Page 43 of Shadowed With Fear

My bag is heavy on my shoulder walking along the sidewalk to the Art Building. I’m walking slowly, not really wanting a repeat of the run in with Ethan, around to the side entrance. It’s closer to the lecture hall than having to go through the main entrances and down the stairs.

A flash of white flits from my peripheral. My head snaps toward it, eyes scanning the area. I could have sworn—

And I see him. He’s barely visible between the gaps in the dumpsters lined along the alleyway. My stomach twists, excitement bubbling inside. I struggle to hide the smile that passes my lips, and I might be a little too quick to begin walking his way.

I stopped though. From my position I can see him, shaking his head at me, slowly.

A harsh breath leaves my lungs. I look around and don’t see anyone around, this side of the building is pretty much empty at all times, but he keeps telling me no.

I reach into my bag, grasping for my phone, and I text him.

Dahlia: What’s wrong?

Shadow: I’m working, little flower. As much as I would like to speak with you, I can’t put you in harm’s way. It’s too risky.

I stare at the screen, eyes dodging back and forth from my phone to give and around the parking lot.

Shadow: I can explain later. Go to your photography class, Dahlia.

I smirk, shaking my head slightly. Of course, he knows I have photography right now. Why wouldn’t he?

I turn, mock saluting in his direction, and trudge up the stairs to the door.

There is a lightness in my spirit. One that wasn’t there before I caught a glimpse of him. I don’t know what it is about this guy. I’m just drawn to him. His darkness, danger, sparks a flame that has long burned away.

The lecture hall is pretty full when I walk in. I check the time and see there two minutes until class begins. Perfect timing then. No Ethan, no embarrassing loud entrances after class starts. Win-win.

The chair is a little uncomfortable, and creaks loudly when I push the cushion down, but I sit uncaring.

It’s a good day.

Professor Logan is speaking to a girl who sits in the front row. Her bright red hair glowing in the dim lights around the hall. I’m not sure what her name is, but she has been pretty friendly when we pass each other. It’s kind of nice, honestly. Most of the people on campus just kind of keep to themselves, but she seems to smile or grin and wave at everyone she passes.

And she always sits at the front. Her pencil scribbling furiously on her notebooks.

I’m watching her and Professor Logan’s discussion, when behind me, the lecture hall’s double doors burst open, slamming hard against the wall. It causes a loud crashing noise that makes me jump out of my skin. I swear my heart stops for a second.

Ethan strolls down the aisle. An impassive gait in his steps.

When he gets to the front of the room, he turns, and across the lecture hall there are a few gasps.

His face looks brutal. Dark purple and blue bruises muddle his features. A cut on his eyebrow, and a split in his lip. And yet he is unbothered by the whole situation.

I know exactly what happened.

My face heats, and I fidget in my seat. Just act, right, Dahlia?

Yeah, just act. Think later.

Shadow won’t be able to push me away this time. Not when he’s written such a beautiful letter to me with his fists.

* * *

I’m watching the clock over Brahm’s shoulder as he does another run through of his check list before heading out on his trip for the weekend.

I bounce on the ball of my feet, wringing my hands, trying to contain my smile.

“Remember, you need to keep the doors locked. Liz can come over but keep them locked. Always, D. I’m not fucking playing. Are you even listening?” He crosses his arms staring me down sternly.