Panic flashes through me. Out of all questions, why did he have to pickthatone? I know the hesitation gives away a lot, but what am I supposed to say? Liam’s curiosity only intensifies as he senses my reluctance. His gaze fixed on me. Waiting.
“Well,” I begin, my voice faltering. I glance briefly at Christian.Hisfather was the one that arrived at my door like Hagrid from Harry Potter.
But before I can utter a single word, or more specifically, utter a complete lie, Christian cuts in. “My father invited her here on scholarship,” he says flatly.
I gape at him, unsure if I should thank him or not. Christian Ryder, of all people, stepping in? To help me? Something about that is slightly off-putting.
Liam looks between us, clearly thrown. “Oh. Right. Okay then.”
Mr. Anderson’s voice breaks the awkward tension, and I can’t hide my relief. But just as I start to zone out, Liam leans over again.
“Hey, newbie.”
“What now?” I hiss as I turn to face him, meeting his gaze head-on. “You said one more question,” I remind him. “A question for a question.”
I sigh because I definitely am not going to be able to focus this lesson.
“But I have another one,” he says, and I don’t bother replying to that. Instead, I stare straight forward, trying to make out what the teacher is saying.
“I think this lesson is going to be fun this year.” I see him grin from the corner of my eye.
More like a slow descent into madness.
***
The bell rings and I hurriedly gather my belongings. But just as I am about to make my way over to Lilia, I halt at hearing Mr. Anderson’s voice. “Adeline, could you stay after class for a moment?” he asks, his gaze unwavering.
Confusion prickles at me, but I nod. I watch as Liam, Will, and Christian swiftly exit the classroom, disappearing from sight before I can fully register their departure. Lilia catches my eye, offering a reassuring smile as she mouths the words “I’ll text you”.
Reluctantly, I approach Mr. Anderson’s desk, apprehension tightening in my chest.
“Adeline, I couldn’t help but notice… things,” he begins, his tone cautious. “There’ve been whispers. Rumours.”
My stomach twists as his words hang in the air.
I shift uneasily, uncertain of where this conversation is leading. “I’m not sure what you mean,” I manage, keeping my voice steady despite the defensiveness threatening to seep through.
“Adeline,” he says, softening, “we don’t tolerate bullying here. If something’s happening, you need to let someone know.”
My heart quickens its pace. These kinds of talks make me sick, and memories of past experiences flood my mind. Confiding has never ended well for me. And especially won’t here. Christian Ryder’s father is the headmaster. His uncle? Gabriel Steele. And Kai Steele and Christian Ryder have thepower to do anything they want anyway. Telling Mr. Anderson won’t accomplish nothing.
It would just be me leading myself into a deep, dark hole.
“I appreciate the concern,” I reply, forcing a polite smile. “But it’s nothing worth worrying about.”
He studies me then, his expression flickering with doubt, then resignation.
“Just remember, if you ever need someone to talk to, I’m here. My door’s always open.”
I nod stiffly, murmuring thanks as I leave.
***
I feel nothing less than defeated as I walk down the corridor.
The late bell’s already rung, which means it’s quiet—mostly. I clutch my binders tighter, knowing they won’t hide me, but hoping they’ll buffer the world a little.
I just need to grab the rest of my things and get out.
