Chapter 26. On Edge

Mr. James stood by the door, looming like shadow and terror… and also the hope for Vero.

Hatice dropped the scissors from her hand, then stood up straight and turned to face Mr. James while hiding her hands behind her back. The two burly girls who held Vero release her and stood up straight beside Hatice.

“Hi, Mr. James,” said Hatice. Even though she couldn’t see her face, Vero could hear the smile in her words. “What are you doing in the women’s restroom?”

Mr. James didn’t answer Hatice’s question, which, of course, was not a real question and only meant to be a joke. He looked past Hatice and his gaze fell on Vero’s torn clothes.

“Ms. Windward,” called Mr. James. “What happened to you?”

“I—“

“We’re just solving a problem between girls—”

“I’m asking Ms. Windward, not you, Ms. Solace.”

Hatice was silent when Mr. James cut her off, and Vero saw Hatice’s hands clenched tightly behind her back. Mr. James’ treatment against her must have h