The hall fell into an uneasy silence as Mr. Vance straightened his tie and stepped forward. His eyes were cold blue fire, scanning the room like lasers until they landed on me again. I slumped further into my seat, wishing I could disappear.
"Students of Greys Academy," his voice boomed through the space, commanding absolute attention. "I've called this emergency assembly to address several matters of importance."
Beside me, Rhys reached for my hand and squeezed it. On my other side, Silas shifted closer, his shoulder pressing against mine in silent support.
"First," Mr. Vance continued, "I must confirm what many of you have already heard through the rumor mill. We have reason to believe a Spark bond has formed between our newest student, Hazel Thorne, and Rhys Warner."
Murmurs rippled through the crowd. I felt dozens of eyes turn toward us, some curious, others envious, a few openly hostile.