Crescendo

Chapter 4

The class dragged on and despite my best efforts, I couldn't stifle the anxiety building inside of me.

I knew there wasn't a reason to panic, right?

"Looks like we're out of time for today," Daniel sheathed his dry-erase marker, "I expect everyone to read the chapter outlined in the new syllabus. I'll see you on Wednesday."

While my classmates gathered their laptops and notebooks, I waited for a group to form before attempting to leave unnoticed.

After a few of the longest minutes of my life, I saw my chance.

I clutched my bag to my chest and followed the stream of students down the stairs.

I had almost made it to the door when a familiar voice singled me out.

"Ms. James," Daniel beckoned me from his side of the room, "May I have a word with you?"

I squeezed my eyes shut and swore under my breath. The last thing I wanted to do was talk to him.

After a moment to collect my thoughts, I spun around with a forced smile plastered onto my face. "Yes?"

Daniel continued loading his briefcase and brushed his dark hair out of his eyes. "You came to my party a few weeks ago, correct?"

I nodded, "Mrs. Leight invited me." And has emailed me for sneak peeks of my next non-existent novel ever since.

"Right," Daniel stuffed his hands into his pockets, "I wanted to discuss our run-in."

Oh god. "What about it?"

His smile shimmered underneath the fluorescent lights. Does he use whitening strips? "Seeing that we'll be spending the next semester together-"

"Let's just forget it happened," I interrupted.

Daniel laughed, "Forget what?"

I furrowed my eyebrows. "You walked in on-" The smug musician held up his hand.

"I was joking."

"Sure." I rolled my eyes, feeling the color return to my face.

"Ms. James."

"Yes?"

He motioned towards the door, inviting me to leave. "I just wanted to make sure we were on the same page. I'll see you Wednesday."

I opened my mouth but shut it before I could say something I would regret.

What, they don't teach manners at finishing school anymore?

My boots clicked against the tile as I left the empty lecture hall.

Once out of his field of sight, I let my shoulders drop. At one time, spending two hours three times a week with the Daniel Kane would have been a dream.

But I wasn't much of a dreamer anymore.

That girl, the superfan, still had a mother and novels ready to be written.

But I don't.

Instead of exiting the building and soaking away the day in a hot bath, I headed toward the registration office.

****

"And you're sure that there are no other classes?" I leaned onto the counter, hoping she would see the desperation in my eyes and take pity.

The woman shook her head. "I'm afraid not. Freshmen are required to take a fine arts class and unfortunately, all our current substitute classes are full."