Shadows In Durango

Chapter 7

*****Sofia's POV*****

Lunch rolled around too quickly for my liking, quickly becoming another joyless part of my day.

As I stood in the lunch line, my stomach churned with anxiety. What would I get for Vincent this time?

Yesterday's choice had apparently been too boring, and he had made it clear that I had better do better today. I hated the thought of catering to his whims, but I couldn't handle more mockery during class.

The cafeteria buzzed with the usual lunchtime chaos. The clatter of trays, the hum of conversation, and the occasional burst of laughter from groups of friends filled the air. I shifted nervously from foot to foot, glancing over the selection of food options as I neared the counter.

When it was finally my turn, I was greeted by the same lunch lady from yesterday. Her warm smile was a small comfort in this otherwise daunting school. "Hello again, dear. What can I get for you today?" she asked, her voice kind and inviting. I hesitated for a moment before leaning in slightly, lowering my voice. "Do you know Vincent Walker?" I asked, deciding to shoot my shot.

Her eyebrows raised in mild surprise. "Oh dear, who doesn't know Vincent around this place?" she replied with a light chuckle and a shake of her head.

Taking a deep breath, I decided to take a chance. "Do you happen to know what he usually orders for lunch?"

She hummed thoughtfully, tapping her chin. "Vincent, huh? Let me think... Ah, he's a fan of the Cajun chicken pasta. Spicy, flavorful, just like him too." She winked at me.

I nodded, grateful for the insight. "I'll take two orders of the Cajun chicken pasta, please. And two Cokes."

The lunch lady's expression softened with understanding as she began to serve the pasta. "You're sweet, you know that? Trying to please Vincent... it's no easy task." She sighed, her eyes filled with a mixture of pity and concern.

"Thanks. I just... I don't want any trouble... I'm new." I tell her the fact

don't worry about your lunch; I'll keep it aside

replied, genuinely grateful for

through the cafeteria, my heart pounding with each step as

in the school that he seemed to occupy like a king - finding him standing with the blonde who had tripped

delivery. I started to think you wouldn't show today! What did you bring me then, Sofia?" he drawled, his tone dripping with condescension as he said my

set the tray in front of him. "Cajun chicken pasta and a Coke,"

"Not bad," he admitted, taking the tray from my hands, balancing it on one hand before moving to

waiting for his verdict as he shovelled the first bite in to his mouth. He chewed thoughtfully, then nodded. "Much better than yesterday. You might be learning after

Just as I was about to excuse myself, two cheerleaders rounded the corner,

a wicked snarl etched on her face, her eyes narrowing furiously as she folded her arms across her

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feel the tension rising as they approached. Feeling increasingly uncomfortable, and with that I attempted to leave. But just as I passed the redhead, she extended her hand, stopping me in my tracks. Her grip was surprisingly strong, as she dug her acrylic-clad free hand into

She snaps, as I blink and turn back to the boys in hopes

lunch lady." Vincent states aloud, as though it was a normal thing to say as my temperature

and venomous. "Don't you dare think you can just waltz in here and take what's mine. He doesn't need you to get his damn lunch for him!"

he passed the lunch tray

his voice cold and commanding. He

just a little mouse. She

provoking her any further. "I don't want any trouble," I managed to say, my voice barely above a

Vincent.