INK AND AFFECTION

★ Chapter 2 ★

The final bell chimed, its echo signaling the end of another day at Brookfield High. Students flooded out of classrooms, their voices mingling with the rustle of papers and the thud of lockers closing. Among the crowd, Lena and Gabriella emerged, their expressions a mix of relief and weariness.

"Ugh, I can't believe the day's finally over," Lena exclaimed, stretching her arms above her head.

Gabriella laughed, the sound carrying a tinge of exhaustion. "I think my brain is officially fried from all that math."

As they stepped out into the fading daylight, the sky painted in hues of orange and pink, a sense of freedom washed over them. The school grounds, once bustling with activity, now felt serene in the soft glow of the setting sun.

"So, any plans for the evening?" Lena asked, falling into step beside Gabriella.

Gabriella pondered for a moment, her mind already drifting away from the confines of schoolwork. "I think I'll hit the library for a while. Got some research to do for the biology project."

Lena wrinkled her nose in mock dismay. "You and your dedication. I might swing by the café, grab a latte, and catch up on some reading. We can text if you get bored."

Gabriella grinned, appreciating Lena's understanding of her studious nature. "Sounds like a plan. Maybe I'll join you at the café later. I could use a caffeine boost."

They walked in silence, until they arrived to Lena's house. When she was about to enter her house, Lena turned to Gabriella with a curious glint in her eyes.

"By the way, Gab, how do you feel about partnering with James for the biology project?" Lena asked, her tone laced with curiosity.

Gabriella paused, considering her words carefully. James was a mystery to her, his confidence often masking deeper layers. "I'm not sure," she admitted, her brow furrowing slightly. "I mean, he's smart and seems dedicated, but we've never really interacted much outside of class. It's...unexpected, I guess."

Lena nodded thoughtfully. "Well, they say opposites attract, right?"

Gabriella managed a small smile. "I hope so. It's just... I want to make sure we do well. This project is a big deal, and I don't want any surprises."

Lena bumped her shoulder gently. "You've got this, Gab. And hey, maybe you'll discover a whole new side to James. Who knows, he might surprise you."

Lena said goodbye to her, and Gabriella continued walking. She mulled over Lena's words. Perhaps this unexpected partnership with James held the potential for more than just academic collaboration. The idea of uncovering layers of James's personality intrigued her, and for the first time, a flicker of excitement sparked in her chest.

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All the love,

Laia