The sharp ring of the school bell echoed through the hallway, signaling the start of another day. Victoria adjusted the strap of her satchel and walked briskly toward her classroom, her heels clicking against the tiled floor. She passed clusters of students chatting and laughing, their energy filling the air.

“Morning, Mrs. Sy!” a student called out.

Victoria forced a smile and waved. “Good morning, Jacob. Don’t forget your essay is due today!”

The boy groaned dramatically, his friends laughing as they walked toward their lockers. Victoria couldn’t help but chuckle softly at his reaction, a flicker of warmth breaking through the numbness she’d carried all morning.

Pushing open the...