Second Chance

Chapter 03: Stubborn

Flashback — The Canteen

The moment the bell rang, signaling the end of the lecture, the entire classroom came alive.

Students quickly began packing their books, discussing their plans for lunch and rushing toward the door.

Ziva Sterling stretched her arms before lazily closing her notebook.

Beside her, Adrian Vale silently packed his belongings.

Ziva glanced at him.

Then she remembered the professor's words from earlier.

I want you to help Adrian with his studies.

The professor had practically placed Adrian under her responsibility.

Ziva smiled to herself.

Well, Professor... I suppose I'll take my responsibility seriously.

She immediately stood up from the bench.

“Are you thinking of going home?” she asked, slinging her bag over her shoulder.

Adrian looked up at her and nodded. He zipped up his bag before standing as well.

Ziva blinked as she looked up at him. Standing in front of him, she suddenly realized just how small she was compared to him. He practically towered over her.

Adrian glanced down at her.

“What happened? Where did you get lost?”

He waited for her to come back to reality.

Ziva offered him an awkward smile when she realized she had been staring at him for far too long.

“Are you going home?” she asked again.

Adrian nodded.

Words, man. Use some words.

Ziva forced a smile before speaking.

“Come on, let's go to the canteen. You can head home after that.”

She gestured for him to follow her.

Adrian stared at her for a moment.

She's stubborn.

Ziva pressed her lips together and looked at him.

“Do you even know which direction to go to find the canteen, library, teachers' offices, or basketball court?”

Adrian shook his head.

“Then come along. I'll tell you where everything is on the way.”

With that, Ziva turned and started walking ahead.

Adrian watched her back for a moment before following her.

Ziva glanced sideways at him, making sure he was following behind her. A quiet sigh of relief escaped her lips.

He's stubborn.