Chapter 10: The Quiet Rebellion
They stood near the stone steps just behind the east building, where the shadow of the old tree broke the afternoon light.
Luca leaned against the railing, half-listening to Emily and George bantering about some lecturer’s obsession with pop quizzes.
He sipped the last of his drink, eyes scanning the walkway beyond.
Then he straightened. "I’m heading out."
"Where to?" Emily asked, brushing her hair behind her ear.
"Just... heading back."
Before she could tease him, a voice called out.
"Luca?"
He turned, blinking.
It was Kian—lean, sharp-jawed, with that same crooked smile he always wore like a secret.
His hair was still a mess, dyed at the ends now, and he wore a hoodie that hung low off one shoulder. Kian gave a lazy wave as he crossed the short distance.