Jade’s POV
I folded the acceptance letter for the hundredth time and slid it gently back into the envelope, my hands trembling just enough to betray how fast my heart was beating. There it was—my way out. A scholarship to Riverstone Academy. A new place, a new start, and most importantly, a life where I wasn’t defined by being the Omega, the girl people whispered about, the one everyone thought too weak to rise.
I had packed and repacked my suitcase at least three times. Every time I zipped it shut, a part of me felt freer—and another part, heavier. This was really happening. I was leaving Crescent Moon behind. I was leaving him behind.
The note from my locker still echoed in the back of my mind.
You don’t belong there. Don’t take the offer.
The paper was crumpled now, hidden at the b
