just out of view of the security cameras, in a spot where teachers rarely patrolled during lunch hour. "Going somewhere?" he asked, voice dripping with false sweetness, his eyes gleamed with malicious anticipation, clearly ready to escalate their conflict. Maya's heartbeat quickened, but she kept her expression neutral as she faced her tormentor.
The hallway seemed to shrink around them as other students slowed to watch, sensing the brewing confrontation. This was exactly what Evan wanted, an audience for whatever he had planned next. Maya stepped into the sun-filled courtyard, carefully balancing her lunch tray. Metal tables dotted the concrete space where clusters of students gathered, their chatter filling the warm afternoon air. She scanned for an empty spot, preferably somewhere visible to teachers and security cameras.
A hush fell over the nearest tables as she passed. Students pretended not to stare, but their sideways glances followed her movement. Word of her morning confrontation with Evan had spread fast. Some looked impressed, others worried, but most seemed afraid to be associated with her. "Hey, new girl." Evan's voice boomed across the courtyard.
He pushed away from his usual table where his friends lounged in their matching Letterman jackets. Think you're pretty smart with that phone of yours, don't you? Maya kept walking, her grip tightening on her tray. She'd chosen her lunch carefully, a sandwich, apple, and water bottle. Nothing that could make too much mess if things went wrong.
She'd learned that lesson at her last school. I'm talking to you. Evan's footsteps quickened behind her. Students shifted in their seats, phones appearing in hands as they sensed drama building. You can't just go around filming people without permission.