HER MESS

AUTHOR'S POV

Maeve Richard sat in the back of her classroom, her desk a model of organization. Her notebooks were neatly stacked, her textbooks open and aligned, and her pens and highlighters arranged with precision. Despite her reputation as a rebellious troublemaker, Maeve was a diligent student, a fact that often surprised those who only saw her more chaotic side.

The teacher droned on about ancient history, their voice a monotonous background hum as Maeve scribbled notes with practiced ease. Her focus was intense, but her peripheral vision caught the occasional glance from Adrien Moreau, her longtime friend and the school's notorious bad boy. Adrien's usual disinterest seemed momentarily softened whenever he looked her way.

Adrien, seated a few rows ahead, had always been the type to attract attention with his casual demeanor and effortless charm. Today, though, he was more observant than usual. His gaze frequently flicked back to Maeve, a smirk playing on his lips. He had always admired her ability to remain so composed while surrounded by chaos, and it was this blend of rebellion and diligence that fascinated him.

Adrien: [Noticing Maeve's concentration, he smirked] "You know, if you put half as much effort into hanging out with me as you do into those notes, I might actually get inspired to study."

Maeve: [Without looking up, voice dry] "And if you put half as much effort into your notes as you do into your latest mischief, you might actually pass a class."

Adrien: [Grinning, he continued to doodle on a scrap of paper] "I'm just practicing my artistic skills. I'm sure you'll appreciate them when I become famous."

Maeve: [Turning her head slightly, a smirk tugging at her lips] "I'll be sure to get your autograph when you're on the cover of 'Most Likely to Never Graduate.'"

The teacher's voice cut through their banter with a sharp reprimand. Maeve's attention snapped back to the front, but Adrien's eyes remained fixed on her, his grin never fading.

Teacher: [Irritated] "Maeve, Adrien. Care to explain why you're not paying attention?"

Maeve: [Rising to the challenge with a hint of sarcasm] "We were just discussing how fascinating your lecture is and how we're both in awe of your teaching methods."

Adrien: [Nodding seriously] "Indeed. Maeve was just trying to convert my artistic genius into academic success."

The teacher sighed deeply, clearly exasperated by their antics. Maeve could see the frustration in the teacher's eyes, and it made her smile inwardly. Despite their constant back-and-forth, she knew that Adrien was actually quite intelligent—he just chose to channel his talents into less conventional avenues.

As the lesson continued, Maeve glanced sideways at Adrien, her expression softening. Despite his rebellious exterior, she knew he was a good friend, and his antics were a way of keeping things light.

Maeve: [Whispering] "Seriously, though. Do you ever actually listen in class?"

Adrien: [Feigning innocence] "Only when there's something worth hearing. Like your rants about 'life skills' and 'responsibility.'"

Maeve: [Laughing softly] "You know, sometimes I wonder if you're just pretending to be clueless. You're smarter than you let on."

Adrien: [Grinning] "And you're just too observant for your own good. But I appreciate the compliment."

The bell rang, signaling the end of class. Maeve quickly packed up her things, her movements efficient and practiced. Adrien, on the other hand, took his time, casually gathering his belongings and stretching with dramatic flair.