Chapter Nineteen

Shannon’s POV

The next day at school, I still wore the face of worry, and Leila sensed my distress and approached me. Concern drawn on her face, she asked, “Shannon, what’s going on? You seem really stressed.”

I debated internally whether to confide in her, ultimately deciding to share a vague version of my struggles. “Family issues, you know? It’s complicated.”

Leila offered a sympathetic smile. “Well, if you ever need someone to talk to, I’m here.”

“Yes, I know, my dearest friend.” I said, faking a smile.

As the hours unfolded in school, Brendan, Leila, and I formed a resilient trio. Our friendship became an escape from all the chaos. Even as the brothers continued their psychological warfare, I did not fail to find moments of comfort with my new allies.

Yet, the threat hung in the air. The brothers were relentless in their plans to break my spirit, and they went on to plan embarrassing incidents at school and at home. Brendan’s presence and Leila’s friendship became my anchors, but