Ariana's POV
I stayed at the library table long after Jace left, my pen moving slower across the page as my mind kept drifting back to him. The way he’d watched me while I worked. The easy way he’d sat there for almost an hour, content to just be there. The small smile he gave me when he said he’d swing by later if I was still around.
I finally packed up my notes when the library lights flickered, signaling closing time was near. My bag felt heavier than usual as I walked out into the cool evening air. My phone buzzed in my pocket.
Jace: Still studying? I can walk you back if you’re done.
I smiled and typed back.
Me: Just leaving now. Meet me at the front steps?
Jace: On my way.
I waited on the library steps, the cool breeze brushing my face. A few minutes later I saw him walking up
