The Midnight Breakout

Vesper wakes up to the sound of the morning bell and gets dressed in two layers. They make sure the grey regulatory uniform conceals the set beneath.

Vesper has breakfast in the Conservatory’s pristine dining hall. They glance at James as the two agree to enact the plan Asteria gifted them on a silver platter.

Vesper compliments the security guard at the third floor elevator who always gives them chills from how his gaze washes over them. They make sure to nip his keys from his frayed belt.

Vesper prays to their mum in the bathroom stall – the last place of privacy. They ask her for a sign that this is the correct decision.

Vesper gathers their things in a makeshift bag made from the Conservatory bedsheets and languishes at what never had the chance of being included. Books. Photographs. Memories.

Vesper opens the door for James. They let him sit on the bed, wondering if he’ll sell them out. Both teens want this though, the rush of freedom that escape will bring.

Vesper does it scared. As their heart pumps heavily, they’re not sure about running. Their hands drip with sweat, and they slip the key into the iron door and feel the cold, night breeze against their cheeks.