“You can’t deny it. We got here faster than by car.” Mano leaned forward over the bike, arms crossed, eyes on him.
“Well… you were doing double the speed.”
“Why do I get the feeling you’re a newbie with bikes?”
“I’ve ridden before.” Ody looked away, rubbing the back of his neck. “I’m just… not that comfortable. I prefer cars.”
“Sure. Scaredy-cat.” Mano smirked.
“I’m not.” Ody’s jaw tightened.
“Let’s go.” Mano swung his leg off the bike.
“Go where?”
“Which building is your class in?”
“I know the way. I don’t need a guardian.”
“We’re not doing this again. Move.”
Ody stayed where he was.
Mano sighed. “Didn’t we agree I’m watching out so no one jumps you? If anything happens, it’s on me. So I’m making sure nothing does.”
“I don’t need protection. I’m a grown man.”
“Good,” Mano said. “Then you can keep up.”
Ody frowned. “With what?”
Mano stepped forward, stopping just in front of him, eyes locked on his. “Me watching your back.”
Ody looked away first.
“Come on. Let’s go.” He turned, taking a couple of steps ahead.
“Maybe you shouldn’t come inside.” Ody stopped him.
Mano turned, looking him up and down. “Why?”
“If my friends see you and realize I didn’t bring my car, they’ll start asking questions. I can’t tell them the truth.”
Mano’s expression shifted. “You mean your friends don’t know what those assholes are doing to you?”
“Before you got involved, they didn’t really do anything serious,” Ody said in a calm voice.
Mano looked away, his jaw tightening.
“Sorry. I know you were trying to help, but now I’m in more danger. They used to just mess with me.” Ody lowered his gaze.
Mano nodded, his jaw still clenched.
“Anyway, thanks for—”
“Yeah, yeah, just get to class.” Mano cut him off, jerking his head toward the entrance.
Ody hesitated for a second, then stepped past him. “I’ll head home with the guys. Thanks for the ride.”
