The late afternoon sun warmed the grass as Mia, Zara, and I claimed our favorite spot under the old oak tree. For once, there were no immediate threats or notifications blowing up my phone. I stretched my legs out, still buzzing from the morning’s risky outfit choice and the way Professor Damien Vale had reacted. The short skirt and plunging top had done exactly what I wanted cracked his armor, even if only for a few seconds.
“You’re glowing,” Mia teased, popping a grape into her mouth. She leaned back on her elbows, her gentle smile making the day feel lighter. “Spill more about the office walk. Did he actually say anything else after the dress code comment?”
I laughed softly, twisting a blade of grass between my fingers. “Not really. But the way he looked at me when he took off his coa
