Destiny has left its mark (Vampire Romance) +

17 ~ Carry you

Lincoln Academy looms ahead, an imposing structure with massive, weathered gargoyle statues standing guard at its entrance, reminiscent of an ancient castle steeped in forgotten lore. The building's Gothic spires and stone facades, bathed in the eerie twilight, cast long shadows that dance across the cobblestone path leading up to the entrance. As I gaze up at the dramatic architecture, a sense of finality washes over me; I can't shake the feeling that once I step through those towering doors, my old life will be forever out of reach. Isn't it already too late?A sharp gust of wind, laden with the scent of damp earth and autumn leaves, tugs at my long, straight blonde hair, causing it to whip across my face like a curtain. I instinctively tuck it behind my ear with one hand, nearly forgetting about my thick-rimmed glasses—an essential part of my disguise. I look like Charlotte Grave, a persona that I'm trying desperately to maintain to avoid any unwanted recognition. My other hand grips the largest wheeled suitcase I could find, its worn wheels clattering over the uneven path, filled with everything I own and hold dear. There's truly nothing left for me to return to in my past life. Memories of my school days flood my thoughts, particularly the dread I felt on my first day of high school, uncertain of what it would be like to be an outcast, a reject. I had no hope of enjoying it then, and somehow, that feeling of unease follows me here.

Nervousness begins to creep in as I ponder the unknown that awaits me inside those monumental walls. What will I discover? Who will I meet? My heart hammers in my chest, echoing the rhythmic thud of my suitcase over the stones. The cab that brought me here drives away with a sputter, leaving me feeling more isolated than ever. Pulling my substantial suitcase up the steep stairs takes considerable effort; the cold metal handle digs into my palm, and my muscles strain with each step. But after a few moments, I finally reach the top, breathing a sigh of relief as I step inside, the heavy oak doors closing behind me with a resonant thud.Inside, the air is tinged with the musty scent of old books and polished wood. A grand chandelier hangs from the ceiling, casting a warm, golden glow that contrasts with the cold, grey exterior. A reception desk greets me, its polished surface gleaming under the soft lighting, and I feel a wave of apprehension wash over me.

"Name?" the woman behind the desk asks, her tone professional yet indifferent. Her piercing gaze meets mine briefly before returning to her paperwork.

"Daniella Ellis," I reply, forcing myself to maintain an even voice despite the flutter of anxiety in my stomach. The sound of my own name feels strange, foreign even, as if it's the last remnant of a life left far behind.

She places a crisp, white form in front of me along with an elegant, black pen, her expression utterly unimpressed. "Please sign this. Is there anything of value you'd like to declare?" she asks in a monotone voice.

I scan the paper, the ink fresh and the lines neat, before signing my name with a swift flourish. Shaking my head, I respond, "No."

"Be sure to lock your room before leaving it," she advises sternly, handing me a set of keys. The metal feels cold and heavy in my palm, her sternness almost palpable. "Don't lose this," she adds, her eyes narrowing slightly. She continues to rattle off instructions, her voice a steady drone. Handing me a few more papers and a plastic card, she says, "This list shows the books you need for your studies. This is your library card, and this document outlines the rules of the academy." After a brief pause, she studies me curiously, her brow furrowing. "Have we met before?"

"No," I reply firmly, trying to suppress the slight panic rising within me.

"Okay then," she responds, seemingly uninterested. "Housekeeping will clean your room every Tuesday. Just leave your dirty laundry in the basket, and it will be collected and returned to you the very next day." Suddenly, her eyes widen slightly, a look of surprise crossing her face. "Aren't you Beverly—"