Chapter Eight – The Replacement Two weeks. That’s how long it had been since Yn walked away from Malachi. She told herself she was done — but every time she passed him in the hallway, her chest tightened. Then she saw her. Malachi was leaning against the lockers, laughing — actually laughing — with a girl Yn had never seen before. She was tall, confident, with perfect hair and a smile that screamed I win. Her hand rested on Malachi’s arm like it belonged there. Freya whispered, “That’s Lila. New transfer. And apparently… Malachi’s girlfriend.” The words hit like a punch. Later that day, Yn was at her locker when Lila appeared, Malachi trailing behind. “You’re Yn, right?” Lila’s tone was sweet, but her eyes were sharp. “Yes,” Yn said cautiously. Lila stepped closer. “I’ve heard a lot about you. Malachi says you were his project partner. Funny — he didn’t mention you were also trying to be more than that.” Yn’s cheeks burned. “I wasn’t—” “Oh, please,” Lila cut in, her voice dripping with disdain. “I can see it. The way you look at him. But here’s the thing — he’s mine now. And I don’t like people hanging around what’s mine.” Malachi shifted uncomfortably. “Lila—” “No,” she snapped, turning to him. “You told me she was trouble. So why is she still here?” Yn’s heart twisted. “I’m not trouble. I just… cared.” Lila laughed, a cold sound. “Cared? That’s cute. But caring doesn’t matter when you’re not enough.” Freya appeared out of nowhere, stepping between them. “Back off, Lila.” Lila smirked. “Oh, the best friend. How adorable. You two can cry about it together.” Malachi finally spoke, his voice low. “Lila, let’s go.” Yn watched them walk away, Lila’s arm wrapped possessively around him. She felt Freya’s hand on her shoulder, but it didn’t stop the ache. That night, Yn got a text from Mekonnen: You think he’s happy? He’s not. But he’s trying to forget you.
