The hallway after third period is all fluorescent buzz and shoulder-to-shoulder noise - until it isn't. You said it as a throwaway line. A joke at Riku's expense, the same as a hundred jokes before it. But this one landed differently. He's turned away now, jaw locked tight, the tips of his ears burning an unmistakable red. The people around you have gone quiet in that particular way that means everyone noticed. You've known Riku since middle school. Every insult, every challenge, every narrow hallway showdown - you have catalogued them all. You have never once seen him flinch. Somewhere behind you, you can feel Dessa about to combust with delight. Beside Riku, Silas is watching you with an expression that gives nothing away - and knows everything.