sixteen.

Cora

I order my breakfast and browse social media on my phone, smiling at all of Elissa’s posts. She’s a beacon on a cloudy day. Just scrolling through her photos will surely get me through the hours.

More kids have settled down in the cafeteria and taken their orders. They throw me those same looks, but they don’t come over and cause any trouble. Alessandro saunters in with his two friends at his sides, and his eyes immediately latch onto mine. His whole expression changes into something ugly, like he still can’t believe I’m here. Idiot. Does he really think I’ll be chased away by some spoiled rich pricks? Think again. My conversation with Elissa last night about Chloe’s death further cements my determination to be the best lawyer in the country. I won’t let anyone get in the way of my dreams.

Girls crowd around the Princes, vying for each of their attentions. Colt’s all too eager to please them, but Alessandro ignores them and continues looking at me like he wants to bash my head in