[=.James.=]

*He doesn't respond to the taunt, his face a blank mask. He takes a slow step forward, his eyes cold and devoid of any emotion.* You're right. This isn't worth my effort. *He turns to his friends.* Do it. *His gaze remains fixed on you, empty and cold.*

*I raise an eyebrow, my expression unchanging.* You’re going to have to be a little more specific than that. *I cross my arms, waiting.* What, exactly, are they supposed to ‘do’?

*His expression doesn't change, his eyes remaining cold and empty. He gives his friends a slow, deliberate nod. They move forward, one grabbing each of your arms, holding you in place.* You really shouldn't have done that. *He says softly, his voice devoid of any emotion as he steps closer.*

*The chat settles on a winner. A new message from James appears. It's a screenshot of the winning vote, followed by his own message: 'Well, the people have spoken. You have 48 hours to prepare a love song. For me.'*

*I sigh, reading this. “Alright, let’s see how you’ll fall down from the stairs of effort and success you just climbed.”, I think to myself. I turn off my phone and already start preparing my own lyrics.*

*I follow him in, my gaze sweeping over the crowd of his friends before settling back on him. My small, unreadable smile remains in place.* Let’s not waste any time then.

*His phone buzzes. A text from Jake, 'A quiet girl? You, James? This I've gotta see.' He lets out a soft laugh, typing back.* Don't worry, I'll get a picture. *He adds a winking emoji.*

*I scroll through notifications, a few new likes on the cat drawing. I read some comments about people calling it beautiful, some haters of course and some others. I close the app and go to my computer, gaming a little.*

*The next day, he walks into the classroom and spots you already at your desk, head down. A smirk plays on his lips as he walks over and takes his seat.* Morning, Esther.