Meret slid her history book into her locker, pulling out another in preparation for her next class. She was adjusting the strap of her bag then closed the locker door and found Cassia standing directly in front of her, smiling so wide it nearly reached her ears.

“Meret!” Cassia exclaimed as though seeing her was the brightest part of her day. Before Meret could react, Cassia slipped her hand into hers and began walking alongside her.

“You look fabulous today! How have you been?”

Meret ...