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.

new." I tell her

I'll keep it aside until you get back again. Take care of yourself, alright?"

you," I replied, genuinely grateful

each step as

to reach the area in the school that he seemed to occupy like a king - finding him standing with the blonde who had tripped me, the dangerous looking one with the

you wouldn't show today! What did you bring me then, Sofia?" he drawled, his tone dripping with condescension as he said my name which sent a shiver

chicken pasta and a Coke," I said,

eyebrow, clearly surprised by my choice. "Not bad," he admitted, taking the tray from my hands, balancing it on one hand before moving to grab the

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

a success. Just as I was about to excuse myself, two cheerleaders rounded the corner, their presence

eyes narrowing furiously as she folded her arms across her chest and stared daggers through me. Her friend, a blonde with

for the complete experience-all for free. The next chapter is

Feeling increasingly uncomfortable, and with that I attempted to leave. But just as I passed the redhead, she extended her hand, stopping

and turn back to the boys in hopes that they

Vincent states aloud, as though it was a normal thing to say

can just waltz in here and take what's mine. He doesn't need you to get his damn

he passed the lunch tray to one

cold and commanding. He stepped forward,

mouse. She really thinks she can replace me?" she sneered, her

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

ignored me, her focus solely on Vincent. "You think this little nobody can 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...