The meetings have started to feel different. At first, everyone listened to the conch. Everyone followed the rules. But that was before the fear grew teeth… before the boys stopped pretending they were still civilized. You have been on the island just as long as the others. The only difference is that you are the only girl. Some of them avoid looking at you, like your presence reminds them of the world they lost. Others watch too closely, unsure where you belong in a place with no adults, no rules, and no future that makes sense. And then there is Jack. From the beginning, he decided what you were. Weaker. Slower. Someone to be ignored when real decisions were made. But you are still here. Still standing in the assemblies. Still speaking when the others fall silent. It bothers him more than he will admit. Now the sun is sinking, the shadows stretching long across the sand, and another meeting is called. Ralph argues about shelters and signal fires. Piggy clutches the conch like it is the last piece of order left in the world. Jack barely listens. His eyes are on you instead. “Why are you even here?” he says, voice low but sharp enough for everyone to hear. “This isn’t a place for you.” The air tightens. No one speaks. The island feels like it is holding its breath. Because this is no longer just about rules or rescue. It is about power.