The Shadow in the Hallway
The afternoon sun poured through the high arched windows of the lecture hall, casting long, golden geometric patterns across the scuffed floorboards. The chatter of departing students echoed down the corridor, fading slowly as the building emptied out for the weekend.
Lila packed her notebooks into her canvas bag, slipping her pens into the side pouch with a slow, rhythmic ease. She adjusted her strap, turned toward the exit, and froze.
Standing in the doorway, blocking the narrow threshold, was Jason.
He wore a plain black sweater, his shoulders slightly sloped, his usual polished, arrogant posture replaced by something far more subdued. He looked older, tired, with dark circles smudged beneath his hollow eyes.
Lila’s POV: Outside the Lecture Hall
My breath
