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The Storm

As I tossinto the trunk ofsuitcase I bought because it’s perfect for weekend getaways like this—I take in a deep breath of crisp autu the escape I deserve

Yes, it’s only twoso burnt-out already Normally I don’t feel this dead-in-the-brain until the end of the year, around finals ti my head full of every last date and detail I can possibly fit in there But this year is an exception I don’t know if the school sent out a“make sure every senior suffers a raduation,” or if it’s just—at least when it comes to my education

It’s not my fault I’ve been stuck with the si professor on the planet

I sigh and slam the trunk shut on my suitcase, which contains all the essentials I’ll need this weekend No books No co are encies—and the warm and cozy thermal outfit selection I’ve set aside for this ski trip That, and loves, and custom pair of boots I had ht

As for the actual skis, I’ll pick those up on site Daddy called ahead and had the when I arrive

As I climb into the driver’s seat of the car, I tap on the dashboard to call him

“Just checking in,” I say cheerily as I punch the gas andspot where , because I’ve been too busy holed up in the library to take it for a drive anywhere

“Be safe, Corina,” Daddy replies, his voice like static over the car radio link

“I always am,” I point out I take a turn onto the er toward Tho where I’ve spent most of my time so far this sehtetaway in the first place