𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐧

𝑬𝒑𝒊𝒔𝒐𝒅𝒆 12: "𝒄𝒓𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔"

୨୧
France, Paris
ISP
O.T.M.
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The cafeteria buzzes with the vibrant energy of students laughing, chatting, and the clatter of trays. I sit at a corner table with Robyn, my heart lighter than it’s been in a while. She’s effortlessly cool, her laid-back demeanor making it easy for me to forget the chaos of my life. Her laughter is contagious, and every shared glance feels like a little secret between us.

“So, what’s the plan for the weekend?” Robyn asks, leaning closer as she digs into her lunch. Her bright eyes catch the sunlight streaming through the cafeteria windows, and I can’t help but smile back.

“I was thinking maybe we could check out that new movie everyone’s been talking about,” I suggest, my excitement bubbling over. “You know, the one with that actor you love?”

Robyn nods enthusiastically. “Yes! I’m down. I love a good action flick. Plus, we can grab some ice cream afterward.”

“Perfect,” I reply, feeling a thrill of anticipation at the thought of spending more time with her. Everything seems easier with Robyn. She brings out a side of me that feels carefree and bold.

As we chat, I can’t help but glance over at Mrs. Carter, who stands at the front of the cafeteria, talking to a group of teachers. Something about her seems off today. She looks worn out, her usually polished appearance replaced by an air of exhaustion. Her shoulders are slumped, and I can see the faint lines of stress etched on her face. I feel a pang of concern for her, but a small voice in the back of my mind reminds me of the boundaries I’ve drawn.

It’s strange how quickly things can change. Not long ago, I was grappling with feelings for her, feeling like there was a connection that might lead to something more. Now, I’ve shoved those feelings aside, trying to focus on Robyn and the happiness she brings. I refuse to let Mrs. Carter’s struggles become my own again.

But as I watch, I see something that makes my heart race. I notice Mr. Carter—Shawn—approaching Mrs. Carter with a casual air. At first, I think it’s just a friendly exchange, but then I see the way he leans in too close, the way his hand rests on her shoulder as he speaks to her. There’s an intimacy to his touch that sends a chill down my spine.

Mrs. Carter stiffens slightly, her smile faltering as she glances around, almost as if she’s checking to see who’s watching. My heart pounds in my chest, and I lean closer to Robyn, trying to distract myself from the scene unfolding.

“Hey, do you see that?” I whisper to Robyn, nodding subtly toward the front of the cafeteria.

“What?” she asks, glancing over, her brow furrowing in confusion.

“Mrs. Carter and Mr. Carter. She doesn't want him touching her.” My voice is barely above a whisper, but the concern in my tone is evident.

Robyn follows my gaze and raises an eyebrow. “That’s not cool. She doesn’t look happy about it.”

I nod, feeling a mix of anger and worry. It’s clear that Mrs. Carter is uncomfortable with whatever conversation they’re having, and it doesn’t sit right with me. Part of me wants to march over there and demand Mr. Carter back off, but another part of me knows I shouldn’t get involved in their personal life. It’s not my place.

“Should we say something?” Robyn asks, her tone turning serious as she watches the interaction unfold.

“No,” I reply quickly, shaking my head. “I don’t want to get in the middle of whatever is going on. I mean, they’re married, right? Maybe it’s just a rough patch.”