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Chapter 11: Charlotte

  The next two days are miserable.

  Aki won't look at Charlotte. At meals, she sits as far away as possible, her bandaged arm a constant reminder of what Charlotte had done. When they pass in the hallway, Aki turns and walks the other way.

  Charlotte doesn't blame her. She'd have done the same thing.

  Broc is kinder. He doesn't avoid Charlotte, but he doesn't seek her out either. He's just... there. A steady, quiet presence that somehow makes things slightly less awful.

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  Bainto, surprisingly, seems unfazed. He still chatters at dinner about his day, still asks Charlotte questions she barely answers. Kids his age bounce back fast, she supposes.

  On the fifth day, Adelia announces at breakfast: "We're having a pool party tonight. Everyone in the pool at seven."

  Aki's face lights up. "Really?"

  "Really. We've all been working hard, and Charlotte's been cooped up inside too long. Time for some fun."

  Charlotte's stomach drops. A pool party means being around everyone. Means possibly hurting someone else if she loses control.

  "I don't think—" she starts.

  "You're coming." Adelia's tone leaves no room for argument.

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