I hurried after her, footsteps quickening as the hallway stretched between us like a widening wound.
“Dora… Dora!”
My voice cracked despite every effort to steady it.
Why am I even chasing her?
Why does my chest feel like it’s about to explode?
I forced one more step. Swallowed the lump in my throat.
“Wait… please,” I whispered—half hoping she wouldn’t hear.
She stopped.
Turned slowly.
Her gaze settled on me—cool, unreadable.
Then the smile.
The one I knew too well.
Fake. Perfect. Sharp.
I clutched my bag strap until my knuckles ached and closed the distance.
“Dora… I know you saw what happened back there.” My words came slow, careful. “And I know you’re not happy about it.”
Silence.
She just watched.
“I think it’s time we stop pretending,” I said quietly. “Stop hiding beh
