Lucas stares at me with a provocative look. I'm not sure if he had been doing it all along or if our eyes just happened to meet, but I decide not to look away.
We stay like that for a few seconds, until his smug smile widens. He covers his mouth with his hand and barely moves his lips, as if he only wants me to understand what he's saying. A shiver runs down my spine.
I think I've read his lips… but maybe I'm wrong:
"You're really cute when you talk to Sole."
My eyes widen in shock, a knot tightens in my stomach, my cheeks burn, and I struggle to breathe.
Sole's gaze studies me. I feel nervous; it seems like she's waiting for an explanation I don't know how to give. My muscles are tense, my forehead damp with sweat, and my skin tingles with anxiety.
The bell rings. My classmates settle at their desks; I guess the first teacher is about to arrive.
But… I've lost my chance to clarify things with Sole. We all stand up together for the teacher's arrival. I feel Sole tapping my hand lightly with her fingers, looking at me with a reassuring gaze.
"You don't need to worry about these little things. I'm sure your mom was more nervous than you just because you had to go back to school. Don't pay attention to it."
I smile timidly, happy that Sole hasn't noticed my nervousness… but inside, I know it's not her fault.