At lunch, I found Maris again. Her concern was palpable, her eyes darting nervously around the dining room. “They’re watching you,” she murmured, collecting the plates with deliberate slowness. “Be careful.”

I nodded, my heart pounding beneath the calm facade I maintained. “I need your help,” I whispered, outlining my plan in hushed tones. Her eyes widened, but she nodded in agreement. Maris was my lifeline, my only ally onboard, and I trusted her.