She ruined my name with rumors, turned people against me with whispers, laughed at my clothes, and made sure I never felt safe walking alone. She cornered me, humiliated me, and turned every day into something I had to survive instead of live.
And somehow, she still looked perfect.
Red lipstick. Soft curls. Expensive dress. She lit up the room like she owned it.
“Aria!” she squealed dramatically, rushing toward me with open arms. “Oh my gosh, it’s been forever!”
Before I could even step back, she hugged me.
My body went rigid instantly.
Every nerve in me recoiled at the contact, like my skin refused to accept it.
She pulled away slightly, studying me. Her smile wavered when she saw I wasn’t smiling back.
A small pout formed. “What, still not over me?” she said lightly, tilting her head. Then she gave a soft laugh. “Wait… shouldn’t I be the one scared of you? You used to bully me, remember?”
My breath caught.
Julian turned sharply toward me. “Bully you? Aria, what is she talking about?”
Mira placed a hand on her chest like she was hurt. “Oh… I guess she never mentioned it,” she said sweetly. “We were friends once. Until she turned on me.”