one hundred and six

Ruth's POV

I stood outside the school gates, my heart racing with anticipation.

Michael's words echoed in my mind: "You're safe now. Go back to your life."

But was I ready?

The memories of our summer together still lingered, a bittersweet ache in my chest.

I took a deep breath and stepped forward.

The familiar hallways welcomed me back, filled with chatter and laughter.

I spotted Emily, my best friend, waving enthusiastically.

"Ruth! Oh my god, where have you been?" Emily asked, eyes wide with curiosity.

I smiled, trying to summarize the impossible.

"Just...away," I replied.

Emily raised an eyebrow.

"We'll talk later," she whispered.

As we walked to our locker, I sensed unease.

A group of boys, notorious for their troublemaking, watched me from across the hall.

Their leader, Jake, sneered.

"Well, well, well. Look who's back," Jake said, his voice dripping with malice.

I ignored him, but Emily's grip on my arm tightened.

"Ruth, be careful," she whispered.

I nodded.

But Jake's taunts co