It’s the first day back at Hastings Academy, Charlie, Serena and Alice are now in their junior year. The annual placement exam that will determine which class they belong to has now concluded. 

Charlie's performance this year was better than her previous placement exam last year, notably her improvement in biology. While Charlie had always excelled in other subjects, her mastery extended to biology this time, thanks to the one-on-one tutoring sessions with Serena. Charlie was sure that her rankings improved this year as well.

Serena will surely remain as the undisputed top student in their year, a position she effortlessly maintained. Her intellect and charm seemed to set her apart, earning her the admiration of both peers and teachers alike. With a combination of beauty and brains, Serena embodied the epitome of academic excellence, leaving no doubt that she was in a league of her own.

As for Alice, her performance remained steady, neither excelling nor faltering, a reflection of her consistent approach to academics. 

Though the loss of Leora cast a somber shadow over their return to school, they resolved to press on, carrying Leora's memory with them as they faced the challenges ahead.

The arrival of two junior transfer students, Cato Alderbrandt and Selena Oxford, stirred up a whirlwind of excitement throughout Hastings Academy. With their impressive academic records and captivating appearances, they quickly became the talk of the school.

Cato Alderbrandt, an S-Class alpha, commanded attention with his towering stature and striking features. His blonde hair and piercing emerald eyes captivated the gaze of many, leaving the Omegas at Hastings swooning in his presence. As the heir to the prestigious Alderbrandt Empire, Cato carried himself with an air of confidence and prestige that was hard to ignore.

In contrast, Selena Oxford, an S-Class omega, brought a different kind of allure to the academy. Despite being the youngest daughter of the esteemed Oxford family, she was often regarded as the black sheep, known for her rebellious charm and mischievous smile. With her light blue hair, almost the shade of white like a rare blue rose, cascading around her face like wisps of smoke, and her captivating honey-glazed eyes. Selena possessed an undeniable intelligence and a magnetic charm that drew both admiration and intrigue. Her presence had a way of captivating even the most stoic of Alphas, making her a force to be reckoned with among her peers.

As Cato and Selena made their mark on Hastings Academy, it was clear that their presence would leave a lasting impression on the student body, forever changing the dynamics of the school's social landscape.

In the tranquil embrace of spring, Hastings Academy's pavilion flourished with vibrant life. Charlie and Alice sought refuge there, amidst the budding trees and blooming flowers, finding solace in each other's company as they navigated the complexities of their junior year. Though the absence of their dear friend Leora cast a shadow over their gatherings, their bond remained unbroken, a beacon of strength in the face of adversity.

As they settled into their cherished spot, bathed in the soft glow of the spring sun, Alice's words carried a gentle reassurance.

"Don't worry too much about the placement exam! For sure you've nailed it!" Alice said, her voice infused with unwavering support.

Gratitude swelled within Charlie's heart. "Thanks, Alice. But what about you? Any challenges from the exam? I'm here if you need help."

Alice's laughter danced in the warm breeze, a melody of camaraderie and understanding. "No tricky parts for me, unlike you, smarty-pants!"

Their laughter echoed amidst the budding trees, a testament to the enduring strength of their friendship. Yet, beneath the surface, Charlie's thoughts drifted to the uncertainties of the future.

"It's hard to believe how quickly time flies, it's junior year already and next year we gotta start thinking of the college entrance exams..." Charlie thought, her gaze drawn to the vibrant colors of spring unfolding around them.

Alice, ever attuned to her friend's emotions, noticed the shadow that crossed Charlie's expression. "Lost in thought again, sis Charlie?"

With a soft smile, Charlie returned to the present, though a hint of melancholy lingered in her eyes. "Just... contemplating life, I suppose."

Alice's teasing brought a playful spark to their conversation. "Contemplating a certain blondie, perhaps?"

A sigh escaped Charlie's lips, carrying the weight of unspoken truths. "No... Actually, we broke up."

Alice's surprise was palpable, her concern etched upon her features. "What? Why didn't you tell me? I've been worried sick all winter break about you because I never even heard a word from you after Leora's funeral... What happened?"

In the gentle embrace of spring's embrace, Charlie found the courage to share her heart with her friend. "It's a long story, Alice. I'd rather not delve into it."

Alice's response was one of unwavering support. "Okay... But know that I'm here for you, Charlie. I might not be Leora, but I'll always stand by your side."

With a grateful smile, Charlie met Alice's gaze, finding solace in the unspoken bond that united them. "I know... Thank you, Alice."

"Anyway, there are two transfer students in our year! An S-Class alpha and an S-Class Omega... They are the talk of the whole school!" Alice exclaimed, breaking the tense silence that had settled between them.

'Hmmm... S-Class alpha, maybe that's Cato I remember from the dinner his father said he transferred to Hastings. It looks like I can't stop the development of Serena and Cato's love line... That's better...' Charlie thought, though a pang of pain pierced her heart at the mere thought of it.

"Good for them..." Charlie replied nonchalantly, masking the turmoil brewing within her.

"Sis Charlie... Why do you seem like you're in a bad mood when I mentioned the transfer students? Do you know them?" Alice inquired, her curiosity piqued by Charlie's sudden shift in demeanor.

"No, I just—" Charlie began, only to be inter