why so hot, Clara....🔞

Two

The following Monday, the air in Clara's biology class felt thick with unspoken emotions.

Marlene sat across the aisle, her usual sunny disposition replaced by a quiet contemplation.

Clara's heart hammered against her ribs, a drumbeat echoing the confusing feelings swirling within her.

During lunch break,

they found themselves drawn to their usual spot beneath the sprawling oak tree in the courtyard.

It was their sanctuary, a haven of whispered jokes and secret dreams. Clara fidgeted with the straps of her backpack, her voice barely a whisper.

"Marlene, about yesterday..."

Before she could finish,

Max sauntered over,

his arm slung possessively around Marlene's shoulders.

"Hey, beautiful. Ready to celebrate my winning goal tonight?"

He flashed a cocky grin at Clara, oblivious to the tension simmering beneath the surface.

Marlene, momentarily flustered, disentangled herself from him.

"Actually, Max, I was going to catch up with Clara on some schoolwork."

"Schoolwork on a Monday? Come on, babe.

It's game night!"

Max's playful facade faltered slightly, a flicker of annoyance crossing his features.

Clara felt a surge of defiance.

"We can reschedule, Marlene. Don't worry."

Marlene hesitated, her gaze darting between them.

Then, gathering her resolve, she said,

"No, it's fine, Max. Raincheck?"

She offered a forced smile, her eyes pleading for understanding.

Max grumbled but reluctantly agreed, stomping off towards his usual crowd.

The minute he was out of sight, the air between Clara and Marlene shifted.

Relief and a touch of something more hung heavy.

"Thank you," Clara breathed.

"For choosing me."

A soft smile touched Marlene's lips.

"It wasn't a difficult choice, Clara."

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, the unspoken words buzzing between them.

Finally, Marlene pulled out her notebook.

"Alright, biology,"

she said, attempting to lighten the mood.

"Let's dissect this frog...metaphorically speaking, of course."

Clara chuckled, a sense of ease returning.

As they delved into their notes, Clara couldn't help but steal glances at Marlene.

The way her brow furrowed in concentration, the gentle curve of her lips as she explained a complex concept - it all felt so captivating.

Their study session was interrupted by the bell.

As they packed their bags, Clara caught Marlene's gaze lingering on her.

A blush rose on both their cheeks, a silent acknowledgment of the growing connection between them.

As they walked out of the schoolyard, bathed in the golden light of the setting sun, Clara felt a nervous flutter in her stomach.

Maybe, just maybe, there was more to their friendship than they dared to believe.

(To be continued)