As the group began to disperse, murmuring among themselves about the upcoming joint operation, Carmen sidled back over to me. The playful curve of her lips flattened into a serious line.
"He's testing you, you know," she said quietly, nodding toward Braxton's retreating back. "He doesn't give leadership responsibilities to first-years. Ever. Not even to recommendation students."
"And why is he making an exception for me?" I asked, genuinely curious. Braxton was clearly more complicated than his disheveled appearance suggested.
Carmen's smile flickered with mischief, a flash of white teeth against her tan skin. "Maybe he sees something in you that reminds him of himself. Or maybe..." She leaned in close enough that I could smell the faint whiskey on her breath, "maybe he's setting you up to fail spectacularly. Either way, I'll be front row with popcorn for the show."
"Your confidence is overwhelming. I'm positively drowning in your faith, Carmen-sensei."
