The cafeteria buzzed with the usual chaos of clinking trays, laughter, and snippets of conversation. Kai sat at the corner table near the windows, his usual spot where he could observe without being noticed. Or so he thought.
Ryu Martin
You look like you are hiding
kai winslow
*startled*
Kai turned to find Ryu standing there, a tray balanced in one hand and that same unnerving smile on his lips.
kai winslow
I'm not *replied looking away*
Ryu Martin
* chuckled *
Ryu Martin
*slid down the seat without waiting for invitation*
Ryu Martin
Mind if I join you? Actually, don’t answer that—I’m already here.
kai winslow
*clenched his jaw*
kai winslow
*having a déjà vu *
kai winslow
*forcing himself to focus on food but can't*
Ryu Martin
So *leaning forward*
Ryu Martin
What made you choose criminology
kai winslow
kai winslow
I like solving puzzles
Ryu Martin
Interesting. Me too. Though I think the real thrill isn’t solving the puzzle—it’s creating one no one else can figure out
kai winslow
*froze*
kai winslow
What’s that supposed to mean?
Ryu Martin
Ryu Martin
Just a thought
Kai’s pulse quickened. He didn’t like how Ryu’s words seemed to carry double meanings, each one digging under his skin
Ryu Martin
Anyway
Ryu Martin
I was hoping you could show me around campus. I’m still getting my bearings
kai winslow
There’s a map on the school website
Ryu Martin
*laughing*
Ryu Martin
True, but it’s not the same as having someone guide you. Besides, I’d much rather spend time with you
kai winslow
*pushed his tray*
kai winslow
I'm busy
Ryu tilted his head, studying him like a hawk sizing up its prey
Ryu Martin
You always this friendly
kai winslow
*Picked his bag*
kai winslow
*stood up*
kai winslow
Enjoy your lunch
As he walked away, he could feel Ryu’s eyes on him, like a shadow stretching out to follow him wherever he went.
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