“Do not question my decisions as they relate to my class. Miss Vespertine is there because I allowed it, and because I think she’ll excel.” “Really?” Realizing I’d spoken aloud, I slapped a hand over my face, the panic shooting through my muscles like jolts of electricity. Peering through the gap showed no indication that either had heard me, though. They didn’t offer so much as a glance in my direction, thank God.

