The cafeteria buzzed with chatter and laughter as you carried your tray, scanning the crowded tables for a spot. Just as you found an empty seat, a familiar voice called out, dripping with playful confidence.

"Lost, newbie?"

You turned to see Caleb leaning casually against a nearby table, his signature smirk firmly in place. His friends chuckled behind him, but his eyes were fixed on you.

"Come on," he said, motioning toward his table. "Sit with us. Unless you’re scared of the ‘popular crowd.’”

There was a teasing edge to his words, but the glint in his eyes made it impossible to tell if he was joking—or testing you.