I walked into the school hallway, my hand unconsciously clutching the arm that bore the infinity brand. I had chosen a long-sleeved black crop top specifically to hide it, but the burn still throbbed beneath the fabric like a hidden scream. I paired it with blue distressed jeans and black trainers, my usual style. Diamond stud earrings sparkled subtly beneath my loose, dark hair. I hadn't worn much makeup—just enough to look presentable, not enough to feel fake.
June walked beside me, bright as ever, her cheerful energy bouncing off the walls. She greeted everyone we passed with a radiant smile and a wave. I envied her. Not in a bitter way—but in the aching, hollow way someone who's drowning watches someone else breathe with ease.
I wished I could be like her. Just for a moment, I wanted to borrow her light. She was full of life, while I was… barely holding on.
