} "Morning, genius."
Marina dropped into the seat across from me, her usual oversized tote bag hitting the desk with a thud. She cracked open an energy drink, leaning back like she owned the room.
"Morning," I replied, scanning through Halifax's notes.
She tilted her head. "You actually review his lectures? Half the time it feels like he doesn't even know what he's saying."
"Maybe that's why I review them," I muttered.
Before Marina could retort, a soft voice cut through. "Hi, Kai."
Avery.
She was passing by with her books hugged to her chest, a light, practiced smile flickering across her lips. Not too much. Just enough to look polite—friendly.
I looked up out of instinct. "Morning," I returned, just as quick.
And just like that, she was gone down the aisle.
Marina's eyes narrowed immediately. She leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand like a detective about to interrogate a suspect. "Alright. What was that?"
