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Then the smile comes back.

“Such a dedicated professor. You're always so busy with your lessons.”

Because I don't want to go out with you.

Say it, Aggie.

Just say it.

My mouth opens. Nothing comes out.

Coach steps closer.

Too close.

I catch Dora stiffening beside me.

“You can't avoid me forever, Maggie May.”

Something cold slides through my stomach. He's smiling when he says it.

Like it's a joke.

Maybe it is.

But I don't find it funny.

“Actually,” Dora says, “her name is Aggie.”

Coach's gaze moves to her.

“I know her name.”

The way he says it makes my skin crawl. Before Dora can respond, I grab her arm.

“We're going to be late.”

“We're—”

“Late,” I repeat.

She looks at me.

Really looks at me.

Her expression changes.

“Right.”

She loops her arm through mine.

“Let's go.”

We start toward the door.

“Maggie.”

I don't turn around.