I pushed through the crowd, not minding the bodies pressing against me or the occasional shoving.

Finally—

I reached the middle, heart wrenching as my gaze landed on Lena, face down on her table. Her hands were clamped over her ears, desperately trying to block out the harsh words spilling from everyone's lips.

I rushed forward, crouching in front of her.

“Lena.”

She raised her head, staring at me with red eyes. “Rosie.”

She flung her body into mine, sobbing loudly.

“Oh my God, Lena.” I croaked, wrapping my arms around her tightly.

“Where have you been?” She stuttered in-between sobs. “They-they've be-been saying so many mean th-things about—”

“Shh…...