Chloe was already dressed for school, standing in front of her mirror and adjusting the collar of her shirt when the door creaked open.
Mother? She turned slightly, frowning at the sudden intrusion.
Linda stepped inside, shutting the door with deliberate softness. Her eyes were sharp—and her lips pressed into a thin, bloodless line. "You’re not going to school today," she said, voice low but final.
Chloe blinked. "What? But it’s Monday—"
"Shhh." Linda’s warning cut through the air like a blade. Her gaze darted to the walls, then back, leaning in so close Chloe could smell the bitter coffee on her breath. "The walls have ears. Listen carefully—I’ll only say this once."
A cold thread of unease coiled in Chloe’s stomach. As she stayed perfectly still.
"We’re going somewhere. So
