Not long after, school was already over.

  The hallway filled with noise as students rushed past me, laughing and talking about things that didn't matter. I adjusted my bag and walking toward the exit.

  I was almost outside when I heard my name.

  Cody...... wait

  I turned just in time to see Kira jogging toward me, her bag bouncing at her side. She stopped in front of me, slightly out of breath, then smiled.

  Are you heading home? she asked.

  You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

  Yeah, I said.

  Me too," she replied, her smile widening.

  We walked together toward the school gates. The air outside felt cooler, calmer. For a while, we talked about small things—classes, teachers, nothing important. Still, it felt easy. Comfortable.

  When we reached the corner where our paths split, Kira slowed down.

  "I'll see you tomorrow," she said.

  "Yeah. See you."

  She gave a small wave before turning and heading off. I stood there for a moment, watching her go, before walking home myself.

  At the time, I thought this was just a normal day.

  I had no idea how fragile normal really was.

  When I got home, the house was quiet in that familiar way. I dropped my bag by the door and headed to the kitchen.

  My mom looked up from the stove. "How was school?"

  "Fine," I said, a little too fast.

  She raised an eyebrow but didn't push it. "Dinner's ready soon."

  I nodded and went to my room. I lay back on my bed, staring at the ceiling. For some reason, my mind kept drifting back to today. To the classroom. To the way Kira smiled when she ran up to me after school, like she didn't want me to disappear.

  I shook my head and turned to my side.

  Why am I thinking about her so much?

  I buried my face into my pillow.

  "What are you doing, stupid mind?" I muttered.

  It was just one day. Just one Girl I met. That's all.

  Still... I smiled a little before I fell asleep.