Astrid is a bright and compassionate young woman from a close-knit middle-class family. As the only daughter among two brothers, she's known for her kindness and good heart. Despite her excellent reputation in the community, Astrid faces a harsh reality in school, where she's consistently targeted by bullies. Her strength and resilience in the face of adversity make her a compelling and inspiring individual.
Chapter 1 SCATTERED BEGINNINGS
The Clark family stepped out of their moving truck, gazing up at their new home in California.
The sun-kissed streets and palm trees swayed gently in the breeze, a stark contrast to the gloomy skies they'd left behind.
Astrid, now 15, had grown accustomed to the idea of a new life, but her big brother Miles, 17, looked like he'd lost his best friend.
Five years had passed since they'd relocated, and Astrid had adjusted well, making new friends and finding her footing in school. But Miles had struggled to adapt, and the memories of his old friends still lingered. As they unpacked, Miles wandered off, his eyes fixed on some distant memory. Astrid watched him go, knowing he'd been close to his friends back East.
As they settled into their new life, Miles's usual bright smile was nowhere to be seen, replaced by a quiet, almost lonely demeanor. Astrid tried to reassure him, but Miles just shook his head and muttered, "You don't get it, Astrid."
Now, as they prepared to start at Lincoln High, Astrid felt a mix of emotions – excitement for new experiences and concern for her brother's well-being.
On their first day, Astrid and Miles walked side by side, their footsteps echoing in the hallway.
Astrid nudged him, trying to lighten the mood.
"Hey, bro, it'll be okay. We'll make new friends." Miles's gaze drifted back to hers, his eyes clouded with uncertainty. "I don't know, Astrid. I miss my old friends. I miss everything about our old life."
As they parted ways for their separate classes, Astrid couldn't shake the feeling that this new chapter in their lives would bring unexpected challenges – and perhaps, unexpected surprises.
She took a deep breath and stepped into her first-period class, scanning the room for an empty seat.
That's when she spotted a group of students laughing together, and she couldn't resist joining in. With a bright smile, she introduced herself and quickly found common ground with her new classmates. Before long, she was chatting with a group of friends, exchanging stories and jokes. Astrid's natural charm and warmth made her an instant favorite in the class, and she felt right at home.
Miles walked through the crowded hallway, his eyes fixed on the floor. He wasn't one for small talk or idle chatter, preferring to keep to himself. Unlike Astrid, who seemed to magnetize people with her warmth and energy, Miles felt more comfortable observing from a distance. He'd always been the quiet type, content to lose himself in books and daydreams. As he navigated the maze of lockers and classrooms, Miles felt a sense of anonymity wash over him – and, strangely, it was comforting.
Chapter 1 SCATTERED BEGINNINGS
27/04/2025