I walked beside Teresa,rhythm of our footsteps echoing through the crowded corridors of the Dragon Academy.
We had spent the morning chatting up on all times- laughing about silly memories from before everything changed, trading stories like nothing had happened.
It felt good, almost normal. But School... school was different.
Teacher's glance at me with that careful, pitying look, like I was a fragile this they were afraid might shatter.
Students passed by in groups,whispering just loud enough for me to catch the sharp edges of their words.
Mocking smirks followed me down the hall I kept my head up, pretending I didn't notice, but it's stung.
At the intersection near the East wing, I stopped."This is where we split,"I said, forcing a small smile.
Teresa had Spanish class on the second floor, and I had arts in the opposite direction."Catch you later? "
"Definitely, "she repiled,giving my arm a quick squeeze before disappearing into the stream of bodies heading up stairs.
I turned left, adjusting the strap of my bag on my shoulder as moved towards the arts wing.
The hallway was narrower here, lined with coluful students painting and sculptures that somehow made the space feel both vibrant and suffocating.
My mind wandered-replaying the morning's conversation wondering how long it would take the stairs to stop-when suddenly,I collided with someone solid.
The impact jolted me back a step.My books nearly slipped from arms as I steadied myself.
"Sorry,I-". The words died in my throat.
It was him.
The one who betrayed me.
My heart slammed against my ribs.
Time seemed to slow as I stared into the face I'd once trusted completely.
He stood there, just as surprised, his eyes widening slightly in recognition.