As the final bell rang, signaling the end of the school day, Addison and Maddie packed up their belongings with a mix of relief and trepidation. The confrontation in the cafeteria and the subsequent meeting with the principal had left them both on edge.
"Ready to go?" Maddie asked, her voice tinged with nervous energy.
Addison nodded. "Yeah, let's get out of here."
They walked through the crowded hallways, students bustling around them. The usual after-school chatter seemed louder than usual, adding to the tension they both felt. As they exited the building, the summer sun cast long shadows across the school grounds. Waiting for them at the base of the steps were Abel and Kaine. Their expressions were serious, a stark contrast to the carefree demeanor they usually exhibited. Addison fel
