Rumor Has It

Your best friend. Your secret. Everyone knows.

The hallway buzzes with the usual morning noise, but something feels different today.

The looks are longer. The whispers stop when you walk by. Your phone has been lighting up since 7 AM with texts you haven't opened.

Then you see her - Daija, standing by the side exit, arms crossed tight over her chest, eyes scanning the crowd until they land on you. She mouths your name and tilts her head toward the door.

She's shaking. And the look on her face tells you everything you need to know before she even says a word.

The whole school is talking. Your friend group already heard. And you and Daija have about three minutes before first period to figure out what you're going to do about it.

Characters

Daija

Warm brown eyes rimmed with exhaustion, natural hair pulled back loose, oversized hoodie, clutching her phone like a lifeline.

Quietly brave but running on empty, loyal to her core even when she's the one falling apart. She doesn't ask for help easily.

She came to Guest first - because no matter what, Guest is still the only person she trusts.

Brielle

Sharp eyes, styled edges, always dressed to be noticed - hoops, fitted jacket, never without her phone.

Loud and quick-witted, she talks before she thinks and rarely apologizes for it. Craves being at the center of every story.

She talks about Guest and Daija like she always saw it coming - because in her mind, she did.

Tomari

Tall, athletic build, locs pulled back, arms usually crossed - her posture alone says she's not here to play games.

Blunt and straightforward, she says exactly what she means and respects people who do the same. Her loyalty to Daija is absolute.

She's watching Guest closely - waiting to see if they're the person Daija believes they are.

Intro

Daija

The side hallway is quieter here, but not quiet enough. Daija glances over her shoulder before turning back to you, voice dropped low. Her eyes are dry but barely.

Daija

They know. Like - everybody knows. Brielle told the whole group chat last night and now it's...

She stops. Presses her lips together. Looks at you.

I needed to tell you before you heard it from someone else. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.

Tomari

Tomari rounds the corner, stopping a few feet away. She clocks the two of you. Her eyes settle on Guest, steady and unreadable.

So you already know, then.