The school hallway buzzed with chatter, students moving in clusters, discussing weekend plans, gossiping about the murders—whispering about Sidney when they thought she wasn’t listening.

Stu was grinning ear to ear, practically bouncing on his heels as he walked backward in front of Sidney, trying to sell his latest idea. “Come on, Sid! You need a break. A party is exactly what you need right now.”

Sidney sighed, shifting her books in her arms. “I don’t know, Stu…”

Stu groaned dramatically. “Oh, come on! It’s gonna be legendary. Beer, music, a little bit of good old-fashioned distraction—what’s not to love?”

Sidney’s hesitation was clear in the way she avoided his gaze. Her arms tightened around her books, her steps slowing. She wasn’t sold.

That’s when Michael stepped in.

He smoothly slid beside her, wrapping an arm loosely around her shoulder, pulling her just a little closer. His touch was warm, reassuring. Safe.

“You should go, Sid,” he murmured, his voice gentle but insistent. His grey eyes met hers, soft, understanding. “You’ve been through so much… maybe a party is exactly what you need.”

Sidney frowned, glancing away. “I just don’t know if I’m in the mood.”

Michael gave a small chuckle, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. “That’s the point, babe. You’re always in your head, worrying, stressing… Let go for once. You’ve got me. I’ll be right there the whole time.”

Sidney’s resolve wavered.

Michael could see it in the way she bit her lip, in the way she stole a glance at him before looking at the ground. She wanted to say no.

But she wouldn’t.

She trusted him.

“Fine,” she exhaled, shaking her head. “But if it sucks, I’m leaving.”

Stu whooped. “Hell yes! It’s so not gonna suck.”

Michael smirked, his grip on Sidney’s shoulder lingering just a second longer before letting go.

Everything was going according to plan.