯t come.¡±

    ¡°In simple terms, he¡¯s a coward,¡± Zayn said flatly.

    Jack exhaled, frustrated. ¡°Zayn, we¡¯re doing this for you. The more people we have, the easier it¡¯ll be.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t ask for it.¡± Zayn¡¯s voice was sharper this time. With that, he brushed past Jack, walking away.

    Jack remained where he was, watching Zayn¡¯s back disappear down the hall. He muttered under his breath, barely above a whisper¡ª

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ll be able to handle this.¡±

 Midnight Ritual.

    It was midnight. The silver glow of the moon cast eerie shadows over the dense woods, its faint light barely illuminating the clearing where a group of teenagers stood huddled together, waiting.

    Zayn had said he would be there in a moment. But how long had it been now? Ten minutes? Twenty? The air was thick with anticipation, a nervous energy pulsing through the group.

    Cara, restless, lit a torch and began moving in circles, making odd noises.

    "Cara, stop it! What if someone hears us?" Devin hissed, glancing around warily.

    "Don¡¯t worry, no one¡ª" she started but abruptly cut herself off. Her body went rigid, and her face drained of color. Her eyes widened in fear, her mouth slightly agape like she had just seen a ghost.

    "Cara, are you okay?" Katherine asked cautiously.

    "Someone''s there," Cara whispered, her voice trembling. "Behind the woods."

    "Please don¡¯t joke about this. There¡¯s no one except us," Devin said, though his voice wavered slightly.

    "I am NOT joking."

    "What a coward," David scoffed.

    "Who are you calling a coward?!" Cara snapped, spinning toward him.

    "You!"

    "If you¡¯re so brave, why don¡¯t you go and check?" she challenged.

    "Fine!" David yelled back, puffing up his chest, though his steps faltered slightly.

    Their bickering was cut short when Jack¡¯s deep voice sliced through the tension. "What the hell are you two doing?"

    Everyone immediately shut up. Jack had that effect.

    "Cara says someone is watching us from the woods," Katherine explained, handing him the torch and pointing toward the dark treeline.

    Jack narrowed his eyes, then moved the torch¡¯s beam from side to side. He exhaled sharply before turning the torch off and calling out, "Come out, Jim. Zayn."

    Two figures hesitantly stepped out of the shadows.

    "It was Jim¡¯s idea, not mine," Zayn admitted, scratching the back of his head sheepishly.

    Jack sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "You¡¯re not kids. Grow up."

    Cara let out a shaky breath, calming down, while Katherine suddenly burst into unexpected laughter. "Sorry," she said, covering her mouth. "I didn¡¯t mean to."

    "Zayn, were you trying to scare Cara into running away? Like you did with Rick?" David teased.

    Zayn chuckled awkwardly. "Oops. Guess I got caught."

    You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

    Cara narrowed her eyes at him. "You¡¯re the one who¡¯s supposed to attempt the ritual, right?"

    Zayn nodded reluctantly. "Yeah¡­ that¡¯s why Jack got all these people together¡ªto make sure I don¡¯t get snatched by a ghost or something."

    Katherine, still fixated on Jack, chattered excitedly, "It¡¯s a good thing we have a big group!"

    "Alright, enough talking," Jack commanded. "Let¡¯s get to what we came here for."

    "Right. Let¡¯s do it."

    Everyone froze at the sudden, unfamiliar voice.

    Jim, panicked, snatched up the torch and pointed it toward the sound.

    There, leaning casually against a tree, stood a girl. She effortlessly ate an apple with one hand, the other stuffed into the pocket of her jeans. Her long black hair was tied into a ponytail that hung to her shoulder, and the dim blue of her eyes caught the flickering torchlight. She wore a loose T-shirt and had an expression of faint amusement.

    "Damn. Don¡¯t tell me ghosts can be this beautiful," David muttered under his breath.

    "Eva?!" Zayn¡¯s voice carried more surprise than he intended. He quickly scanned her, searching for any hint of why she was here. She looked calm¡ªtoo calm.

    Why was she here?

    "You know her?" David asked curiously.

    "Yeah, she¡¯s Zayn¡¯s neighbor," Jim whispered into David¡¯s ear.

    Eva finished her apple and tossed the core aside. "Didn¡¯t really want to follow you, but Lateen insisted."

    Zayn stiffened. "Wait. Lateen sent you?!" His heartbeat quickened.

    "Yep." She faintly smiled. "What, are you leaving?"

    Katherine scowled. "Zayn, you said you¡¯d do the ritual. You can¡¯t just back out now!"

    "What can I do?" Zayn sighed, already knowing Lateen would kill him if she found out.

    "Zayn is afraid of his sister," Jim snickered.

    "That¡¯s not an excuse! We lied to our parents just to be here, and now you¡¯re ditching us because you¡¯re scared of getting caught? Jack, say something!"

    Eva watched their squabble with mild amusement, then sighed. "Ugh, listen¡ª"

    No one paid her any attention. She clenched her fists, irritation flashing in her eyes. "Would you all stop arguing like monkeys?!"

    Katherine spun on her. "Shut up! This has nothing to do with you!"

    Eva¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change, but her voice turned cold. "Right. It has nothing to do with me." Then she looked directly at Zayn, her blue eyes sharp. "So, will you come, or should I go alone?" She added with a smirk, "Your friends are really annoying."

    Zayn swallowed hard. He didn¡¯t want her doing anything reckless.

    "Wait!" Jack cut in. "You can go, but only after you complete the ritual."

    Eva raised an eyebrow. "What ritual?"

    Katherine, eager to explain, launched into the details. "The Curse of Burial. You have to stab a knife into a grave, make a cross sign, call out the name of the cemetery, and say, ¡®You look better off dead.¡¯ Supposedly, the ghost will curse you, and you¡¯ll get into accidents every day until you die."

    The tension in the group grew thick.

    Eva was silent for a moment before she grinned. "Sounds fun. I¡¯ll do it."

    "Wait, what?!" Zayn exclaimed. "No way. I don¡¯t want you dying for some dumb curse."

    Eva smirked. "You think I¡¯d actually die? You worried about me, Zayn?"

    Zayn turned his head away, pretending not to hear her. The others, confused but intrigued, agreed to let her go instead. Katherine clipped a small camera to Eva¡¯s collar while Jim handed her a torch.

    Eva walked alone toward the graveyard, the only sounds being the rustling leaves and the occasional chirp of insects. When she arrived, she chose a random grave. She followed each step of the ritual, and her every move was monitored by the group.

    She froze when she leaned in to read the name on the grave.

    "What is she doing?" Cara whispered, her nerves on edge.

    Katherine gasped as she read the name. Her eyes darted around the group before settling on Zayn, who, thankfully, wasn¡¯t watching the screen.

    When Eva returned, Katherine asked, "Did you say the name?"

    Eva nodded. "I did."

    Later, as Eva and Zayn walked home, he glanced at her. "Whose grave was that?"

    Eva smirked. "Curious, are we?"

    "Just wanted to know. I mean, someone just cursed you."

    She looked at him, her eyes gleaming mischievously. "I forgot."

    Zayn stopped dead in his tracks. "You what?!"

    Eva shrugged. "I have a poor memory."

    Before Zayn could press further, Lateen¡¯s voice cut through the early morning air. "Zayn, where have you been?!"

    Zayn turned to Eva for help, but she raised her hands in surrender. "You¡¯re on your own."

    Zayn groaned. "I¡¯m so dead."

 The First Omen

    Zayn¡¯s phone buzzed with notification after notification. His mother, standing by the kitchen counter, glanced at the screen before handing him the jar of jam.

    ¡°Who¡¯s texting you this early?¡± she asked casually, though there was a hint of curiosity in her voice.

    ¡°Friends,¡± Zayn muttered, trying to sound indifferent.

    His mother¡¯s eyes flickered toward Lateen, who was stirring her tea a little too forcefully. ¡°Oh, right,¡± she said, forcing a smile. ¡°Last night, I called all of his friends to check where he was. That¡¯s probably why they¡¯re messaging now.¡±

    Zayn felt his stomach drop. His parents had caught him lying about the ¡®group study¡¯ because of Lateen¡¯s reckless outburst. However, she hadn¡¯t exposed the truth about what they had actually done. Instead, she had told them he was at Jim¡¯s house playing video games. But judging by the way his mother kept watching him, doubt was already settling in.

    ¡°So then¡­¡± his mother paused, tapping her fingers on the table. ¡°Why did I hear Eva¡¯s voice last night?¡±

    Zayn and Lateen froze, their gazes locking in silent panic. Please, don¡¯t expose me, Zayn¡¯s eyes pleaded.

    Lateen cleared her throat, her mind racing for an excuse. ¡°Oh, that¡ª¡± she coughed lightly, buying time. ¡°Yes! I was the one who asked Eva to bring him home. It was late, and Jim wasn¡¯t answering his phone. And, well¡­ you know I¡¯m afraid of the dark.¡±

    Her lies saved him again. Zayn quickly finished packing his bag, adjusting the strap over his shoulder when¡ª

    ¡°Stop!¡± Lateen¡¯s voice cut through the air. She folded her arms and smirked. ¡°It cost $500.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Zayn blinked, confused.

    ¡°Don¡¯t play innocent,¡± she scoffed. ¡°Because of you, I had to lie¡ª¡±

    But before she could finish, Zayn was already out the door.

    Meanwhile, Rick sat across from Katherine, helping her with her homework. His hands hovered over the page, hesitating. ¡°Did you guys¡ª¡±

    ¡°Yes, we did.¡± Katherine cut him off before he could finish.

    Rick swallowed hard. His gaze remained fixed on his notebook, afraid to meet her eyes. He knew what everyone must be thinking. That he was a coward.

    She got a step wrong, and without thinking, he reached out, gently stopping her hand with his fingers. She looked up at him.

    ¡°That step is wrong,¡± he said, grabbing her textbook and solving the problem himself.

    Katherine tilted her head, resting her chin on both hands. ¡°We don¡¯t think you¡¯re a coward, you know,¡± she murmured. ¡°None of us were really ready to do this for Cara¡¯s vlog. But when Zayn said he would, we agreed. And... I¡¯m sorry on his behalf for lying to you.¡±

    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

    Rick exhaled, nodding. ¡°It¡¯s fine. But¡­ why did Zayn agree in the first place?¡±

    Katherine shrugged. ¡°Who knows?¡± She pulled the textbook back toward her. ¡°One thing¡¯s for sure¡ªhe didn¡¯t perform the ritual.¡±

    Rick¡¯s brows furrowed. ¡°Then who?¡±

    ¡°His neighbor. Eva.¡±

    ¡°Eva,¡± Rick repeated her name, something uneasy settling in his chest. ¡°Do you know her?¡±

    ¡°No.¡± Katherine¡¯s response came too quickly. She looked flustered.

    Sean suddenly plopped down between them. ¡°What are you two whispering about?¡±

    Rick stiffened. ¡°Just¡ª¡±

    ¡°Trying to find out what happened to the girl who did the ritual,¡± Sean finished for him, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. ¡°Heard your whole conversation.¡±

    Rick¡¯s heart sank. ¡°You were listening?¡± he stammered.

    ¡°Maybe you should be more aware of your surroundings,¡± Sean grinned.

    Katherine sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. ¡°We don¡¯t know yet. We texted Zayn to ask, but he hasn¡¯t replied.¡±

    Rick narrowed his eyes. Why was she telling Sean so casually?

    As he stood up, gathering his books, he spoke before leaving. ¡°Let me know when he does.¡±

    ¡°Sure.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s his deal?¡± Zayn muttered, dropping into his seat.

    Katherine glared at Rick before turning to Zayn. ¡°Why weren¡¯t you responding to our texts?¡± She stood in front of his desk, slamming her hands on the surface. ¡°Did something happen?¡±

    ¡°Nothing yet,¡± Zayn replied calmly. ¡°If something does, you¡¯ll be the first to know, Kat.¡±

    Katherine¡¯s face flushed. She turned her gaze downward, clearly flustered.

    ¡°But that¡¯s what Jack calls you, and you seem to like it when he does¡ª¡±

    ¡°Shut up!¡± she snapped, spinning on her heel and marching away. Rick hurried after her.

    Eva was washing dishes when her phone buzzed. Drying her hands on a towel, she checked the message.

    Zayn: Are you okay?

    She frowned. Why was he asking that? Then it hit her¡ªlast night¡¯s ritual.

    Zayn: I was worried. I mean, yesterday¡­

    Eva: I¡¯m fine. Why are you asking?

    Zayn: Do you believe in that stuff?

    Eva: What?

    Zayn: There was a boy who performed this ritual before. He¡¯s dead now.

    Eva stared at the screen. Did I say that out loud?

    Just then, Lateen knocked at Eva¡¯s door. Eva hesitated before opening it.

    ¡°Can I talk to you for a sec?¡± Lateen asked, stepping inside. Eva¡¯s home was as spotless and empty as always, furnished with only the essentials. She handed Lateen a glass of water.

    Lateen pressed her lips together before speaking. ¡°You know, I admire you, Eva. Sometimes, I even see you as an ideal¡­¡±

    Eva gave her a skeptical look. ¡°Why are you buttering me up?¡±

    Lateen sighed. ¡°Fine, here¡¯s the thing. Zayn. He¡¯s been staying out late a lot lately, and you know people have been disappearing without a trace.¡±

    Eva¡¯s eyes narrowed.

    ¡°I know he¡¯s got finals coming up, and graduation is stressful, but¡­ talk to him. Knock some sense into his head. You know how much he adores you.¡±

    Eva wasn¡¯t so sure about that anymore. Zayn was acting different¡ªvery different. But somehow, that only made things more interesting.

    ¡°Alright,¡± Eva said at last.

    Lateen smiled in relief.

    Inside a grand hall illuminated by chandeliers, students played the violin in perfect harmony. Eva moved her bow with practiced ease.

    ¡°You¡¯re doing great,¡± her teacher praised.

    She focused, keeping her rhythm steady¡ªuntil movement outside the window caught her eye. A cat perched dangerously on the ledge, one step away from falling.

    Instinct took over. She placed her violin aside and took a step forward¡ª

    SMASH.

    The chandelier above her crashed to the floor, shattering into a thousand shards.

    Her teacher rushed forward, grabbing her. ¡°Thank God you moved in time.¡±

    Eva stood frozen, her heartbeat pounding in her ears.

    The curse will follow that person until death.

    The words rang in her mind over and over again.

 Hidden Pasts.

    Zayn was about to leave when an odd feeling made him pause. For some reason, he felt the urge to check on Lateen before heading out. Without thinking much about it, he turned around and walked toward her room.

    Inside, Lateen was finishing her hair, weaving it into a neat braid. She wore a simple red dress, clearly getting ready to go out. At the sound of the door opening, she glanced at him through the mirror.

    "Where are you going?" Zayn asked, leaning against the doorway.

    "Shopping," she replied casually.

    "Alone?"

    "Nope. With Eva."

    Zayn¡¯s expression shifted slightly at the name. He knew Lateen and Eva were close¡ªEva was one of the few people around her age¡ªbut something about it unsettled him now. He wasn¡¯t sure why.

    "You¡¯re going somewhere, too, right?" Lateen asked, eyeing his slightly more put-together appearance. "All dressed up for something?"

    "Yeah," he muttered. "Just heading to a friend¡¯s place to talk about the Curse of Burial."

    Lateen turned, giving him a skeptical look. "You guys

    believe in that?"

    Zayn clenched his jaw. "No. It¡¯s just¡­ Eva performed that ritual. If¡ªif¡ªthe curse is real, I want to know everything about it. Just in case.

    Lateen stopped in front of him, her expression unreadable. For a second, she considered teasing him about his concern for Eva, but something in his eyes stopped her. He¡¯s genuinely worried. That realization amused her more than anything.

    "Well, do whatever you want," she said with a shrug. "But you should focus on your studies instead of chasing ghosts."

    As she turned away, her gaze flickered down to his hand. A bunch of old, worn-out photographs peeked between his fingers. Before he could react, she snatched them.

    "Hey!" Zayn barked, reaching for them, but she stepped back quickly. Her fingers shuffled through the top few images¡ªgrainy photos of different people, strangers¡ªexcept they weren¡¯t just strangers. Her stomach twisted.

    "Why¡­?" she muttered, her fingers tightening on the edges. "Why do you have these?"

    Zayn yanked them back before she could see more. "It has nothing to do with you," he said coldly, stuffing them into his jacket.

    But Lateen had already seen enough. She recognized the people in the photos. They were all visitors. Tourists. Outsiders who had once come to Willowmere¡ªand then vanished within weeks of arriving.

    Lateen narrowed her eyes at him, a strange feeling creeping up her spine. What the hell is he up to?

    Zayn didn¡¯t wait for more questions. Without another word, he turned and walked away.

    Lateen stood there for a moment, watching the door he left through. She shook off the uneasy feeling with a sigh. He''s just a kid playing detective, she told herself. Let him have his fun.

    Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

    With that thought, she pulled out her phone and texted Eva.

    "Come outside. Let¡¯s go."

    "Is it good?" Lateen asked, holding the dress against her body.

    Eva glanced at her, tilting her head slightly before reaching for another dress and pressing it against Lateen instead. "This one¡¯s better," she said with a small nod.

    Lateen was about to agree when her eyes caught something¡ªan ugly cut on Eva¡¯s hand. She frowned.

    "What happened to you?" she asked, her mind immediately drifting to a troubling thought. Was it from that night? But that didn¡¯t make sense¡ªshe had seen Eva just yesterday, and her hands had been fine.

    Eva followed her gaze and pulled her hand back slightly. "Just a small cut from chopping vegetables," she said casually.

    Lateen hesitated but eventually nodded, deciding not to press further.

    After spending some more time in the mall, they finally stepped outside. The night air was crisp, sending a chill down Lateen¡¯s bare legs. Unlike her, Eva was dressed in trousers and a shirt, seemingly unbothered by the cold.

    As they walked, Lateen suddenly spoke up. "Eva, do you remember some of our old neighbors? The ones we got close to really quickly¡­ and then, out of nowhere, they disappeared?"

    Eva didn¡¯t respond immediately¡ªjust kept walking, listening.

    Lateen continued, her thoughts unraveling as she spoke. "It was strange, wasn¡¯t it? Things like that never happened in Willowmere before." She let out a short breath, not realizing how much she was rambling. "It all started so suddenly¡­"

    The words left her mouth before she could stop them.

    "It all started four years ago. That¡¯s¡­ that¡¯s when you first moved here and became our neighbor."

    Eva stopped abruptly, her sharp gaze meeting Lateen¡¯s.

    "Lateen," she said, her voice quiet but firm.

    Lateen¡¯s heart pounded. That¡¯s right¡­ Everything started when Eva appeared.

    And that thought refused to leave her mind.

    <hr>

    Katherine and Cara sat in the dimly lit cyber caf¨¦, eyes fixed on the screen as they edited the footage from that night. The glow from the monitor cast eerie shadows across their faces.

    "This is going to break the internet," Cara smirked, clicking through the final edits.

    The Curse of Burial¡ªWillowmere¡¯s most infamous ritual. In the past, people had forced others to perform it, ensuring their deaths without committing actual murder. Years later, it became a game, something people did for fun, dismissing it as a myth.

    But then it happened.

    A boy who had performed the ritual died two years later, far outside of town. His friends claimed that he was plagued by accidents every single day until his death. That incident revived the ritual¡¯s terrifying reputation. And now, after four years, it was perform again¡ªto prove it was all fake.

    Cara hovered the mouse over the upload button. With one final click, the video began to process.

    "Hey, kids, time¡¯s up!" the cyber caf¨¦ owner called out, signaling that it was time to leave.

    Cara ran a hand through her short, dark hair before standing up. Katherine followed, but an uneasiness lingered in her chest.

    Outside, the air was cold, but it wasn¡¯t the chill that made her shiver.

    "Katherine, are you okay?" Cara asked, noticing her expression.

    Katherine hesitated before speaking. "Cara¡­ what if it¡¯s real? What if something happens to that girl?"

    Cara let out a short laugh. "Nothing¡¯s going to happen. It¡¯s been two days already. If the curse was real, something would¡¯ve happened by now."

    Katherine bit her lip. "But remember that boy? He didn¡¯t die immediately. It took two years."

    Cara¡¯s face tensed, the amusement fading from her eyes. "Katherine, his friend exaggerated everything for attention. Besides, the curse only targets people who have done something unforgivable in their past. That girl is Zayn¡¯s neighbor¡ªthere¡¯s no way she could have done anything that bad."

    Katherine stopped walking, her mind racing. "But¡­ what¡¯s your definition of unforgivable?"

    Cara looked momentarily confused, then shrugged it off. "I don¡¯t know."

    Katherine wanted to let it go, but the thought wouldn¡¯t leave her mind.

    Did that mean that boy had done something unforgivable? No¡­ that couldn¡¯t be true. They had grown up with him. He was the kindest person she had ever known.

    Then why did he die?

    And if his friend had lied about the cause of his death¡­ how did he know about the Curse of Burial in the first place?

    Because until then, that curse had only ever been known in Willowmere.

 The Girl No One Knew: One.

    Alex packed his bag for his tuition classes, slinging it over his shoulder as he grabbed the jacket from the chair. The soft hum of the air conditioner filled the quiet room, and the distant murmur of television seeped from the living room. It was already late.

    ¡°Hurry up! We¡¯re getting late!¡± Leon¡¯s voice carried from the stairs, impatient as ever.

    ¡°I¡¯m coming!¡± Alex called back, quickly checking his phone. The cab he booked was already near the apartment.

    ¡°The cab¡¯s here,¡± he said as he rushed down the stairs, stepping onto the dimly lit street. The evening air was cool, crisp against his skin.

    Alex was known as the charming one in class, effortlessly making friends. People gravitated toward him because he played the part they wanted¡ªa perfect gentleman.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to date anyone?¡± Andy, one of his classmates, asked as they walked toward their usual study spot.

    Alex had heard this question far too many times. ¡°Not interested.¡±

    Andy frowned. ¡°Why? There are plenty of girls who like you.¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re all the same.¡± The words left his lips before he could filter them.

    Andy scoffed. ¡°Like you¡¯re any different?¡± he muttered before walking away, flipping through his notes.

    Alex didn¡¯t bother responding. Girls didn¡¯t like being compared to others. He knew that much.

    After class, Alex and Leon decided to walk home. The streets were quieter now, the city lights casting a golden glow on the pavement.

    ¡°Andy seemed mad at you,¡± Leon noted.

    ¡°I see.¡±

    Leon sighed. ¡°If you keep acting like this, you¡¯re gonna lose your gentleman reputation.¡±

    Alex shot him a look¡ªcalm but sharp enough to silence him. Leon rolled his eyes and looked away.

    But Alex¡¯s mind had already drifted elsewhere. A feeling stirred inside him¡ªsomething uneasy, restless. Without a word, he turned on his heel and started walking away, leaving Leon behind.

    Leon blinked. ¡°What¡¯s up with him?¡±

    The streets stretched endlessly as Alex wandered, weaving through narrow alleys and bustling sidewalks. The faint scent of fresh bread and sugar lingered in the cool night air. When he finally stopped, he found himself in front of a small bakery.

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    The glow from the inside was dim, casting warm hues against the cold world outside. Pushing open the glass door, a soft chime rang. A woman behind the counter glanced up.

    ¡°The shop is closing soon, sir.¡±

    Alex hesitated. ¡°Do you have any cake left?¡±

    She frowned. ¡°I¡¯m afraid not. We¡¯re out for today.¡±

    ¡°Please check. Even half a pound will do.¡±

    She looked ready to refuse when a quiet voice interrupted.

    ¡°I¡¯ll make it.¡±

    A girl stepped out from behind the counter.

    The bakery lady whispered something to her, but she merely nodded and disappeared into the kitchen.

    Alex watched, mesmerized by the way she moved¡ªgraceful, efficient. The kitchen was silent except for the rhythmic clatter of utensils. The warm glow of the oven bathed her face in soft light. Her hands, delicate and precise, worked the dough effortlessly.

    Something about her held him still. He couldn¡¯t look away. The world outside seemed to fade, leaving only the scent of vanilla and the steady movements of her hands.

    By the time she finished, the shop was empty¡ªjust the two of them remained.

    She packed the cake carefully, sliding the box toward him.

    ¡°Here it is, sir.¡± Her voice was soft, almost hesitant.

    Alex didn¡¯t respond right away. He was still staring at her, trying to memorize the way the light reflected in her jewel-like blue eyes.

    She tapped the counter lightly. ¡°Sir?¡±

    Snapping out of his daze, he quickly grabbed the cake. ¡°Oh! Thank you. I appreciate it. I¡¯ll definitely come back.¡±

    She nodded, but her gaze lowered. She looked uncomfortable.

    Feeling awkward, Alex turned to leave but hesitated at the door. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±

    She parted her lips slightly, as if about to speak¡ªbut no sound came out.

    Still, Alex pretended he heard her. He smiled and walked away.

    Midnight ¨C In Front of Their Apartment

    The street was empty except for the soft flicker of streetlights. Alex stood by the apartment door, lighting the small candles on the cake. The warm glow flickered in the quiet night.

    He knocked.

    Leon answered, eyes groggy with sleep.

    ¡°Happy birthday!¡± Alex grinned.

    Leon blinked, staring at the candles. He checked his phone, realization dawning on him. ¡°It¡¯s¡­ my birthday?¡±

    Alex smirked. ¡°Can I come in, bud?¡±

    Leon stepped aside, still stunned.

    ¡°How did you even know today was my birthday?¡± he asked as Alex placed the cake on the table.

    ¡°I¡¯m your best friend.¡±

    Leon chuckled dryly. ¡°No one¡¯s ever cared about my birthday before.¡±

    ¡°Shut up. You¡¯re ruining the mood. Blow the candles.¡±

    Leon hesitated but finally did. Alex sang the birthday song¡ªthough he stopped midway when he noticed Leon looking¡­ embarrassed.

    After they had eaten, Alex handed him a small box.

    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Leon asked.

    ¡°A gift. Open it.¡±

    Leon unwrapped it¡ªinside was an old photo album from their 8th grade. The cover photo showed Leon, grinning wide, his younger self radiating pure joy.

    ¡°Look how happy you were,¡± Alex murmured. ¡°I wonder why you stopped smiling like that.¡±

    Leon¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Are you trying to ruin my birthday?¡±

    Alex leaned back. ¡°Of course not. I just want you to be happy again¡ªlike you were back then.¡±

    Leon was quiet for a long moment. Then, flipping through the pages, he muttered, ¡°I already am¡ªever since you showed up.¡±

    Alex grimaced. ¡°Ugh. That sounds weird.¡±

    Leon chuckled. ¡°I mean, I have an annoying best friend who won¡¯t let me be sad.¡±

    He tossed himself onto the bed, pulling the blanket over his head.

    Alex cleaned up and then suddenly remembered something. ¡°Oh, right! Do you wanna know how I got the cake this late?¡±

    Leon groaned. ¡°Nope. Don¡¯t care.¡± He buried himself deeper under the blanket.

    Annoyed, Alex threw a plastic knife at him.

    Without even looking, Leon raised an arm, let the knife hit, and went back to sleep.

    Alex shook his head, smirking. ¡°Idiot.¡±

 A Day Of Surprises.

    Early morning light seeped through the curtains as Zayn stirred at the sound of his mother¡¯s voice.

    ¡°Zayn, wake up! It¡¯s already time!¡±

    He groaned, reaching for his phone. 7:00 AM. He had to get ready for school, but sleep still clung to him, making it difficult to move.

    Half-awake, he heard voices from outside. His mother was at the main door, talking to someone. The cool morning breeze blew through the slightly open window, making the curtains sway. Then, as if sensing something, she looked straight toward his bedroom.

    Did she see me? No¡­ there¡¯s no way she could have.

    ¡°Zayn, come out! Eva brought your cake,¡± his mother called.

    With a sigh, he tossed the sheets aside and got up. His loose T-shirt and trousers felt too comfortable to leave behind, but he dragged himself to the sink, splashed cold water on his face, and made himself look somewhat awake before stepping out of his room.

    Eva stood at the main door, tapping her shoe lightly against the floor, probably in a hurry for class. She wore a long-sleeved jacket over a cropped T-shirt and slim-fit jeans, her bag slung over her back. The moment she saw him, she set the cake down on the small table beside her and flashed him a bright smile.

    ¡°Thanks for making the cake on such short notice,¡± he said, his voice still carrying the weight of sleep. He had texted her late at night, and she had somehow managed to get it done.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± she replied casually, adjusting the strap of her bag.

    She waved before turning to leave. Zayn watched her walk away, her figure growing smaller with each step. Just before disappearing into the morning mist, she glanced at him from the corner of her eye.

    ¡°Zayn, get ready for school,¡± his mother reminded him, snapping him out of his daze.

    He sighed and closed the door behind him. As he turned around, he noticed Latten standing by her doorway, arms crossed.

    ¡°Zayn, we need to talk.¡±

    <hr>

    Zayn was lost in thought, his mind drifting aimlessly, until the girl beside him nudged his arm.

    ¡°What are you doing, Zayn?¡± Lily whispered.

    He blinked, snapping back to reality. His fingers had been absentmindedly carving into the wooden desk with the tip of his pen. He hadn''t even realized it.

    ¡°Nothing,¡± he muttered under his breath, keeping his voice low. The teacher was still in the middle of her lecture, and if she caught them whispering, they were doomed.

    Lily frowned and reached out, pressing a hand against his forehead as if checking for a fever.

    He frowned, shrugging her off. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±

    Before she could reply, the sharp voice of their teacher cut through the room.

    ¡°What are you two doing?¡±

    Zayn stiffened. Lily, however, remained completely unfazed. She simply smiled at him before standing up confidently, nudging the desk slightly forward to make space. Every eye in the classroom turned toward them¡ªnot because the teacher had scolded them, but because Lily, the class¡¯s sweetheart, was about to speak.

    ¡°Teacher, Zayn isn¡¯t feeling well. He¡¯s dizzy,¡± she announced sweetly.

    Zayn¡¯s jaw nearly hit the floor. What the hell is she saying?

    The teacher''s gaze shifted to him, skeptical but considering the situation. Zayn was already trapped¡ªhe had no choice but to nod in agreement.

    ¡°Teacher, can I take him to the sick room?¡± Lily asked.

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    She just wants to skip class, doesn¡¯t she?

    The teacher sighed. ¡°Fine, go ahead.¡±

    As they walked out of the classroom, Zayn could feel the envious stares burning into his back. He let out a small sigh and attempted to at least look like a sick person.

    ¡°Lily, I didn¡¯t ask for this,¡± he muttered. ¡°What if she figures out we¡¯re lying?¡±

    ¡°She didn¡¯t, did she?¡± Lily said smugly, hands in her pockets.

    Zayn had no comeback for that. He should have known arguing with her was pointless.

    As they passed by the basketball court, the place was as crowded as always. The seniors¡¯ tournament was coming up, and Walter¡ªthe best player among them¡ªwas busy practicing with his team. Lily, with her usual confidence, spoke to him, and within seconds, they were allowed to sit in the corner and watch.

    Then, out of nowhere, she turned to him with a small grin. ¡°Happy birthday.¡±

    She reached into her pocket and pulled out a keychain, handing it to him.

    Zayn looked at it, then back at her, puzzled. ¡°You didn¡¯t have to¡ª¡±

    ¡°Well, I couldn¡¯t think of anything better,¡± she cut in quickly. ¡°And if I got you a bigger present, someone would see me giving it to you, and then the whole class would find out it¡¯s your birthday. They¡¯d make a huge fuss about it, and you hate attention on your birthday, right?¡±

    She was rambling now, but he couldn¡¯t help the small smile tugging at his lips. No wonder she was everyone¡¯s favorite.

    ¡°Right,¡± he admitted. ¡°And I like this.¡±

    She looked relieved.

    ¡°You two can go now,¡± Walter said. ¡°Classes are over.¡±

    Zayn headed straight to the library. He usually went there after class since it was the only time he could study in peace. He was regretting not paying attention to the lecture earlier¡ªit made his homework ten times harder. After struggling with it for a while, he gave up and put his books aside, opting instead to grab a fiction novel from his reading list.

    The school library remained open until evening, and though students usually stayed, today it was completely empty. Most were busy preparing for an upcoming school event.

    He pulled out a chair, sat down, and let himself get lost in the book.

    Then¡ª

    ¡°What are you reading?¡±

    Zayn nearly jumped out of his seat. He had been sure he was alone. Turning around quickly, he found Jim leaning casually against the bookshelf, hands tucked into his jeans pockets.

    ¡°Damn it, Jim.¡± Zayn exhaled, steadying his heartbeat. ¡°What are you doing here? How did you even get in? Didn¡¯t the guards stop you?¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re too busy helping with the event,¡± Jim replied smoothly. ¡°I just came to check if you were okay.¡±

    ¡°I am okay,¡± Zayn lied, already reaching for his bag.

    Jim raised an eyebrow. ¡°That¡¯s not what Lily said. She told me you were carving into your desk during class.¡±

    Zayn froze for a second before sighing.

    Jim stepped closer, his expression softening. ¡°Listen, if something¡¯s bothering you, you know you can talk to me, right?¡±

    Zayn hesitated, then forced a small smirk. ¡°If I ever have a problem, you¡¯d be the first to know. I don¡¯t usually hide things from you, do I?¡±

    Jim studied him for a moment before nodding, letting it go. ¡°Are you heading home?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s getting late. My mom will start worrying.¡±

    Jim paused, then casually asked, ¡°Want a ride?¡±

    Zayn squinted at him suspiciously. ¡°Why? I can get home myself.¡±

    Jim looked away, clearing his throat. ¡°Well, um¡­ You look tired.¡±

    Zayn smirked. ¡°Don¡¯t make excuses. You just want to meet Lateen.¡±

    Jim stiffened at being caught, then sighed. ¡°Shut up and get in the car.¡±

    <hr>

    Jim had been his friend since the third grade. Though he was a year older and had switched schools after the tenth standard, he still visited often. And, of course, Zayn knew exactly why¡ªJim had a crush on his cousin, Lateen, who lived with him.

    At the moment, Zayn was lounging on the couch, watching TV, while Jim was busy annoying Lateen as usual. He had conveniently "forgotten" to mention that Lateen didn¡¯t like Jim. In fact, she had made it very clear on multiple occasions that Zayn should stop bringing him over.

    After a while, his mother walked in carrying a cake.

    "Cake? Is something special today, Aunty?" Jim asked, his eyebrows raised.

    His mother chuckled. "Oh dear, did you forget? It¡¯s Zayn¡¯s birthday! He turned sixteen today."

    Jim froze, his face a mix of shock and embarrassment. His best friend¡¯s birthday, and he had completely forgotten. He looked toward Zayn for help, but Zayn simply turned away, pretending not to notice. In reality, he was holding back laughter. Seeing Jim speechless¡ªespecially in front of Lateen¡ªwas too funny.

    The moment stretched awkwardly until Zayn couldn¡¯t contain himself anymore. He burst out laughing, breaking the tension in the room. His mother, Lateen, and even Jim eventually joined in, the awkwardness fading into lighthearted amusement. As Jim shot him a grateful look that silently said, You saved me, bro, Zayn only smirked in response.

    The rest of his birthday went by peacefully, just the way he liked it. He had never been a fan of big crowds, so he always kept celebrations limited to family. Not that it ever stopped Jim, Jack, or sometimes Riley from showing up uninvited.

    Later that night, Zayn was lying in bed, lazily scrolling through his phone. His bedroom window offered a clear view of the living room in the house next door. When he glanced up, he noticed the lights were still on.

    Lifting his head slightly, he peered through the window. She was standing in the kitchen, carefully icing a cake. Is she making a cake? But for whom?

    Just as he was trying to figure it out, she suddenly stopped.

    A thought crossed his mind. Wait¡­ does she know I¡¯m watching?

    Panicking, he threw his phone aside, pulled the covers over his head, and shut his eyes tightly, as if pretending to be asleep would erase what had just happened.

 The Girl No One Knew: Two

    Alex sat at a small wooden table, waiting for his order. The bakery was quaint, with only a few tables scattered around for customers. His gaze wandered around the room, searching for someone.

    "Are you looking for someone, sir?"

    A man dressed in black slacks, a black vest over a crisp white shirt, stood beside him¡ªmost likely a waiter.

    "Is there a young girl working here?" Alex asked.

    The waiter gave him a curious glance. "Yes, sir, but why do you ask?"

    "Because I¡¯m her friend," Alex replied.

    The waiter raised an eyebrow before smiling politely. Then, turning his head, he called out, "Aylin, since when did you start making friends?"

    A young girl emerged from the kitchen, still wearing her gloves. "And here I thought I was the only friend you had," the waiter teased before walking away.

    Alex studied her carefully. "You know him?"

    She nodded. "Yes, I''ve known him for ten years."

    "That''s a long time," Alex said, forcing a smile. He found it hard to believe that an older guy like that could be her friend.

    Aylin''s gaze remained locked on him, an unreadable expression in her eyes. He could feel the weight of her stare, but he didn¡¯t dare to meet it.

    "He¡¯s my friend," she finally said, her voice quiet but firm.

    The words seemed to echo between them, surprising both Alex and the waiter.

    "What?" the waiter asked in disbelief before pulling Aylin into the kitchen.

    Alex sat there, bewildered. Why had she called him her friend? What had just happened?

    After a while, Aylin returned and took a seat across from him, keeping her eyes fixed on the table as if she had disconnected from the world.

    "Hi," she said at last, lifting her head slightly.

    Alex smiled, his dimples deepening. The sunlight streaming through the window illuminated his white hair.

    "I didn¡¯t expect you to be here," she murmured.

    "Really?" she added after a pause, her voice laced with curiosity¡ªalmost as if she was testing him, trying to figure out if he was being honest.

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    "I came for you," Alex admitted.

    She studied him carefully before replying, "I never knew people made friends after just one meeting."

    "I didn¡¯t either," he mumbled.

    The waiter returned, setting two cups of coffee in front of them. He gave Aylin a warm smile, but when his gaze shifted to Alex, his expression hardened. Alex offered a polite smile, but it quickly faded when the waiter walked away without a word.

    "So," Alex said, breaking the silence, "you¡¯re the first girl I¡¯ve ever found interesting."

    Aylin hesitated before responding, her voice calm yet distant. "People usually find things interesting when they don''t understand them. Sometimes, they find them threatening. Or just... weird."

    She wasn¡¯t wrong. After their first meeting, Alex had searched for her online¡ªtyping in vague descriptions like "girl with moonlight-colored, aqua jewel eyes"¡ªbut found nothing. It was as if she didn¡¯t exist.

    "You¡¯re right," he admitted. "And I want to know more about you."

    For a brief moment, her eyes lit up, but she quickly averted her gaze as if refusing to let herself hope. Slowly, she stood up.

    "Can I at least get your name?" Alex asked.

    Before she could answer, the waiter¡ªJames¡ªslammed a small piece of paper onto the table. A number was scrawled on it.

    "She doesn¡¯t have a phone," James said curtly. "That¡¯s my number."

    Alex hesitated before taking the paper. "James, huh?"

    James crossed his arms. "Yeah. And you can leave now."

    Alex smirked, standing up. Before walking out, he turned back one last time. His eyes met Aylin¡¯s, but she quickly looked away.

    Still, as he stepped outside, a strange feeling welled up inside him¡ªa mix of happiness, excitement, and something else he couldn¡¯t quite define. Whatever it was, he couldn¡¯t stop himself from smiling.

    <hr>

    "You know, she¡¯s really beautiful. Her eyes shine like jewels, like moonlight¡ªshe¡¯s just too cute, you know?"

    Leon, who was sitting at his study table, let out a sigh before casually grabbing a piece of bread and stuffing it into Alex¡¯s mouth. "Eat this and stop talking nonsense," he muttered, flipping open his laptop.

    Alex quickly chewed and swallowed before glaring at him. "You¡¯re ignoring me."

    "No, I¡¯m listening very carefully," Leon replied, not even glancing up from his screen. "I¡¯m also trying to figure out when you started daydreaming."

    "Daydreaming?" Alex scoffed, dragging a chair beside him and sitting down.

    "Yes, daydreaming," Leon repeated, typing something on his laptop. "The way you¡¯re describing her, she sounds like some kind of fictional character."

    Alex looked downright offended. "Are you... stupid?"

    Leon finally looked up. "What? Where did that come from?" He shook his head, smirking. "Well, I guess it can¡¯t be helped. Every lovesick fool thinks of his beloved as a goddess."

    "Yes," Alex answered without hesitation.

    Leon nearly choked on his drink. "Are you kidding me?" He narrowed his eyes at him. "You¡¯re serious, aren¡¯t you?"

    Alex lowered his gaze, suddenly unsure. "...You¡¯re mean."

    Leon exhaled through his nose and leaned back in his chair. "Alright, tell me this, Romeo. Where are her parents? Where does she live? And if she¡¯s an extreme introvert, how does she even know that guy?" He resumed typing, waiting for Alex¡¯s response.

    Alex frowned. "What are you writing?"

    "A story," Leon replied without looking up.

    Alex leaned in, trying to peek at the screen. "What about?"

    Leon smirked. "You."

    "What?"

    "Yes, you. You and your ridiculous daydreaming."

    Alex scowled and smacked Leon on the back before standing up.

    "Ow! What the hell was that for?" Leon shouted, rubbing his back.

    "That was for being annoying," Alex huffed before walking away, leaving Leon laughing at his expense.

 The Second Omen..

    Eva sat at the bus stop, scrolling through her phone absentmindedly. The warm glow of the afternoon sun cast long shadows across the pavement. A sleek black car pulled up beside her, its engine humming softly. The window lowered, revealing Zayn with a smirk on his face.

    ¡°Here I am,¡± he announced casually.

    Eva looked up, her thumb pausing on the screen. She smiled politely but raised an eyebrow. ¡°Do you even have a license?¡± she asked, stepping closer to the car.

    Zayn hesitated for a second before shrugging. ¡°No.¡±

    She sighed, opening the driver¡¯s side door. ¡°Get out. Sit in the passenger seat. I don¡¯t want you getting arrested for driving without one.¡±

    He stared at her, looking slightly offended. ¡°I turned eighteen just three days ago,¡± he reminded her, as if that made a difference.

    ¡°Exactly. Still not a legal driver,¡± she countered, waiting until he reluctantly switched seats. Once she settled into the driver¡¯s seat, she started the car and pulled onto the road.

    ¡°Where are we going?¡± Zayn asked, buckling his seatbelt.

    Eva gave him a quick glance. ¡°I told you in my text a few days ago. Did you forget?¡±

    Zayn rubbed the back of his neck. ¡°Oh¡­ right. I remember now.¡±

    She rolled her eyes but let it slide. ¡°I¡¯m conducting a case study for my psychology project. It¡¯s about analyzing the behavior of an unstable patient and understanding their mental challenges.¡±

    ¡°Is this for a job?¡± he asked curiously.

    ¡°Yeah, something like that,¡± she replied, focusing on the road.

    The hospital soon came into view, its towering structure looming over them. The stark white building had large tinted windows that reflected the evening sun. As Eva pulled into the parking lot, she turned to Zayn. ¡°Wait here. I won¡¯t take long.¡±

    Zayn looked skeptical but didn¡¯t argue. ¡°Fine, but if you take too long, I¡¯m coming in.¡±

    She shook her head with a small smile and stepped out, making her way inside. The hospital smelled of antiseptic, its halls filled with soft murmurs and the occasional beeping of machines. She approached the front desk and inquired about the patient¡¯s room. A nurse directed her upstairs.

    As she climbed the stairs, she met a woman who introduced herself as the patient¡¯s sister. ¡°Thank you for doing this,¡± the woman said, her voice laced with exhaustion and hope.

    Eva nodded. ¡°I appreciate you allowing me this opportunity.¡±

    Before they could continue their conversation, a hospital staff member approached her. ¡°Eva?¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°You can go in. Room 32.¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    ¡°Oh, and one more thing,¡± the staff member added, her expression firm. ¡°You only have thirty minutes.¡±

    Eva acknowledged the warning and proceeded toward the room. When she stepped inside, she found a man sitting on the hospital bed, biting his nails, his vacant eyes staring at nothing.

    ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Eva. It¡¯s nice to meet you.¡±

    He didn¡¯t react.

    She took a step closer. ¡°You can think of me as a friend.¡±

    The patient¡¯s gaze flickered to her for a brief second before returning to his nails.

    ¡°You know,¡± she continued, her voice gentle but firm, ¡°I see things that don¡¯t exist too.¡±

    His fingers froze. Slowly, he looked up at her, his dull eyes now filled with something resembling curiosity. ¡°Do you?¡± he asked.

    ¡°Yes. And I don¡¯t think it¡¯s a bad thing.¡± She placed a recorder on the table beside her. ¡°It just means we¡¯re different. We aren¡¯t like others.¡±

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    A strange smile stretched across his face. ¡°You¡¯re right¡­ I am different.¡±

    As their conversation went on, Eva carefully noted his behavior, gaining insight into the mind of someone suffering from bipolar disorder and maladaptive daydreaming. But just as she was about to wrap up, the patient¡¯s demeanor shifted. His expression darkened, his eyes darting around the room erratically.

    ¡°Are you leaving?¡± he asked suddenly, his voice sharp.

    Eva hesitated. ¡°I¡¯ll come back,¡± she reassured him, reaching for her things.

    ¡°You¡¯re lying,¡± he muttered. ¡°You will not come back.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not true. I¡¯ll be back.¡±

    ¡°Liar,¡± he hissed, gripping her wrist tightly. A surge of panic shot through her.

    ¡°Let go,¡± she said, trying to keep her voice calm.

    ¡°You said we¡¯re the same,¡± he continued, his grip tightening painfully. ¡°Now you¡¯re leaving me in this hell alone.¡±

    ¡°Please, let go,¡± she pleaded, struggling against his hold.

    His free hand reached under his pillow, pulling out a scalpel. Eva¡¯s eyes widened in horror. ¡°Help!¡± she shouted, twisting away.

    He slashed at her, missing the first time, but the second strike grazed her cheek. A sharp sting burned across her skin as blood dripped down. Desperation took over, and she kicked him hard in the stomach. His grip loosened just enough for her to break free.

    She ran toward the door, but just as she reached for the handle, he lunged at her again. Before he could strike, the door swung open, and a strong hand stopped his arm mid-air.

    Zayn.

    ¡°Enough!¡± Zayn yelled, his voice firm and unyielding. He pushed the patient back and called out for the doctors. A team of medical staff rushed in as Zayn quickly pulled Eva out of the room, slamming the door shut behind them.

    He turned to her, gripping her shoulders. ¡°Are you okay?¡± His eyes scanned her face until he noticed the blood trickling down her cheek. His jaw clenched as he pulled out a handkerchief and gently wiped it away. ¡°Eva.¡±

    She didn¡¯t respond, just stood there, staring blankly at the floor like she was still processing what had happened.

    A nurse approached and carefully applied antiseptic to her wound before wrapping it in a bandage. ¡°You should be more careful next time,¡± the nurse advised, patting Eva¡¯s shoulder.

    Eva and Zayn sat in the car in silence. He glanced at her before hesitating. ¡°Okay¡­ come sit in the passenger seat.¡±

    She didn¡¯t argue this time, quietly switching seats.

    ¡°You okay?¡± he asked again, starting the car.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine. And it¡¯s not like we can stay here all night,¡± she muttered.

    As they drove, Zayn broke the silence. ¡°Why was I there?¡±

    She turned to him, confused. ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°You asked why I came inside. Well, you were late, so I got worried. No one was downstairs, so I went up. Then I heard noises from that room, and when I opened the door, I saw you¡ª¡± His grip on the steering wheel tightened. ¡°¡ªand that psycho with a scalpel.¡±

    Eva let out a slow breath. ¡°Even though it was sudden¡­ you still managed to save me.¡±

    Zayn smirked. ¡°I¡¯m great, aren¡¯t I?¡±

    She nodded slightly, a small smile appearing on her lips. ¡°Yeah. You are.¡±

    <hr>

    Zayn arranged the meeting during break time. Everyone who had been there that night showed up, except for Cara and Jim¡ªThey attended a different school. The group settled into their seats, but Zayn was surprised to see one extra person¡ªSean. He hadn¡¯t expected him to be here. However, Katherine had already explained how Sean had gotten involved, so Zayn let it slide.

    "Guys, I don¡¯t believe in curses," Zayn began, looking around at the group, "but it¡¯s already started."

    "Explain," David urged, crossing his arms.

    "Yesterday, a patient tried to kill Eva. And two weeks ago, in her violin class, the chandelier fell right where she had been sitting."

    "How do you know that?" Katherine asked, frowning.

    "Yesterday, I was with her. She was too shaken to explain anything, so I did some digging and found out about the chandelier incident. She barely escaped, but luck won¡¯t always be on her side."

    "So you¡¯re saying the curse is real?" Jack sputtered, unease creeping into his voice.

    "Maybe."

    "But curses only affect those who¡¯ve done something unforgivable, right?" David asked hesitantly.

    "What an interesting topic we have here," Sean interjected, smirking as he leaned closer. "I¡¯d love to meet the girl who dared to attempt the Curse of Burial."

    Zayn¡¯s patience snapped. He kicked Sean¡¯s chair, making him stagger. Sean retaliated, slamming his hands on the table, but before things could escalate further, Katherine¡¯s voice cut through the tension.

    "You two¡ªcan you stop acting like children?!" she snapped. "This isn¡¯t a joke. We¡¯re the ones who dragged Eva into this. If she tells anyone, they¡¯ll think we tried to kill her."

    She ran a hand through her blonde hair, frustration evident on her face. "And honestly¡­ would they be wrong?"

    "She won¡¯t say anything," Zayn said firmly. "She just won¡¯t."

    "Our first priority is to keep this from Cara," Jack stated.

    "Why?" Sean asked, raising an eyebrow. "I¡¯m one of you now, right? Don¡¯t I deserve to know?"

    Everyone shot him a look. Jack sighed. "Because if Cara finds out, she¡¯ll post about it for views and likes."

    "She already posted it," Katherine said quietly.

    Everyone turned to her in shock. "When?" Zayn demanded. "And why isn¡¯t it on her channel?"

    Jack pulled out his phone, quickly checking her page. "He''s right¡ªit¡¯s not here."

    Katherine frowned, confused. "I know she posted it. I saw it when we were at the caf¨¦ together¡­ but now it¡¯s gone."

    No one had an explanation, but the bell rang, signaling the end of their break. The conversation had to end for now. Bags were slung over shoulders, and everyone prepared to leave when Sean spoke up again.

    "I think you guys need to know how to break the curse."

    "There¡¯s barely anything online about it," Katherine scoffed as she walked past him.

    "But a book will have the answer."

    David narrowed his eyes. "The Book of the Curse of Burial? You have it?"

    Sean smirked. "I don¡¯t. But I know who does."

    "Guys, he¡¯s bluffing. Don¡¯t listen to him," Zayn muttered.

    Sean ignored him, his smirk widening. "Lily Foster."

 Whispers of the Past, Shadows of the Present

    The glow of the television flickered across the dimly lit living room as Lateen sat curled up on the couch, watching her favorite evening show. The familiar voices and cheerful background music filled the silence, but her mind wasn¡¯t focused on the screen.

    Her thoughts kept circling back to Zayn.

    Lately, he had been acting different¡ªtense, distant. That warmth he always carried, the kindness that made him special, seemed buried beneath something heavier. Zayn had always been honest, someone who cherished those around him. He brought people together and made them feel safe. But now¡­ it was like he was drifting away, lost in thoughts he refused to share.

    And then, there was Eva.

    Lateen had hurt her that night with words she never meant to say the way they sounded. Ever since then, Eva had been quiet, her usual brightness dimmed.

    "Lateen, do you also think I always bring misfortune?" she had asked, her voice small, fragile.

    The question struck Lateen like a blade. That wasn¡¯t what she meant at all.

    "No!" The word had barely left her lips.

    Eva lowered her gaze, her fingers twisting nervously together. "I know¡­ ever since I came here, people have started disappearing. It never happened before in Millowere."

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    The weight of her words settled deep in Lateen¡¯s chest.

    "No, I don¡¯t think that at all!" she said firmly, stepping closer and taking Eva¡¯s hands in hers.

    Finally, Eva looked up, hesitation flickering in her amber eyes.

    "If anything," Lateen continued, "after you came, Zayn changed. He started smiling again. You made him happy."

    A small, forgiving smile crossed Eva¡¯s lips, and Lateen sighed in relief. Eva was not the type to hold grudges¡ªshe always found the good in people, even when they failed her.

    But relief was short-lived.

    Because Zayn had changed.

    He had already lost himself once when his friend disappeared. He had struggled to find his way back. And now, something was pulling him into the shadows again.

    Lateen couldn''t sit still anymore.

    She got up from the couch, pacing the living room before deciding. If Zayn wasn¡¯t going to tell her what was wrong, she would ask him herself.

    Lateen walked through the house, heading straight for Zayn¡¯s room. The door creaked softly as she pushed it open.

    Empty.

    Frowning, she turned on her heels and made her way to the kitchen, where Aunt was preparing dinner, the scent of spices filling the air. Lateen lingered at the doorway.

    "Aunt, where¡¯s Zayn?" she asked.

    "He¡¯s at a friend¡¯s house," Aunt replied without much thought.

    That didn¡¯t sit right with Lateen.

    "Which friend?" she pressed.

    Aunt simply shook her head. "That, I don¡¯t know."

    Lateen sighed, glancing back toward the hallway. If Zayn was keeping things from her, then she had no choice but to wait for him in his room.

    Something was wrong.

    And she had a feeling this was only the beginning.

    <hr>

 The Girl No One Knew: Three

    Leon stood at the bus stop, absentmindedly scrolling through his phone while waiting. His eyes flickered up just in time to see Alex crossing the road.

    "You''re late," Leon said as Alex reached him.

    "Yeah, sorry," Alex replied, slightly out of breath.

    Leon eyed him suspiciously. "Where were you?"

    Alex hesitated for a moment before smirking. "Don¡¯t you already know?"

    Leon sighed. Of course, he knew¡ªAlex had gone to meet her. He had invited Leon to come along, but as always, Leon had refused. He wasn¡¯t interested.

    Once on the bus, Alex took the window seat while Leon slid in beside him. He pulled out his phone again, checking the class schedule for the day.

    "You know, Leon¡­ I still haven¡¯t finished my project," Alex admitted, tapping his fingers against the window.

    Leon barely looked up. "So?"

    "You know what I¡¯m asking."

    "Not happening."

    Before Alex could protest, Leon abruptly got up and moved four seats back. He knew exactly what would happen if he stayed¡ªAlex would spend the entire ride begging him to do the project for him.

    Alex groaned dramatically, slumping against the window. "You¡¯re so heartless, man."

    Leon just smirked, finally able to enjoy a peaceful ride.

    <hr>

    The bakery bustled with activity as customers waited for their orders to be packed. The scent of freshly baked bread and sweet pastries filled the air. Aylin worked swiftly alongside Tania, sealing boxes with precision and handing over parcels with a practiced ease.

    "Thank you for your patience!" she said with a polite smile as she passed the last parcel to a customer.

    Just as she exhaled in relief, her gaze drifted past the store window. A small figure sat on the ground a little distance away, his clothes ragged and smeared with dirt. His tiny frame looked fragile, as if the wind itself could sweep him away. Aylin hesitated for a moment but forced herself to look away. It wasn¡¯t her place to interfere.

    This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    However, the boy had already noticed her.

    A while later, a sudden noise at the counter pulled her from her thoughts. She turned to see the same boy now standing inside the bakery, his small fingers tapping against the glass display, his black eyes wide with longing as he stared at the cakes.

    Aylin walked over and crouched beside him. "Do you want one?" she asked softly.

    The boy glanced up at her, hesitated, then gave a small nod.

    She reached into the case and pulled out a slice of cake, placing it gently into his hands. The moment the dessert touched his fingers, he clutched it tightly¡ªlike he was afraid it would disappear if he didn''t hold on fast enough¡ªand began eating hurriedly, stuffing large bites into his mouth.

    "Who''s that?" a sharp voice cut through the moment.

    Aylin turned to see the cafeteria lady approaching, her expression stern. "And why is that kid eating our pastries? Does he even have money?" Her voice grew louder, drawing the attention of a few customers.

    Panic surged through Aylin. Without thinking, she grabbed a packet of bread from the counter, took the boy¡¯s hand, and dashed out of the store.

    "I''ll pay for it!" she called back over her shoulder.

    They stopped a little farther down the street, near a wooden bench shaded by a rustling tree. The boy climbed onto the chair while Aylin bent down, catching her breath. She noticed his eyes fixed on the bread in her hands.

    Without a word, she extended it toward him.

    He snatched it quickly but didn¡¯t stop eating the cake in his other hand, switching between bites like he hadn¡¯t eaten in days.

    "What¡¯s your name, kiddo?" she asked gently.

    He paused just long enough to glare at her. "I¡¯m twelve. I¡¯m not a kid."

    Aylin blinked in surprise. At first glance, she had assumed he was no older than seven or eight. He was far too small for someone his age.

    She watched as he devoured the bread, not even pausing to take a breath. "Were you that hungry?" she murmured, already knowing the answer.

    The boy shot her another look, as if to say Isn¡¯t it obvious?

    "Where are your parents?" she asked, keeping her voice light.

    "I don¡¯t have any." His tone was indifferent, but his words carried the weight of something heavier than a child should bear.

    Aylin fell silent.

    "What?" the boy muttered, his mouth still half full. "Aren''t you going to say ¡®what a poor kid¡¯ like everyone else?"

    Instead of pity, Aylin reached out and gently ruffled his messy hair.

    "Do I look like someone who would?" she asked with a small smile.

    The boy stiffened for a moment, unused to such a simple act of kindness. He looked up at her, confusion flickering in his dark eyes.

    Before he could respond, a familiar voice called out.

    "Aylin!"

    She turned to see James approaching, his face filled with concern. She exhaled, standing up and brushing her hands off.

    The boy watched as she walked away, still processing what had just happened.

    And for the first time in a long while, he felt something warm¡ªsomething unfamiliar but not entirely unwelcome.

 Threads of Deception.

    The soft glow of a desk lamp illuminated Katherine¡¯s room as she flipped through the worn pages of The Curse of Burial, the book Zayn had borrowed from Lily. The air smelled of old paper and ink, a quiet contrast to the storm of thoughts in her mind. Two hours had passed, yet she had found nothing¡ªno clue, no answers¡ªnothing that hinted at breaking the so-called curse.

    Frustrated, she tossed the book aside and reached for her phone, dialing Jack¡¯s number.

    "Hello, Jack.

    "Yeah, Kat?" His familiar voice instantly lightened her mood, even if only for a moment.

    "Can you come over? It¡¯s important."

    Thirty minutes later, she spotted him through her window, pedaling toward her house on his old bicycle. The moment he stopped, she flung open the door before he could even knock.

    Jack jumped back, startled. "Woah! What¡¯s with the rush?"

    "Just come in," she said, stepping aside.

    Jack made himself comfortable on the couch, sitting cross-legged, while Katherine paced back and forth, biting her nails. He watched her with an amused smirk, which only irritated her further.

    "What are you smiling at?" she snapped.

    "You," he chuckled. "What¡¯s got you this worked up?"

    She huffed, grabbed her phone, and shoved the screen in his face. A picture of Eva glowed under the dim light. "Look at this, Jack! What if she dies because of our stupid game?"

    Jack leaned back, exhaling. "Kat, do you believe in this?"

    "I don¡¯t want to," she admitted, voice shaking. "But what if it¡¯s real?"

    Jack stood up and placed his hands on her shoulders, gently but firmly. "Kat, you need to calm down. We don¡¯t even know if this curse is real or just some eerie coincidence."

    She stared at him, her amber eyes filled with something between doubt and fear. "Jack¡­ we need to talk about Alex."

    His entire body tensed. For a second, he just stood there, unmoving. Then, with a slow exhale, he removed his hands from her shoulders and rubbed the back of his neck, his gaze shifting away.

    "Jack," she pleaded. "This is the only way¡ª"

    Before she could finish, he pulled her into a tight embrace. Katherine froze. The warmth of his arms around her sent a shock through her body. She barely had time to process it before he pressed a soft kiss to her forehead.

    Then, in a low whisper, he said, "Kat, please stay out of this. I don¡¯t want you to get hurt."

    And just like that, he was gone.

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    Katherine stood there, stunned, her heart pounding. What had just happened? And more importantly¡ªwhat was Jack so afraid of?

    <hr>

    Katherine handed over the bills to the cashier. "That¡¯ll be 300." She took her change and collected her groceries, about to leave when she suddenly remembered¡ªinstant noodles.

    She sighed and turned back, weaving her way through the aisles to the snack section. That¡¯s when she spotted Eva, arms full of noodle packets, stacking more into her basket.

    "That¡¯s a lot," Katherine remarked.

    Eva turned, her dark eyes gleaming with amusement. "Is it?"

    "Isn¡¯t it?" Katherine chuckled.

    Eva smiled. "This way, I don¡¯t have to cook every day."

    After finishing their shopping, they stepped out of the supermarket. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden hue over the street. Katherine reached for two of Eva¡¯s heavy poly bags.

    "Can I ask you something, Eva?"

    Eva¡¯s expression shifted slightly, her pupils darkening. "Go ahead."

    Katherine hesitated before speaking. "Are you¡­ Angry at me?"

    For a moment, Eva simply stared at her. Then, a soft smile curved her lips. "Why would I be?"

    Katherine exhaled and took another bag from Eva¡¯s hands. "Let me help you¡ªconsider it a favor from a new friend."

    Eva raised an eyebrow, a small chuckle escaping her. "Friend?"

    They stopped at a street corner where a group of children was playing, their laughter echoing through the air. Katherine watched them with a wistful gaze.

    "They¡¯re lucky, aren¡¯t they?" she murmured.

    Eva tilted her head. "Are they?"

    Katherine glanced at her. "Of course. Look how carefree they are. They don¡¯t have to worry about what people think. No responsibilities, no expectations."

    Eva hummed in response. "You could be carefree too, you know. You don¡¯t have to care about what others think. You can choose not to take responsibility, just like them."

    Katherine shook her head. "I can¡¯t. I¡¯m an adult now."

    Eva smirked, reclaiming her bags. "Who said being an adult means you can¡¯t do those things?"

    Katherine blinked at her in confusion, but Eva continued. "There¡¯s no real boundary between childhood and adulthood, Katherine. People around us create those boundaries, and it¡¯s up to us whether we accept them or not. It¡¯s up to you. Not every kid can be an adult."

    She reached out, gently brushing a strand of Katherine¡¯s hair behind her ear before turning toward the opposite street.

    Katherine stood frozen for a moment, watching Eva disappear into the crowd. No one had ever said something like that to her before.

    And somehow, it lingered in her heart.

    <hr>

    "Lateen!"

    "What? Why are you yelling?" Lateen called back, neatly folding her clothes into the wardrobe.

    Zayn leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed. "Where are you going?"

    She didn¡¯t turn around. "Out of town. Somewhere."

    His frown deepened. "Why?"

    Lateen sighed, finally facing him. "I¡¯m not leaving right now." She pulled out her phone and showed him a screenshot of her flight ticket. "I¡¯ll go in a few days."

    Zayn took the phone and checked the details. His eyes flickered over the screen, but something caught his attention¡ªthere was no return flight.

    "When are you coming back?" he asked.

    She hesitated. "I haven''t decided yet."

    He exhaled sharply and sat on the bed, his hands tightening into fists.

    "Lateen, I want to ask you something."

    She caught the nervous edge in his voice and softened her tone. "Go ahead."

    Zayn lowered his gaze as if afraid of what he was about to reveal. "What if... someone got hurt because of you?"

    Lateen stilled for a moment before answering. "Then I¡¯d make it up to them. I¡¯d help them however I could."

    His grip on his knees tightened. "Aren¡¯t you going to ask why I¡¯m bringing this up?"

    She gave him a small, knowing smile. "Like you¡¯d tell me."

    Zayn chuckled. "You got me." He stood up, tossing a small packet of chocolate toward her. "My treat."

    She caught it effortlessly, but as her fingers curled around the packet, a sudden wave of sadness washed over her. Her expression darkened. "What if I fail?" she murmured under her breath.

    Her eyes glistened with unshed tears. She wasn¡¯t just afraid of failing¡ªshe was afraid of losing him, her mischievous and innocent little brother. She knew he was hiding something, and whatever it was, it terrified her.

    At that moment, Zayn¡¯s phone vibrated. A message from Katherine.

    Zayn! I found something.

    His heart pounded as he read the next line.

    The curse can be broken. If we protect the person for thirty days after the curse begins, they can be saved.

    For a fleeting second, hope flickered in his chest. But then, the message ended abruptly.

    Right¡­ only if we can.

    Zayn stared at the screen, stunned.

    Meanwhile, Katherine sat on the edge of her bed, gripping her phone tightly.

    She had just lied.

    It was the only way.

    She had only known Eva for a year and a half. Today was the first time they had spoken properly. And yet, she was willing to do anything to save her.

    Because she had come to understand one cruel truth¡ªthis curse didn¡¯t just punish those who deserved it.

    It destroyed the innocent, too.

 The Girl No One Knew: Four.

    Alex ordered a cup of coffee and remained standing at the counter, watching as Aylin prepared his drink with quiet concentration.

    ¡°Sir, you can go and sit at a table,¡± she said without looking up.

    Alex leaned forward slightly, smirking. ¡°Don¡¯t call me ¡®sir.¡¯ My name is Alex. And if I sit, will you come and serve me personally?¡±

    Aylin lowered her gaze, her fingers steady as she continued making his coffee.

    Before she could respond, a voice chimed in from behind. ¡°Are you picking on her again, kid?¡± James, the caf¨¦¡¯s co-owner, walked past with a tray of cupcakes balanced in his hands. ¡°Come up with something better, would you?¡± He shot Alex a knowing look and disappeared into the back with a smirk.

    Alex exhaled, shaking his head in amusement. He stepped behind the counter, reaching for the coffee cup just as Aylin finished preparing it. She tried to pull back, but his hand lightly grazed hers as he set the cup down on the counter.

    ¡°What are you¡ª¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to make you the happiest person alive,¡± he said with an air of certainty.

    Aylin hesitated, stealing a glance at James. The older man had noticed them, but he pretended not to see anything, continuing his work as if nothing was happening.

    Before she could object, Alex grabbed her wrist and led her out of the caf¨¦.

    James watched them go, his eyes following their retreating figures until they disappeared into the city lights. A customer noticed his lingering gaze.

    ¡°What are you looking at?¡±

    James smiled to himself. ¡°Nothing¡­ Just that something¡¯s about to change.¡±

    Aylin was exhausted by the time Alex finally stopped running. He had pulled her all the way to the beach near his school, and now she stood there, bent over, hands resting on her knees as she tried to catch her breath. The cool night breeze carried the sound of crashing waves, filling the silence between them.

    ¡°Why are you doing this?¡± she asked, her voice laced with frustration.

    Alex stood with his hands in his pockets, gazing at the restless ocean. ¡°I want you to be happy¡­ just like these waves.¡±

    She straightened up, her breathing evening out. ¡°Waves?¡± she repeated, finally looking at him.

    Their eyes locked¡ªhers guarded, his unwavering. He stepped closer, gently placing a hand on her back, his fingers slipping into the strands of her soft, wavy hair. His forehead touched hers, and for a moment, everything else faded.

    ¡°Look at them,¡± he murmured. ¡°Even the smallest breeze makes them leap. That¡¯s how I want you to be¡­ to find happiness in the smallest things.¡±

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    Aylin blinked, stepping back just slightly. ¡°But why do you want me to be happy?¡±

    ¡°Oh, that?¡± Alex scratched the back of his head, giving her a sheepish grin. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±

    She stared at him blankly. His response was so simple¡ªso stupid¡ªit caught her off guard.

    Alex noticed the way she tensed, and slowly, he let his hand fall away. The silence stretched between them, thick and unspoken. He hesitated before extending his hand toward her, offering¡­ something. But Aylin didn¡¯t take it.

    He chuckled softly, slipping his hand back into his pocket. With his other hand, he rubbed the back of his head, a teasing glint in his gray eyes.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of me?¡± she finally asked.

    He tilted his head slightly. ¡°Afraid? Why would I be?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t know anything about me.¡±

    His expression softened. ¡°I don¡¯t need to.¡±

    ¡°You should,¡± she said, her voice quieter now. ¡°It¡¯s better if you do.¡±

    Alex¡¯s eyes widened slightly at the weight of her words. Did she¡­ want him to dig into her past? He narrowed his gaze in thought, then suddenly turned toward the ocean.

    The waves crashed against the shore as he cupped his hands around his mouth and shouted, ¡°AYLIN!¡±

    She stopped in her tracks, startled.

    Alex lowered his hands, grinning like an idiot. The wind tousled his silver hair, and under the moonlight, his expression was one of pure, boyish mischief.

    Aylin sighed, shaking her head. ¡°You¡¯re impossible.¡±

    She turned away, her footprints imprinted on the soft, sluggish sand.

    Alex watched her retreating figure, his smile never fading.

    Maybe he didn¡¯t know everything about her. Maybe she was hiding something. But at this moment, he didn¡¯t care.

    All he cared about was making her smile.

    Even if just for a little while.

    <hr>

    The caf¨¦ was empty, the soft hum of the refrigerator and the faint ticking of the clock the only sounds filling the space. Aylin wiped down the last table, her movements slow and methodical. It was late, and the evening air seeped in through the open door.

    She sighed and walked toward it, reaching out to close it¡ª

    But just as her fingers touched the handle, a small figure suddenly appeared in front of her.

    A boy, covered in mud from head to toe.

    Aylin gasped but quickly pulled him inside, shutting the door behind them. Dropping to her knees, she took the hem of her apron and gently wiped the dirt from his round, black eyes, his soft cheeks smeared with grime.

    ¡°What are you doing here at this hour?¡± she asked, concern evident in her voice.

    The boy¡¯s dark eyes darted around the shop before landing on her. ¡°If I came earlier, that lady would¡¯ve yelled at you again.¡±

    Aylin froze for a moment, her fingers stilling against his skin. Then, with a sigh, she brushed his messy hair back.

    ¡°Come on,¡± she said, standing up. ¡°Sit down. I¡¯ll get you something to eat.¡±

    She led him to a table and placed a plate of biscuits and cakes in front of him. The boy¡¯s face lit up as he eagerly took a bite, but his eyes never left her as she continued wiping the counters.

    ¡°You have beautiful eyes,¡± he suddenly said between bites.

    Aylin glanced at him, startled. Then, she smiled softly. ¡°You do, too.¡±

    The boy scrunched his nose. ¡°But my eyes are black. Everyone has black eyes.¡±

    Her hands stilled on the cloth she was holding. She bit her lower lip, debating her words carefully before walking over to him.

    ¡°That¡¯s not true,¡± she said gently, kneeling beside him. ¡°Your eyes¡­ they hold something deep inside, something that can¡¯t be revealed so easily.¡±

    He blinked at her, confused.

    ¡°And I love the way they light up when you eat,¡± she added with a teasing smile.

    The boy blushed, quickly turning his gaze away as he stuffed another biscuit into his mouth.

    Aylin chuckled, shutting her eyes for a brief moment. Relief washed over her¡ªshe had found the right words. She didn¡¯t want him to feel insecure about himself.

    When she finished cleaning up, she carefully placed the caf¨¦¡¯s earnings in the drawer, switched off the lights, and locked the door behind her. Stepping outside, she wrapped her arms around herself as the night breeze brushed against her skin.

    Now, all that was left was to wait.

    James would be here to pick her up soon.

    She gazed up at the dark sky, her thoughts lingering on the small boy who had unexpectedly walked into her quiet evening.

    Something about him¡­

    It reminded her of a past she had long tried to forget.

 Unseen Glances

    The classroom was eerily quiet, the air thick with an uneasy silence as Laila continued her lecture.

    "A man was standing on the rooftop, his heart pounding against his ribs. Behind him, another man yelled¡ªfurious, accusing. And then, without thinking, he pushed him off."

    She paused, letting the words settle before posing the question:

    "Why did he do it?"

    ''''Was he a killer by nature, or was he just an ordinary person caught in a moment of madness?".

    ''''Did he even realize what he had done?".

    Laila was the crime psychology teacher, but because there were only a handful of students enrolled in psychology, she often ended up substituting for other subjects. Today, their math teacher was absent, so Laila had taken over the class.

    And instead of math, they got a full-fledged crime psychology discussion.

    Recently, crime rates in town had surged, and she probably thought she was raising awareness, but giving them homework on the topic? That was just like her. Laila had a habit of oversharing the darkest parts of her subject. One time, she casually explained how some murderers killed without reason, just to satisfy themselves. Another day, she described how even the most normal people could lose control and kill if pushed too far. And today, her example lingered in his mind like an unsettling shadow.

    he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that somehow, she was talking about¡ª

    "Hey, what are you doing for the homework?"

    Jack¡¯s voice snapped him out of my thoughts. He leaned forward from behind, whispering just loud enough for him to hear.

    "I¡¯ll figure something out," he muttered, turning to glance at him.

    Jack, however, had other plans. He pulled out his notebook from his bag and shoved it toward him.

    "Do mine too, please."

    he sighed, already knowing he wouldn¡¯t be able to refuse.

    After class, he went to my locker to grab his PT shoes. That¡¯s when he noticed Laila standing outside the classroom, her usual composed expression in place. He hesitated for a moment before handing my bag to Jack and walking toward her.

    She turned her gaze to him, offering a polite smile. "Zayn?"

    He opened his mouth, ready to ask her something that had been nagging at him since her lecture, but he couldn''t speak. he noticed Lily approaching from the other side of the hallway.

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    Laila tilted her head slightly. "What is it, Zayn?"

    he hesitated, then changed his question.

    "Umm¡­ I wanted to ask you something," he said, his voice suddenly uncertain.

    Laila arched an eyebrow, waiting.

    But with Lily now standing just a few steps away, he wasn¡¯t sure if he could ask what he wanted to.

    Zayn heard muffled noises coming from outside his room. Is someone fighting?

    He stepped out of his bedroom, only to find his mother standing near the door. She turned to him, her expression firm, and gestured for him to stay inside. But curiosity gnawed at him. Instead of listening, he casually walked toward the kitchen.

    Opening the fridge, he grabbed a water bottle to make it seem like he had come out for a drink. He set a glass on the counter and began pouring the water slowly, using the moment to glance outside.

    Through the kitchen window, he saw the neighbors gathered near the street, their voices raised in an argument. Among them stood her¡ªexpressionless, simply watching the chaos unfold. His eyes lingered on her for a moment before shifting back to the arguing figures. What¡¯s going on?

    Leaning against the counter, he tried to catch bits of the conversation.

    But then¡ªhis mother¡¯s sharp gaze caught him. She had been watching him all along.

    Zayn quickly looked away, pretending he hadn¡¯t noticed her. He grabbed the glass, took a sip, and left the kitchen, heading straight back to his room before she could say anything.

    <hr>

    Later that night, after dinner, Zayn went to Lateen¡¯s room. If there was any gossip worth knowing, she¡¯d have it.

    As expected, she smirked the moment she saw him. "You want to know what happened this afternoon, don¡¯t you?"

    Zayn sighed. "Just tell me."

    "Alright, let¡¯s start from the beginning." She leaned in, her tone filled with unnecessary drama. "Around two or two-thirty, that woman Eva¡ªyou know, the one who lives next door¡ª"

    "Yeah, I know Eva," he interrupted impatiently.

    "Good. Well, she was talking to Mr. Warner, the owner of this area, right in front of his house. And then boom¡ªout of nowhere, a flower pot from his balcony falls straight onto his head!" She made a dramatic gesture as if reenacting the impact.

    Zayn raised an eyebrow. "What?"

    "There was blood everywhere! His wife came running out, screaming her lungs out. The whole neighborhood gathered. Some people rushed him to the hospital, while others just stood there arguing about how the pot even fell in the first place. Stupidity, right?"

    Zayn frowned. "How did the pot fall?"

    Lateen shrugged. "Probably the wind." She paused, then narrowed her eyes at him. "Wait¡ªdon¡¯t tell me you think someone planned this?"

    "Not!" he scoffed, quickly getting up and leaving before she could probe further.

    <hr>

    Back in his room, Zayn stood near the window, gazing at the night sky.

    His room had two windows, but he usually kept one shut¡ªthe one facing her house. He didn¡¯t want her thinking he was some creep, watching her every move.

    But tonight¡­ he saw her.

    She stood outside her house, staring up at the sky. The faint glow of the streetlamp cast soft shadows on her figure. She wore black shorts and an oversized white T-shirt, her long hair left untied¡ªsomething she rarely did. The wind played with her strands, making them dance against the night. Her icy blue eyes gleamed in the dim light, her fair skin illuminated like a quiet mystery in the darkness.

    She was breathtaking.

    Zayn didn¡¯t even realize how intently he was staring until she suddenly turned her head directly toward him.

    And then¡­ she smiled.

    His heart skipped.

    Panic surged through him. He quickly averted his gaze, pretending he hadn¡¯t been watching her. Turning away from the window, he climbed into bed, forcing himself to breathe steadily.

    "Did she see me staring at her? How does she always catch me, even if I look for just a second? How¡­ how?"

    His mind raced with a hundred thoughts. But in the end, he closed his eyes and told himself¡ª

    It was just a coincidence. Just a coincidence.

 Lost And Found.

    When Zayn was eleven, his best friend left town to study in a different city. They had been inseparable, sharing everything from childhood secrets to dreams of the future. But distance had a way of shifting things, no matter how much they swore it wouldn¡¯t.

    He had always looked up to his friend, admiring his ability to navigate life even when alone. Unlike Riley, Jack, and Jim¡ªwho were always around but never quite filled that space¡ªthis friend had been his entire world.

    For the first year after he left, they still tried to keep in touch. Calls became infrequent, and soon, the conversations felt more like an obligation than a connection. When his friend returned from vacation, he hardly spent time with Zayn. Instead, he was always glued to his phone, texting or calling someone else. Whoever that person was¡ªfriend, mentor, or girlfriend¡ªZayn hated them. He hated them with a quiet, bitter resentment that nestled deep in his heart.

    He knew it was selfish. He knew people changed, but he had foolishly believed that their bond would remain untouched. No matter where life took them, they would always be the same.

    Last summer, his friend came home, and Zayn barely spoke to him. He was angry, hurt, and unwilling to admit how much he missed him. Even when he noticed the stress lining his friend¡¯s face, the sadness in his eyes, Zayn said nothing.

    And then, just like that, he was gone again.

    <hr>

    The summer sun blazed high in the sky, casting golden light over everything it touched. It was the middle of the summer vacation, and for most kids, this was the best time of the year¡ªlong, lazy days with no school, filled with adventures and fun. But for Zayn, this summer was nothing short of a disappointment.

    He had been eagerly waiting for his best friend to visit. They had planned everything¡ªplaying games all night, sneaking out for ice cream, and biking around the neighborhood until they were exhausted. But this year, his friend didn''t come. Instead, Zayn was left all alone, bored out of his mind while his other friends went off on family vacations.

    With nothing better to do, he started bothering his parents constantly. He followed his mom around the house, asking pointless questions. He pestered his dad while he worked, asking for stories he had already heard a hundred times before. Eventually, his parents had enough.

    His mother sighed one evening, looking at his father with a knowing expression. "You know, I was thinking¡­ Zayn gets bored too easily. He¡¯s always up to some mischief, and honestly, he¡¯s a little cowardly too¡ªhe won¡¯t even go to the bathroom alone at night." She chuckled at her own words before continuing. "I was talking to my sister, and she suggested we let Lateen stay with us for the summer. She¡¯s older than him, and I think they¡¯ll get along. Maybe they¡¯ll even develop a nice sibling bond."

    And just like that, Lateen moved in.

    The moment she arrived, she took over everything. The first thing she did was steal his bedroom, then she took half of his parents¡¯ attention. His mother doted on her, his father praised her for being mature and responsible, and Zayn¡­ well, he was stuck as the forgotten child.

    It wasn¡¯t that he hated her¡ªhe just disliked how she acted like she was in charge. She was only a year older than him, yet she constantly told him what to do and what not to do, like some bossy older sister.

    Then came the so-called "vacation."

    His parents, feeling guilty for not taking him anywhere, decided to go on a trip before school started again. But what was supposed to be an exciting adventure turned into a disaster. They got scammed. Instead of the fun beach trip he had imagined, they were dragged to his grandmother¡¯s hometown¡ªa quiet, rural place surrounded by thick forests and rolling hills.

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    His father spoke fondly of this place, reminiscing about how he used to visit his grandmother as a child. Zayn wasn¡¯t all that interested, but since he had no choice, he went along with it. However, there was one rule.

    "You can go exploring if you want," his father said, "but you have to take Lateen with you. And don¡¯t let go of her hand until you get back safely."

    That was the last thing Zayn wanted. Lateen was already annoying enough, and now he had to be stuck with her the entire time? But of course, everyone agreed¡ªbecause Lateen was "trustworthy" and "independent" while he was just "mischievous and cowardly."

    When they stepped outside into the fresh countryside air, she grabbed his hand.

    "Why are you holding my hand?" he snapped, trying to pull away.

    "So you don¡¯t get lost," she replied in a high-pitched, exaggerated voice, clearly teasing him.

    "I¡¯m not a kid," he muttered.

    "I know," she said, laughing.

    Zayn gritted his teeth. He hated how she always treated him like a child. She was only one year older! What gave her the right to act so superior?

    As they walked, she never let go of his hand¡ªnot even for a second. She wouldn¡¯t let him visit the places he wanted, kept dragging him in different directions, and constantly reminded him to be careful.

    Frustrated, he finally had enough.

    "What does she think she is? My babysitter?" he thought angrily.

    So, in one swift move, he yanked his hand free and ran.

    "Zayn! Stop!" Lateen yelled behind him.

    But he didn¡¯t stop. He ran as fast as he could, laughing under his breath as he escaped her watchful eye. He wanted some freedom, even if it was just for a little while.

    After a while, he slowed down, catching his breath. That¡¯s when he heard it¡ªthe sound of rushing water. His curiosity piqued, he followed the sound and soon found himself standing in front of a breathtaking waterfall.

    The water cascaded down smooth rocks, shimmering under the golden glow of the setting sun. Butterflies flitted around, their wings catching the light in bursts of color. It was a magical sight.

    Zayn sat on a nearby rock, watching the waterfall in awe. He lost track of time, enjoying the peaceful moment.

    But when he finally decided to head back, he realized something terrifying.

    He didn¡¯t know which way to go.

    Panic set in. He walked in one direction, then another, but the trees all looked the same. No matter where he went, he somehow ended up back at the waterfall. His heart pounded. He ran, pushing through bushes and trees, but it was useless. The forest was like a maze, and he was trapped.

    Then, to make things worse, he tripped on a root and scraped his leg. The sharp sting made him wince. He sat down under a tree, trying not to cry, but fear settled deep inside him. The sun had set. The forest was getting darker.

    "Someone, please help me!" he shouted, his voice trembling.

    He called out again and again, but only the rustling of leaves and the distant hoot of an owl answered him.

    And then¡ª

    "Zayn? Is that you?"

    His heart leaped. That was his mother¡¯s voice! A tiny spark of hope ignited in his chest.

    "Yes! It¡¯s me! Please, come here!" he shouted.

    "Stay where you are, I¡¯m coming!"

    The voice came closer, and Zayn held his breath. But when the figure finally emerged from the darkness, it wasn¡¯t his mother.

    It was Lateen.

    She was covered in mud, her clothes were torn in places, and bruises dotted her arms and face. She held a flashlight, shining it in his direction. Despite her messy state, her green eyes locked onto him with relief.

    At that moment, something inside Zayn changed. He had been expecting his mother, but seeing Lateen instead made him feel¡­ safe. Warm. He didn¡¯t know why, but his chest tightened, and before he realized it, tears welled up in his eyes.

    She ran toward him and hugged him tightly.

    "Finally! I found you!" she sobbed, holding him close.

    He was the one who had run away. He was the one who had been careless. And yet, she had been the one searching for him this whole time.

    Guilt and relief crashed into him all at once. He clung to her, burying his face in her shoulder.

    "I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry," he mumbled, his voice shaking. Right now, he didn¡¯t care if he looked like a little kid¡ªhe just wanted to be forgiven.

    Lateen pulled back, cupping his face as she wiped the dust from his cheeks. "Can you stand?" she asked gently.

    He shrugged, then tried to stand, but the pain in his leg made him wince.

    She noticed immediately. "Did you hurt yourself?"

    He nodded weakly.

    Without hesitation, she removed her scarf and tied it around his wound. Then, before he could protest, she crouched down and carried him onto her back.

    The entire way home, she carried him¡ªwithout complaint, without scolding him for running away.

    And for the first time, Zayn didn¡¯t mind being treated like a kid.

    Because, at that moment, he realized something.

    Maybe Lateen wasn¡¯t so bad after all.