Chapter 104: The Line Between Us
Evaline:
The moment I stepped out of the suffocating walls of the Council headquarters, the cool evening air hit me like a balm. Still, it wasn’t enough to chase away the fire that River’s words had left burning beneath my skin.
The parking lot was quiet, bathed in the fading light of dusk, and I was relieved - actually grateful - to see the familiar black car parked near the edge. Mr. Wood was standing by the open back door, giving me a slight nod.
I gave a tight nod back and silently slipped into the backseat.
The second the door closed behind me, sealing me away from the world, everything inside me crumbled.
I pressed my forehead against the cool glass window and tried to hold it in, but it was almost impossible to do. My throat gave a sharp, painful tug. My eyes were burning, my chest was heaving, and before I could stop myself, tears started pouring down my cheeks. Hot and heavy. Silent but relentless.
Mr. Wood glanced at me through the rearview mirror. He didn’t say anything, didn’t ask questions. He simply started the engine and drove.
And for that, I was thankful.
I didn’t want anyone to ask what had happened. I didn’t want to explain. I didn’t even want to say his name out loud. The way he had looked at me... like I was the enemy. Like I was everything he claimed.
I didn’t want to go back to the Academy. Not when I was still holding back sobs like they were knives threatening to spill from my throat.
"Mr. Wood," I said softly, clearing my voice. "Can you drop me at Lakeshire... near the old station? I just need a bit of time."