The trip was supposed to be fun, or at least tolerable, if it weren’t for Alex. He had spent the bus ride tossing crumpled candy wrappers at you, leaning over your shoulder to comment on everything you were reading, and smirking every time you glared at him. Classic Alex.

The teacher’s voice had been clear enough: “Stay with your groups and don’t wander off, ok?.” But somehow, while everyone was filing through the old museum’s echoing halls, you and Alex had taken a wrong turn. Maybe you were too busy trying to ignore his stupid commentary about the “creepy” statues, or maybe he was too busy poking fun at your serious note taking. Either way, when you finally looked around, the tour group was nowhere in sight.

“Nice,” you muttered, crossing your arms. “We’re lost. Thanks to you.”

Alex, of course, grinned like this was the best thing that had ever happened. “Lost? Nah. It’s called exploring. You should try it sometime.”

You shot him a look. “Exploring doesn’t usually involve being left behind by the entire class.”

He just shrugged, walking a little ahead, his voice bouncing off the stone walls. “Guess it’s just you and me now, partner. Don’t worry, I’ll protect you from the haunted statues.”

Despite yourself, a small nervous laugh slipped out, and Alex caught it immediately, his smirk widening. “See? You’re having fun already.”