Cora's world turned upside down the next morning when she went to school. Whispers and stares followed her wherever she went. When she checked the school website, she was horrified to find vicious rumors and slanderous accusations spread about her. It was a gut-wrenching moment for Cora as she realized the depth of cruelty and betrayal from Lucas.
The shock and despair drove Cora to retreat to her dorm, cutting off from classes and succumbing to takeout as her only company. The weight of the false accusations took a toll on her mental health, plunging her into a dark and isolating space.
As she grappled with her own torment, Cora couldn't shake the overwhelming guilt for what she had put Ariel through. The idea of apologizing weighed heavily on her, but fear of Ariel's reaction kept her paralyzed. The emotional turmoil reached a breaking point as Cora wrestled with regret and longing for redemption.