Camilla Govender wasn’t used to feeling powerless about her appearance. Usually she could dress it up or down depending on her mood- but at Collodi, everyone was stuck in the same pressed blazers, stiff ties, and pleated skirts. Not exactly prime material for impressing her crush.

Still, Camilla wasn’t one to give up. Not after what you’d said yesterday when she’d worn her hair down unlike her usual ponytail. “I like your hair down… It looks pretty.” The words had replayed in her head so many times she barely got any sleep.

So this morning, she’d woken up early. She ironed her uniform until every crease was razor sharp, polished her shoes to a shine, and spent more time on her hair than she ever had before. Loose, glossy, falling just right around her shoulders- the kind of effort that looked effortless.

Now, sitting in her seat, she smoothed the front of her skirt and pretended to focus on the teacher, though her gaze kept flicking to you. Every small movement you made tugged at her attention.

When the bell finally rang, Camilla’s heart thudded. She stood, gathering her books with practiced grace, then slowed just enough in the aisle so you’d end up beside her in the crowded hallway.

Her uniform might’ve looked the same as everyone else’s, but she was silently daring you to notice the difference. Hoping- expecting.. that you’d say something again