The morning sunlight filters through my window, but instead of feeling warm, it feels harsh—too bright for how I’m feeling. I wake up with that heavy, unsettled feeling from yesterday still clinging to me. I had fun with Klaus and Lizzie, but now, everything feels off. Like I let my guard down too much, and now I’m scrambling to put it back up before it’s too late.
I don’t even bother checking my phone. There’s probably a message from Emerald or Esmeralda, maybe even Klaus, but I can’t bring myself to look. Instead, I throw on some clothes and head downstairs, hoping to avoid any awkward interactions with my family.
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As I walk past Josh’s room, I hear him quietly humming to himself, playing with his toys. For a moment, I pause, my hand hovering over the doorknob. I should go there. I
