Chapter 13: A Sunny Afternoon at Springdale High

A Sunny Afternoon at Springdale High The sun was shining brightly in the courtyard of Springdale High, casting a warm glow over the group of friends gathered at a table. Maya and Clary were sitting together, chatting and laughing with Callie and Jude, while Mariana and Jesus sat across from them, smiling at each other. Maya couldn't help but feel a flutter in her chest as she caught Jesus's eye, and he smiled back at her, his eyes crinkling at the corners. She had never felt this way about anyone before, and it was exhilarating. Clary, sitting beside her sister, couldn't help but notice the way Jesus looked at Maya. She had seen that look before, in her own mirror, when she thought about her own love, Jude. It was a look of deep affection, and it made her heart happy. As they chatted and joked, Callie pulled out her phone and started snapping photos of the group. "I'm going to post this on social media," she said, grinning mischievously. "And make sure to tag you all, so you can't deny it." Jude rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "Great, just what I need," he said, laughing. "More evidence of my association with this crazy group." Mariana playfully tossed a napkin at Jude, laughing. "Hey, you're part of the crew now," she said. "You have to take the good with the bad." As they teased each other, Maya felt a sense of belonging wash over her. She had never felt like she fit in before, but with this group, she felt like she had finally found her tribe. Jesus, sensing her gaze, turned to her and smiled, his eyes locked on hers. Maya felt her heart skip a beat as he reached out and took her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. Clary, watching her sister, couldn't help but feel happy for her. Maya had found someone who loved her, someone who made her happy, and that was all that mattered. As they finished up their lunch, Mariana stood up, stretching her arms over her head. "I have a free period next," she said. "Want to come with me to the art room, Maya? I want to show you some of my favorite pieces." Maya nodded, smiling at Jesus. "I'll meet you guys later," she said, standing up to hug her sister. As they walked off, Clary turned to Jude and smiled. "I'm so happy for Maya," she said, her eyes shining with happiness. "She's found someone who loves her, just like I did." Jude wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. "I'm happy for her too," he said, smiling down at her. "And I'm glad we're all part of this crazy, wonderful group." As they walked off, hand in hand, Maya and Jesus shared a look, both of them knowing that they had found something special, something that would last a lifetime.