Charis
We burst through Rhett's bedroom door, my heart pounding with fear. Kael was right behind me, Slater at my side. I was expecting to find Rhett collapsed on the floor, clutching his chest, maybe unconscious—
POP!
A loud sound exploded in the air, and suddenly, colourful paper flowers were raining down on us. Metallic confetti spiralled through the air, catching the light. More pops followed. Party poppers were going off one after another, filling the room with a cascade of decorations.
"SURPRISE!" voices shouted in unison.
A trumpet blared—badly, off-key, but enthusiastically. Someone was actually playing a trumpet in Rhett's bedroom.
I stood frozen in the doorway, trying to process what I was seeing. The room was packed with people. Students from Ravenshore—I recognised Marcus, Peter, and several others from the Academy. Some first-years I'd seen around. Even a few people I didn't know at all.
