The next morning, the school parking lot felt strangely empty without the familiar row of sleek Avila cars. Claire stepped out of her mom’s vehicle, adjusting her backpack as the usual stares followed her. Without Xander and the pack’s protective presence, the whispers about her being a “gold-digger” seemed louder, sharper. She kept her head high and walked inside alone, missing the warmth of Xander’s hand in hers.
By second period, the absence was glaring. Alissa wasn’t in her usual seat, cracking jokes or defending her. The lounge felt cold and quiet when Claire passed it on her way to the library during a free period. She texted Xander quickly.
Claire: School feels weird without you guys. Everything okay?
His reply came almost immediately.
Xander: Full moon tonight. Pack stays home
