"Don't talk to her like that, Rhea."
The words echoed in Rhea's ears, louder than any of Athaliah's creepy whispers. She stared at Tia, who was looking back with a cold, unfamiliar expression. Rhea's throat tightened. "Tia, what did you just say?"
"You are scaring her by acting so strongly like this." Tia shielded Athaliah like Rhea was trying to hit her.
Rhea heart tightened, at her gesture. Her eyes moved to Athaliah and a smug had planted roofs on her face.
Rhea stepped forward, "Don't you see what she's doing?" Rhea's voice broke, sharp and trembling. "Can't you see? She's not what she seems—"
Tia stepped in front of Athaliah, arm outstretched, like a shield. Her glare pinned Rhea where she stood. "She did nothing. You are just being hostile for me no reason."
Rhea feeling dejected hoisted her bag over her shoulder. She didn't turn back. She just walked. Out of the classroom, down the hallway, her legs moving on their own.
