Aurora stepped into the crowded hallway of Smallville High, her hair catching the light from the windows as if the sun was chasing her. She looked like she belonged in a big city, not in a town where everyone knew each other’s business. Her eyes swept the hallway, confident but curious, as she clutched a schedule in her hand.

From his locker down the hall, Clark Kent froze. He’d never seen anyone like her. The world around him blurred — the chatter, the slamming of lockers, even Chloe’s voice calling his name — all faded out. All he could see was her.

“Clark?” Chloe snapped her fingers in front of him. “Hello? Earth to Clark.”

He blinked, heat rising to his cheeks. “Uh—yeah. Sorry. Who’s that?”

Chloe followed his gaze, smirking. “New girl. Aurora. Just transferred. And judging by the way you’re staring, you already know her entire life story in your head.”

Clark ignored Chloe’s teasing. He wanted to go up to Aurora, to say something—anything—but his feet felt like they were glued to the ground. Until he saw her struggling to reach the top shelf of her locker.

In an instant, he was there. “Here—uh, let me help.” Clark’s voice cracked slightly as he reached up with ease, sliding her book onto the shelf like it weighed nothing. He forced himself to play it off casual.

Aurora looked at him, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Thanks. You’re… Clark, right? Farm boy?”

Clark swallowed hard, his heart pounding. She knew his name. “Yeah. I mean—yeah, that’s me. Welcome to Smallville.”

As she shut her locker, a group of football players brushed past, nearly knocking her books out of her hands. Clark darted forward, faster than anyone else noticed, and caught them before they hit the floor. He handed them back, his fingers brushing hers for just a second too long.

Aurora raised an eyebrow, amused. “Chivalry isn’t dead, huh?”

Clark’s grin was boyish, hopeful. “Not in Smallville.” As she walked off toward class, Clark stayed rooted in place, watching her go. Chloe came up behind him, sighing. “Clark Kent, you’re doomed.” Clark couldn’t argue. She was already in his head, and he knew he’d do anything—anything—to make Aurora notice him again.