Chapter 70 Shadow And Sun

• Rachel POV
• The morning sun felt lighter than it had in days, as if even the weather had decided to grant me a reprieve. Walking across the college campus, with the grass glistening wet under the soft light and the scent of coffee drifting from the cafeteria, was like taking a deep breath for the first time in weeks. After so many emotions—fights, scandals, reconciliations—being here, among the brick buildings and the distant laughter of classmates, made me feel in control, even if just for a moment. It was as if, for a few hours, I could be just Rachel, the student, unburdened by the secrets, threats, and forbidden love I carried like a weight.
• Bonnie approached, her hair tied in a messy bun with stray strands dancing in the breeze. She held a coffee cup, dressed in worn jeans and a T-shirt of her favorite band, the kind of look that said “this is me, no effort needed.” When she saw me, her face lit up with a smile so genuine it warmed my chest.