The courtyard behind the west wing of Eclipse Prowess Institute was quiet that afternoon, calmer than the rest of the academy grounds. Students preferred the open fields or the recreational hall during their break, leaving the small path behind the botanical greenhouse almost deserted. Mia liked it here—quiet, shaded, safe. Or at least it used to be.
She walked along the narrow stone path slowly, her fingers brushing over the tops of the lilies edging the walkway. Her mind was heavy. Leon's words from earlier refused to leave her alone. I don't care if you've forgiven me or not. I don't even care if you accept me now or a year from now. I'm not letting anyone stand where I'm supposed to stand.
She didn't know if those words brought comfort, fear, or something between the two. She needed space to breathe.
But space was the one thing she wasn't getting lately.
