Chapter Twenty-Three
Hazel's POV
The final bell rang. School was over. I walked out of the building with Maya. The sun beat down on my face. It was hot. Students filled the yard. They laughed. They talked. They rushed to go home. I just wanted to stand still. The day was too long. Dealing with Tiffany took all my energy. But I felt good about it. Maya hugged me tight.
"I have to catch my bus," she said. "Call me later."
I nodded. "I will. Be safe."
Maya ran off toward the buses. I walked to the front gate. This was the spot. Leo always picked me up here. I stood by the brick wall. I dropped my heavy bag on the concrete. I leaned my back against the warm bricks. I closed my eyes. I just needed to wait. Leo would be here soon. My chest felt a little tight from the heat, but I was okay.
