The brief commotion finally died down, leaving Professor Williams, Joe, and me standing near the stage. His sharp eyes swept over us, and instantly, the weight of his gaze made my stomach twist.
“How’s your research progressing?” he asked, his voice clipped and cool.
Joe and I froze. That one question felt like a blade against the throat.
“We’re… resolving the key issues,” Joe managed to say, his voice a little too quick, too guilty.
Professor Williams gave a curt nod. “Mm. Don’t come back to me until it’s done.”
“Yes, Professor,” we answered almost in unison, though my voice came out softer, almost breathless.
He turned to leave but paused, his tone turning as sharp as ever. “And send me a review of the exhibition tonight.”
I blinked. Tonight?
Joe and I exchanged a look. He didn’t
