ELLA “Look who the cat dragged out,” I said as I walked through the front door and met Lyla leaning against my locker. She chuckled and folded her arms, waiting until I got closer to where she was standing before responding. “Good morning to you too, Miss Harper,” she smiled, and I giggled at her formal tone. It was a great morning, to be honest. I had woken up feeling refreshed and ready for the day. It was a new feeling, and I wasn’t sure how to deal with it, but I liked it. I felt free, like the world was at my fingertips and I could do anything I wanted. Seeing Lyla made me feel a lot better. She had an unreadable expression but still managed to maintain her calm and collected personality. I reached into my locker, collected the books and other items I needed for my classes, and l

