Lyra's POV
The atmosphere in the days following my attack felt suffocating and heavy, exactly as I had anticipated.
When Monday morning arrived, I dragged myself to the dining hall for breakfast, only to discover I had become the center of attention once again. This time, however, the energy felt different. Instead of the hostile glares I had grown accustomed to, curious eyes followed my movements with what appeared to be sympathy. The shift made my stomach churn as I swallowed hard, especially when Poppy placed a comforting hand on my shoulder.
I claimed my usual spot at our table, my gaze drifting toward where Xander typically sat. I braced myself for his usual intimidating stare, but instead found him with his head bowed low, motionless and brooding. After forcing down what I could of my meal, I escaped to my classes, spending the entire day tucked away in the back corners of every classroom.
