Evaline:
By the time River's car came to a stop outside the Academy gates, it was nearing five-thirty in the evening.
I was barely out the door when I realized just how many people had decided to be right there at that exact moment.
It felt like the entire Academy had suddenly remembered they had somewhere to be near the gates. There were nearly two dozen students, maybe more - chatting, walking, laughing - and they all froze when they caught sight of the sleek black car with its matte finish and familiar emblem.
Then, their gazes slid toward the backseat. When the door opened and I stepped out, a hush fell over them like someone had just hit mute.
And then, they saw him.
River Thorne.
