The art room was quiet.
Sunset light filtered through the tall windows.
Autumn sat on a desk.
Luca leaned against the wall across from her.
"So," she said.
"This is awkward."
"Not really."
"We're locked in a classroom."
"I've been in worse situations."
She raised an eyebrow.
"That sounds concerning."
He chuckled.
Then the room went quiet again.
Eventually Autumn asked,
"Why do people say you're trouble?"
Luca's smile faded slightly.
"Because sometimes I am."
"That's vague."
He shrugged.
"I've made mistakes."
"Everyone has."
"Not everyone gets labeled for them."
Autumn studied him carefully.
For the first time he looked…
Vulnerable.
And that made her chest tighten.