Thankfully, the kitchen was deserted. Nielle wasn't eager to broadcast her recent humiliation. Someone had intentionally embarrassed her, and she preferred to keep it under wraps. To avoid tracking mud, she removed her socks and shoes, padding barefoot to her room. Once there, she shed the muddy garments and decided to clean up before heading to the laundry area Samantha had shown her.
As the shower warmed up, Nielle inspected the damage in the mirror. Stones had left a cut on her cheek, now dried blood streaked across her face. She applied antiseptic, hoping the wound wouldn't scar. After ensuring no other injuries lurked, she put away the supplies. Glancing at herself once more, Nielle deemed the wound subtle enough for casual observers not to notice—a relief, as she wasn't ready for a
