Chapter 5 : Quiet Equations

SARA POV

Maths.

I have a love and hate relationship with it. Some days, it makes perfect sense—like solving a puzzle. Other days, it feels like it’s just here to test my patience.

But deep down, I do like it. At least I understand it.

I always come early to maths class. I like the quiet before everyone comes in—the peace before the noise. Sitting in an empty room makes me feel calm. Focused.

But today, someone beat me to it.

Ryan Thorne.

He was already sitting in the room, staring at his notes like he owned the place. I paused for a second, surprised.

I guess I’m not the only one who likes coming early.

Sometimes, he even takes my favorite spot near the window. And today… yeah, he did. But that’s okay. The classroom’s big enough. I found a seat a few spaces away—same row, just a little distance.

As I sat down, he glanced at me. Just for a second.

“You came early,” I said softly, giving him a small smile.

He didn’t smile back, just nodded slightly and looked away.

Ouch. That felt awkward.

I smiled it off and looked at my notebook instead, flipping through the pages like I was reading something important—even though my mind was blank.

I’m not good at conversations. I don’t know how to keep them going, especially with guys. Especially with him.

So, I stayed quiet. The classroom was still empty. Just us. And the silence? It felt heavier than usual. I tried not to let it bother me and focused on my notes.

Then I heard his voice.

“About the lab…” he started, still looking at his page, “Do you think the data we collected is consistent?”

I looked up, surprised he talked first.

“Yeah,” I said, quickly adjusting my voice. “I double-checked it last night. The numbers look fine. I think we’re good.”

He nodded again. “Okay.”

That was it. Nothing more. Nothing less.

No small talk. No asking how I am. Just science.

Still… it was something. A tiny crack in the wall between us.

I found myself hoping for more. A little more than just data and lab reports. But maybe that’s too much to expect.

I’m not the type guys notice. I’m not flirty or outgoing. Romance? It feels like the hardest subject I’ll ever study.

But I can’t help it—I still glance at him sometimes. He’s focused. Calm. That same serious expression he always has. It makes me curious.

What’s he like outside of class? Does he always look like that? Does he ever laugh?

God. I sound like a high schooler again.

I shook the thoughts away and continued solving an equation in my notebook. I knew the answer. I always feel proud when I do maths without help. At least here, I know what to do. What the numbers mean.

But with Ryan…

I wish there were formulas for this.

People started coming in, breaking the silence. I sat up straighter, suddenly aware that class was about to start. Ryan didn’t say anything else. Just focused on the board as the professor began writing.

I peeked at him once more before I turned away.

He was already back in his own world.

And maybe… I was still curious enough to want to be part of it.

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