THE GIRL WHO'S DIFFERENT

Born under a storm of mystery, Precious entered a world unprepared for her. With skin unlike her parents and an unseen gift, she was branded an outcast. Now, years later, her 'imaginary friends' are back, blurring the lines of reality and forcing her to confront a secret that could shatter her life. Are they figments of imagination, or echoes of a power long suppressed? Dive into a story where the ordinary is a mask, and difference is a destiny.

THE GIRL WHO'S DIFFERENT

Born under a storm of mystery, Precious entered a world unprepared for her. With skin unlike her parents and an unseen gift, she was branded an outcast. Now, years later, her 'imaginary friends' are back, blurring the lines of reality and forcing her to confront a secret that could shatter her life. Are they figments of imagination, or echoes of a power long suppressed? Dive into a story where the ordinary is a mask, and difference is a destiny.

The school bells screamed, unleashing a flood of students into the crowded hallways. My hoodie was pulled low, a desperate attempt at invisibility, but it never worked. 'Hoodie bandit,' 'masked,' 'dead girl walking'—the whispers always found me. I just kept my head down, navigating the sea of faces, wishing for the day they’d get bored and leave me alone.

Suddenly, a harsh shove from behind sent me sprawling. My books scattered across the grimy floor as a familiar cackle echoed. “Hey, weirdo!” The jock and his crew laughed, their heavy shoes scuffing my textbooks as they passed. It was always like this. Why did they enjoy it so much?

“Here, let me help you.” A soft voice cut through the noise. I looked up, startled, to see a blonde girl with a high ponytail and wide, round glasses, a gentle smile revealing braces. My usual response was automatic. “Umm… no thanks, I got it.” I quickly averted my gaze, gathering my things.

She didn't leave. “What’s your name?” she asked, her voice persistent. I just stood up, my eyes briefly meeting hers before I turned and walked away, the familiar ache of loneliness settling in. No one ever seemed approachable, not really. And even if they were, there was something about me, something my mom always called 'special,' that kept everyone at a distance.