Jessica sat stiffly in the wooden chair across from the camp director's desk, her manicured fingers twitching in her lap. Outside, students were whispering—everyone had heard by now.
The door opened, and Lucien walked in.
Her head snapped up. "Lucien—thank God, you're here! I swear, it wasn't what it looked like. I didn't mean for her to—"
"Stop," he said sharply.
Jessica froze.
Lucien's eyes were cold—colder than she'd ever seen them. "You pushed her, Jessica. You knew she couldn't swim."
Her face paled. "I panicked! I didn't—she slipped!"
He took a step forward. "You think I'm stupid? You think the entire camp didn't see the angle of those footprints near the edge?"
Jessica's mouth opened, but no sound came out.
Mrs. Ryland's tone was sharp and steady.
> "Jessica Stone, your behavior was dangerous and unacceptable. You'll be sent home from camp immediately, and the school board has been informed. You're facing a two-week suspension when we return."
Jessica's head shot up. "Suspension?! For an accident?"
Lucien's jaw tightened. "That wasn't an accident, Jessica. You pushed her."
"I didn't mean—" she started, but the words died under his glare.
Mrs. Ryland folded her hands. "You're lucky Naya survived. If this had gone differently, it wouldn't just be suspension we were discussing."
Jessica looked at Lucien again, desperation in her voice. "You're just going to let them do this? After everything we've been through?"
Lucien's voice was calm, but cold. "After everything you've done? Yes."
Tears burned at the corners of her eyes, but she blinked them away, jaw clenching. "You'll regret this," she hissed. "Both of you will."
Mrs. Ryland stood. "Pack your things. A driver will take you home within the hour."
Jessica hesitated only a moment before storming out, her footsteps echoing down the hall.
Lucien didn't move for a long time. He just stood there, breathing slowly, feeling the adrenaline start to fade.
When he finally stepped outside, the camp felt quiet—too quiet.
He looked toward the infirmary, where Naya was resting, and a strange mix of guilt and relief swirled in his chest.
He'd saved her.
But she was still slipping further away.