Claire’s POV
Today, I dress for class like armor matters. Funny how I feel and dress so differently since my return. Last year and always before, I used to dress so girly. So feminine… and now…
Black trousers, pressed and high-waisted, the kind that give me structure when my thoughts refuse to line up. A soft ivory blouse tucked in, sleeves rolled to my forearms, conservative enough to quiet gossip and sharp enough to remind myself I still belong here. My hair stays loose but controlled, parted neatly, the ends brushed smooth. I choose flats because who knows when I’ll need to run? If not with my legs, then with my nerves. I add my watch, my bag, my composure. I leave the rest of myself at the house.
The morning began like no other, waking up to Jeremy’s warm body pressed close to mine,
