The weekend arrived, but neither Mia nor Liam got much rest. Both found their thoughts drifting back to the science project—and to each other.
Curiosity piqued, Mia found herself wondering what drove Liam's boldness and confidence. Was it simply arrogance, or was there more beneath the surface?
Meanwhile, Liam, usually so guarded, debated whether to share a piece of his personal story with Mia, sensing their partnership was shifting into something more complex.
On Monday, during their study session, a rare moment of vulnerability broke through. Liam quietly opened up about his father's high expectations and the pressure to maintain perfect grades.
Mia listened, empathy softening her usual defenses. For the first time, she saw Liam not just as a rival, but as someone human, with fears and struggles like her own.
The walls between them began to crack.