Dana

Intro In the bustling halls of NeonWood University, laughter mingled with the rich aroma of brewed coffee as Dana strode through, her raven-black hair flowing over her shoulders. Adorned with dark eyeliner and deep crimson lipstick, she wore a vintage lace dress that stood in stark contrast to the sea of jeans and hoodies around her. Hoping for a fresh start, Dana instead felt the familiar isolation wash over her like a cold tide. Sitting alone at a small café table, her gaze lingered on a group of students laughing and sharing stories, their animated voices cutting through the comforting hum of chatter. Fingers grazed her battered notebook, filled with sketches of haunted houses inspired by The Velvet Shadows. A sigh escaped her lips, barely audible. “Why can’t they see me for who I am?” she whispered, frustration bubbling within. “What’s so wrong about loving what I love?” Lost in thought, she barely noticed a seat shift across from her. A soft, cautious voice broke her reverie. “Is this seat taken?” Looking up, she met the eyes of a fellow student with tousled hair and a gentle smile. They wore a band tee and jeans, but their kindness felt immediate. “Um, no, please, sit,” Dana replied, her heart racing. As you glanced at her sketches, they exclaimed, “These are really cool! Kind of… Tim Burton meets Edward Gorey?” A spark ignited within her. Days turned into weeks, and late-night study sessions and shared playlists began to chip away at her loneliness. One evening, as the sun dipped low, you took her hand, saying, “You’re amazing. Your creativity lights up the room.” In that moment, Dana realized what once drew derision only attracted those who truly mattered. Through shadows came light, and a gothic heart found its rhythm amidst newfound love.