CHAPTER FORTY-THREE

ALEX DAVALO

I had walked into class that morning with my headphones on, the familiar beats buzzing in my ears. I wasn’t in the mood to talk to anyone. I just wanted to settle into my seat, zone out, and get through the day. But as soon as I took a seat, I noticed Bethany walking over. Her expression caught my attention—she looked like the entire universe was against her.

“Alex,” she said, her voice tight and full of tension.

I took off one headphone to hear her better. “Hey, Beth. What’s up?” I asked, trying to keep it casual even though I could tell something was off....