#Chapter 27: Growing Feelings

Lucas’s POV "I appreciate your concern, Lucas," Shana said, her voice carrying a mix of gratitude and determination. She shifted her body, crossing her arms, as if bracing herself for the conversation ahead. "I never intended for things to escalate this way. But I won't let fear dictate my actions. I won't allow myself to be silenced anymore." Her words struck a chord within me, a mixture of admiration and concern. I watched her closely, her eyes fixed on some distant point, as if searching for answers in the depths of her thoughts. She had changed, transformed into a force to be reckoned with. Her newfound strength both fascinated and unsettled me. "I’m not going to lie, you’ve surprised me," I admitted, my voice laced with a hint of worry. "The way you handled Jessica… it was impressive.” "You saw the videos?" Shana turned her gaze towards me, her eyes searching for my reaction. "Of course, Shana. The whole school has seen it," I replied with a gentle