Chapter 2 – Reunited and Radiant
Two paths once parted now align,
Old hearts meet where new stars shine.
Laughter returns, the past takes flight—
Two souls rekindle in morning light.
For a few seconds, time stood still.
Then _
"Clara?" the girl gasped, her voice trembling. "Oh my gosh… Clara, or am I dreaming?"
Clara blinked, tears pricking her eyes. "Liona… Liona, Liona!"
Before either could say another word, they ran toward each other and hugged tightly, laughter mixing with little gasps of disbelief.
"I can't believe it's really you," Liona said, her voice shaking with excitement. "Please tell me this isn't a dream!"
Clara grinned through happy tears. "It's not a dream. It's really me!"
They held each other for another long moment before stepping back, eyes shining with joy.
"I'm super excited to see you, best friend," Clara said, her cheeks glowing.
"This is the best surprise I've ever gotten on my way to school!" Liona laughed.
"Same here. I was just coming from the principal's office. I'm heading to my class now."
"Which class did you get?"
"S2."
Liona's eyes widened. "No way! I'm in S2 too. I left the principal's office like thirty minutes ago—if I'd stayed a little longer, I would've met you sooner!"
"Wow, that's amazing."
"By the way, I love your outfit," Liona said, eyeing Clara's uniform with a playful smile.
Clara chuckled. "Look who's talking! You look splendid. Fashion has always been your thing since we were kids."
Liona twirled lightly. "You noticed? Well, maybe now we're finally on the same level."
They both laughed.
Liona's outfit matched Clara's school uniform but had her own signature twist—her blazer was neatly pinned with a silver butterfly brooch, and her skirt shimmered slightly in the light. Her white stockings and pastel-pink hairband made her look effortlessly stylish, like she'd just walked out of a fashion magazine.
"Come on," Clara said, smiling. "Let's go before we're late."
The moment they stepped into the classroom corridor, the noise of chatting students filled the air. But as soon as Clara and Liona crossed the threshold, silence fell like a wave.
Every head turned.
Whispers stopped. Pens froze midair.
It was as if the entire room forgot how to breathe.
The two girls walked side by side, their presence commanding quiet admiration. Their matching uniforms, confidence, and glowing smiles made them impossible to ignore.
The boys were wide-eyed. The girls watched with a mix of awe and envy.
They took seats together at the left side of the classroom.
"Girl, did you see what just happened?" Liona whispered, stifling a giggle.
Clara smiled. "Ignore them. Let's just chat."
They both pulled out their phones—sleek, pink latest-edition smartphones with matching butterfly covers. The resemblance made them blink in surprise.
"No way," Liona said, laughing. "We still have the same taste?"
Clara looked at her phone, shaking her head. "Unbelievable. Some things never change."
Just then, two boys approached their desk, curiosity written all over their faces.
To be continued…p