NOAH'S POV

I gently twisted the doorknob, stepping into the lecture hall. Professor Parker, a middle-aged woman with a stern demeanor, stood in front of the class. It seemed like she was Professor Rex’s stand-in for the day. The moment I entered, all heads turned toward me, like I was some sort of celebrity, an outcast one, at that.

"You're late, Mr. Leister," Professor Parker’s voice was sharp, her eyes narrowing on me as she folded her hands behind her back.

"I know, Mrs. Parker. I ...