Ribbons of fate

Chapter 5: The Cafeteria Confrontation

Tracy Rsman’s POV

The next three hours crawled like molasses. English class was pure agony—Mr. Irkins droning on about Shakespeare, while my attention was entirely consumed by the infuriating presence beside me.

Ethan Reece—that insufferable, arrogant king—kept tossing tiny, folded paper balls at me. Thwap! Against my arm. Thwap! Against my shoulder. Each one a deliberate, childish attempt to provoke a reaction. I refused to look, focusing on Mr. Irkins’s impassive face and silently declaring war. I would not give him the satisfaction.

Finally, the bell shrieked, and I almost collapsed in relief. Calista appeared beside me immediately.

“That was brutal,” she said, gathering her books. “Thankfully, that’s over. Let’s grab some food—cafeteria’s an experience you don’t want to miss.”

I followed her, stepping into the massive cafeteria. Rows of students, chatter, and clattering trays filled the air. My eyes locked on a large, central booth. Ethan sat there, surrounded by his crew—Leon and Leo, the twins, Nelson—and, shockingly, my brother Jason.

Jason waved, all too enthusiastically, his grin far too fake even for him. The place was packed; the only viable seats were at their booth or near the kitchen. My choice was clear.

“Looks like we’re stuck,” I muttered.

“Oh, that’s the Virginators’ table,” Calista whispered, eyes wide with warning. “And is that your brother?”

“Unfortunately,” I said, my stomach tightening.

As we approached, Ethan’s smug expression made it clear he was loving my predicament. The twins and Nelson jumped in, offering to grab our food, eager to impress—or perhaps just desperate for validation.

“Thanks,” I replied curtly, sliding into the booth.

Tension knotted immediately. Jason sat across from me, Ethan beside me, and the silent electricity between them made my chest tighten. Conversations buzzed around us, but I answered direct questions with minimal effort, refusing to feed Ethan’s attention. Yet, I could feel his calculating eyes on me, silently measuring every reaction.

Food arrived, and I ate quietly, focusing on my tray while Calista and the twins chatted easily. Nelson asked a few questions, which I answered in clipped “yes” or “no” replies. Ethan remained beside me, exuding smug control, while Jason shot intermittent, protective glances.

As the lunch break ended, the group dispersed. I bid Calista, the twins, and Nelson goodbye and made my way to the auditorium for Music class, which I shared with Jason.

I slid into my seat, only to feel the familiar, light tap on my shoulder. Predictably, it was Jason.