Bryson's POV
Julian drops me off a full block away from the dorms, like being seen with me might damage his reputation. He doesn't say a word, just sits there with the engine running until I grab my bag and step out onto the sidewalk.
"Thanks for the ride," I mutter, more out of habit than gratitude.
He drives off without responding, leaving me standing there with exhaust fumes and the taste of his contempt in my mouth. I curse him in my heart but push it aside and head back to my dorm, shouldering my bag with more force than necessary.
The familiar chaos of campus life welcomes me back, students everywhere, music bleeding from open windows, the constant buzz of people who belong here in ways I'm still figuring out. It should feel like coming home, but after spending time in
