Hazel stood in front of her mirror, adjusting the collar of her shirt for what felt like the hundredth time. Her hands trembled slightly, the remnants of a restless night. The school day loomed ahead, a mundane routine now tinged with an unshakable sense of dread.
As she finally deemed herself presentable, she slung her backpack over her shoulder and trudged downstairs. Her aunt was in the kitchen, humming softly as she prepared breakfast. The smell of pancakes filled the air, but Hazel's stomach churned too much for her to even think about eating.
"Morning, sweetie," her aunt greeted, smiling brightly. "Pancakes are almost ready."
"Not really hungry, Aunt Lisa," Hazel replied, forcing a small smile. "I'll just grab an apple."
Her aunt's face fell slightly but she nodded in understandi
