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.

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

"Here you go, sweetheart. And don't worry about your lunch; I'll keep it aside until you get back again. Take care

you," I replied, genuinely grateful for

heart pounding with each step as

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

to think you wouldn't show today! What did you bring

chicken pasta and a Coke," I said, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside

taking the tray from my

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

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

folded her arms across her chest

us for the

just as I passed the redhead, she extended her hand, stopping me in my tracks. Her grip was surprisingly strong, as she dug

you?!" She snaps, as I blink and turn back to the

aloud, as though it was a normal thing to

here and take what's mine. He doesn't need you to get his damn lunch for him!" Her finger jabbed into my chest

abruptly ceased, as he passed the

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

She really thinks she can replace me?" she

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

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...