Side Story (1) - Chapter 1 (Jonah & Evelyn Focus)
The light of early dawn filtered softly through the lace curtains, casting a warm glow across the small, cozy kitchen. The sun was only just starting to peek above the horizon, sending gentle rays through the autumn-colored trees that framed the Wilder house. Jonah stood on his tiptoes, carefully placing the last few plates on the dining table, feeling a small thrill of satisfaction. He hadn't done much—just handed things to his mom as she bustled around the kitchen—but it felt good to be part of the morning routine.
The kitchen smelled of warmth and home: fresh bread, scrambled eggs, and a hint of maple syrup from the pancakes that were stacking up on the griddle. His mom, in her old but well-loved apron, hummed softly as she set down a bowl of perfectly crisp bacon next to the basket of warm rolls.
"Thank you, Jonah," she said, ruffling his messy hair with a fond smile. Jonah ducked, a bit embarrassed but secretly pleased. He pushed the hair back, careful with the tousled green strands that he had been extra attentive to since the weekend.
Jonah had first begged to dye his hair green when he was only six, inspired by the bright colors in his favorite storybooks. His parents, after much convincing and many promises to be "extra careful," finally allowed him to do it as a birthday treat. Over the years, his green hair had become his signature look, but this past weekend, he'd gone to the local salon with his mom to refine the color—just enough to make sure it looked fresh and vibrant for school.
After giving his hair one final pat, he joined his family around the dining table. His dad came in from the living room, still clutching the folded newspaper, which he tucked under his arm as he took his seat. The Wilder family's breakfast tradition was something Jonah looked forward to every morning. His mom always made sure there was more than enough, laying out hearty portions as if they were expecting a dozen guests. Jonah loved the way everyone settled around the table, filling the room with comfortable chatter.
His dad poured a bit of coffee from a worn kettle, steam rising from his mug as he glanced at Jonah over the top of his newspaper with a half-smile. "So, big plans today?" he asked, though it was mostly habit. Jonah grinned back, taking a big bite of a syrup-soaked pancake.
"Just school, Dad," he replied through a mouthful, before catching his mom's playful look and quickly swallowing. "And maybe some more practice with the guys at the park later."
His dad gave a knowing nod, going back to his paper. They sat like that for a while, eating in contented silence, with only the sound of forks clinking on plates and the gentle hum of the old radio in the background. It was one of those mornings where everything felt just right, wrapped in the warmth of family and the comfort of routine.
Once breakfast was finished, Jonah jumped up to help his mom clear the dishes, feeling that familiar sense of satisfaction. He checked his reflection one last time in the hallway mirror, adjusting a few strands of his green hair with the utmost care. He grinned at himself, trying out different expressions before deciding he looked cool enough. Even after all these years, he wasn't just Jonah Wilder; he was Jonah with the green hair—the kid who dared to stand out in Willowmere.
After grabbing his backpack, which had his mom's neatly packed lunch tucked inside, he bounded out the door, the crisp autumn air hitting him in an invigorating gust. Willowmere in autumn was like something out of a storybook. Leaves crunched beneath his sneakers as he made his way to his bike, already parked by the fence. The trees that lined the narrow, winding streets were ablaze with shades of orange, gold, and deep red, their leaves falling like gentle confetti in the breeze.
Jonah hoisted himself onto his bike, a well-worn but sturdy hand-me-down from his older brother. The cool leather of the handlebars felt familiar under his hands, and he took a deep breath, savoring the scent of wood smoke and pine that lingered in the air. He pushed off, pedaling toward the town square where he'd agreed to meet his friends before school.
The ride into town felt like freedom, the wind rushing through his hair as he picked up speed, gliding down the gentle hills of Willowmere. He loved the way the houses and trees blurred by, the whole world rushing past in a whirl of color. By the time he reached the center of town, he could see a couple of familiar faces already waiting near the big oak tree by the corner café.
"Jonah!" called Leo, waving as Jonah approached. Next to him, Finn and Evelyn waited. Evelyn adjusted her backpack with a soft smile, her golden hair catching the morning sun. Jonah felt a small flutter in his chest, but brushed it off, chalking it up to the excitement of the morning.
"Hey, guys!" Jonah grinned, hopping off his bike. He couldn't help but notice Evelyn adjusting her scarf, her cheeks slightly rosy in the crisp morning air. He found himself grinning a little wider than usual.
"You're slow today, Jonah," Evelyn teased, wrinkling her nose playfully. "Guess the green hair doesn't make you any faster."
Jonah huffed, pretending to be offended, but the tease made his cheeks feel a bit warmer than he expected. "Just you wait! I'm saving my energy for the race to school."
They lined up, each glancing down the street toward the ivy-covered schoolhouse. Racing to school had been their tradition for years, but Jonah found himself wanting to win a little more today—if only to impress Evelyn.
"On your mark… get set… go!" Leo called, and they shot off, pedaling furiously.
Jonah surged ahead, his laughter echoing alongside Finn's. "Come on, Jonah," Finn teased, "I thought that green hair made you faster!" Jonah only laughed harder, but when Evelyn sped past him, his focus shifted.
"Not bad, Evelyn!" he called after her, feeling a strange mix of pride and determination. He pedaled a bit faster, not wanting to fall too far behind.
As they skidded to a stop outside the school gates, Evelyn hopped off her bike, grinning with a triumphant look. "I won!" she declared, her eyes sparkling with pride.
Jonah's chest tightened with a feeling he didn't quite understand. "Nice job, Ev!" he said, smiling wider than he meant to. He quickly looked away, pretending to check his bike's handlebars.
Finn, noticing Jonah's grin, raised an eyebrow but said nothing, choosing instead to ruffle Evelyn's hair. "Sure, sure, little sis. We just didn't want to embarrass you by winning."
Evelyn swatted his hand away, laughing. Leo watched with a proud, big-brotherly smile, giving Evelyn a nod. "You did great, Ev."
The bell rang, and they exchanged waves and promises to meet up after class. As they headed inside, Jonah found himself walking beside Evelyn, his heart unexpectedly light.