Invisible String || Erik Lehnsherr

Chapter 3

After spending the afternoon immersed in my thoughts and ideas, I finally had a rough outline of how I wanted to approach the lessons. I decided to start with something simple—introducing the students to the world of literature. It was the only way I gained knowledge of the world since I'd barely stepped outside the orphanage, let alone out of town.

I sat back in the chair, feeling a sense of accomplishment, though a little nervous about how it would all come together. The room was quiet, the late afternoon light casting long shadows across the floor. I hadn't realized how much time had passed until I heard a soft knock on my door.

I blinked, glancing at the clock—dinner time already?

"Come in," I called, and the door creaked open to reveal Hank, standing there with his usual kind, slightly awkward smile.

"Hey, Flora," he greeted. "Just wanted to let you know it's time for dinner."

I smiled, feeling a bit guilty for losing track of time. "Thanks, Hank. I didn't realize how late it was. I guess I got a little carried away with planning."

Hank stepped inside, his hands in his pockets. "It happens to the best of us. We tend to eat around the same time every evening, but, uh, I figured I'd come grab you, just in case."

I stood up, stretching a bit after sitting for so long. "What time do you guys typically eat? I feel bad that someone has to come look for me."

Hank chuckled softly, shaking his head. "No worries. We usually eat around six, but we don't mind checking in on each other. You'll get used to the routine soon enough."

I nodded, appreciating his thoughtfulness. "Thanks, Hank. I'll try to be more mindful next time."

He smiled warmly, his demeanor gentle and understanding. "Don't worry about it. We're all still getting used to things around here in one way or another."

As we walked together toward the dining area, I found myself wondering how dinner would go tonight. Last night had been... tense, mostly because of Erik's presence, and I couldn't shake the feeling that his dislike of me was somehow affecting the atmosphere for everyone else too. I hoped tonight would be different, but a part of me doubted it.

When we entered the dining room, the familiar scene unfolded: the long table set with dishes, the soft hum of conversation as everyone settled in. Storm, Scott, Jean, Raven, and Charles were already seated, and I noticed Erik once again at the far end of the table, his expression as unreadable as ever.

I took my seat next to Raven, offering a polite smile to the others as they welcomed me with nods and small greetings. The food smelled good, but my stomach twisted with unease.

"So, how did the planning go?" Storm asked, her tone casual but friendly.

"It went well," I replied, trying to focus on the positive. "I think I have a good starting point for the lessons. Tomorrow's going to be interesting, though."

"You'll do great," Jean chimed in with a reassuring smile. "The kids are going to love learning from you."

I smiled back, grateful for her support. "Thanks, I hope so."

As dinner continued, I glanced down the table and noticed something odd—Erik wasn't completely silent tonight. He was speaking with the others. Not much, but enough to make it clear he wasn't completely withdrawn. He commented on something Scott said, and even exchanged a few words with Storm about the training schedule for the week.

It took me a moment to realize that while he was talking to the others, he hadn't said a single word to me. Not a greeting, not a glance—nothing.

I tried to shake it off, telling myself it didn't matter. He didn't owe me anything. I was the newcomer, and Erik had made it clear that he wasn't interested in getting to know me. Still, as I listened to the quiet conversations around me, the fact that he was ignoring me entirely started to gnaw at me. It wasn't like he was cold to everyone—just me.