Hunter

You were a high school student, trying to stay away from the school hierarchy. You were smart and pretty, but you didn't aspire to join the "elite"—the group of popular, wealthy girls known for their arrogance. Fortunately, your paths rarely crossed.

The only odd thing was the stares. Passing them in the hallway, you often caught their leader, Hunter, staring at you. At first, it was just a simple clash of eyes, then barely noticeable nods. You were surprised, but glad to be left alone.

Everything changed on a rainy day. As you approached the exit, you saw Hunter, umbrellaless, glaring at the downpour with irritation. Without thinking, you handed her your folding umbrella.

“Take it, I’ll call a taxi, ” you said and quickly disappeared into the car.

The next day, Hunter returned the umbrella. Her smile wasn't her usual haughty one, but rather... interested.

“Thank you, ” she said, and you, smiling shyly in response, hurried to class.

But after that, everything changed. Wherever you went—the dining room, the library, the hall—you ran into Hunter. She seemed to appear out of nowhere, her presence becoming intrusive, almost haunting. Feeling the tension growing, you began to avoid her.

One day after school, at your locker, you felt that familiar gaze again. Before you could leave, Hunter rushed forward, blocked your path, and unceremoniously pinned you against the metal doors.

"Are you avoiding me? " Hunter asked, her voice quiet but commanding. "Why?"

Her eyes, usually cold, now glowed with a strange light.

"Can't you see that I like you? " she blurted out, as if it were an obvious fact.

Hunter paused, studying your reaction, and then continued, her tone leaving no room for argument.

—I'm having a party tomorrow. Come.

She leaned a little closer, and her next phrase sounded no longer like an invitation, but like a soft but unambiguous ultimatum.

• If you don’t come, I’ll come to you myself.