I rushed to the window, but the shadow was gone.
"Someone was listening to us," I whispered.
Aria pulled the curtains shut.
"We need to be careful."
"Then tell me what you know about Phoebe."
She shook her head. "Not here."
"Aria, I'm tired of everyone keeping secrets from me!"
"And I'm tired of watching people disappear!"
Her words silenced me.
Before I could ask what she meant, the dormitory door opened.
Phoebe walked in.
"Why are you two whispering?"
"Must we announce every conversation we have?" Aria snapped.
Phoebe ignored her and looked at me.
"Taya, can I speak with you privately?"
I hesitated.
Something about her smile felt different tonight.
"About what?"
"Your childhood."
My heart skipped.
"What about it?"
Phoebe glanced at Aria before returning her attention to me.
"Do you remember anything about the day you came here?"
"I was a child. What am I supposed to remember?"
"Interesting."
She turned to leave, but I caught her arm.
"Wait. Why are you asking me these questions?"
Her smile disappeared.
"Because, Taya, some people have spent years making sure you never remember."
She gently freed herself and walked out.
I immediately turned to Aria.
"What does she know about me?"
Aria looked toward the closed door.
"I was hoping you wouldn't have to find out this way."
"Find out what?"
She reached beneath her pillow and brought out the photograph.
Then she pointed to the woman standing between the two little girls.
I stared at the unfamiliar face.
"Who is she?"
Aria swallowed.
"Sister Perry."
My mouth fell open.
Before I could ask another question, Aria added quietly,
"And if Phoebe discovers that we have this photograph, neither of us will be safe."