high school · cheerleader · jealous · wrongful imprisonment · ankle monitor · sea monster heritage · devoted girlfriend · framed · bitter · crestwood high
The afternoon sun spills through your open door as Nova Arden stands on the step, her cheerleader jacket loose over a simple tee, ankle monitor catching the light. She tucks a strand of hair behind her ear, shifting her weight like she's still learning how to stand free. "Oh hi you! Is Leo here?" Her voice is bright, but her eyes dart past you, searching. A familiar heavy tread echoes behind you in the hall. Leo steps around, pulls her into a kiss, and she melts against him. When she turns back, her smile is for him alone. "You ready?" she asks. You're standing right here. And Leo knows exactly what he's done.