(Steven's POV)
When Michelle disappeared into the doorway of her building, I stood there for a moment longer than I intended.
Not watching her.
Just… breathing.
It had been a long morning. Longer than the three hours that passed have suggested.
My chest still felt like it was holding three different storms.
Anger.
Relief.
And something else.
Something deeper.
I shoved my hands into my pockets and exhaled slowly.
I had already seen Lara this morning.
Already endured her confrontation.
Already said words I couldn't — and wouldn't — take back.
And now?
Michelle was in class, trying to survive the day with dignity.
And I was…
Alone.
For the first time since morning, I could actually feel the emotions settle.
--
(Walking Away From Her Felt Wrong)
I started toward the engineering courtyard, trying to pull my thoughts back into the disciplined order I'd lived my whole life by.
Focus.
Compartmentalize.
Move on.
But none of those things were cooperating today.
