Thalia’s shock quickly gave way to a deep, simmering anger that rose from the pit of her stomach. She had endured Becky’s pettiness, her cruelty, and the constant digs for far too long. But this—this was too much.
Without breaking eye contact, Thalia straightened her posture, her hands balled into fists at her sides. She felt the sting on her cheek, but it only fueled the fire inside her. The slap wasn’t just about today—it was about every insult, every taunt, every time Becky had tried to belittle her.
“You think you can push me around?” Thalia’s voice was low, controlled, but there was a dangerous edge to it. “Do you really think you’re better than me?”
Becky, still fuming, took a step back, perhaps sensing that she had pushed Thalia too far. But she masked her uncertainty with a snee
