Zee. I wiped my tears as fast as I could, using the sleeves of my sweater, hoping the redness in my eyes wouldn't give me away. The last thing I wanted was for Denver to see me like this—weak. The door creaked open behind me. I didn’t need to turn around to know it was him. His presence filled the room even before he stepped in. He didn’t say anything as he walked in—just quietly closed the door and turned the lock. The soft *click* echoed in the empty classroom, making my heart thump harder. I heard the sound of his shoes moving across the floor. Slow, deliberate steps. I kept my eyes on the desk in front of me, pretending I didn’t feel him coming closer. “Hey,” he called out calmly. I didn’t answer. “What’s wrong?” His voice was gentle. Too gentle. Still, I didn’t answer. “Are

