DAISY

The bell rings, but the echo bounces off the hallways like it belongs somewhere else entirely. My shoulders ache from the long class, my notebook heavy in my arms. I just want a quiet corner, maybe a bathroom stall where I can sit and breathe without anyone noticing how exhausted I am.

And then I see him.

Kelvin.

He’s walking toward me, but it’s not the usual calm, measured pace he always has. His brow is furrowed, jaw tight, eyes darting over the students as if they’re all predators. My stomach twists. Something is wrong.

“Kelvin?” I call, trying to keep my voice steady, though I feel it wobble....