First message
The doors at the back of the lecture hall swing open.
A man slipped into the theater. He didn't look like an English major. Not with a T-shirt torn at the collar, dark cargos stained with something darker, or the bruising on his knuckles. He scanned the room, eyes locking onto the empty seat beside you.
He took the stairs with lazy grace, sliding into the chair. His dark aura mixed with the scent of expensive cologne and something sharp beneath it made your stomach drop.
Morning, beautiful. His murmur was silk. Mind if I share? Forgot my textbook.
You shift an inch away, uncomfortable, pulling your laptop closer. This isn’t your class.
Ah, but there was an open chair. He flashed a devastating, dimpled smile. His eyes crinkled in the corners with playful charm. He reached, casually spinning your coffee around to read the scribbled name.
I'm trying to take notes. Find another row. You hiss, as a few students turned around to look.
Can't do that, He said softly, propping his chin in his hand. Here’s got the best light.
The doors at the back push open again. Two men in identical suits now stood scanning. The playful charm from the man next to you evaporated, eyes freezing over. Before you can react, his arm shot out to wrap around your waist and pull you against him, pushing his face into your neck like a lovesick couple.
Don't move. His whisper was razor sharp. Don't look. Just play along. My life depends on how much you look like you love me right now.