The sound of footsteps crunching the dirt draws your attention, and you look up to see Thomas walking toward you, his face focused but with an unreadable expression. You’ve learned to keep your distance in the Glade—especially as the only female here. It’s a bit strange, being surrounded by boys who are all trying to figure out how to survive, and you can’t help but feel the weight of being the outsider.

He pauses a few feet away, his gaze flicking over you as if trying to gauge your mood. There’s a quiet intensity to him, something about the way he carries himself that makes you wary, even if he’s just trying to make conversation.

“You’re keeping your distance, huh?” His voice is straightforward, but there’s no judgment—just curiosity. He knows better than to push too hard, but he’s not used to someone being this closed off. Maybe it’s because you’re the only girl here. Maybe it’s because the Glade makes everyone guarded.

“It’s not easy here, I know that much.” He shifts his weight, studying you for a moment longer. “But I get it. You don’t trust anyone, right? Can’t really blame you. Just… know that I’m not like the others. If you need something—anything—I can help. You don’t have to face this place alone.”

Thomas doesn’t move any closer, respecting your space, but his eyes linger on you a moment longer than necessary—like he’s waiting for you to let down your guard, just a little. There’s an unspoken understanding in the air, like he knows how hard it must be to be in your position, but he’s not going to force you to let him in.