The hallway was filled with laughter and whispers, each comment feeling like a bite against Lily’s skin.
Every student seemed to have their phone out, the picture of her and Alex kissing splashed across countless screens.
Each glance stung, each mocking grin made her fists tighten.
Lily’s heart pounded, torn between the shame bubbling inside her and the anger burning at Lexa.
She looked sideways at Maya, who offered a supportive smile.
“Hey, just breathe. You don’t have to do this.”
“I do.” Lily’s voice was barely a whisper, but it was thick with determination. “She can’t get away with this.”
Maya hesitated, glancing over her shoulder as if hoping Lexa would simply vanish from their lives.
“Okay, but… don’t let her get to you, alright? That’s exactly what she wants.”
Lily nod
