LILY

The door pulled open, the bell letting out a soft echo as the woman stepped in. Her eyes widened when they met mine, and she hurried over, throwing her arms around me.

Selene held me tight as she muttered, “I’m so happy you’re alright. I’m so sorry about what my friend did. I... I’m really happy you’re fine.” She broke out into a tiny sob while everyone stared. I stood frozen, clearly bewildered by the sudden affection and the display of emotion. She pulled away, her cheeks stained with tears. “How are you doing now?”

I blinked once, twice, then found my voice. “I’m fine. You don’t need to...