I called Ryder the moment I stepped out of the arts building, my fingers trembling as I dialed his number.

The phone rang once, twice…

"Evie? What's wrong?" His voice cut through immediately, sharp with concern.

"Can you meet me at Mom's apartment?" I said, not bothering with pleasantries. "I need... I just need to not be alone right now."

"Are you safe? Where are you?"

"I'm on campus. Security is supposed to pick me up, but I don't see them yet." I glanced around nervously, suddenly ...