tine's was both imposing and comforting-large stained-glass windows filtered the dying sunlight, casting colorful patterns across the woode

studying, preparing for their upcoming biology quiz, but neither seemed able to focus. The tension between them was palpable, their stolen moments together

nne, watching the way she absentmindedly chewed on her pen, the curve of her lips drawing Da

Anne teased, her voice a low whisper

it was a lie. Her mind had been far from t

eamed mischiev

ble, sliding into the seat beside her. Dahlia's breath hitched

ne murmured, her lips i

the closeness of Anne overwhelming her senses. "May

er skin. She leaned in even closer, her breath warm against Dahlia's neck. "You

r lips so close to Anne's that she could feel the soft warmth of her breath. The te

slow and intense, as Anne's hand cupped the back of Dahlia's neck, pulling her closer. Dahlia's hands

s only Anne-her scent, her warmth, the softness of her li

r to the study h

abruptly, her wide eyes reflect

the doorwa

e-shock, betrayal, and anger all flashed across his features in a matter of seconds. His e

a started, her

urther into the room. "What the hell is this?" His voice wa

her usual calm shatte

r off, his voice sha

out her, but now everything was laid bare in the worst possible way

like this," Dahlia said quietly

What, that you've been sneaking around with my sis

ed, stepping toward him. "

th anger. "Talk? What is there to talk ab

ion stared at them both, his chest rising and falling with fury. Then, without anothe

ment for so long, and now it had finally happened. Anne stood still, he

?" Dahlia whispere

, her expression pa

alone, her mind a chaotic swirl of emotions. The echoes of students' laughter and the oc

or even Anne-was unbearable. The grand arches and tall, stained-glass windows offered no comfort as she roamed aimlessly

quietness here was different-more oppressive. She slowed her steps, letting her hand graze the cool stone wall beside her as she walked. The wei

she even

in golden light. The rays of the afternoon sun streamed through, casting colored patterns on the floor.

to the way they were? Dion wouldn't forgive her-or Anne. And what about Father Charles?