ZOE DEAN'S POV
When I stepped outside, the cold air hit me first — sharp, almost cleansing. For a moment, I just stood there, staring at nothing, trying to catch my breath. My hands were still trembling from the argument, and my heart felt like it was beating somewhere in my throat.
Fredda was there, waiting near the back exit, arms crossed, her eyes scanning my face the second she saw me.
"Zoe—"
"I quit." The words left my mouth before she could even ask. My voice didn't sound like mine — too calm, too flat, like all the anger had burned itself out, leaving only exhaustion behind.
Fredda blinked. "You… what?"
"I quit," I repeated, softer this time. My throat tightened as I said it, and I had to swallow hard. "I couldn't take her anymore, Fredda. That woman in there needs help."
Her expression softened instantly. "Zoe…"
