Chapter 1967

Cyrus and I sat stiffly, shoulders squared. The door swung open, and it was Mom who stood there. She wore fitted jeans and a crisp white shirt, while her long hair was pulled into a high ponytail. The look was effortless—sharp, composed. "You. Come with me." She gestured at me with a flick of her fingers. I pointed at myself. "Me?" "Yes, you." Without another word, Mom turned and walked off. I glanced at Cyrus. He gave me a small nod. At least for now, Mom didn't seem hostile. I got up and followed her. She didn't lead me to her room but into a random empty one instead. Somehow, that made me nervous. "Mrs. Spencer," I said cautiously. "Why did you bring me here?" "I looked into you two. Amenam University doesn't have any students by your names," she said. Mom leaned against the desk, and her fingers tapped lightly on the wooden surface. The air in the room went still. Her presence made me hold my breath. Mom's gaze pinned me in place. "If you're not actually students there,