Taylor felt much better after breakfast. She stretched lazily in her bed, glancing at Chris, who was still lingering nearby. "I feel… almost human," she said, a small smile tugging at her lips.
Chris smirked. "Almost human? That's progress."
"Shut up," she muttered, grabbing her backpack. "But thanks for everything yesterday… and this morning."
Chris shrugged, trying to look casual. "Someone had to make sure you survived. Can't have my partner falling apart on me."
Taylor rolled her eyes, but she didn't argue. After a moment, she asked, "Will you… walk me to college?"
Chris raised an eyebrow. "You're walking now, not piggyback?"
"Yes," she said firmly, stepping forward. "And I want to talk."
He chuckled. "Alright, but no complaints if I tease you along the way."
As they walked through the quiet streets, the sun warming their faces, Taylor felt a strange comfort in Chris's presence. It wasn't just that he had taken care of her — it was the way he listened, the way he didn't rush her, the way he somehow made her feel safe even when she was stubborn and messy.
"So…" she began, glancing at him. "Do you… always act so perfect in class? You make it look effortless."
Chris shrugged, running a hand through his hair. "Not always. I just… like being prepared. I hate feeling behind. You?"
Taylor thought about it. "I try, but… sometimes I feel like I'm just average. Never the best at anything."
"You're not average," Chris said quickly. "You're stubborn. Determined. And somehow, you make me… think differently. That counts for something."
She blinked at him, surprised by the sincerity in his voice. "Really?"
"Really," he replied, glancing down at her with a soft smile. "You're not like everyone else, Taylor. You stand out."
She felt her cheeks heat up and looked away, focusing on the path ahead. "Thanks… I guess."
They walked in a comfortable silence for a few moments, the city around them buzzing with students heading to their own classes. Taylor felt lighter than she had in days. Talking to Chris — really talking — made her realize that there was more to him than the teasing, smart boy she had first met at the park.
"You know," she said after a while, "I never really got to ask… why are you so good at everything?"
Chris smirked. "Maybe it's natural. Or maybe… I just hate losing. Life's easier when you plan ahead." He glanced at her, his eyes softer now. "But it's not everything. Trust me."
Taylor smiled faintly. "Good to know. Even geniuses have flaws."
He grinned. "Exactly. And now you know mine. Careful — I might tease you about it for the rest of the semester."
Taylor laughed softly, shaking her head. "I'll survive… somehow."
By the time they reached the college gate, both of them felt a little closer, a little lighter, and strangely, neither wanted the conversation to end.