Page 53 of Cruel Steps

Holden pulled out a well-loved pencil case, confusing me even more. It had scratches and dents, with words drawn on the case in other colors. He saw me staring and moved it.

“Not everyone can afford top of the line,” he spat, staring at the pristine case I had.

“That wasn’t why I stared, Jockstrap. You’re an artist.”

“I’m not.”

“Yet you’re in this class…”

“So are you. Are you an artist?” he challenged.

“No. But it was the only elective that fit my schedule. I’m fully aware of my limitations.”

Holden’s eyes searched mine, and I wished I knew what he was thinking. After a minute, he returned to his pad and put his arm around it, blocking my view. It was then I realized he was left-handed. How weird to learn these basic things about him, yet feel like I knew him to my core in the same breath?

I opened my pencil case and stared at the assortment of numbers and letters. Picking up a random pencil, I tapped it against the white paper. What did I see Holden as? Football seemed like the logical choice, but it also felt too easy. From what I’d gathered, Holden’s whole focus was football, and I wanted him to see himself as more than the sport, even if I hated him.

I had to learn that when Hope stole dance from me. Dance couldn’t determine my worth, and neither could football for Holden.

My hand moved on the paper, making broad strokes. The graphite was light on the paper, helping it not be critical if my strokes were incorrect. Somehow I got lost in the drawing, focusing on the parts I could do well and leaving the areas that needed more detail for last. When the bell rang, my hand was cramped, and my arm had graphite on it, but I smiled at my picture.

“What the fuck is that supposed to be?” Holden barked, making me laugh.

Yep. He was so a German Shepherd. Sandy had inspired me to see people as dogs, and after Colter had introduced me to his favorite dog, Scout, I couldn’t help but see the similarities.

Loyal. Fierce. Determined. Protective. Aloof to strangers.

“No peeking,” I said in response, shutting my pad. Holden rolled his eyes, but I caught the slight tug of his mouth. He glanced down at my arms, the tug growing larger.

“Graphite looks good on you, Wildcat.” He winked and climbed to his feet, leaving me stunned in my seat.

Whenever I thought I had the upper hand, he’d spin me out, leaving me discombobulated. Other students filtered in for the next class, and I jumped up, remembering I also had a class to get to. One of these days, I’d make it to a class on time.

Thankfully, my last class wasn’t far from the art building, and I made it before capturing another teacher’s ire. Astronomy was in an auditorium, already brimming with students. I sat at the end of a row, hoping to avoid any trouble for this class. I knew my luck had been too good when Hope walked in with Kimmy, and what I’d gathered were her Zeta sisters, hot on her trail. She entered every room like a queen, confidence I could never replicate. If I didn’t hate her, I’d almost be impressed.

Ducking my head down, I pulled my hair in front of my face, turned my body, and prayed they didn’t see me. They joined a group of girls dressed similarly to them, in cute skirts and dresses, at the front. I didn’t begrudge their fashion choices, but I never understood the desire to wear heels to class. I preferred comfort to style any day.

The class started, the professor droning on up front, but no one seemed to pay him attention. His gray hair stuck out at all angles, and his shirt was untucked on one side. His voice was soft, and I could barely hear him over the chatter. I’d need to sit further up if I planned to learn anything.

“He puts all the slides online. That’s why no one pays attention,” the guy next to me said. I hadn’t noticed him take a seat, too focused on Hope.

“Ah. Thanks.” He looked me over, recognition lighting his eyes, and I knew he realized I was the girl from the video.

“You’re new.”

“So they tell me.”

He smiled, licking his lips and I forced myself not to grimace. “Well, new girl. Let me welcome you to Hayward with a tour.”

“That’s all right. I’m good.” I glanced at my paper like I was taking notes.

“Nonsense. You don’t know all the best spots. For instance, I work at the best dance club in town and can get you in for free.”

That got my attention. “Dance club?”

His pupils dilated, and he nodded, leaning forward. A wave of his cologne wafted over me, and I gasped, breathing through my mouth so I didn’t choke on the smell. It was so strong. Unfortunately, he took my gasp as interest.

“Yeah, it’s called Club Ember. Want to meet me there tonight? Your drinks will be on the house, new girl.” His eyes traveled over me, and I shifted to cover myself. I didn’t like the way he leered.

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