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.

a small smile. "Thanks. I just... I don't want any trouble... I'm new." I tell her the fact despite that she probably already figured

the pasta into two trays. "Here you go, sweetheart. And don't worry about your lunch; I'll keep it aside until you get back again. Take care of yourself, alright?" She offers, making my life

you," I replied, genuinely grateful for her

my way through the cafeteria, my heart pounding with each step as I exited and headed for the gym hall lockers

standing with the blonde who had

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

chicken pasta and a Coke," I said,

"Not bad," he admitted, taking the

the first bite in to his mouth. He chewed thoughtfully, then nodded. "Much better than yesterday. You might be learning after all." He chews, as the others laugh - Daryl offering an

laughed, I felt a small surge of relief that today's choice had been a success. Just as I was about to

a wicked snarl etched on her face, her eyes narrowing furiously as she folded her arms across her chest and stared daggers through me. Her friend, a blonde with an equally menacing look, flanked

continues. Join us for the complete experience-all for

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

the hell are you?!" She snaps, as I blink and turn back to the boys in hopes that they would help to

personal lunch lady." Vincent states aloud, as though it was a normal thing

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!" Her finger jabbed into my chest again, harder this time, making me wince and

abruptly ceased, as he passed the lunch

fucking embarrassing yourself," He warned, his voice cold and commanding. He stepped forward, his eyes

however, seemed undeterred. "Oh, please, Vincent. She's just a little mouse. She

there, caught between wanting to flee and the fear of provoking her any further. "I don't want

take my place?" she continued, her tone growing more shrill. "You're making a mistake, Vincent. You'll regret this. Look at her, she looks... dirty!" Her words cut me deep, considering I had