Genesis paused, her brow arching before she turned toward the source of the voice. A flicker of surprise crossed her face, but it vanished so quickly—like the blink of an eye—that if you weren’t looking closely, you’d have missed it. The truth was, Genesis had almost forgotten about Amelia during those weeks at the academy. And now, hearing her voice—not ajust words, but her voice—it reminded Genesis that not everything about this place she had returned to was perfect.

Knight stepped forward, ready to speak, but Genesis caught his wrist lightly. A small smile touched her lips as their eyes met, a silent exchange passing between them. Knight nodded once,...