07/01/2024
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🔥Ruthless Crossfire 🔥
~~~(two sides of a coin)~~~
By: May Cruz.
Disclaimer: do not copy or repost.
**Chapter 1: Avery's POV**
I've always been content with my life. I never craved more; it came to me effortlessly, becoming a second skin.
I'm not wealthy, far from it. Don't mistake me for the affluent daughter. But it's enough; I've never yearned for more. My father works as a bouncer at the club where my mother is employed, both striving to give my brother a good life. They know I can fend for myself, and I'm grateful for the life I lead.
At school, I'm everyone's acquaintance. I'm the 'go-to' girl - good grades, a welcoming smile, kindness, and the ability to engage with anyone. I don't belong to any social clique, not that I desire to, yet I'm never truly alone.
I'm athletic, though I refuse to join the cheer team or any sports groups. Despite enjoying solitude, it's a luxury I rarely experience.
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Brought to you by authoress may Cruz.
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🔥Ruthless Crossfire 🔥
~~~(two sides of a coin)~~~
By: May Cruz.
Disclaimer: do not copy or repost.
**Chapter 1: Avery's POV**
I've always been content with my life. I never craved more; it came to me effortlessly, becoming a second skin.
I'm not wealthy, far from it. Don't mistake me for the affluent daughter. But it's enough; I've never yearned for more. My father works as a bouncer at the club where my mother is employed, both striving to give my brother a good life. They know I can fend for myself, and I'm grateful for the life I lead.
At school, I'm everyone's acquaintance. I'm the 'go-to' girl - good grades, a welcoming smile, kindness, and the ability to engage with anyone. I don't belong to any social clique, not that I desire to, yet I'm never truly alone.
I'm athletic, though I refuse to join the cheer team or any sports groups. Despite enjoying solitude, it's a luxury I rarely experience.
Today, I find solace in the library, enveloped by the soothing silence. I delve into psychology, my passion for college. It took my parents aback; with my capabilities, they envisioned medicine or engineering, something 'more complex.' Yet, psychology spoke to my soul. They learned they couldn't push me into a field I didn't wholeheartedly embrace.
"Hey," a voice interrupts my reading, and I glance up to meet the librarian's gaze.
"We're closing," she informs me.
Surely it couldn't have been that late?
Glancing outside, I notice the darkness through the library's windows, realizing how oblivious I was to the passing time.
"Thank you, I'll head out," I reply.
She nods warmly and leaves.
Gathering my belongings, I hastily exit the library, hastening toward the restaurant where I work, hoping I'm not too late.
Glancing at the time, my heart sinks - 8:58. My shift began at 8, ending at 9:30.
I'm in trouble.
Lost in the book's world, I didn't notice time slipping away.
Entering the restaurant, I notice the bustling crowd.
"Get over here, Avery. We're swamped," Rhea, a co-worker, calls from the counter.
Hurrying to change and tying my dark brown hair into a ponytail, I rush to the kitchen to face our displeased manager.
"You're an hour late," she remarks dryly, her displeasure evident. I offer a sheepish smile in return.
"I'll let it slide this time, but choose a less busy hour if you're ever late again. Get to work," she instructs before leaving.
Rhea sends an apologetic smile my way, directing me to table 6.
"I'll handle it," I assure her.
---
Leaning against my locker, I listen to the cheer captain enthusing about a new Korean movie. I don't watch them, but I indulge her by requesting a summary. She's gone overboard, gushing about the male lead and trying to chew my ear off with her excitement.
Cole, her boyfriend, approaches, planting a kiss on her cheek and acknowledging me with a nod. I retrieve my books from the locker.
"So, Avery, there's a party tonight at Johnson's. Will you come?" Cole asks.
I pretend to consider, closing my locker slowly. "I have work right after school, so I won't make it."
Lyn pouts, "It's been forever since we hung out together."
"I'll try my best to make it," I assure her.
Agreeing immediately, she resumes discussing the Korean movie as we head to class.
Cole groans, and I foresee where this is heading.
"K-dramas again? Seriously, do they pay you to keep blabbing about them?" he scoffs.
Lyn glares at him as if he suggested a breakup. "You're just jealous," she retorts, flicking her hair.
"Jealous? Of your obsession? No, thanks," Cole laughs, and I join in.
"Avery, aren't they amazing?" she asks earnestly.
I shrug, but her icy look compels me to respond, "Absolutely incredible. One glance at those movies, and I'm hooked," I mock, with Cole joining in the laughter.
Kath scowls and walks away faster. "Since you've ganged up against me, don't talk to me," she pouts, making us laugh harder.
"Sure, sure, those K-dramas are amazing," I assure her, also elbowing Cole since he hasn't realized his blunder.
"Hey, what was that for?" he groans.
"You've ticked her off. You're in for some serious groveling," I warn, and it dawns on him.
"Well, darn," he curses before running after her. I head to class with a chuckle.
The smile fades when a soccer team member approaches me. Engaging in this charade gets exhausting.
I need the student body's approval to be popular, which looks good on my resume. Favorable impressions on teachers secure scholarships, and being the top student helps me become valedictorian, paving the way for scholarships. Being 'perfect' drains me, and Mum seems to notice.
Dad assumes I'll earn a scholarship because of my skills, but just in case, I work to help with tuition fees. I don't ask for money.
My brother despises my effort, living in my shadow, constantly compared to his genius sister. I cover his fees. He's my opposite.
Thankfully, he doesn't hate me much, probably because I provide him with a significant amount of money, lessening the burden on our parents.
I'm liked, or at least people conceal their animosity. As long as they don't trouble me, I'm the goddess of Aridale.
After consecutive shifts, I return home to bury myself in studies. Some think I have it easy.
The shrill bell rings, dismissing the class, people rushing to leave class as usual.
"Remember to submit your projects before Monday, and Avery, stay for a moment," our teacher instructs, singling me out.
I drift off; there's nothing new. I've covered the syllabus and moved on to the advanced section for college.
"There's a significant competition coming up," our literature teacher reveals.
Packing my books, I listen.
"How significant?"
She smirks, "A million-dollar prize and a full scholarship to an elite school—everything covered."
My face drains of color; excitement and anticipation churn in my stomach.
"A million dollars? And a full scholarship?" I confirm, disbelief evident.
"I can choose only two students, and it's you and Ben," she declares.
I burst into genuine laughter. This is it—this is what I've worked for, all the efforts leading to this moment.
"You picked me?" I inquire again, seeking confirmation.
"The project you submitted was outstanding, deserving of this opportunity. I've witnessed your dedication; you deserve it," she affirms.
I stand, hugging her tightly. "Thank you, thank you so much. It means the world. Do I need to apply or anything?"
"No need, I've handled everything. Just study extra hard; they ask challenging questions."
"I will. Thank you again," I express gratitude, packing my belongings hastily. I can't wait to share the news with my parents. A million dollars.
---
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