Chapter 1: Senior Year Begins
My mom’s voice pierced through my sleepy haze.16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAKiIqdbulg
“Allie! Wake up! Wake up!” She shouted
I jumped out of bed, my heart racing. I didn’t even look at the clock. I just ran straight to the bathroom, took a quick shower, and hurried into my uniform. My mind screamed, I’m late! I’m late!
I bolted down the stairs, ready to face a scolding for being late, but then I froze. Something felt… wrong. The sky outside the window wasn’t dark like it should be for early morning. The sun wasn’t rising either. It was like the world had skipped night entirely.
I blinked, rubbing my eyes. “Wait… what time is it?” I whispered to myself, my voice shaking. Everything in the house was quiet, too quiet. Even my mom’s footsteps were gone.
A chill ran down my spine. This wasn’t just a normal morning. Something strange was happening, and I was the first one to notice.
It was still night, so I was completely shocked. I ran to my mom and shouted, “Mom! Why did you wake me up? I thought it was already morning! What’s wrong with you?”
I was so mad my face probably looked like a storm, and my hair was a total mess from rushing out of bed. I couldn’t believe I had gotten up so early for… nothing.
My mom froze, her eyes wide. “Allie… what are you doing? Are you out of your mind?”
I rolled my eyes and snapped back, “Duh, Mom! You just shouted at me in the middle of the night! I thought I was late on my first day of school. You’re the one out of your mind!”
Her face turned red with anger, and she raised her hand, slapping me slightly. “Don’t say that to me, child! I’m your mother!” she scolded, her voice sharp and serious.
I stared at her, still fuming, feeling a mix of shock and guilt.
I took a deep breath and said, “I’m sorry, Mom.” Then, curiosity got the better of me. “But… why were you yelling at me in the middle of the night?” I asked, my face full of questions.
Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she said, “Because… Gong Yoo is visiting here! And he’s announcing his new movie!”
My mom was practically bouncing with joy, her happiness so obvious it made me laugh. I stared at her, shaking my head. “Mom… you’re too old to be freaking out like this,” I giggled, nibbling on a cookie.
I couldn’t resist teasing her a little more. “And honestly… you’ll never have a chance to be with Gong Yoo,” I said, still munching on my cookie. My mom looked at me like she wanted to strangle me, but I just laughed harder.
After that, I went back to my room and flopped onto my bed. I grabbed my phone and saw a message from one of my friends.
“Ready for the first day of school tomorrow?” it read.
I just smiled to myself and replied with a simple 😊. Sometimes words weren’t needed a little smiley could say it all.
Then I put my phone down, thinking about the what happen earlier with my mom. Today had already been weird, funny, and a little exciting. I had a feeling tomorrow would be even more interesting because it my first day of school after that I turn off my phone and went to sleep again.
(Monday)
BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!
I heard my alarm clock and I woke up feeling so excited because today was the first day of school. I turned off the alarm and jumped out of bed, my heart racing fast from all the excitement.
“Yes! I’m finally in my senior year!” I shouted, bouncing on my bed. “Yeyeheyeheyy! Yesyesyesyes!”
I couldn’t stop myself. I threw my hands in the air and yelled, “Argggghhhhhhhh!” while jumping up and down, feeling like the happiest person in the world.
Then I grabbed my towel and rushed to the bathroom. I jumped into the shower and started singing at the top of my lungs.
“I’m singin’ggg ohhhohhhohhohhhhh! I’m in the eleventh grade babyy! Ohhohohoh! Happy and excited!”
I couldn’t help it the water splashing around me and the music in my head made me feel like dancing right there in the shower. Today just felt amazing.
After my shower, I rushed to put on my uniform. I still couldn’t believe it I was finally in senior year! I looked at myself in the mirror and whispered, “I can do this. This is it.”
I took a deep breath, feeling my heart beat faster with excitement, and said to myself, “It’s time to shine.”
I grabbed my school bag and ran downstairs, still buzzing with excitement. My mom was in the kitchen, humming a cheerful tune and sipping her coffee like nothing had happened last night and I saw her she's watching again the movies of her korean idol
“Good morning, Allie!” she said, smiling brightly. “Are you ready for your big first day?”
I rolled my eyes playfully but couldn’t hide my grin. “Yeah, Mom. I’m ready. Senior year, here I come!”
She laughed and shook her head. “You better be careful. Don’t trip over your own excitement!”
“Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll be careful, always,” I said with a smile. I grabbed a fork and started eating the pancakes she had made for me. They smelled so good, and I couldn’t resist taking a big bite.
While my mom was still blushing and talking about her Korean idol, Gong Yoo, I suddenly felt something strange in my chest. My heart was beating fast, and a nervous feeling washed over me.
“Mom… I’m… nervous,” I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper.
My mom’s eyes widened, and she quickly came closer, her face full of worry. “What’s wrong, baby? Why are you nervous?” she asked, gently placing her hand on my shoulder.
I looked at her carefully, trying to stay calm, and replied politely, “I… I’m scared, Mom. What if I don’t pass? What if I don’t graduate? What if I… drop out? What if my senior year is full of sadness?”
I swallowed hard, my voice trembling slightly. “I don’t want to disappoint you.”
My mom’s eyes softened instantly. She gently held my face in her hands and smiled warmly. “Allie… listen to me. You are strong, and I know you can do this. Senior year will be amazing, and no matter what happens, I’m proud of you. You could never disappoint me.”
Hearing her words, my heart felt a little lighter, and I took a deep breath, trying to let go of my fears.
We hugged each other tightly, and she gently kissed me on the top of my head.
“Thank you, Mom. You’re my favorite mother in the world,” I whispered.
She laughed softly and said, “Alex, I’m your only mother.”
I froze, my face a mix of curiosity and annoyance. Wait… she called me Alex? I thought, frowning. “Mom! Don’t call me that! You know I don’t like it!”
She just laughed harder, clearly enjoying teasing me. I rolled my eyes but couldn’t stop smiling. Even when she teased me, I loved her so much and I'm very luck to have her.
After our little hug and teasing, my mom went back to what she was doing, still humming and smiling.
Just then, my phone buzzed. It was my friend. “Hey girl! Are you ready?? I’m on my way to school!”
I quickly glanced at the time and realized it was already running late. “Yeah, I’m on my way! See you later, girl,” I typed back, my fingers flying over the screen.
“See you, girl!” she replied almost instantly.
I put my phone down, my heart racing with excitement. Today was finally the first day of senior year, and I could hardly wait to see what would happen next.
Suddenly, I heard someone knocking at my door. I froze for a moment, then slowly opened it.
I was completely shocked. It was… my father.
Yeah, my father.
You’re probably wondering why my dad wasn’t around our house. Well, here’s the story. My mom and dad met when they were teenagers, young and in love. They were both only eighteen when they had me. But after a few years, things didn’t work out between them. They broke up and went their separate ways, and my dad hasn’t been a part of our daily life since. But the good thing is, my mom and dad are on good terms now.
When I saw my dad standing in front of our door, I ran to him and hugged him tightly. He was smiling, and I could feel his warmth. He gently kissed the top of my head.
“Hi, Dad! I missed you so much!” I said, my voice full of excitement.
“I missed you more, sweetiepie!” he replied, grinning.
He looked at me with full excitement and asked, “So… are you ready for your first day?”
I nodded quickly, trying to contain my excitement. “Haysss, yes, Dad! I’m really excited… but a little nervous. But I’ll be okay.”
My dad smiled softly and said, “Oh, okay. Good, baby.”
Then I saw my mom notice my dad standing there. She walked over, and they hugged each other nothing romantic, just a warm, friendly hug.
I couldn’t help but feel a little awkward watching them. It was strange seeing my parents together like this after so many years apart. I shifted from foot to foot, unsure where to look, feeling a mix of happiness and nervousness all at once.
Even though it was a little awkward, I couldn’t help smiling. Today felt different… in a good way.
I waved goodbye to my mom and got into my dad’s car. As soon as we started driving, he reached over and held my hand.
“I’m very proud of you, my Alex,” he said softly.
I blinked, confused. “Wait… what do you mean, Alex? Dad, please don’t call me that nickname!”
He laughed warmly. “What do you mean? It’s very cute.”
I rolled my eyes. “You like Mom… she always calls me that stupid name!” I tried to pull my hand away, my face showing how annoyed I was.
But my dad gently grabbed my head and kissed me on the top. “Haha, I’m joking, honey,” he said with a grin.
I couldn’t help but smile, and he smiled back, both of us laughing quietly together.
As we got closer to my school, I couldn’t help staring. Even from far away, it looked huge. There were so many buildings, and everything seemed so grand.
It didn’t even feel like a school. Honestly, it felt more like a company with all those buildings! I blinked a few times, trying to take it all in. Senior year was starting, and just looking at the campus made my heart race with excitement and nervousness at the same time.
When my dad saw my face, he asked gently, “You ready, baby? Are you nervous?”
I let out a sigh and admitted, “Haysss… yes, Dad.”
He smiled warmly and said, “Hey, pumpkinpie, I know you can do it. You’re so smart and funny at the same time.” He reached over, touched my head, and kissed my forehead.
His words made me feel strong and confident, like I could take on anything. We looked at each other and smiled, sharing that quiet, special moment.
I took a deep breath, opened the car door, and stepped out. I glanced back at my dad and saw him quickly trying to stop himself from crying. I smiled and waved at him.
“Goodbye, baby! Enjoy!” he called, his voice full of pride.
I waved back, feeling a mix of excitement and warmth in my heart. Today was the start of something new, and I felt ready.
When I saw my school, I couldn’t help but gasp. Crestwood Academy… wow. It was huge, famous, and everyone knew about it. Even from where I was standing, I could see how grand it was, with so many buildings stretching across the campus.
Senior year was finally here, and standing in front of Crestwood Academy made my heart beat faster with excitement and a little nervousness.
Someone calling my name it was my best friend she shouted “Alexxxxxxxx” and she jump on me and she give me a big hug.
It felt so good to see a familiar face on my first day, and suddenly some of my nervousness melted away. Even though she knew I hated being called that nickname, but I didn’t really care right now. I wrapped my arms around her in a big hug, and we both laughed, feeling the excitement of the morning.
Okay… let’s just stop the story here for a moment. Everyone must be curious now who is this friend? Who is she really? and also why is she my friend?
That girl is my best friend, Eliza Gwen Reese. I called her Ella that's cute right.... We’ve been inseparable since elementary school. She’s my ultimate, loving best friend, the one who always knows how to make me laugh, even when I’m nervous or stressed. She’s also the one who has always protected me from bullies since we were little, never letting anyone bring me down. We dreamed together, laughed together, and even went to school side by side. When we were little, we made a promise to each other no matter what happened, no one would ever break us apart. That promise kept us close all these years, and I knew it would never change. Seeing her on my first day at Crestwood Academy made my heart feel lighter. No matter what happened today, I knew she’d be by my side, cheering me on like always.
Eliza and I walked through the big gates of Crestwood Academy, our steps quick and hearts racing with excitement. Even though the campus was huge, I felt safe with her by my side.
“This place is massive!” I exclaimed, looking at all the buildings stretching across the campus.
Eliza laughed, nudging me. “Told you it wasn’t just any school! Crestwood Academy is like a whole city!”
As we walked further in, I noticed students everywhere some laughing with friends, some rushing to class, and others just sitting under the trees. My excitement grew, and a little nervous flutter tickled my stomach.
I giggled, feeling my nervousness slowly melt away. “I just hope senior year is as amazing as we dreamed it would be.”
She smiled at me, her eyes sparkling. “It will be, Alex. Just like we promised nothing can break us apart.”
I groaned, annoyed. “Heyy, Ella… please, I’m begging you… please don’t call me that name!”
She raised an eyebrow, curious, a mischievous smile on her face. “Why? It’s kinda cute!” she teased, her voice getting louder so everyone nearby could hear.
I felt my face heat up instantly. “Hey! Eliza Gwen Reese! If you don’t stop, we’re not eating lunch together!” I said, trying to sound angry, but I was failing because she was laughing so hard.
“Ok, okay! Hahaha, don’t be like that! I won’t call you Alex again… maybe,” she said, still giggling and teasing me.
I rolled my eyes, pretending to be mad, but deep down I couldn’t help laughing too. She always knew how to make me smile, even when I was annoyed.
After all the laughing and teasing, we realized we had to get serious for a moment. “Okay, okay… first things first,” I said, still giggling, “we need to find our locker.”
Eliza nodded. “Yeah, otherwise we’ll be late for class!”
We wove through the busy hallways of Crestwood Academy, dodging students and peeking at classroom signs. The school was so big that it was easy to get lost, and I felt my excitement mix with a little nervousness again.
Finally, we found our lockers. I opened mine and stared at the combination lock, trying to remember the numbers. Eliza leaned over and whispered, “Don’t worry, I’ve got your back."
After securing our lockers, we moved on to find our first classroom. Every step we took made the school feel even more massive, and my excitement was slowly mixed with worry.
The thing that made me nervous… Eliza and I weren’t going to be in the same class anymore. She was a STEM student now, and I was in HUMSS.
I glanced at her as we walked, forcing a small smile. “So… this is it, huh?” I said softly.
Eliza squeezed my hand. “It’s okay, Alex… I mean, um… Allie” she whispered, laughing softly. “We’ll still be best friends, no matter what. Classes can’t change that.”
I nodded, trying to feel reassured, but a little pang of sadness still tickled my heart. Senior year was starting, and everything felt exciting… yet suddenly a little scary too.
Eliza’s classroom was all the way on the 19th floor, while mine was on the 9th. We realized we had to take separate elevators, which meant we had to let go… at least for a little while.
Before stepping away, we hugged each other tightly. “Don’t forget our promise, okay?” I whispered, holding on as if I could keep her close forever.
“I won’t,” she replied, her voice soft but full of determination.
Finally, we let go. Eliza stepped toward her elevator on one side of the hall, and I walked to mine on the other. Even as we went in different directions, I felt her support with me.
Senior year was starting, and even though we were separated by floors, our friendship felt unbreakable.
As I stepped into the elevator, I couldn’t help but glance at the pictures we had taken together the countless memories from when we were in junior high school.
I remembered all the laughter, the silly moments, the secrets we shared, and the times she had my back no matter what.
A lump formed in my throat, and I felt my eyes sting. I forced myself not to cry. The elevator was full of people, and I didn’t want anyone to see me like that.
I took a deep breath, trying to push the sadness away. Even though we were in different classrooms now, those memories made me smile. Eliza wasn’t just my best friend she was my rock, and no distance could change that.
I turned off my phone and waited for the elevator to stop at the 9th floor. As I glanced around, I noticed a group of five boys laughing and talking loudly. They were so noisy and teasing each other that I couldn’t focus.
Finally, I couldn’t hold it in. “Hey! Can you all shut up? You’re way too loud and… so silly!” I said, raising my voice just enough to be heard over them.
One of them looked at me, surprised, while I added, “Seriously… you all look like elementary kids!”
The one who had looked at me surprised, suddenly got mad. “What did you say again, huh?” he asked, his voice sharp.
I shot back angrily, “Are you deaf, or are you just stupid?!”
He stepped closer, our faces almost touching. “Say it again, or I’ll kiss you,” he said with a sarcastic smile. His friends started laughing and teasing.
I froze for a second, shocked… then my anger exploded. I slapped him really hard. “Fuck boy! Get out of my face!” I yelled, glaring at him.
Right at that moment, the elevator dinged the 9th floor. I didn’t wait a second longer. I rushed out, my heart still pounding, feeling a mix of adrenaline and fury, while his friends laughed behind me.
I was so mad that I felt like my whole day was ruined because of that idiot in the elevator. My face was still hot with anger, and my hands were trembling a little.
Then I looked at the time and realized I only had ten minutes to find my classroom. I hurried through the crowded hallways, trying to ignore my frustration and focus.
Finally, I found my room and took a deep breath, trying to calm myself. But of course, I couldn’t stop thinking about what had just happened.
I clenched my fists and whispered to myself, “That’s the last time. You’ll never see that boy again.” After all, Crestwood Academy was huge there were plenty of people here, and I wasn’t about to let him ruin my first day.
When I stood in front of the classroom door, all my classmates’ eyes suddenly turned toward me.
I froze. For a full five seconds, I just stood there, feeling my heart race and my stomach twist with nerves.
Finally, I managed to find an empty chair and quickly slipped into it, trying to look casual. But inside, I was shaking.
Sitting down, I felt so shy and nervous at the same time. My hands fidgeted on my desk, and I tried not to draw too much attention to myself.
I looked around my classroom and felt a pang of loneliness. Some of my classmates were already chatting with friends, and I realized I didn’t know anyone here yet.
I remembered Eliza and quickly pulled out my phone. I sent her a text:
“Hey! I’m in my classroom now. Senior year started!”
I waited, watching the screen, but no reply came.
I sighed, trying not to feel too sad. She must be busy with her STEM class, I told myself. Even though I missed her, I had to face this new environment on my own… at least for now.
Suddenly, the door opened, and our first teacher for the day walked in.
“Good morning, class!” the teacher said, her voice warm but commanding. “Welcome to Oral Communication, your first subject in HUMSS.”
Everyone straightened in their seats, some whispering excitedly, others still looking sleepy. I felt my heart skip a beat first class, first day, and everything felt so new.
I glanced around, trying to find a friendly face, and reminded myself to stay confident. Senior year had officially started, and this was the very first step.
After a few minutes, our teacher finished introducing herself. She smiled warmly at the class.
“Now, it’s your turn,” she said. “Each of you will introduce yourselves. Tell us your name, a little about you, and one fun fact!”
I felt my stomach twist into knots. My heart was racing. Okay, Allie, you got this… just breathe, I whispered to myself.
I looked around the classroom. Some students were chatting and laughing softly, while others were already trying to think of what to say.
When the teacher point me, I felt my palms get sweaty, but I took a deep breath, reminding myself that senior year was about confidence… and this was just the beginning.
I took a deep breath and started introducing myself.
“Hi everyone, good morning! My name.....”
Suddenly, the door opened, and I froze.
My eyes widened in shock and confusion. Why is he here? my heart skipping a beat.
It couldn’t be… could it?
Yes. It was him.
The fuck boy from the elevator the one who ruined my mood earlier, who had gotten way too close and teased me. And now… he was here, in my classroom. My first day of senior year, and he was my classmate.
I could feel my face heating up, my hands trembling slightly, and the words I had planned to say completely vanished.
The teacher glanced at him, raising an eyebrow. “Oh… you’re ten minutes late, sir?”
He straightened up and replied calmly, “Ford, ma’am. My last name is Ford,” then gave a small bow. “Sorry for being late.”
“Okay,” the teacher said, smiling. “Just find a seat. After this girl introduces herself, you’ll be next.”
He nodded politely, and as he walked toward an empty chair, he gave me a small smile like nothing had happened earlier.
I felt my blood boil a little, and I whispered under my breath, “Fuck boy…”
The teacher’s head snapped toward me. “What did you say?”
My face instantly flushed bright red. “N-No, ma’am!” I stammered, panicking. “I… um… I just need to continue introducing myself.”
I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. The classroom suddenly felt hotter, and I prayed that he didn’t notice my little outburst.
As I started introducing myself, I felt my mind wandering. He was right there — Ford — sitting calmly, smiling like nothing happened earlier. I didn’t want to continue, but I pushed through, telling myself I could do this.
Finally, I finished my introduction, my voice steady even though my heart was racing.
The teacher clapped lightly and said, “Okay, Mr. Ford, you’re the last one to introduce yourself. Come on up.”
He stood up and walked to the front of the class. Immediately, I noticed something… every girl in the classroom was blushing. Whispering. Fidgeting.
I stared at him in confusion. Wait… why are they all acting like that? He’s… not even handsome! I thought, raising an eyebrow. My brain refused to understand the hype.
Meanwhile, he stood there confidently, giving a small smile, completely unaware of my judgmental glare.
While he was introducing himself, he said in a smooth voice, “Good morning, everyone.”
Then… I almost gagged. “My classmates,” he said, looking at all the girls, “say goodmorning, love.”
I froze. My face twisted in disgust. Ughh, seriously?
Then he said his full name: “Alex Joseph Ford.”
My eyes went wide. My jaw dropped. Wait… what?! I had to cough, trying to cover my shock. But it didn’t help the teacher and my classmates all looked at me.
Even Ford’s eyes snapped toward me. “What’s wrong with her?” he seemed to ask silently with that annoyingly confident look of his.
“Miss Avery, are you okay?” the teacher asked, concern in her voice.
I quickly gave a thumbs-up, trying to act normal.
Haa… really? His name is Alex… WTF! I, covering my face slightly. And still I don't understand why his name is same in my nickname that I don't like.
16Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm0WFTTPTF0
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