Chapter 8 The Nerd And Queen Bee

7 years ago

The night air was crisp as Layla and Roman stepped outside, leaving the noise of the party behind. The backyard was dimly lit, the soft glow of the decorative lights casting long shadows on the neatly trimmed grass. It was quieter here-just the distant hum of music, the occasional laughter drifting from inside, and the faint rustle of leaves.

Layla folded her arms, watching Roman as he stared up at the sky. His posture was relaxed, hands in his pockets, his sharp features even more striking under the moonlight.

She cleared her throat. "So, why did you run away from me the first time?"

Roman turned to her, his lips twitching in amusement. Then, to her surprise, he chuckled.

Something stirred inside her.

She liked that sound.

She wanted to hear more of it.

"I didn't run," he said finally, tilting his head slightly. "I just wanted to hear the teacher well. I only sat at the back because class hadn't started yet."

Layla rolled her eyes. "Typical nerd."

Roman smirked but didn't argue. Instead, he studied her for a moment before asking, "Why are you taking calculus? You don't seem like the type to enjoy it."

She raised a brow. "And what type am I?"

"The popular girl. Queen of the preps. Surrounded by people who'd rather party than solve equations."

Layla let out a small laugh, shaking her head. "Wow, you really think you've got me figured out?"

Roman shrugged. "Tell me I'm wrong."

She exhaled dramatically. "Fine. You're not entirely wrong. But I do need it to boost my CGPA."

He nodded slowly, as if processing her words.

She hesitated for a moment before adding, "Honestly, I've been struggling with it. I could really use some help. Maybe, you know, someone to give me insight on how to get better at it."

Roman's gaze flickered to her, wary. "Then hire a tutor."

Layla blinked, then let out a soft scoff. "Why can't you do it?"

Roman raised a brow. "Are you serious or are you messing with me?"

She gave him a pointed look. "I'm serious. You're the only person I know in that class. It'd be nice if you helped me." She leaned in slightly, lowering her voice. "Besides, we could get to know each other more."

Roman stiffened, his fingers curling into fists at his sides. He didn't respond immediately. Layla watched as he glanced toward the house, as if weighing his options.

Then, finally, he said, "I don't think that's a good idea."

Layla frowned. "Why not?"

"I just don't."

And before she could push further, he turned back toward the house. "It was nice meeting you, Layla."

She stood there, stunned, watching as he disappeared into the crowd inside.

It wasn't rejection, not exactly.

But it was a challenge.

And if there was anything Layla loved, it was a challenge.

She smirked to herself, excitement buzzing beneath her skin.

Roman might be hard to get through to, but that only made her more determined.