The infirmary released me the next morning after a final check from the healers. They said I was recovering well, which was code for "you seem fine now so please leave."
I made my way back to my dorm room, grateful for the familiar space. Kai had already been released a day earlier and the Pearl and Des were in class. My muscles still ached and my head felt fuzzy, but at least I could rest in my own bed without attendants or other people hovering over me every five minutes.
I'd just changed into comfortable clothes and was about to collapse onto my bed when someone knocked on the door.
"Come in!" I called, assuming it was Pearl or Des coming to check on me.
The door opened, and I was speechless.
Xavier stood in the doorway, the usual eerie smile plastered across his face. He leaned against the doorframe with his arms crossed, looking far too comfortable invading my space.
"Amara Cole," he said, his voice smooth and measured. "I'm so glad to see you're feeling better."
