I dragged my feet carelessly on the tiles at the dead of the night, grateful that no one was around to witness this walk of shame.

My steps were slow, weighed down by the bag or even something more—my burden—and I made my way to the door, keeping my ears open for any noise.

I managed to make it to the door, and I opened it, my heart almost jumping out of my chest when a guard was in front of me.

“Oh.” I let out an embarrassing voice, and color flushed my face.

“My apologies.” He replied, bowing his head, and I was suddenly aware of the lack of...