Chapter 1: Beaten and Broken **Noah’s POV** My sneakers dragged on the cracked pavement, each step heavier than the last. My school bag slipped off my shoulder, hitting the ground with a dull thud. I didn’t bother picking it up. I just sank to my knees, my hands shaking as I touched my lip. Blood smeared my fingers, warm and sticky. The sting was sharp, but it wasn’t the worst pain I’d felt today. Not even close. Footsteps crunched behind me, too close, too fast. My stomach twisted. I didn’t need to look to know who it was. I pushed myself up, legs wobbling, and turned to face them. Three guys from school stood there, their faces twisted with smirks that made my skin crawl. Jake, the ringleader, stepped forward, his broad shoulders blocking the streetlight. His buddies, Matt and Cory, flanked him like dogs waiting for a command. “Well, well, Noah Evans,” Jake said, his voice low and mocking. “Thought I told you to stay away from my girl, didn’t I?” I coughed, the taste of blood
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