Chapter 4

“Miss Caroline,” Bryant said, holding open the SUV door. “We’re here.”

Silverclaw Academy loomed ahead, pristine brick against the morning sun. Students filed through the gates in tailored uniforms and polished shoes.

She inhaled. “It feels unfamiliar.”

“You haven’t been here since the fall,” Bryant said. “Your last semester was interrupted.”

She stepped out slowly, head held high. Around them, whispers began immediately.

“Is that—?”

“She’s back!”

“She looks different…”

Caroline ignored them all.

Inside the admin hall, a staffer greeted her nervously. “Miss Taylor! Welcome back. If there’s anything we—”

“I need my class schedule and office key,” she…