The lecture hall buzzed with impatience as the lecturer scribbled names on the whiteboard.
"For this semester's project," Dr. Scott announced, "you'll be working in pairs. Choose wisely. Once your name are locked, there's is no going back."
Groans filled the room. Brooklyn sat upright, clutching her notebooks. Paired work? On my first semester?
Mani leaned over with a confidence grin. "Looks like we're about to make a perfect team, Brooklyn."
Before she could respond, Dr. Scott read from his list. Brooklyn…..and Bryant."
Her heart sank. No. Not him.
As if on cue, Bryant strolled into the hall, late as usual, holding his basketball under one arm. Students whispered his name, and a few girls giggled. He spotted Brooklyn instantly, his lips curving into that infuriating smile.
"Guess we're partners, princess," Bryant said when he reached her desk.
Brooklyn narrowed her eyes. "Don't call me that."
"Fine," he replied smoothly. "Partners , then."
Mani's jaw tightened. "Sir, I think there's a mistake. Brooklyn and I were about to —-"
"No mistake," Dr. Scott cut him off, scanning the room. Next pair: Michelle and Aura…"
The decision was final.
Brooklyn sighed, sinking into her seat.
Working with Bryant was the last thing she wanted. He was charming, unserious, and the exact distraction she promised herself she would avoid.
After class, Bryant fell into step beside her.
"You don't look too happy," he teased.
"I'm not."
"Ouch. And here I was thinking fate just brought us together."
Brooklyn shot him a glare. "Fate didn't spill coffee on me yesterday. You did."
Bryant chuckled. " fair enough. But you'll see — I'm not as bad as you think."
Brooklyn quickened her pace, determined not to let him get under her skin. But when she glanced back, she caught Mani watching them, his expression unreadable.
Something told her this semester was about to get far more complicated than she planned.