**Chapter 6: Unraveling the Truth**
Days passed, and Y/N slowly adjusted to her new life. Marinette helped her blend in at school, introducing her to their classmates as her long-lost cousin who had recently moved to Paris. Most people accepted the story without question, though Alya seemed particularly intrigued.
“So, Y/N,” Alya said one afternoon at lunch, leaning in with curiosity, “where exactly were you before coming here?”
Y/N hesitated for a brief second before reciting the story Marinette had helped her craft. “I lived in China with my uncle. He raised me after my parents passed away.”
Alya narrowed her eyes slightly but nodded. “That must have been tough. If you ever want to talk about it, I’m here.”
Y/N forced a smile. “Thanks, Alya. That means a lot.”
Luka, sitting beside her, gave her a reassuring glance, silently reminding her that she wasn’t alone in this.
---
That evening, Y/N and Luka walked along the Seine, the lights reflecting off the water in a mesmerizing display. Luka played his guitar softly, a melody that was both calming and melancholic.
“You’re getting better at pretending,” he observed.
Y/N sighed. “I don’t want to lie, but I can’t exactly tell them the truth.”
Luka nodded in understanding. “Sometimes, the truth is too much for people to handle all at once.”
She glanced at him, her heart tightening slightly. “Do you think… I’ll ever belong here for real?”
Luka set his guitar down and faced her fully. “I think you already do.”
Their eyes locked, and for a moment, Y/N forgot all the complications surrounding her existence in this world. Maybe, just maybe, she could find happiness here.
But fate had other plans.
---
As they continued their walk, a sudden chill ran down Y/N’s spine. A figure lurked in the shadows, watching her every move. She wasn’t alone—someone from her past had found her.
To be continued…
