Lyra's POV
The whispered words hit me like physical blows, making me flinch as I tried to focus on getting my lunch. I attempted to block out the gossip, but fragments kept seeping through my mental barriers.
"She's been with practically every guy in school! So pathetic how she's acting out after that rejection."
"Can you imagine? Having one of those rare connections and throwing it away? I could never do something so stupid."
Before I could fully process that conversation, another one invaded my thoughts.
"Someone spotted Ash Ironwood sneaking out of her dorm last night! She's definitely hooking up with him now too!"
"What a complete whore. I'd die of shame if I were her."
I yanked my mental shields back into place, reeling from the vicious rumors circulating about me. My gaze found Poppy, whose face had drained of color, her mouth set in a hard line.
"You caught that?" I murmured under my breath. She gave a tight nod and tilted her head toward the food line.
