Chapter 4
the notebook is still open between us but neither of us is looking at it anymore. the conclusion paragraph sits there half-finished like it doesn’t matter. ms harper’s hand is still resting on top of mine under the table her fingers loose but not pulling away. her breathing hasn’t gone back to normal since she came. little shaky inhales every few seconds. her glasses are crooked her cheeks still flushed dark red. she keeps biting her bottom lip like she’s trying to hold something in.
“ethan…” she whispers finally breaking the quiet. her voice is so small it almost disappears. “the essay… we should finish it. that was the deal.”
i nod slow but my thumb starts rubbing tiny circles on the back of her hand. “yeah miss. we can finish it.” but i don’t pick up the pen. instead
