Chapter 84. Missing

I didn’t intend to go to school today. Not after everything .

And no, it wasn’t because of Ryder.

Staying at home and hiding in my room where my only critic was my own reflection was more convenient.

But Mom had asked me to come and just spend thirty minutes. And maybe those thirty minutes including saying my goodbyes.

I had to catch up on the missed assignments.

A straightforward mission. Enter. Look away. Don’t linger too much . I didn’t have to talk to anyone. That was the plan at least.

Although it was a sensible and secure plan it was ruined the instant I pushed through the heavy front doors. Passing yelling teenagers, I made my way to my locker.

I nearly succeeded. Before I could even turn the dial on my lock Leah discovered me.

“ Lila!” She yelled so much that I wondered if she was in an amusement park, screaming excitedly amidst the chaos in the hallway, as if she had been watching the crowds all morning for me to show up, she