Fate

"In the halls of lockers and fleeting dreams. High school life, is a maze it seems. Tests and trials, friendship's test. In the crucible, we give our best.

Homework burdens, like mountains high, yet through the struggle, we learn to fly. Cliques and whispers, a social dance, High school life, a bittersweet chance."

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The soft glow of dawn crept through Yu Xuan's window, coaxing him awake on the brink of a new chapter. With a yawn, he stretched his lanky limbs and rubbed the sleep from his eyes. The anticipation of the first day of high school hummed in the air.

Slippers padding across the floor, he made his way to the bathroom, where the mirror held a reflection of a 17-year-old with tousled hair and eyes still heavy with dreams. The faucet whispered as cold water splashed, jolting him fully awake. 

Yu Xuan lathered his face with frothy soap, each movement methodical, a routine engrained over years. The scent of morning filled the room as he contrasted with the lingering drowsiness. 

The wardrobe beckoned next. After a quick shuffle through clothes scattered on his chair, he found his school dress. He dressed with the gravity of someone stepping onto an uncharted path.

Backpack slung over his shoulder, he stepped out into the morning light, the sun painted the sky with hues of promise. High school awaited, a canvas yet to be painted. Yu Xuan took a deep breath, ready to step into the adventure of his first day.

Yu Xuan wheeled his bike out of the driveway, the morning sun casting a golden hue on the quiet suburban street. The rhythmic whir of his bicycle tires echoed the beat of his thoughts as he pedaled towards the high school on the horizon.

As he navigated the familiar route, the soft hum of conversation began to intertwine with the gentle breeze. Yu Xuan's senses heightened as he realized he had become the unwitting focus of attention. Girls on the sidewalk, backpacks slung over their shoulders, called out with cheerful tones. 

"Hey, Xuan! Looking good"

A chorus of laughter and playful shouts followed but Yu Xuan remained focused on the path ahead, his expression determined. The compliments sailed past him like fleeting whispers, and he pedaled on, his concentration unbroken. 

The street buzzed with the energy of the morning, but Yu Xuan's was fixed on the road. His determination to keep his face unwavering seemed to amplify the admiration around him. The girl's voices, though appreciative, soon faded into the background as Yuhan approached the school gates. 

Yu Xuan parked his bike near the school entrance, the metal frame settling with a soft click. As he strolled towards his first class, the hum of conversation around him. Unbeknownst to Yu Xuan, a mischievous glint sparkled in Smith's eyes as he prepared to spring a surprise on his unsuspecting friend. 

Out of nowhere, Chenxi materialized, slapping Yu Xuan on the back with an exaggerated grin, "Xuan, my man! Ready for the legendary first day?".

Yu Xuan caught off guard for a moment, regained his composure with a good-natured chuckle.

As they continued their banter, Yu Xuan's magnetic presence inadvertently drew the attention of passing girls. Camera phones emerged cool. Chenxi, standing beside him, found himself in the shadow of the lens as the girls focused their admiration on his more popular friend.

Undeterred, Chenxi laughed it off, teasing Yu Xuan, "Looks like you're the star today, mate!"