Hunter’s POV
The seat was empty.
I’d never paid attention to that before—Jade’s desk near the window, tucked back in the corner like she wanted to disappear. I couldn’t even remember if she normally came in before the bell or after. I just…never noticed.
But now?
It was all I could see.
I sat in chemistry, muscles tight, eyes fixed on the chair she usually filled. Ten minutes into class, it became clear—she wasn’t coming.
She was avoiding school.
Avoiding me.
It felt like someone had knocked the wind out of me.
Mr. Gavin started writing formulas on the board, his voice a blur in the background. My stomach twisted. I gripped the edge of the desk hard enough that the wood creaked beneath my fingertips.
This wasn’t just about the bond anymore.
It was about her.
And she was gone.
