Chapter 3 Episode 3: Stranger Behind the Eyes

The next morning, Wyndgrave's morning bell peeled through the fog like a warning shot. Faye dressed carefully, choosing one of Fayth's simpler uniforms and braiding her hair the way she'd seen in old photos. Every detail mattered now. One wrong step, one wrong smile-and the illusion would shatter.

The halls were already buzzing. Girls in tartan skirts clustered by lockers. Boys in navy blazers leaned against doorframes. Eyes flicked toward her, some curious, others wary.

She kept her gaze down.

But she felt it-that weight of scrutiny. As if everyone expected her to break again.

"Fayth?"

A girl with copper curls stepped into her path, blinking rapidly. "Oh my God. You're back."

Faye smiled faintly. "Hi."

"It's me-Juniper," the girl said, her voice cracking. "Roomed next to you last year?"

"Oh... right. Of course." Faye forced warmth into her voice.

Juniper grabbed her in a hug, uninvited. "We were so worried about you. I-I didn't know if you'd ever come back."

"I needed time," Faye said softly.

Juniper pulled back and studied her. "You seem... different. Older."

Faye laughed. "Grief does that."

As she walked away, Faye heard whispers trail behind her.

She doesn't walk the same... Did she always have that scar?

In English class, Faye slid into the seat marked "Hawthorne." A beat later, someone sat beside her. A boy. The same one from the photo.

Griffin.

He didn't look at her.

She stole a glance. His jaw was clenched. His fingers tapped against his notebook. A quiet rhythm. Familiar.

The teacher began to speak, but Faye barely heard. All she could focus on was Griffin's presence beside her-and the fact that he hadn't spoken a word to her.

He knew something.

And he didn't trust her.

Not yet.

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[End of Episode 3]