Jasmine's POV
Atlas and Judy clawed their way to consciousness within me, my talons extending without thought.
The temperature had plummeted in seconds. Whatever presence lurked behind me didn't matter. I was prepared to tear apart anyone responsible for Chloe's death. Every muscle coiled tight as I pivoted halfway around, ready to strike, when gentle fingers brushed my shoulder.
"L-Jasmine?"
The voice trembled, barely audible.
I went rigid, then spun completely around.
Lila stood before me, her face blotchy and swollen from crying, dark hair plastered to her skull with perspiration and tears. She gasped for air like someone who'd sprinted through a hurricane. A work apron hung around her waist, and recognition hit me immediately.
Chloe's student.
"Lila?" My claws retracted slowly, though fury still blazed through my veins like molten steel. "What are you doing here?"
"I came..." She hiccupped between broken sobs. "I came as quickly as possible... I promise."
