Jace (voice cracking, rapid-fire): “I’m tired of pretending I’m okay when my chest feels like it’s caving in. I hate that I smiled at Spencer earlier because I wanted to punch the wall instead. I’m furious at myself for letting Stage 10 rewrite my memories. Why can’t I remember Mom’s laugh without it feeling like a lie? I love Uzi—but I’m terrified she’ll see right through me and hate what she finds. I hate N’s calm logic when inside I’m a ticking bomb. I keep picturing that hallway burning, the way my skin felt on fire. I want to scream until I break something irreparable. I’m so proud I survived—and so ashamed I needed saving. I’m hungry, I’m exhausted, I’m desperate for silence and terrified of it. I just—”
