Chapter 2Copycat Love

The thought sent a shiver down my spine.

Years of reading horror novels had prepared me for this. This was the classic setup for a story where someone slowly, methodically takes over another person’s life.

I shuddered and immediately ran to Maya’s room to borrow a few outfits in completely different styles.

Clara’s wardrobe was a near-perfect replica of mine; there was no way she could find a matching outfit in a single day. I snuck the borrowed clothes back into my closet when she wasn't looking.

Phase one of Operation: Avoid Replacement—a complete style overhaul.

The next morning, I pulled out a purple dress I’d borrowed from Maya. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Clara staring at it. After a long moment, she stammered, “You… you changed your style.”

I gave her a noncommittal nod, my guard raised. I’d never noticed it before, but now I realized her eyes were always glued to my clothes whenever I was picking out an outfit.

Creepy. Terrifying.

I climbed onto my loft bed to change. When I came back down, I was struck dumb.

I was wearing a long, dark purple dress speckled with glitter. Clara was now dressed in the exact same color, only in a top and jeans.

“What a coincidence…” she said, her expression a poorly rehearsed imitation of surprise. “We’re wearing the same color scheme again.”

So fake.

If our other roommate hadn’t been there, I would have thrown my backpack at her head.

“Wow, you guys look so coordinated!” our other roommate commented from her desk, where she was doing her makeup.

I watched, bewildered, as a faint blush crept up Clara’s neck.

She’s guilty! That has to be it!