Aria Montgomery rinsed her plate, surrounded by her family's laughter. The Icelandic sun was setting, casting a golden glow through the window. It was a bittersweet reminder that her father Byron's sabbatical had ended. Tomorrow they'd go to Rosewood, Pennsylvania.

The thought of going to the town where her friend Alison DiLaurentis had disappeared gave her chills. If Alison didn't leave willingly, she was likely kidnapped, meaning there was danger in Rosewood's streets. Aria was terrified at the possibility of becoming the next headline.

Her mother Ella interrupted her thoughts. "Aria?" Startled, Aria turned. "Are you joining us for dinner, or are you planning on washing dishes all night?"

"Yeah, I'm coming." She piled food onto her plate and slipped into her seat at the table.

Her brother Mike spoke with his mouth full. "Mom, this is amazing!"

"I'm glad you think so, honey."

Byron chimed in. "We'll have great food back in Rosewood."

Aria's fork stopped in mid-air. "Do we have to go back? Iceland feels like home now."

"Aria, we always knew this was temporary."

"I know. But I'm more than 'the missing girl's best friend' here."

"It's been a year. Things change."

Aria gave him a nasty look. She wished to stay in Iceland, but he insisted on returning to that horrible place, and she knew why. "You're dying to get back to Rosewood, aren't you?"

Byron glared at her, and she glared back. This was a common occurrence for them: she always criticized him. He deserved it for cheating on her mother with his college student. Aria hated having to hide the truth from Ella.

"What are you insinuating?"

Aria's reply was as sharp as a drawn sword. "You know what I'm insinuating."

Ella's patience was gone. "Enough, Aria. Let's spend our last night here without arguing."

"He deserves it."

"What did he do?"

Aria's arms crossed, her eyes demanding that Byron confess. But he kept quiet, fixed on his plate. Ella's voice rose in finality. "If you have nothing to say, please take your food upstairs."

Aria stood, her movements stiff and angry. "Fine."

She stormed out, her door slamming loudly. Her appetite was gone, replaced by a smoldering anger. She disliked her father's habit of making her look like the aggressor. He was a pain, and Aria felt ashamed of their relation.

Hearing him exchange "I love you's" with her mother only increased her anger, because if he loved her, he wouldn't have cheated. Aria wished she could calm herself by talking to her friends, but she hadn't bothered to contact them all year. She desperately wanted to leave Rosewood behind.

The door creaked open, Byron's presence darkening the threshold. "What do you want?" Aria spat.

"Let's not argue in front of your mother, okay? She deserves peace."

"She deserves a faithful husband."

Byron sighed. "I apologize for what I did. It was a mistake that won't happen again. That's why I brought us to Iceland," he said, waving his hand around the room, "so we could start over as a family."

"To start over, you have to tell the truth."

"I can't tell your mother."

"Then I can't forgive you. So please leave me alone."

Byron raised his hands in surrender. "I tried to fix this."

He retreated, leaving Aria alone in her room. She dressed for bed before charging her phone. Then she turned off the light and fell asleep to relieve her stress.

…

Aria tossed and turned in her sleep, replaying the events of that fateful night when she, Alison, Hanna, and Emily had gone to Spencer's barn for a sleepover. A noise outside the barn had startled them, but it was Alison playing a prank on them. They continued their fun until they fell asleep, and Aria jolted them awake when she discovered Alison and Spencer had left.

Spencer came to the barn and told them she couldn't find Alison and thought she'd heard her scream. They hadn't seen Alison since...

"Aria." The voice was relentless, a lifeline that pulled her out of the darkness. "Aria!"

Aria's eyes opened, her breath coming in quick gasps as she scanned her surroundings. She expected the barn's walls to close in on her, but no. This was her Rosewood bedroom, a reality that was both foreign and eerily familiar. "We're home?"

"Yes. You fell asleep. The jet lag caught up with us both," Ella said with a weary yawn.

With a distant look on her face, Aria muttered, "It's weird being here. Alison's memory haunts me every day."

"Why don't you call your friends? They don't know we're back from your father's sabbatical."

Aria didn't want to renew her old friendships. It felt too sudden, too weird. She tried to change the subject, hoping her mother would notice. "On the news, they're calling it the anniversary of Alison's disappearance. Like it's a party or something."

Ella brushed a stray strand of hair from her forehead, aware of her evasion. "Why don't you call them? The five of you were inseparable. Those feelings don't just go away."

Before Aria could answer, Mike's voice came from the doorway. "I need a ride to lacrosse!"

Aria took the opportunity to escape. "I'll take him!"

She jumped off the bed, catching her mother's sigh. Her desire for Aria to connect with the past was obvious, but Mike's needs came first. She nodded and left, leaving Aria to get ready.

She and Mike arrived at Rosewood High in silence. Aria parked, and Mike departed with his gear. She grabbed a cheeseburger at the Hollis Bar, since Mike wouldn't be back until six. She sat at the bar, tapping her fingers on the counter, her attention wandering as she waited for her order. Her gaze fell on the bulletin board, where a missing poster for Alison rested. Despite Alison's imperfections, Aria hoped she was alive. She had her whole life ahead of her.

"You okay down there?" a voice said.

Aria looked at the man sitting two seats away, absorbed in a book. He had a sophisticated look about him. "I'm a little jet-lagged," she admitted. "Just got back from Europe."

"Where in Europe?"

Aria hesitated before answering. "Iceland."

"I spent some time in Reykjavik before going to Amsterdam. It's a great city," he said with a nostalgic smile.

Aria turned to face him, knowing a quick chat wouldn't hurt while she waited. "Do you go to Hollis?"

"I just graduated. I'm about to start my first teaching job."

"I think I'd like to teach." Her focus shifted as a familiar song played on the jukebox. "I love this song."

"B26," he said, recognizing the tune. She smiled when she realized he knew the song too. "What's your major?" he asked.

Her heart sank. She couldn't reveal her high school status, especially since she was starting to enjoy his company. "Uh, well, I'm leaning towards English."

"That's what I'll be teaching," he said, pleased with her response.

Aria felt encouraged and opened up more. "I write, too, but so far it's mostly personal. Just for me."

"I tried writing once. I didn't get very far," he admitted, slipping into the seat next to her. "You're lucky. When you write for yourself, it's pure passion. Maybe you'd let me read something of yours."

"You'd really want to?"

"Yeah. You're smart, you've traveled. And you have great taste in music. I'd like to know more about you."

"I'd like to know more about you, too."

And as that afternoon wore on, she learned more about him than she'd ever imagined. She learned how warm he was to touch, how soft he kissed, and how he satisfied a hunger she didn't know she possessed.

The next day, Emily Fields stood outside Rosewood High with her arms crossed. Her eyes followed the kids as they entered the building, laughing and chatting with their friends. She used to be a part of that scene, waking up every morning knowing she had four friends by her side. Now her boyfriend Ben was the only constant in her life.

That's what happens when the leader of the group disappears without a trace. Of course, they'd grown apart, realizing their bond wasn't as strong as they assumed. Alison had been their glue, and without her, they fell apart.

Emily closed her eyes and let the memories wash over her. She remembered the nights she and Alison had spent whispering secrets, their adventures, and how Alison always knew what to say to make her feel better. Was Alison out there thinking of her? Or was she in trouble and needed help that Emily couldn't provide?

Man, she missed her. She couldn't sleep at night, worrying about Alison's safety. Even eating felt like a betrayal, since Ali could be starving somewhere. The missing posters worsened her pain. She wanted things to go back to when it was just her and Ali against the world. So much so that whenever she saw a girl with golden blonde hair, her hope surged, only to be crushed. It wasn't Ali. It might never be Ali. And Emily was forever broken.

The slam of a car door snapped her out of her thoughts. She followed the sound and straightened up when she saw Aria. Her eyes widened at the change in her appearance. She no longer had her signature pink stripe in her hair. She'd looked good with it, but she looked even better without it.

"Aria!" Emily's voice was bright with joy despite the pain in her heart. Aria turned with surprise and reluctance.

"Emily. Hey."

Emily marveled at the change in her appearance. "Wow, I almost didn't recognize you. The last time I saw you, you had that pink stripe in your hair."

"Yeah, well. When your parents want you to be yourself and you don't know who you are..."

"You wore it well," Emily said, pulling them out of the awkward silence as they walked. "You should've called. It's weird just running into you."

"We kinda lost touch, Emily. Remember?"

"We had to," Emily said, her sadness as obvious as the sky above them.

The conversation took a turn when Aria brought up an unpleasant memory. "I saw a poster of Alison yesterday."

"I see it every day." Emily froze, her eyes locked with Aria's. "Be honest with me. Do you think she's alive?"

Aria paused, her words dripping with uncertainty. "I don't know. If she were alive, they should've found her by now. But the other part of me refuses to believe she's dead. She's a fighter."

They fell into silence. In that moment, they were two fragments of a shattered whole. Life continued around them, but time stood still in their shared bubble of grief.

Aria saw her depression. "Are you okay?"

Emily's fleeting smile lacked its usual joy. "I haven't been okay in a year."

The bell rang, signaling the start of class. They filed into the English classroom. Emily lightened the mood as they arrived. "I hear the new teacher's really hot."

She laughed, nudging Aria as they took their seats. Aria's eyes widened when she saw Hanna enter the room. She was no longer the chubby, awkward girl Aria remembered. She was now thin and fashionable, with blonde hair styled identically to Alison's. The transformation was both impressive and disturbing. Alison would've had mixed feelings about it, to say the least.

As if on cue, Mona Vanderwaal stepped in, her heels clicking on the floor. She made a beeline for Hanna, and Emily felt annoyed by their closeness. She was happy Hanna was getting the attention she craved, but she missed the old days.

Aria couldn't believe Hanna and Mona were the new it girls and best friends. Alison had never allowed Hanna to be friends with Mona, let alone talk to her. Emily had to explain that Hanna had become free-spirited and rebellious since Alison had disappeared.

Hanna saw them and waved. Emily noticed Mona's serious demeanor, which indicated her resentment. It was understandable; Alison had bullied her and no one had done anything to stop it. Mona was unlikely to forgive them anytime soon, but she'd forgiven Hanna.

Baffled by Hanna choosing Mona over Emily, Aria asked, "Are you two fighting?"

"I didn't just fall out of touch with you, Aria. We all fell out of touch with each other." Spencer strolled into the classroom and gave Hanna a forced smile. Emily continued, "They're not so close anymore, either."

The late bell rang and their new teacher entered. Emily leaned forward in anticipation as he wrote his name on the board, curious to see if the rumors were true. As he turned, the room gasped in awe. But then his eyes fell on Aria, and the color drained from his face, as if he'd encountered a ghost from his past.

"Holy crap," he breathed. All eyes turned to Aria, her uncertain expression morphing into terror. Emily's eyes darted between them, a silent question etched into her face.

Mr. Fitz cleared his throat and introduced himself. Emily stayed focused on Aria, who avoided eye contact as if her life depended on it. The tension remained high throughout the class, with Mr. Fitz glancing at Aria when he thought no one was looking. When class ended, Aria quickly left, ignoring Mr. Fitz's stare.

"Aria, wait!" Emily called, trying to catch up to her. Aria turned and listened. "What's going on with you and Mr. Fitz?"

"Yeah, it seemed like you knew him," Spencer replied from behind Emily, who was unaware of Spencer and Hanna trailing them. "Welcome back, by the way."

"Thank you. And, um, I don't know him."

Hanna spoke, her curiosity getting the better of her. "Really? He looked terrified of you. And why was there so much tension?"

"Mind your business, Hanna!"

The trio recoiled at her shout. Emily exchanged a surprised look with Spencer, puzzled by Aria's sudden outburst.

Offended, Hanna replied, "Okay, on second thought? It's so not nice having you back." She linked arms with Mona, who stared at them as they left.

Aria walked away, unbothered by her anger. Emily and Spencer followed. "Aria, we know you're hiding something," Emily said, struggling to keep up with her fast pace.

"Emily, I'm serious," Aria said, keeping her attention forward. "Let it go."

Spencer added, "We're just curious."

Aria turned to face them. "Well, don't be. Because the last time I checked, we weren't friends," she said, stinging Emily, who thought they were mending their friendship. "Just leave me alone."

Aria left, leaving Emily and Spencer stunned by her unexpected behavior. Something had changed since Mr. Fitz's arrival, and Emily was determined to find out the truth.

…

Aria's strange behavior preoccupied Emily's mind after school. She considered questioning Mr. Fitz, but lacked the courage to do so. She wanted to ask Spencer for her help in getting answers. Spencer wouldn't care, though, because Aria had made it clear they weren't friends anymore. Spencer accepted that truth and chose not to invest her energy in someone who didn't care about her. So Emily felt stuck.

Putting her concerns aside, Emily focused on the new family that had moved into Alison's former home. Her mother prepared a food basket for them, and it was Emily's responsibility to welcome them to the neighborhood.

She watched the movers at the house. A girl her age with brown skin and curly hair came out. She spotted the medal Emily was holding, which she'd taken from one of the boxes. "You want that?" She pointed to the medal before introducing herself. "I'm Maya St. Germain, aka the new girl."

"I'm Emily," she introduced, holding out her basket of goodies. "Welcome to the neighborhood."

"Thank you." She looked inside the basket. "Foie gras and cornichons. My favorites."

"It's from my mother."

"I figured." Maya smiled, catching Emily looking at the boxes again. "Oh, that was in my room. You can have whatever you want."

Emily's face turned melancholy. "It all belonged to Alison."

"Is she a friend of yours?"

She was more than that and always would be.

Emily clutched the medal tighter, wanting to be closer to Alison. "She was. A long time ago."

Maya nodded. She switched topics upon sensing the sensitivity. "Would it be outrageous of me to ask if you'd help with our last few boxes?"

"Yes," Emily replied in her usual straightforward manner. "But I don't mind."

Maya smiled as she walked into the house. Emily put down the medal and followed Maya. She was nervous about entering Alison's house after all this time, but she wanted to be friendly.

They grabbed boxes and headed upstairs. There was no sign of Alison in Maya's room. It was devoid of her belongings, leaving only a purple draped bed and scattered boxes. Maya set the box down and turned to Emily. "Thanks for helping. Anyone else would've said no."

"It's the least I can do. I have the time."

"Well, I appreciate it. Moving is a hassle."

"I bet. If you need anything else, let me know."

Maya nodded and sat on her bed while Emily moved to the window. Maya watched her look out and struck up a conversation. "My mom's a cellist. They're building a studio."

"Do you play?"

"Yeah, but not the cello."

Emily was going to ask more when she saw Maya rolling up a joint. Her heart dropped. "You smoke weed?"

Maya looked up with an unreadable expression. "Uh...I won't if you don't want me to?"

Emily looked around for any sign of her relatives. "Where are your parents?"

"Relax. They're out."

Emily shrugged, accepting the situation. "It's your house. Go ahead."

Maya paused, then asked, "Wanna join me?"

Emily pondered. Today had been terrible. The year had been terrible. But Alison would want her to live her life, and might be impressed if she loosened up. "Okay." She sat cross-legged on Maya's bed, feeling both nervous and excited.

"I can tell you're a newbie. Are you sure you're ready for this?" Maya asked as she held up the joint.

"Yeah, I guess. I've never done this before, but I could use some relaxation."

"Take it slow. There's no pressure." Maya lit the joint, took a deep drag, and exhaled slowly. "Here," she said, handing it to Emily.

Emily took the joint with trembling fingers, her heart pounding like a drum. She mimicked Maya's actions, but as soon as the smoke entered her lungs, she coughed. Her eyes watered and she struggled to breathe.

Maya chuckled. "Don't worry, everyone coughs the first time. Just take smaller hits."

Emily tried again, puffing more carefully. She still coughed, but it wasn't as bad.

"See? You're getting the hang of it." Maya took another puff. She paid close attention to Emily. "How are you feeling?"

Emily leaned against the pillows, her muscles beginning to relax. "I think it's working. I feel...lighter, I guess."

"You were really stressed out, huh?"

Emily gazed ahead, distant. "I haven't told you everything about the girl who used to live here."

"Alison," Maya said, the name hanging in the air between them.

Emily looked at her with sadness and longing. "She disappeared last summer. She's still missing."

"That must've been awful."

"Yeah, I took it the hardest. Ali and I were close."

"Of course you were. You were friends."

"No, we were really close. More than her and anyone else."

"That's all I get? No details?"

"I wish I could spill, but we swore each other to secrecy."

Maya tilted her head, a hint of rebellion in her tone. "She's not exactly around to know."

"Maybe one day I'll tell you."

"I'll hold you to that, because I'm not going anywhere. I'm not Alison, but I can see us being just as close."

Emily hoped so. She needed all the friends she could get right now.

They passed the joint back and forth. Emily's coughing fits subsided, and she laughed at Maya's jokes and stories. Maya stubbed out the joint in a makeshift ashtray on her nightstand. Then she looked at Emily. "You know, it's nice to sit and talk like this."

Emily nodded, feeling comfortable. "Yeah, it is. I needed this, so thanks."

Maya leaned in to give her a quick hug. "You're not alone, Emily. Remember that."

Emily hugged her back, feeling a warmth unrelated to the weed. Her fears eased, and the future seemed less daunting. Losing Alison was painful, but having Maya gave her new strength.

She glanced at the clock. "I have swim practice," she explained, standing up. "I'll see you tomorrow?"

"Absolutely." They exchanged numbers to keep in touch.

Emily left Maya's house and her phone buzzed in her bag. Thinking it was Maya, she smiled as she took it out, only to look confused when seeing an unknown number.

Looks like I'm being replaced, Em!
-A

A for Aria? Maybe Aria was bothered by how close Emily had been to her this morning, and how close she was to Maya right now? But there was no point in Aria texting anonymously.

Could it be Alison? It would make sense, since Emily had put Alison above everyone else. But now Maya was taking her place, even occupying her home. Alison must not be happy.

If Alison sent the text, that meant she was alive. Or what if it was her spirit? But it seemed unlikely that Ali's ghost would communicate with her. Emily assumed Alison was still out there.

That made her pulse race, because that was all she wanted. Now she could sleep and eat without guilt, knowing Alison was alive and well. Or at least well enough to text. But Ali was wrong. Emily wasn't replacing her. Yes, she enjoyed Maya's company, but she could never forget how she felt about Alison. The memories they shared were too deep and dear. Emily would always treasure them.

So Alison may not be there physically, but she was forever in Emily's heart.

…

Emily skipped through the halls of Rosewood High. She had so many questions for Ali. What had happened to her? Where was she? And most importantly, was Emily still her favorite? Unfortunately, she couldn't respond to the text. It wouldn't let her. Hopefully Alison would contact her from an unblocked number.

Emily put her phone away and concentrated on getting to practice. Turning the corner, she spotted Aria slipping into the English classroom. Was she talking to Mr. Fitz?

Emily looked through the glass. Mr. Fitz was sitting at his desk, and Aria was standing next to him. Emily couldn't hear their conversation but noticed their intense eye contact. It also looked like they were touching hands from her angle. But that would be impossible. Mr. Fitz was their teacher.

Emily stopped looking and leaned against the wall. Aria and Mr. Fitz's interactions were perplexing, causing her head to spin. She had no idea what she'd seen or what they were talking about. She only knew they were way too close.

Spencer Hastings' fingers hovered over the keyboard. The cursor blinked on the blank document in front of her. She tried to translate the rhythm of her thoughts into words, but the letters blurred into an unintelligible mess.

She sighed and pushed her hair away from her face in frustration. Usually, homework was a time where she could immerse herself and escape the stress. But today that wasn't possible since Aria had snapped at her earlier.

How could Aria be so ungrateful? She'd been nothing but caring, and Aria had been aggressive. But if she didn't want Spencer involved in her business, fine. She'd never worry about Aria's well-being again. Obviously, Aria didn't care about hers.

Spencer wasn't only upset with Aria. Her sister Melissa had just announced that she and her fiancé, Wren, were moving into the barn. The same barn Spencer had re-designed. She sacrificed her summer and worked hard, only to have Melissa take it all away.

She hated competing with Melissa, because sisters shouldn't act that way. They should be supporting each other, not fighting all the time. Their parents were also to blame. They let Melissa get away with everything and had broken their promise. Spencer felt overshadowed by Melissa, her efforts and feelings ignored. The injustice made her blood boil.

A knock at her door interrupted her thoughts. She didn't want to answer it, but the knocking continued. The door opened without her permission, and it was Wren. He waited in the doorway, his hands in his pockets. Spencer raised an eyebrow, her patience wearing thin. "Yes?"

"Oh." He let out an awkward laugh. "Sorry, I realized I didn't properly introduce myself earlier."

"Your name is Wren, and you're a medical student. I think that covers the basics."

His lips curved into a half-smile as he stepped forward and closed the door behind him. "Oh, come on; I'm not that boring. And since we're going to be in-laws, we should get to know each other."

"We can get acquainted at the family dinner." Spencer pointed to her laptop. "Right now I need to get acquainted with my homework."

"It can't wait?"

"No. I need to keep my grades up, so please—" She stood, wincing as she rubbed her lower neck.

Wren held out his hand, alarmed. "Woah, what's wrong?"

"Rough field hockey practice."

"I can help with that." He walked behind her. His hands hovered before resting on both sides of her neck.

Spencer recoiled. "What are you doing?"

"Offering a massage." Wren's tone was matter-of-fact and professional. "You might have a fluid buildup in your bursa sac."

"You don't have to do that." Although she refused, her hands still touched the painful area.

"Please, I insist. I'm a medical student, after all."

His eyes had an imploring gleam. Spencer sighed and nodded, allowing him to proceed only for the promise of relief. Her discomfort dissipated as Wren's hands worked their way into her neck, the tension melting away under his expert touch. Her head tilted, and her eyelids closed as she succumbed to the pleasure. But when Wren's hands began a slow descent down her spine, the relaxing experience got ruined.

Spencer's eyes snapped open, and she jumped away. "What are you doing?!"

He raised his hands. "I'm just checking for tension elsewhere."

"I didn't ask you to!" Spencer dashed to the door and flung it open. "Please, go."

"Spencer, I didn't mean to—"

"Go."

Wren left with an embarrassed slump to his shoulders. Spencer slammed the door, leaned against it, and shook her head in disbelief. Then her computer chimed. She went to her bed and opened the message she received from an unknown source. As she scanned the words, her eyes widened in alarm.

Remember, if you kiss, I tell.

-A

"What happened with Aria today?" Mona's voice crackled through the phone. Hanna Marin sat on the couch, her thoughts matching the question. She couldn't remember Aria ever having a nasty attitude; that was a quality reserved for Alison. Had Iceland's coldness affected Aria's personality? Hanna didn't know, but if Aria moved to Iceland again, she wouldn't shed a tear.

"I don't know," Hanna said. "Emily grilled her about Mr. Fitz."

"That was bizarre, wasn't it? It's like they know each other."

"Right?" Hanna said. "Aria got defensive and told me to mind my business. I didn't appreciate the attitude, so I left."

"I'm glad you distanced yourself from her. Our bond is leagues above whatever you had with those girls."

"I wouldn't trade our friendship for anything, Mona."

"That'd be incredibly stupid." Mona laughed. "So! When's our next mall heist?"

She sounded ecstatic, and Hanna knew why: they were partners in crime. They'd been shoplifting together. Mona did it for the thrill, but Hanna did it to get her father's attention. He'd left her mother, and by extension, Hanna. She hadn't heard from him since they got divorced and hated that she wanted to. She should hate him for abandoning her, but she didn't. She wanted his love back, so she sought danger. She knew he'd rush to save the day, showing his love, and bringing a chance for them to reunite.

"Maybe in a few days?" Hanna said. "We went there yesterday."

"Oh, come on. We can't let someone else take the stuff we want, can we?"

Hanna couldn't argue with that logic. "Okay, we'll go tomorrow. But I have to hang up. My show is about to start; I have to prepare."

Mona's knowing chuckle came through. "Okay, but don't go crazy with the snacks. Remember how hard it was to lose those pounds?"

Yes, and it was thanks to Mona and her strict diet. In a way, Mona saved her life. She pulled Hanna out of her loser phase and turned her into the fabulous girl she was today. So Mona was right: their friendship was better than hers with Aria, Emily, and Spencer.

She hung up and walked into the kitchen. As she turned on the faucet, her mother entered. "I ran into Ella Montgomery today. Why didn't you tell me Aria was back?"

Hanna forced her expression to stay neutral, not wanting to show a negative reaction to the mention of Aria. She didn't want her mother to find out about the incident. She'd talk to Aria's mother about it and force them to make up.

"It's not like we're still friends."

A sense of sadness permeated the room. "Ella didn't know your father left. I hate telling that story."

"So change the story. I did." She recited the story she'd created for herself. "You grew up. You grew apart. It was mutual, and honestly, we are much happier without him."

"Hanna."

"Say it enough and you'll actually start to believe it."

Her mother reached for a glass of water. "Well, I have to admit, it sounds a lot better than the truth."

Hanna watched her. "No one needs to know we got dumped."

"We didn't get dumped. I did."

"He left both of us."

Her mother's eyes held inexpressible sadness. Hanna grabbed her bowl of chips and sat on the couch, ready to watch the latest episode of her favorite show. Just as she reached for the remote, the doorbell rang.

"Hanna, can you get that?"

Hanna huffed, rolled her eyes, and pushed herself off the couch. She swung the door open, her nonchalance disappearing at the sight of two police officers. One of them flashed his detective badge. "Hanna Marin?"

"Yes?"

"Is your mother home?"

On cue, her mother appeared beside her. "What's this about?"

"We got a call from Rosewood Mall security. They have your daughter on tape shoplifting a pair of sunglasses."

Her eyes bored into Hanna, a silent storm brewing in their depths. But in her defense, there was a glimmer of optimism. "I'm sure there was a mistake."

"I don't think so." He stepped closer, his handcuffs gleaming in the light. "Could you turn around, please?"

Hanna moved robotically, her eyes wide with fear. As the metal cuffs clicked shut, binding her wrists, she looked at her mother. It was a desperate plea for her to end this. But her mother's face was a mask of helplessness that mirrored Hanna's.

…

Hanna watched her mother talk to the detective in the station. He noticed her prying and closed the door, shutting her out. Hanna sighed, feeling in the dark. She'd wanted her father's attention, but she felt guilty for involving her mother this time. She'd been through enough, and there was a possibility her father might not even come back after this. This might've been pointless.

Hanna scanned the waiting area. She spotted a bowl of candy on a side table and grabbed a handful. She unwrapped them and popped them into her mouth, a habit she couldn't shake. She'd feel disgusted with herself later, but for now she didn't care.

Her phone buzzed in her purse. She fished it out, her eyebrows furrowing as she read the text.

Be careful, Hanna. I hear prison food makes you fat.
-A

Hanna looked around the station, feeling exposed even though she was alone. Who was A? And were they referring to her old self? Back when she was "Hefty Hanna"? The text brutally reminded her of her past insecurities.

She put her phone away, focusing on the closed door, wanting good news from her mother. As she waited, the minutes felt like hours, and every second added to her anxiety. Finally, the door opened. As her mother told her she was free to leave, Hanna felt gratitude wash over her. But when they got in the car, her relief turned to regret as her mother lectured her.

Her mother stressed how important her reputation was in a small town like Rosewood. She couldn't understand why Hanna would steal; she always bought her what she needed to be popular. Hanna said it wasn't about popularity, but didn't go any further. Her mother's eyes softened, realizing this was about her father.

Hanna didn't confirm it. Instead, she apologized and promised to make it right. However, her mother said she had to deny any wrongdoing because she was handling it herself.

When they got home, her mother had something to do, so Hanna entered the house alone. She closed the door and saw her chips on the couch. But her show had just ended.

Hanna huffed and sat on the couch, the bowl in her lap. She ate the chips to avoid wasting them, and to relieve her stress. Her mood worsened when the news came on with a breaking story about Alison's disappearance—or rather, discovery. The TV showed footage of police officers at Alison's old house.

"The current owners of the house were in the process of demolishing the structure to make way for a renovation project when workers made the gruesome discovery. The parents of the deceased were unavailable for comment, but a family spokesperson has confirmed that the gazebo was under construction the summer fifteen-year-old Alison DiLaurentis disappeared."

The news reporter continued. "Tonight, the family is asking for privacy as they come to terms with the sad end to a year-long mystery. And local authorities are coming to terms with the fact that a killer is at large in Rosewood."

Hanna switched off the TV to avoid hearing more about Alison. She was saddened to discover Alison had been buried in her own backyard. The mystery was solved, but the reality of losing a friend hit her harder than ever.

Now they'd have to attend Alison's funeral, and Hanna dreaded the thought. She hated funerals; they scared her. A killer being in Rosewood made it even more terrifying. It could be someone they saw every day.

Hanna rose upon hearing keys at the door. "Mom-" she started, but the words caught in her throat because her mother wasn't alone. The man standing behind her was the detective who'd arrested her. Hanna's eyes shifted to their intertwined hands, and she watched in horror as her mother led him upstairs, most likely to her bedroom. Her mother's stern gaze signaled for her to stay quiet.

Hanna grew pale as the bedroom door closed. This was how her mother was "handling it"? By hooking up with the detective?

"Oh, today sucks," she said to herself, collapsing back onto the couch.

After a few days, it was time for Alison's funeral. Emily stood outside Rosewood's church with her mother and watched as the entire community came to say goodbye to Alison. The gray sky was the perfect backdrop for the sad gathering of mourners.

Emily remembered Maya's phone call. Her voice had become strained and broken as she delivered the news about Alison. Emily prayed it was a twisted joke, but the harsh truth had been broadcasted on television for all to see.

Emily had fallen to her knees at the news, her grief consuming her. She'd clung to hope, believing Alison was alive. The "A" message had been a lifeline, a light in the darkness. But Aria was right: if Alison were alive, they would've found her long ago.

She felt her mother's fingers brush her shoulder as a tear rolled down her cheek. She turned into the embrace, letting herself be held and comforted. She felt a light tap on her back after her mother went inside. She turned and saw Spencer and Hanna. As they embraced, time and distance faded, leaving only the raw need to support each other.

Aria arrived, and the air was thick with unresolved tension. Her eyes met each of theirs, a silent acknowledgment of the rift that had grown between them. She took a deep breath. "I know things haven't been good between us, and I'm sorry for my part in that. I shouldn't have snapped at you; it was wrong. But today isn't about our differences; it's about saying goodbye and finding a way to heal. Together."

No one said anything. Instead, they exchanged glances. Aria broke the silence. "I'm not asking for forgiveness right now, but I hope one day we can put this behind us." Just then, her phone vibrated. She glanced at it. "I have to go inside."

She hurried into the church and Emily narrowed her eyes. Who had texted her? Then Emily felt someone staring at her. She followed the sensation and saw Mr. Fitz watching her from a second-story window. Emily's breath caught because Aria was rushing to see him.

Emily left Spencer and Hanna, saying she was going in. Instead of following the other mourners, she tiptoed towards the stairwell. She heard Aria and Mr. Fitz whispering. Emily pressed herself against the railing, trying to hear their conversation.

Mr. Fitz's voice was gentle. "Was Alison a friend of yours?"

"She was one of my best friends."

"I'm sorry." The words were simple, yet powerful. "It kills me to see you sad, Aria."

"I feel better with you here. But this is risky," she warned. "Chatting in public. My old friends are already suspicious."

"Well, if anyone asks, I'll say I'm a concerned teacher checking up on my student."

Aria giggled. Emily strained to hear more, but their voices faded. She peeked, her stomach churning at the sight of them kissing. Their passion proved their bond went beyond teacher and student.

Emily suspected they were in love, especially since they'd been meeting privately and had known each other before Mr. Fitz's identity got revealed. But she couldn't understand why this was happening. It was illegal and disrespectful. This was Alison's funeral!

Emily shook her head and slipped out as quietly as she'd arrived. She attended the service with the other guests, but she couldn't concentrate. Her mind kept replaying the scene of Aria and Mr. Fitz. She wasn't sure how she'd act normal around Aria without saying anything. Maybe she shouldn't keep this to herself. Aria needed to know that her romance would have major consequences for both of them.

"Emily." Mrs. DiLaurentis' voice reached her ears, bringing her back from her thoughts. "I'm so glad you came. I asked the other girls to sit up front. It's what Alison would've wanted."

"Of course," Emily replied. She walked down the aisle in measured steps, each one heavier than the last, until she reached the front row. Hanna questioned her as she slid into the seat next to her and Spencer.

"Hey. Where's Aria?"

Emily didn't answer the question. She planned to tell them about Aria and Mr. Fitz tomorrow. Today was about honoring the girl who was once their everything.

She focused on the casket. "Poor Ali," she murmured, almost drowned out by her breaking heart.

Hanna shook her head as she took in the sight. "Can you believe what a scene this is?"

"Alison would've loved it," Spencer mused, her voice a mixture of admiration and sadness. "Popular in life and death."

Hanna noticed Emily on the verge of tears. She offered her flask, and Emily would normally decline, but this time she accepted. She already smoked weed with Maya, so why not drink?

The liquid burned her throat, a fleeting escape from the pain. Aria cracked a joke from next to her. "Woah, Em. You're supposed to be the innocent one."

Emily's response was heavy with accusation. "I thought you were too."

Aria's confusion was obvious. Spencer and Hanna were equally clueless. Ignoring them, Emily took another sip and handed the flask to Hanna, while Aria sat next to her. As soon as she did, her phone chimed. She checked the text.

"Anyone we know?" Hanna asked.

"No, it's just my mom."

The trio exchanged glances, a silent conversation going on between them. They didn't believe Aria. Emily was sure it was Mr. Fitz, but Spencer and Hanna thought it was someone else.

"You got a message from A, didn't you?" Spencer asked Hanna.

Emily felt her heart skip a beat. "Wait, A? They messaged me the other day."

"Same here," Hanna said.

Aria was confused. "Uh, who's A?"

"They haven't contacted you?" Spencer asked. Aria shook her head, and they exchanged looks because that was weird.

"Oh my god," Spencer said, her eyes fixed on something behind them. "It's Jenna."

They turned around. Spencer was right: a guy was helping a blind girl, Jenna Marshall, to her seat. The girls turned around, frightened, their breathing heavy. What was Jenna doing there? Seeking revenge?

Alison's mother sat with them. "Did you see that Jenna Marshall is here? I didn't know she and Ali were friends."

"They weren't," Spencer said.

The funeral began, leaving no time to think about Jenna's presence. After two hours, everyone left the church. An officer approached them. "Emily, Spencer, Aria, and Hanna."

"Do we know you?" Spencer asked.

"I'm Detective Wilden. I understand you were all good friends with the victim."

"We were," Aria confirmed.

"I'm gonna need to talk to each of you."

"We spoke to the police when Alison went missing," Spencer mentioned.

"And I intend to go over each of your statements," Wilden said. "This is no longer a missing person's investigation. It's a murder." They exchanged anxious glances. "Rest assured, I will find out what happened that summer."

As Wilden walked away, their attention shifted to Jenna, who was being helped into her car. They kept an uneasy eye on her.

"Do you think Wilden knows about..." Aria started, but Hanna interrupted.

"No. How could he?"

Their phones beeped simultaneously. They reached into their purses, their movements reflecting their shared nervousness. As they read the message, they let out a collective gasp.

"Oh my god," Aria exclaimed.

"It's from..." Hanna's voice trailed off.

"I got one too," Emily said, her voice shaking with fear.

They read the text. Each screen showed the same chilling words:

I'm still here, bitches.
And I know everything.
-A