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.

trouble... I'm new." I tell her

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

I made my way through the cafeteria, my heart pounding with each step as I

finding him standing with the blonde who had tripped me, the dangerous looking one with the shaved

neared, a smirk already forming on his lips. "Well, well, look who's here with my delivery. I started to think you wouldn't show today! What did you bring me then, Sofia?"

set the tray in front of him. "Cajun chicken pasta and a Coke," I said, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside

my choice. "Not bad," he admitted, taking the

chewed thoughtfully, then nodded. "Much better than yesterday. You might be learning after all." He

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

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

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as I passed the redhead, she extended her hand, stopping me in my tracks. Her grip

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

though it was a normal thing to say as my temperature continued

is mine!" The red head hissed in response, her voice low 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!" Her finger jabbed

passed the lunch

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

however, seemed undeterred. "Oh, please, Vincent. She's just a little mouse. She really thinks she can replace me?" she sneered, her words dripping with

as I stood there, caught between wanting to flee and the fear of provoking her any further. "I don't want any trouble," I managed to say, my voice barely above a whisper -

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... dirty!" Her words cut me deep, considering I had always tried to keep my appearance