Chapter 11

The morning air was filled with the aroma of butter and warm bread. I stood by the front door, my backpack slung over one shoulder, while Aunt Elise leaned casually against the kitchen counter, a mug in her hand. She said nothing—she rarely spoke—but the slight upturn of her lips said it all. I waved and smiled at her. “See you tonight.” After turning away, I had already decided that I should make the right choice, even if it would be painful. But sometimes being right brings pain, doesn't it? As soon as I entered the classroom, I heard the cold announcement over the loudspeaker: “Leona Hayes, come to the principal's office.” All eyes turned to me. Whispers surged like a storm. I walked across the campus with my head down, the events of yesterday on this very ground flashing through my mind again: the endless humiliation, the crumbling walls… Whatever it was, I had to face it. I took a deep breath and entered the half-open principal's office. Even though Lulu said she'd arranged everyt