Lyra's POV
The stern voice of the older woman cut through the forest clearing like a blade. "Miss Cooper, thank you for joining us."
Blood rushed to my cheeks as embarrassment flooded through me. "Sorry," I mumbled, my voice barely audible.
A derisive snort echoed beside me. Before I could react, a familiar shoulder knocked against mine with deliberate force, pushing past me toward the center of our small circle. The person positioned themselves next to the instructor with an air of smug satisfaction.
My stomach twisted into knots. Of course it had to be Xander. When he finally settled beside the woman leading our class, his piercing gaze locked onto me with unmistakable malice. Those golden eyes burned with contempt as he stared me down.
I forced myself to swallow past the growing lump in my throat. This situation was about to become a nightmare.
