The two sat in the quiet corner of the schoolyard, their sandwiches resting in their hands, half-forgotten. The winter sun timidly peeked through the clouds, but its weak rays did little to alleviate the biting chill in the air. Ivy chewed her food in silence, her sharp green eyes flickering toward Violet, who sat unusually still beside her.
Violet appeared to be lost in her own thoughts, her usually animated demeanour replaced by a stillness that felt foreign. Normally, she would be chatting away, sharing quirky observations or cracking jokes to fill the silence, her laughter ringing like music in the crisp air. But now, her gaze was unfocused, staring off into the distance as if she were peering through a fog that only she could see. Her shoulders drooped, a subtle but telling sign that something was amiss, as if she were carrying an invisible burden that weighed heavily on her small frame.
Ivy finished her last bite, the taste of peanut butter and jelly suddenly bland on her tongue. She shifted her gaze, rubbing the back of her neck in discomfort, feeling the tension in the air like a thick fog. She wasn't particularly adept at navigating emotional situations—people were complex, and emotions were often tangled and messy. Yet, the heavy silence between them was beginning to gnaw at her, a persistent itch that begged to be scratched.
"Uh...Violet?" Ivy finally ventured, her voice barely above a whisper, as if afraid to shatter the fragile stillness.
"Hm?" Violet blinked slowly, as if waking from a dream, and turned her head slightly, the corners of her mouth twitching in a half-hearted smile that didn't quite reach her eyes.
"You okay?" Ivy asked, her heart racing slightly.
Violet hesitated, her fingers absently picking at the crust of her sandwich. "Oh, yeah. Just… thinking," she finally spoke, her voice barely above a whisper.
Ivy's forehead creased with concern. Doubt lingered in her mind, yet she held her tongue. Maybe Violet felt abandoned while Ivy attended her class? A pang of guilt knotted in her stomach—she hadn't considered how isolating it must have been for Violet, sitting in the same place all morning. Determined to remedy the situation, Ivy tried again.
"Would you like a tour of the school?"
Violet's head tilted in interest, her forced smile shifting to genuine surprise. "Really? You'd show me around?"
Ivy shrugged, suddenly feeling awkward. "Yeah. I mean, it's nothing special, but it's better than just sitting here all day."
Violet's face brightened, the earlier gloom fading like a passing storm. "I'd love that! Thanks, Ivy."
Ivy fished through her backpack, her fingers dancing over the contents until she finally retrieved her blue school blazer. She paused, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her face, before extending it toward Violet.
"Here. Put this on."
Violet took the blazer, turning it over in her hands. "Why?"
"That hoodie just screams 'outsider,'" Ivy replied, leaning against the solid trunk of the tree. "And if anyone sees your mark…" She pointed to the subtle outline of Violet's Semi-Immortal number peeking out from beneath her hoodie's collar. "It could cause some issues."
A look of understanding crossed Violet's face as she nodded in agreement. She draped the blazer over her hoodie, the thick material puffing out underneath. With a swift tug at the sleeves, she twirled around dramatically. "How do I look?"
"Like you raided lost and found," Ivy said dryly, though a faint smirk tugged at the corner of her lips. "Come on."
The pair made their way to the main building. Violet's excitement was palpable, radiating from her as she bounced lightly on her feet, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. In contrast, Ivy approached with a cautious demeanour, her shoulders slightly drawn in, as if she were trying to shield herself from the overwhelming energy of the place. As they stepped into the bustling corridors, the atmosphere shifted dramatically.
The chatter of students filled the air, a lively symphony of laughter, shouts, and snippets of conversation that echoed off the walls. It mingled with the musty aroma of aged books, a scent that spoke of countless stories and knowledge waiting to be discovered, and the sharp, sterile scent of cleaning supplies that hinted at the school's efforts to maintain a tidy environment. Students wandered through the space, some propped against lockers, engrossed in animated discussions, while others zipped past, weaving in and out of classrooms with a sense of purpose and urgency. Violet's gaze flitted around, absorbing every nuance of her surroundings.
Almost instantly, the murmurs began to circulate.
"Who's that with Ivy?"
"Ivy? Wait...you mean that Semi-Immortal freak?"
"Ew! Who'd willingly want to hang out with her?"
Ivy clenched her jaw, her expression a carefully crafted façade of indifference as she brushed off the taunts. A group of boys swaggered past, one of them jostling her shoulder with enough force to send her slightly off balance.
"Watch it, freak!" He sneered, laughter trailing behind him.
Ivy didn't react, though Violet's brows knitted together in concern.
"Are you okay?" Violet asked softly.
"Yeah. Used to it," Ivy replied, her voice clipped. She turned her head slightly, her gaze drifting to Violet's neck. "Just keep your marking covered, alright? People around here are…" Her voice trailed off as she gestured vaguely down the hallway.
"Got it." Violet tugged the hoodie's collar higher, her lips pressed into a thin line.
The tour was short yet comprehensive, allowing Violet to grasp the essence of the place. As they strolled through the bustling corridors, Ivy highlighted the classrooms, the library, and the gymnasium, her explanations swift and her demeanour becoming more at ease with each passing moment. The vibrant colours of the school's walls and the lively chatter of students created an atmosphere that was both welcoming and overwhelming. Violet listened intently, her eyes wide with curiosity as she took in the details of each space. Ivy pointed out the science lab, where students were engaged in experiments, and the art room, filled with colourful canvases and sculptures. Violet interjected with questions now and then, her inquisitiveness evident even amidst the rare scornful looks or hushed remarks from some of the older students who passed by. It was clear that Ivy was used to the whispers, but she brushed them off, focusing instead on sharing the school's highlights with Violet.
As they approached the end of the tour, the shrill sound of the bell rang out, signalling the end of lunch and the beginning of the next class period. Ivy halted at the edge of the hallway, her expression shifting to one of contemplation, her brow slightly furrowed as she turned to face Violet.
"I need to get to class," she said, her voice steady but her eyes betraying a hint of uncertainty. "Meet me outside when the day is over. Same spot, okay?"
Violet nodded, her gaze unwavering and filled with a mix of gratitude and anticipation. "Got it! Thanks for the tour, Ivy. I really enjoyed it." The authentic warmth in her voice seemed to ease the tension in Ivy's shoulders, and for a fleeting instant, their eyes met in a shared smile.
"Yeah, whatever," Ivy replied, her voice low as she stuffed her hands into her pockets. She stole one last look before melting into the throng of students.
The moment Ivy vanished from view, a playful smile spread across Violet's face. A wave of excitement coursed through her, fuelling her eagerness to explore this captivating world and the potential friendships within it.
The faculty office was easy to locate, nestled between the bustling student lounge and the quiet study area. With determination in her stride, Violet felt her heart race as she approached the door, each step echoing her resolve. She took a deep breath, steadying herself, and knocked decisively, the sound reverberating in the stillness of the corridor. Standing still, she could feel the anticipation buzzing in the air, a palpable energy that made her pulse quicken.
The door swung open, revealing a weary staff member whose eyes held a hint of doubt, as if they were accustomed to students with half-formed requests and uncertain intentions. Their expression was a mix of curiosity and caution, a barrier that Violet was determined to breach.
"What can I do for you?" they asked, their voice laced with scepticism, as if they were bracing themselves for an excuse or a trivial complaint.
Violet squared her shoulders, adjusting her blazer to appear more polished. "Hello! May I use your phone? I need to make an important call," she said, her tone bright yet firm, projecting an air of confidence that she hoped would dispel any lingering doubts.
The staff member's brow furrowed, their scepticism deepening. "A call? Who are you calling?" they inquired, their tone suggesting that they were not easily swayed by charm alone.
"My parents," Violet replied, her voice a blend of sweetness and resolve. She could sense the staff member's hesitation, the way they weighed her words carefully, as if trying to gauge the truth behind her request. "It's really important," she added, her eyes locking onto theirs, willing them to see the urgency in her expression.
The staff member hesitated, glancing back into the office as if seeking counsel from an unseen authority. Violet could feel the seconds ticking away, each moment stretching into an eternity. She took a small step forward, her heart pounding in her chest. "I promise I won't take long. I just need to let them know I'm okay," she continued, her voice softening, hoping to appeal to their empathy.
Finally, the staff member sighed, their resolve wavering. "Alright, but just for a moment," they relented, stepping aside to allow her entry. "Just be quick about it."
Violet stepped inside, her heart racing with excitement. She didn't know exactly how she'd pull this off, but one thing was certain: she wasn't leaving until she found a way to enrol in this school.
⋯
In the serene nook of the schoolyard, everything remained just as Ivy had left it—draped in the gentle shadows of the surrounding trees, a peaceful refuge from the bustling main area. The vibrant sounds of laughter and chatter from the school gate felt like a distant echo, muffled by the thick canopy of leaves overhead. She leaned against the robust trunk of the largest tree, its rough bark brushing against her back, providing a sense of comfort and stability. Her hands were buried deep in her jacket pockets, fingers curling around the soft fabric as she bided her time, lost in her thoughts.
The cool air pricked at her cheeks, a delightful reminder of the changing seasons, as she searched her surroundings with a hint of impatience. She exhaled slowly, watching her breath create little clouds in the chilly atmosphere. She had instructed Violet to meet her here; where could she possibly be?
Just as she was about to pull out her phone to check the time again, the soft patter of footsteps caught her ear. Ivy's heart lifted slightly, and she turned her head, her eyes brightening at the sight of her friend. Violet appeared before her, her oversized hoodie slightly askew, the fabric swallowing her petite frame. That unmistakable grin lit up her face, a beacon of warmth that contrasted with the coolness of the day.
Violet playfully remarked, "Kept you waiting, huh?" as she stood beside Ivy.
"Yeah, yeah," Ivy muttered, but her lips twitched into a faint smirk. "Ready to head home?"
Violet bounced eagerly, her excitement bubbling over as she exclaimed, "Lead the way, fearless guide!"
The journey home was uneventful but pleasant, the steady beat of their footsteps on the sidewalk harmonizing with their lively chatter. Violet was more talkative than before, sharing little snippets from her day spent outside the school. She described the pigeons that had caught her eye, the snacks she nibbled on, and the students she had quietly observed. Ivy primarily listened, interjecting with brief remarks now and then.
Eventually, their discussion meandered to the topic of Violet's hair.
"Those roots really catch the eye... was it intentionally done like that?" Ivy remarked, casting a sideways glance at Violet's short, curly pixie cut. The stark contrast between the deep black roots and the vibrant bleached blonde made for a striking look.
Violet tugged at a curl, her grin faltering slightly. "Yeah, I know. It's been a while since I touched it up."
"Why bleach it in the first place?" Ivy asked, her tone more curious than judgmental. "If you were homeless and struggling, why waste money on stuff like hair dye or bleach?"
Violet was quiet for a moment, her gaze fixed on the pavement ahead. Then, she glanced at Ivy with a small, wistful smile.
"It was the only thing I could control," she said simply. "When I… came back, I saw it as a chance to start over. Bleaching my hair was the first step. Phase one of the whole 'new me' plan."
"New you?"
"Yeah." Violet paused, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her face before she continued, "I changed my name too. I used to be called Vincent." A soft laugh escaped her lips, tinged with a trace of anxiety. "It just didn't resonate with me anymore, you know? But Violet? That feels like me."
Ivy nodded slowly, her expression unreadable. "Makes sense," she murmured. "I get it."
Violet tilted her head, curious. "What about you? Ever thought about changing your look?"
Ivy hesitated, her silence hanging in the air like a tightly pulled string. At last, she shrugged, her fingers clutching the fabric of her jacket pockets. "Sometimes," she admitted quietly. "I look too much like my mom."
Violet blinked, taken aback by the sudden display of vulnerability. "Your mom?"
"Yeah...," Ivy responded, her voice steady yet tinged with emotion. "And I don't know. Seeing myself in the mirror just… it hurts sometimes."
Violet's demeanour shifted, her gaze warm and inviting. She leaned in slightly, offering Ivy's shoulder a gentle pat. "Hey, you could totally change it up if you wanted to. Dye your hair, cut it, whatever. It's your canvas."
Ivy let out a humourless chuckle, her fingers absently toying with the ends of her hair. "I wouldn't even know what colour to pick. It feels like such a big decision."
"What's your favourite colour?" Violet asked, her tone encouraging, as if she were coaxing a shy flower to bloom.
"Purple," Ivy replied.
A playful grin spread across Violet's face, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "I can totally see you rocking purple! Imagine it—deep, rich violet cascading down your shoulders, or maybe a vibrant lavender that dances in the sunlight. You'd look so pretty!"
Ivy sighed dramatically, but the slight smile tugging at her lips revealed her hidden delight. "It sounds nice in theory, but what if it looks terrible? What if I end up looking like a grape?"
Violet laughed, the sound bright and infectious. "Oh, come on! You won't know until you try. Besides, even if it doesn't turn out exactly as you imagined, it's just hair! It grows back. Think of it as an adventure, a chance to express yourself. You could even add some fun highlights or go for an ombre effect!"
Ivy's brow furrowed in thought, the wheels in her mind turning. "You really think I could pull it off?" "Absolutely! You have the perfect face for it. And if you don't like it, we can always dye it back. But I have a feeling you'll love it. Just picture it—every time you catch a glimpse of yourself, you'll feel like a new person. Empowered, vibrant, and full of life!"
Ivy couldn't help but laugh at Violet's enthusiasm as the duo continued to walk alongside each other.
⋯
Their conversation carried them all the way to a larger grocery store. As they stepped inside, the gentle hum of fluorescent lights enveloped them, and the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread mingled with the lemony scent of cleaning supplies, greeting them like an old friend.
"Only browsing, no grabbing," Violet said with a playful smile, fully aware that the allure of spontaneous purchases would be a tough challenge to overcome.
They meandered through the store, eventually landing in the hair dye aisle. The lights flickered overhead, casting a bright glow on the colourful array of products lining the shelves. Violet's gaze swept across the shelves, her excitement bubbling over when she spotted a bleach kit. With a triumphant grin, she snatched it up and turned to Ivy. "This'll solve my root dilemma!" she declared with confidence.
Ivy's attention was drawn to a box of purple dye nestled just a few shelves down. She picked it up, examining it closely, envisioning how vibrant the colour could be against her dirty blonde hair. The deep, rich hue seemed to call to her, promising a transformation that would make her feel bold and beautiful. She could almost see herself with the striking colour, turning heads and feeling empowered. But then, the harsh truth hit her like a cold splash of water. She glanced at the price tags, her heart sinking as reality set in. The bleach kit was already a stretch, and the purple dye was just as pricey. They couldn't possibly afford both options, not with their tight budget.
Ivy let out a frustrated sigh as she returned the purple dye to its place on the shelf. "Let's just go for the bleach kit. It's meant for you anyway."
But before she could reach for it, Violet swiftly snatched it from her grasp. "Nope. Not happening!" Violet exclaimed, placing the bleach kit back and seizing the purple dye instead. "This one's for you."
"What? No way. You need the bleach for your roots," Ivy protested.
"I'll survive with roots for a little longer," Violet said firmly. "This is way more important."
"Violet—" "Ivy," Violet cut in, her voice taking on a rare seriousness. "You mentioned wanting to change your look. This is your moment. Do something new. Trust me, it'll feel good."
Ivy stared at her, uncertain. She glanced at the purple dye again, her fingers twitching. It wasn't practical. It wasn't necessary. But… maybe it was something she needed.
"Fine," she muttered, snatching the box from Violet's hands. "But if it looks bad, I'm blaming you."
"Deal," Violet said with a triumphant grin.
The walk back to Ivy's terraced house was filled with more laughter than before. Violet couldn't stop teasing Ivy about her soon-to-be new look, while Ivy tried to act indifferent, though her small smile gave her away.
By the time they reached Ivy's house, the sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting the streets in a warm, golden glow. Ivy unlocked the door, and the two stepped inside, ready to start the next phase of Ivy's transformation.