CHAPTER 47
The harsh ring of the bell announced the start of the midday break, and Lila lingered behind, her shoulders bent as she grabbed her bags, hoping to dodge the chaotic rush of students.
As she made her way to the cafeteria, she noticed a familiar figure - Julia, who was resting against the lockers, her forehead furrowed as she wrote in her notebook.
Lila paused for a time, her heart still heavy from the morning fight with Caleb and his companions. But Julia had always been an ally, a shining beacon of kindness among the sea of hatred that frequently surrounded her.
Lila mustered her bravery and approached her buddy, gently patting her on the shoulder. Julia looked up, her expression softening into a loving smile as she recognized Lila.
"Hey, Lila," she said, her voice full of
