Elias's POV

We couldn't hide forever.

By the third day, we had to return to classes. Had to act normal. Had to pretend everything was fine.

I felt like hell. But I'd gotten better at hiding it.

Sort of.

First period was Advanced Strategy. I slid into my usual seat near the back. Kept my head down.

"Arden," someone said. "You okay?"

I looked up. Chen. Ranked fourth in combat.

"Fine. Why?"

"You look terrible. No offense."

"None taken. I've been sick."

"For three days?"

"It's been a ...