Chapter 80

Frederick masked his displeasure and gently pulled Stella aside, clearing a path for Jonathan. Even after Jonathan and Michelle left, the classroom buzzed with hushed whispers. Everyone was curious about who might have dared to cross Frederick. Yet, when it came to matters involving the elite upper class, none of them dared to confront Stella directly. Watching Stella sob quietly in her seat only made them more hesitant to ask. … Jonathan returned to his bedroom and set his backpack down before heading to his desk. He drew back the curtains and cracked open the window, letting the cool air and soft moonlight flood the room. The school year had started early in mid-August for the seniors, and now it was just the beginning of September. The room was silent except for the faint chirping of cicadas outside. Jonathan sat down, resting his left arm on the desk while absently toying with the small pink elastic band on his wrist using his right hand. A sudden buzz broke the stillness a