Chapter 2: Paired Up
The class is buzzing with noise as Mrs. Langley, their Literature teacher, announces a major group project that will count for almost half of the semester's grade. Zara immediately straightens in her seat; she likes working alone because she doesn't have to rely on anyone else. But then comes the twist: Mrs. Langley insists everyone must pair up.
Adrian, the new boy, is sitting lazily at his desk, spinning his pen and half-smiling like he already knows he won't need to do much. Then, Mrs. Langley reads out the pairs. Zara holds her breath.
And there it is. "Zara Thompson and Adrian Carter."
The whole class bursts into whispers and giggles, some classmates already shooting them knowing looks. Zara stiffens, wishing the ground would swallow her whole. Adrian, on the other hand, leans back in his chair with a smirk, clearly enjoying the attention.After class, Zara approaches him with her usual calm but slightly irritated expression.
"We're partners. Let's just get this over with," she says, clutching her notebook.
Adrian chuckles, tilting his head. "Wow, no 'hi,' no 'nice to meet you,' just straight to business? You really know how to make a guy feel welcome."
Zara rolls her eyes. "I don't have time for games. This project is important."
"Relax, Zara," he replies smoothly, using her name like they've been friends forever. "We'll ace it. Trust me."
But Zara isn't convinced. She sees him as the charming type who coasts through life on his looks and charisma. Still, they agree to meet after school in the library to plan.
When they meet, Zara is surprised to find Adrian actually reading through the assignment sheet seriously. He even cracks a clever idea for their topic. For a moment, Zara almost lets her guard down. But then he throws in a playful wink, and she's reminded of exactly who she's dealing with.
By the end of the meeting, there's this subtle tension Zara annoyed yet intrigued, Adrian amused but secretly impressed by how focused she is.
And as Adrian walks out of the library, he turns back and says with that confident smile,
"You'll warm up to me, Zara. Just wait."
Zara sighs, shaking her head. But deep down, her heart skips a beat she doesn't want to admit.