Chapter 9

I didn't go back to Nightshade. I returned to school and continued my freshman year.

Occasionally I would stare blankly at the moon on the horizon.

But I never expected to run into Sophia again.

Lucy and a few other roommates were trying on clothes in a store at the mall. I was absentmindedly scrolling on my phone.

The bubble tea I had ordered was ready. A notification popped up on the app, so I stepped out of the store first, intending to go pick up the drinks.

The click of high heels on the mall floor wasn't out of place, but I instinctively looked in the direction of the sound.

I happened to see that familiar face, carrying several shopping bags, still haughty as ever.

She met my eyes, curling her red lips in a provocative, challenging smile.

"You don't look so good, little girl."

"Finally learned your lesson, huh "

I didn't answer.

I just stared at her expressionlessly.

She seemed annoyed that I hadn't responded, her pride stung. Anger flashed in her eyes as she raised her hand to slap me.

The wind from her hand brushed past my face.

But it didn't land.

She seemed even more furious at missing.

In her high heels, she suddenly grabbed my hair.

My scalp stung sharply as tears welled up in my eyes from the pain.

She leaned in close to my ear, snarling viciously: "Come with me."

I was forcefully dragged into the restroom.

The curious gazes of passersby were cut off as the door closed. She yanked my hair hard, pulling my head back.

My body stumbled, crashing into the wall. When I looked up, a slap was flying straight for my face.

Getting hit.

It's going to hurt.