Katarina's POV
“Hey, wake up. They’re calling you.”
A hard nudge to my ribs made me jolt. I blinked up. Maribel was crouched beside me, whispering in a rush. Her hair was messy, dark circles under her eyes.
“Where the hell were you?” I croaked, my voice hoarse.
“I—I snuck out. Brando called me for a private dance late last night. I didn’t think they'd lock your door. I swear.”
I stared at her. “You could’ve said something.”
“I didn’t know the fire would happen,” she whispered, guilt flashing across her face. “I’m sorry. I really am.”
I wanted to scream, to push her, to ask why she left. But I didn’t. I was too tired. And we were already surrounded by sharp eyes and dull blades.
“Get moving!” Sybil barked across the room. “Princess got chores today.”
The other girls laughed. Blank
