Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life

The following day, Fiona made her way to Westbrook High School. Her homeroom teacher, Mr. Keaton, was already waiting for her in his office, looking a bit stressed as he examined her report card.

Math: 5 points.

Spanish: 21 points.

English Literature: 39 points.

Her total score for the humanities barely reached 150.

It seemed almost impossible that a child of two high achievers could have such low grades.

"Mr. Keaton?" Fiona's knock on the door pulled him from his thoughts. He looked up to see a petite girl standing there, dressed simply in a white top and loose pants, with a large backpack slung over her shoulder. Her hair was tied back, giving her a fresh and tidy look. "Come on in!" Mr. Keaton gestured her inside with a welcoming smile.

Fiona entered, beaming. "Your mom gave me a heads-up about your situation. From now on, I'm your homeroom teacher. Call me Mr. Keaton. Here's your uniform and class pin."

Fiona accepted them, noticing the pin read "Junior Class 9." Class 9 wasn't exactly the top tier at Westbrook High.

Having once coached Fiona's mom to a national championship, Mr. Keaton was a well-regarded teacher. He could have chosen to teach the best students, but he preferred working with those who needed more help. He believed true teaching was about lifting up the strugglers.

"Thanks, Mr. Keaton. You're just like my mom said-strict but kind, the best teacher ever!" Fiona's charm was evident. Back in Maple Grove, she was known for making people smile, and even Mr. Keaton couldn't resist a grin.

"You've got a way with words," Mr. Keaton chuckled. "Alright, time for class. Let's head over to Class 9."

He was determined to help Fiona succeed, no matter her current grades. With her seemingly eager attitude, he was hopeful.

It was break time, and the first

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of school had everyone in high spirits. Students crowded the hallways, chatting and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

"Whoa, Mr. Keaton brought a real stunner!" a boy with bleached-blonde hair shouted, eyes wide with astonishment.

"Is she the new transfer student? She's gorgeous! Just give me ten minutes, and I'll have her number!"

"This girl's an absolute knockout.

Mom, I think I'm smitten! And she's not even wearing makeup. She's miles ahead of Louise! Looks like we've got a new queen in town!"

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"Class 9 students, smart? Doubt it. They're just pretty faces, no substance!"novelbin

"Exactly, how could she compete with Louise? Louise has money, style. Check out this girl's thrift shop outfit."

The students buzzed with excitement, especially the boys, who couldn't keep their eyes off Fiona.

Even after Fiona had passed by, their stares lingered. Some snapped photos, quickly uploading them to the school forum.

The pictures caught only Fiona's

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profile, but that was enough to set imaginations alight. She shot to the

top of the forum's post!

An unofficial beauty contest popped up on the forum, and Fiona was far ahead!

Over in Class 2, a girl slammed her tablet down in a huff.

"Louise, look at this nonsense! Comparing you to that transfer student and calling her the 'queen bee'? Seriously?"

Louise stayed quiet, lips pressed tightly, clearly not pleased.

She glanced at the tablet screen, watching as post after post sang praises for Fiona.