Lucy's POV
I was sitting by myself inside the student lounge, looking through my literature research because it was the only thing supporting me, when I heard polished shoes clicking on the floor. Even before I looked up, my heart sank. I could smell trouble.
“Miss Hale.”
I lifted my gaze. One of the board members stood over me, the kind of man who wore power like a suit. His smile didn’t reach his eyes.
“I trust you know who I am?”
I nodded faintly. “Yes, sir.”
“Good.” He lowered himself into the chair across from me as though he were doing me a favour. “You’ve put yourself in a rather… difficult position. The hearing begins in an hour, and frankly, things don’t look promising for you.”
I swallowed hard, forcing myself to sit straighter. “I’m aware.”
He folded his hands. The voice
