As the door creaked shut behind them, Ivanna collapsed against the wall, legs trembling beneath her.
Ivanna slid down the wall, her back against the cold surface, eyes fixed blankly ahead.
Her mind replayed the terrifying scene: Ethan's grip on her neck, Olivia's cruel laughter, and those piercing eyes and that guy's eyes – that had seemed to see right through her fear.
Her expression remained stoic, a mask of calmness hiding the turmoil inside.
She had learned long ago that tears only invited more cruelty.
Ivanna pushed herself up from the floor, her movements economical and precise.
She glanced around the dimly lit room – old music instruments looming like shadows – before focusing on the door.
Her thoughts shifted to the task ahead: 2 hours to buy those cigarettes for Ethan.
The convenience store near school was her destination.
As she reached for the door handle, Ivanna's gaze flickered inward, a brief flash of curiosity about the guy who had intervened.
