Page 32 of Hooves & HeartStrings

That’s what he wants—a reaction. Instead, I focus on the task at hand, detailing the disease, its transmission, and current treatments.

“So you’ll just give me some talking points so we can do the presentation together?” Steve interrupts my work.

I narrow my eyes at him. “Yeah, that’s fine.

“I’m good at talking to people, trust me.” He winks again.

I don’t, but at this point, I don’t have much of a choice.

“Fine. I’ll write up the plan and tell you what to say.”

“Got it, Little Momma.” He winks, and I suppress a groan.

The sound of Marie’s laughter fills the air from the table next to me, causing me to look up. Her voice hushes, and she leans in close to Lucius, her hand gripping his arm tightly. Meeting my gaze, he looks up and playfully smirks. I look away quickly, my heart pounding with a mix of anger and something I don’t want to name.

“Alright, let’s get this done,” I mutter to myself, diving back into the research. As the evening wears on, the library grows quieter with each passing hour. After a while, Steve finally decides to put away his phone and starts making an attempt by asking basic questions.

By the time we finish, it’s dark outside. Steve stretches and yawns. “Good work, partner. Same time Thursday?”

“Sure,” I say, gathering my things. “Just don’t be late.”

He gives me a lazy salute and saunters off, leaving me to pack up. I notice Lucius and Marie, still seated at their table, the conversation so engrossing that they are oblivious to the world around them, as I sling my bag over my shoulder. Marie catches my eye and gives a small wave. I nod stiffly in return, my stomach churning.

Stepping out of the library, I am greeted by the refreshing touch of the cool night air on my skin. I take a long, slow breath, attempting to shake off the lingering feeling of tension.

It’s just one class, one project. I can handle this.

The next day in class, I’m more determined than ever to avoid Lucius. I sit in my seat, head down, focusing on the lecture. Steve is unusually quiet, which is a small blessing. Once the class is over, I waste no time in being the first one to exit the room.

Thursday when we meet in the library, I arrive early and set up at our usual table, eager to dive into our study session. Steve arrives on time for once, dropping into his seat with a grin.

“Ready to knock this out?” he asks, surprisingly chipper.

“Yeah,” I say, my eyes darting around the room. No sign of Lucius yet. Maybe today will be different.

We are now focusing on the finishing touches of our project, making small adjustments and improving Steve’s presentation points. Right at the moment when I’m finally able to relax, a shadow abruptly appears and covers our table.

“Working hard, I see,” Lucius remarks, dripping with sarcasm

When I raise my gaze, I see him standing there, all by himself. Marie is nowhere to be found. “What do you want, Lucius?”

He says, his gaze locked with mine, “Just wanted to check-in. Make sure you’re doing okay.”

“I’m fine,” I say sharply, as I quickly turn my attention back to my laptop. “We’re busy.”

Sensing the tension, Steve wisely remains quiet as he looks back and forth between us. Lucius doesn’t move, just stands there watching me. At last, after what seems like forever, he lets out a sigh.

“Good luck with your project,” he says softly and walks away.

I take a deep breath, attempting to calm my nerves. Steve clears his throat. “You two have some history, huh?”

“Something like that,” I mutter. “Let’s just finish this.”

The rest of the session goes smoothly, and by the end, we have a solid plan. Steve leaves with a confident smile, promising to nail the presentation.

While I’m packing up, I can’t help but feel Lucius’ eyes on me.

It’s over. I did it.

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