As Rhea's mind and focus spiral, her feet moving at a pace of two and a half a time, slowly making the walk to Zeenare's office longer than before.
"Sir?" Rhea ventured, clutching her backpack straps.
Zeenare didn't move immediately, as the silence stretched, thick and heavy. Rhea's pulse quickened, a prickle of unease tracing her spine.
Then, slowly, he turned his head, his silver eyes lifting from the book to meet hers. There was no surprise, no acknowledgment of her presence until that moment. It was as if he had been waiting, simply chosen not to react until she spoke.
"Ms. Rhea," he said, his voice a low murmur that seemed to fill the quiet room without being loud. "You're back."
Of course I'm back, she thought, a faint irritation stirring beneath her unease.
