The sun had barely climbed above the line of rooftops when Jeffrey and Gilbert stood at the campus gate. The morning air was brisk, damp with the scent of cut grass and wet concrete. Jeffrey’s hood was drawn low, his hands tucked deep into the pockets of his black joggers. Gilbert, leaning lazily against the gatepost, squinted at him and scoffed.
“You look like a thief trying to sneak out before sunrise,” he said.
Jeffrey smiled faintly beneath the shadow of his hood. “Better a thief than a walking headline. You know how people get when they see money on wheels.”
Gilbert snorted, shaking his head. “You’re going soft already. Don’t let those rich airs stick to you.” He gave Jeffrey a long look, the kind that mixed irritation and concern. “Take care of yourself, alright? And if you ever c
