Aya was a girl who seemed to shine from within. Her smile drew people in, and there was always a spark of dreams about freedom and adventure in her eyes. She easily connected with others, yet her soul longed for more—a life full of discoveries. Still, despite her dreams, she remained an ordinary student, living in a world of daily routine.
Her phone screen lit up with the name of her friend. Without hesitation, Aya picked up the call while continuing to walk through the bustling city streets. Her footsteps echoed rhythmically amidst the hum of voices and the endless stream of traffic.
— Emi, hey! You won't believe it, but today I was on fire! — her voice was full of excitement, as if she was sharing an important achievement.
— Oh? Tell me, what is it this time? — her friend's voice carried its usual sing-song irony, just like when she teased Aya.
— Imagine this: I answered all of the professor's questions. And not only did he not criticize me, but he actually praised me! — Aya emphasized the word praised, as if it was the most incredible thing that had happened.
— Unbelievable. Are you trying to become a star? I hope you didn't overwork yourself? — Emi laughed, though there was a hint of concern in her voice.
— Everything's under control, Mom, — Aya grinned, even though her friend couldn't see it. — And you? What have you been up to today?
— Drowning in a pile of reports, — Emi's tone instantly dulled. — Honestly, I look like a zombie. I envy your enthusiasm.
— Maybe you should take a walk? A little fresh air works wonders, — Aya suggested, glancing at the busy intersection.
Emi let out a light chuckle. — That would be nice. Anyway, get home soon. And watch your step, scatterbrain.
— Yes, yes, Mom, — Aya rolled her eyes with a smile. It was their usual way of showing care—wrapped in playful teasing.
But that smile disappeared as quickly as it came. Suddenly, the noise of traffic became unbearably loud, sharpening her senses. The crowd ahead slowed, and some people started moving aside.
"What's happening?" the thought flickered in her mind. Her heart beat faster, but she still didn't understand what was wrong. Then, screams rang out.
— WATCH OUT! — someone shouted from the crowd.
She turned, and blinding headlights hit her eyes. A truck was speeding straight toward her. Time seemed to freeze. Aya stood paralyzed, as if her feet were glued to the ground.
— Emi... — her voice broke into a whisper. Fear and the realization of her helplessness locked her body in place.
"I was just starting to live..." was her last thought. She couldn't move, and the truck swallowed her in its fury. The impact was sudden and brutal, sending her body crashing onto the asphalt.
Her phone slipped from her grasp, its screen shattering into pieces. The last thing she heard was Emi's desperate voice on the other end of the line:
— Aya?! Are you there? Answer me!
Darkness consumed her, leaving only the feeling of cold and emptiness.