Aria.
Breakfast was over, or so I thought.
The long wooden tables in the dorm hall clattered with half-empty plates and metal trays as we all began rising from our seats. I was standing, stretching slightly, my stomach only half-full from the dry toast and overly sweet orange juice, when Mrs. Holt’s sharp voice sliced through the low chatter.
“Everyone, sit back down. Now!”
Chairs scraped against the floor. I exchanged a confused look with Lila before lowering myself back onto the bench. She gave a shrug like she was just as clueless. I slid into my seat again beside Lila as I heard Mary already whispering predictions.
“I bet they’re adding more chores. Or a new dorm curfew,” she murmured.
I almost wished it was that simple. But something was different today. I could feel it.
Mrs.
