“I have to,” he said, and it came out quieter than I expected. “There’s no room for anything else.”
I blinked. Okay, I wasn’t expecting honesty.
“Sounds lonely, bud.”
He didn’t answer. Just kept staring at her like maybe, if he focused hard enough, she’d look back.
I gave a sharp exhale through my nose and nudged his shoulder with mine. “Well, sucks for both of us then, doesn’t it?”
His jaw ticked. “Speak for yourself.”
“Trust me, I am.” I downed the rest of my drink and added, “But for the record? You clapping earlier? Real subtle.”
“I clap for every student’s success,” he said stiffly.
“Uh-huh.” I smirked. “So next time Jessica passes a math quiz, should I expect a standing ovation?”
He didn’t answer, but the glare he sent me said enough.
Then—
Footsteps. Heel clicks. Sharp. C
