Cassie’s POV.
I slipped into class just before the bell rang and headed for my usual seat near the window in the corner. The classroom buzzed with quiet chatter, papers rustling and sneakers squeaking against the linoleum floor. As I sat, I looked up and met eyes with Nathan just as he stepped into the room as well.
He held my gaze for a second, his steps faltering slightly, but before he could come seat next to me as usual in lab class, another weight dropped into the seat beside mine.
"Hey, Cassie!"
I turned and was surprised to see Rebecca from the cheer squad sliding into the desk with an eager grin plastered on her face. Her ponytail bounced as she got comfortable, leaning toward me like we were long-time friends. We were just a c q u a i n t a n c e s.
"Uh, hey," I replied, st
