I jolted awake, my heart pounding. I haven't been attacked since last time, but I keep having nightmares about the attack. Beside me, Axel stirs, blinking against the morning light filtering through the blinds.
"You okay?" he mumbles, voice gravelly with sleep.
I shake my head, hugging my knees to my chest. "I can't stop thinking about it. What if they come after me again?"
Axel sits up, rubbing his eyes. "Hey, I won't let anyone hurt you." He takes my hand, his touch warm and reassuring. "I'll stick by your side, no matter what."
Relief washes over me. Axel is the only one I can trust right now.
"There is a party I am supposed to go to tonight," he continues. "You should come with me."
I look at him with surprise. "You are inviting me to a party? You never invite me because I am sup
