Back on campus, Elise walked beside Patricia, trying to distract herself with small talk. Patricia, as usual, had a teasing edge.
"You know, if he ditches you for the project, I'll personally laugh for a week straight," Patricia said with a smirk.
Elise rolled her eyes. "Thanks for the encouragement."
Before Patricia could reply, a calm but commanding voice cut through the air.
"Elise."
Both girls stopped. Elise turned slowly, her heart giving a startled thump. Davon stood there, posture straight, gaze fixed on her.
She blinked. "…Huh?"
Patricia snapped her fingers near Elise's face with a mischievous grin. "Earth to Elise—he's talking to you."
Davon's eyes didn't leave her. His tone, sharper this time, left no room for argument.
"The science project. My dorm. 3 p.m. sharp. Don't be late."
Elise's brows furrowed at his bluntness, but she managed to nod once. "…Okay."
He didn't linger, didn't give her time to add anything. Without another word, he turned and walked away, leaving Elise and Patricia staring after him.
Patricia let out a low whistle. "Wow. He really doesn't waste time, does he?"
Elise folded her arms, unsettled. "He could've at least said please."
But deep down, her thoughts churned faster than she wanted to admit.