**Chapter 1: New Horizons**

As I stepped off the plane and onto American soil, the warm sunshine and humid air enveloped me, a stark contrast to the cool breeze I was used to back home in the Philippines. I, Liliana Stocks, had just transferred to a new school in America, and everything about this place felt both exciting and intimidating. My black wavy curly hair bounced with each step as I made my way to the baggage claim, my bright brown eyes scanning the unfamiliar surroundings. My chubby cheeks flushed slightly, a mix of nerves and jet lag. I was a bit anxious about making new friends, but I was also thrilled to start fresh in a new country. My friends Elias Martinez and Seth Mackinlay, who had also transferred to the same school, were waiting for me at the airport. We had met in our previous school, and I was grateful to have them by my side as I navigated this new chapter. As I spotted them, Elias, with his tall, lean frame and charming smile, caught my eye and waved enthusiastically. Seth, equally tall, with a messy blond hair and a warm grin, gave me a gentle wave. I smiled back at them, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. Elias, being the flirtatious one, immediately swooped in to hug me, his arms wrapping around me in a tight squeeze. "Hey, Liliana! It's so great to see you!" He kissed my cheek, his lips grazing my skin, and I felt a flush rise to my cheeks. I had grown accustomed to Elias's affectionate nature, but it still made me blush every time. Seth chuckled and shook his head good-naturedly. "Dude, personal space, please." He handed me a small bag. "Hey, Liliana, I brought your favorite snacks – cookies and granola bars. I figured you'd be starving after the flight." I smiled, touched by Seth's thoughtfulness. "Thanks, Seth. You're a lifesaver." I dug into the bag and munched on a cookie, savoring the sweetness. As we made our way to the car, Elias couldn't resist teasing me. "Hey, Liliana, I heard the school's pool is amazing. You should totally join the swim team." He nudged me playfully, his eyes sparkling with mischief. I rolled my eyes good-naturedly. "Elias, I don't know...I'm not that into competitive swimming." But Elias just chuckled and nudged me again, his hand lingering on my arm. Seth, who was driving, glanced at us in the rearview mirror. "Hey, Liliana, I heard the school's astronomy club is really cool. Maybe we can check it out together?" I perked up at the suggestion. "That sounds amazing, Seth! I love stargazing." I had always been fascinated by the night sky, and the thought of exploring it in a new country excited me. As we drove to our new home, Elias continued to chat and joke, occasionally reaching out to touch my arm or shoulder. I felt a flutter in my chest, but I couldn't quite put my finger on what it was. Seth, on the other hand, was quieter, but his eyes kept drifting toward me, a soft smile on his face. I couldn't help but wonder what the future held for us in this new country. Little did I know, my life was about to take a dramatic turn, one that would challenge my feelings and force me to confront my heart. As we pulled up to our new house, I felt a sense of excitement and trepidation. What would the next few weeks bring? Would I find my place in this new school? And what about Elias and Seth – would they remain just friends, or would something more develop between us? Only time would tell.