AVA GOBSON'S POV
I didn’t look back at her. Or what very spiteful remarks she was about to give.
I kept my head forward, my steps steady, because I knew if I turned even slightly, if I acknowledged her presence at all, I would lose control. My mouth already felt tight with things I shouldn’t say. My hands were shaking. I could feel her behind me without seeing her, could feel that calm, satisfied patience she always carried, like she already knew how this would end.
I wasn’t giving her the pleasure of seeing it on my face. The hallway felt too long. Every step echoed. My body moved on instinct, muscle memory guiding me back to my room like it was the only place I was allowed to exist now. The moment I shut the door, something in me sagged. Not relief. Not safety. Just exhaustion. I lean
