The white glare on the screen slowly faded until an image sharpened into focus. For a heartbeat, the entire gym held its breath. Students leaned forward. Phones lifted. The air felt thick enough to choke on.

And then Joey’s voice filled the speakers with cheerful venom.

“Everyone,” she said, her tone sugary sweet in the most poisonous way possible, “I think it is time we celebrate tonight’s very special guest.”

A spotlight snapped on.

It aimed at me.

At Elena’s body.

At the ...