Chapter 4 – After the Storm 🌙💙
Jay's pov
The hallway was still echoing with laughter.
"JAYFER! JAYFER!" the class had chanted until Sir finally barked at them to leave.
Now, the classroom was almost empty. Chairs pushed back, papers scattered, the air still heavy with all the noise they left behind.
I stayed behind to gather my things slowly, hoping the crowd would clear. But when I looked up, he was still there. Sitting quietly in his seat, like he had been waiting.
"Jay."
Just my name, spoken softly. Not teasing, not mocking—just real.
I froze, clutching my notebook.
Why does he sound like that?
Why does it still feel the same?
I turned, forcing a small smile. "Why didn't you leave with the others?"
He shrugged, eyes never leaving mine. "I didn't want to."
Silence hung between us, heavy but not uncomfortable.
For a moment, it was almost like Section E's noise didn't exist—like we were back to before London.
I swallowed hard. "Well… looks like we're partners now. No choice."
He smirked, but it wasn't his usual smirk—it was softer, almost sad.
"Maybe it's not just chance."
I didn't know what to say. My chest tightened, torn between wanting to run and wanting to stay right there.
Before I could answer, the classroom door banged open.
"Yooooo! Are you two still here?!" It was Mayo, Rory, and Blaster peeking in with mischievous grins.
"Secret meeting already?!" Rory teased.
"Project or confession?" Mayo added dramatically.
Blaster crossed his arms. "Keifer, remember what I said—hurt her, and you're dead."
I rolled my eyes, grabbing my bag. "We were just talking about the project!" I snapped, my cheeks burning.
The three howled with laughter and ran off before I could throw my notebook at them.
When I glanced back, Keifer was smiling—this time, really smiling. And for just a heartbeat, I smiled too.