The morning sun streamed through the tall windows of the canteen, casting long golden rectangles across the worn wooden floors. Students milled about with their trays, voices rising and falling in the familiar rhythm of conversation and laughter. The scent of eggs, fresh bread, and strong tea hung in the air.
Iva sat at their usual table near the window, her untouched breakfast growing cold in front of her. She watched the door, waiting.
Lori appeared a few minutes later, her red hair pulled back in a messy bun, dark circles shadowing her green eyes. She moved like someone carrying a heavy weight—slower than usual, her shoulders rounded, her gaze fixed on the floor.
She slid onto the bench across from Iva and reached for a piece of toast without looking up.
"Lori." Iva's voice was soft
