Her knuckles had turned white, her grip on the phone was so strong, and her face had darkened into a twisted mask. She would not let Zara Ozly stay by Jack Monroe's side!

Stefan and I parted at the school gate after having gone round the campus. Just as I was turning to get my way home, Stefan called out suddenly: "Veevee, wait a second."

I turned back, raising an eyebrow at his cautious expression. Amused, I asked, "What is it?"

His hands were balled into fists at his sides, and Stefan looked nervous. He then finally said, taking a deep breath, "Can I. hug you?"

His voice was barely...