Hailey.I pace the same corridors for a third time, my boots clicking a frantic rhythm against the stone. I search every corner and doorway again, my frustration building into a cold knot. I turn the final corner of the hallway and nearly slam into Celeste.“Where were you?” I demand, my fingers locking around her forearms to steady us both. “Luca and I have been looking everywhere for you. We’ve been looking for Nate, too.”Celeste blinks, her head tilting in confusion. “I was with Halle. Again. Homework help, remember? Lenny assigned me to help her catch up.”I process the information, and the tension in my shoulders slips. My hands drop to my sides, and a heavy sigh escapes me. “Sorry. With everything going on, I panicked, and I—”“Hey.” She swoops forward and pulls me into a brief, tight hug. The scent of old books and vanilla clings to her sweater. “It’s okay. I get it.” She pulls back, a teasing grin tugging at her lips. “You really worried about me that much?”I snort. “I think
Last Updated : 2026-08-09 Read more