Ryker POV
I notice the change in the atmosphere before she does.
Most people think fear is loud, and they assume it looks like panic, raised voices, or people scrambling to get out of the way. But it is not. Real fear is quiet, and real fear changes the way a room breathes.
I am standing outside the academy building when Ayla walks through the front entrance carrying three heavy books against her chest.
The hallway is crowded with students moving in groups, talking, laughing, and filling the space with the usual noise that comes with the start of classes. Then she appears, and the noise shifts entirely.
A girl whispers something to her friend, laughs and walks away then another boy steps into her path without looking.
I shot him a glare and he goes still immediately.
Word must
