Thursday morning hit Cass like a freight train. She groaned as her alarm shrilled, already dreading the endless cycle of school, Marvin, Jacinta, and the relentless gossip that followed her everywhere. Her backpack lay ready on the floor, notebooks stacked neatly inside, but her stomach churned as she thought of the cafeteria, the hallways, and all the eyes that seemed to be constantly watching her.
At home, things weren’t any better. Her mom was already up, scolding over breakfast like it was her personal duty to make Cass feel small before she even left the house.
“You really should wear something more appropriate, Cass. You don’t want to give people reasons to… misinterpret,” her mom said, eyes flicking disapprovingly at Cass’s hoodie and jeans.
Cass pinched the bridge of her nose. “
