Sofía hesitated outside his office, torn between lifting her hand to knock or turning on her heel and fleeing the academy altogether.
But the memory of his command on Friday sharp, unquestionable anchored her feet in place. He had ordered her to be there. On time.
Lucía had trailed her relentlessly all day, hovering like a shadow, determined to keep Sofía from ever crossing paths with Mr. Ruiz. Yet here she was, standing alone, about to confront the very man everyone feared.
It's fine, Sofía. Be calm. Be direct. Say your reason and get out. Escape his darkness.
Easy.
She inhaled deeply and knocked.
A full minute dragged by before a harsh "Come in" echoed from inside. Her fingers tightened around the doorknob. Eyes closed, she turned it, the door creaking as it opened.
Sofía stepped inside, gaze fixed on the floor. She hadn't even fully crossed the threshold when his voice filled the room.
"Close the door."
