The morning was calm and bright as Lucretia walked with Jayden toward their classroom, the first wave of students filtering into the building. Jayden glanced at her, a hint of concern in his eyes.

"So, how are you feeling now?" he asked gently.

"Much better, Jay, I—" Before she could finish, Mimie snuck up from behind, launching herself at Lucretia with a loud "Boo!"

"Mimie!" Lucretia jumped, startled, and spun around, meeting her friend’s mischievous grin.

"Did I ...