Ivy walked slowly, every step heavier than the last. Her body ached, her hands still shaking from Liam’s blows. The night air was cold, sharp against her bruised skin. She pulled her hoodie tighter around her and took a deep breath, forcing herself to keep moving toward the academy. The path felt endless, the lights from the buildings ahead almost mocking.

By the time she reached her room, her legs trembled. She opened the door quietly, hoping no one was there. But her heart skipped when she ...