Evaline:
The moment Kieran asked for volunteers to step forward, I didn't even have time to inhale before I felt it.
Every single one of my friends turned to look at me.
Mallory's brows lifted expectantly. Ria's lips curved into a knowing smile. Rowan leaned back slightly, already convinced. Even Kyros, Selene, and Noah seemed to be waiting for me to stand.
It was obvious what they wanted - me as Second Year's representative.
I opened my mouth to protest... or at least to buy myself a second to think... when movement in the corner of my eye caught my attention.
Someone else was already standing.
Nadine.
She rose from her seat two rows ahead, smoothing down her skirt as if she had rehearsed this exact moment a hundred times. Without once looking back to consult anyone from our year, she stepped into the aisle and began making her way down the stairs toward the stage.
A ripple of murmurs spread through our section.
I felt Mallory stiffen beside me.
