The school courtyard buzzed with energy as students rushed to their classes. Sarah and Delilah stood under the shade of the old almond tree, waiting for their friends. The air was light, but their hearts were still fluttering from the surprise visit the day before.
"Can you believe Miles actually came?" Sarah whispered, a soft smile playing on her lips.
Delilah shrugged, trying to appear unfazed. "He's our brother. He should've come long ago."
Before Sarah could reply, a familiar sleek black car pulled up at the gate. Heads turned. Whispers filled the air. Miles Gordon had returned—again.
But this time, he wasn't alone.
A tall woman stepped out of the passenger seat, elegance wrapped in a red coat. Her presence drew attention just as quickly as Miles' did.
"Who's that?" Delilah asked, folding her arms suspiciously.
"I don't know... but I think we're about to find out," Sarah said, watching closely.
Miles walked up the school path, a rare gentleness in his steps. The woman followed behind, a quiet poise in her stride.
Principal Daniels appeared at the door, greeting them both with a surprised smile. Students whispered and pointed, but Miles kept his gaze ahead—straight to his sisters.
He pulled them both into a quick hug. "Hey, troublemakers."
Delilah raised an eyebrow. "Who's she?"
"This," Miles said, glancing to his side, "is Clarissa. A friend."
Clarissa gave them a warm smile. "It's nice to finally meet the girls I've heard so much about."
Sarah smiled politely. Delilah didn't. Something about Clarissa made her chest tighten, and she didn't know why.
Clarissa bent slightly, meeting their eyes. "Miles told me how amazing you both are. I hope we get along."
Sarah nodded. "Sure, we'd love that."
Delilah turned away, mumbling, "We'll see."
As they walked inside, Clarissa took a seat under the tree with Miles, their conversation low and easy.
Upstairs, behind the window, Angelina watched everything. Her fingers hovered over her notepad. Her instincts as a journalist kicked in—something was off. Clarissa wasn't just a friend. She could feel it.But was she here to stay?