Reckless Hearts

pen smoothly completed the cross mark in the tiny square of the calendar. She ha

lly considered this day throughout the past week, her nerves threatened to drive her to madness as it drew near. The absence of her friends, who h

o a cold liquid mirroring the raindrops against her window. The thought of its taste made her cringe, and she abandoned the book in

instantly recognized her mother's presence. "Come in, Mom,"

. It was evident that she hadn't found a moment of rest either. Approaching the bed, she embraced Ruby and plante

nds are going to be

opportunity to branch out, experience othe

ding about it," Ruby retorted, her gaze d

ss of milk. She braced herself for a scolding, but to her surprise, her mother smiled. "Drink

t day tomorrow," her mother reassured, switching off

ries refused to dissipate. They manifested as recurrin

*

nty minutes to reach her first class. Despite repeatedly co

ed the idea, urging herself forward with determination. "You

class of the day was scheduled. Suddenly, she remembered that

other students. Consulting the map once more, she realized she would have to wal

, realizing there was an error in the map. With no other option, she approached a

oat, Ruby spoke

tly, and all eyes turned towards

-fitting t-shirt that draped lazily over her body, and her straight, silky hair cascad

student in senior year. I was wondering if you could help me fin

rained from commenting. Smiling warmly, she introdu

m the group, who strode towards them, his gaze fixed on Ruby. He stood tall, boas

ectly, "I'll show you the way to the o

lied, offering a

nto his ear. Ruby strained to catch the words but couldn't. She obser

? That's the office. The map hasn't been updated. It was reloc

hint of hesitation flickered in her mind, sensing some potential trouble, but she dismissed the feeling. Caden's

kly, Ruby pushed the office

milkshake strategically positioned above the door had been flip

hing his stomach as he laughed at her misfortune. He glanced at another guy, Daniel, who joined in

get out of here." The group retreated, leavin

d from her hair. Her nostrils flared, and without a second thought, her hand connected with Caden's cheek, delivering a forceful slap

—Ruby fueled by anger, and Caden real

, he growled through gritted teet