Different Colors

Mariza walked through Kingston High's crowded hallway, her turquoise-streaked hair catching the morning light. Students stared at her white pupils with curiosity and whispers.

"Look at Mariza's eyes," someone muttered. "White means she likes everyone."

Near her locker, three girls waited. Miku had bright pink pupils that sparkled when she looked at Teto. Teto's eyes showed soft purple, while Neru displayed the same pink as Miku's.

"Morning, Mariza!" Teto called out cheerfully.

Miku stepped closer to Teto, her hand brushing against Teto's arm. "We should sit together at lunch today."

Neru rolled her eyes. "You two are always together now."

Mariza noticed the tension but smiled anyway. "How about we all eat together? Like always?"

The hallway buzzed with typical Monday morning energy. Students hurried past with backpacks and phones, checking messages and laughing with friends.

Teto nodded enthusiastically. "That sounds perfect!"

But Mariza caught the quick glance between Miku and Neru. Something felt different today.

The Unusual Message

At lunch, Mariza sat with her friends at their usual table in the cafeteria. Miku kept leaning close to Teto, whispering things that made Teto giggle.

"Want some of my sandwich?" Miku offered, breaking off a piece.

Neru stabbed her salad with her fork. "How sweet."

An elderly woman in a colorful shawl appeared near their table, carrying a basket of handmade friendship bracelets. "Special delivery for young ladies," she said with a warm smile.

"We didn't order anything," Mariza said politely.

The woman winked. "Sometimes the best gifts are surprises." She handed each girl a different colored bracelet, then walked away humming a soft lullaby.

Teto examined her purple bracelet. "These are beautiful!"

Miku tied hers around her wrist immediately. "Mine's pink, just like my eyes."

Neru held her yellow bracelet up to the light. Small letters were woven into the fabric that spelled out words she couldn't quite read.

"Wait," Neru squinted harder. "Mine has writing on it."

The other girls checked their bracelets. Each one contained a hidden message woven so tiny it was barely visible.