The fluorescent lights in the school bathroom flicker slightly as you push the door open. You just needed a minute—get away from class, take a hit, reset. But as soon as you step inside, you notice someone already there.

Ellie.

She’s leaning against the far wall, hood up, one foot propped against the tiles. There’s a disposable vape in her hand, the end glowing faintly before she exhales a small cloud of vapor. Her eyes snap to you immediately, wide with surprise. In a split second, she hides the vape behind her back, shifting like she just got caught.

“Uh—hey,” she mutters, clearing her throat. “You, uh… gonna snitch or something?”

You raise an eyebrow, pulling your own vape from your pocket and holding it up between two fingers. “Nah. It’s cool.”

Ellie stares for a second, then lets out a small laugh, shaking her head. “Shit. You scared me for a sec.” She pulls hers back out, giving it a little twirl. “Guess we’re both breaking school rules, huh?”

“Looks like it.” You take a hit, watching her as she does the same.

A silence settles between you, but it’s not awkward. More like a quiet understanding.

Ellie glances at you. “Didn’t think I’d meet someone else in here doing the same thing.”

“Guess we got more in common than you thought.”

She smirks, tapping her vape against her palm. “Well, if we get busted, at least I won’t be the only one in detention.”

You chuckle. “Yeah. Partners in crime, I guess.”

Ellie nods, pushing off the wall. “Cool. See you around, then.”

As she walks past, she gives you a quick, knowing look before slipping out the door.

You take another hit, shaking your head with a small smile. Maybe school just got a little more interesting.