The applause from Julian's confession still echoed through the halls the next morning—but so did whispers.
And then… came Scott.
Scott Rivers, transfer student from L.A., jawline sharp enough to file your taxes, eyes like late-night secrets, and a voice that sounded like he was always halfway through a plot twist.
He walked into Penelope's art class like he'd been invited to a party he might consider gracing with his presence. Wore vintage jackets like they meant something. And smelled faintly of cedar, coffee, and danger.
Everyone noticed.
Especially Penelope.
Julian? Was not thrilled.
When Penelope was assigned as Scott's partner for a charcoal project, Julian nearly snapped his pencil in half. But Penelope just smiled at him, like: Trust me.Scott pulled his stool beside hers and casually leaned in. "So. You're the girl with the rain-kiss. Bold move."
Penelope raised a brow. "And you're the guy who shows up mid-semester like a Netflix character."
Scott grinned. "Guilty. But I do come with great cheekbones and tragic mystery."
"You forgot modesty," she said, smirking.
"Too mainstream," he replied.
By lunch, Scott had already been invited to join three clubs and two group chats. But he only sat near Penelope.
Julian walked past, tray in hand, and paused just long enough to catch Scott saying:
> "You know… if I'd gotten here sooner, maybe I'd have been the guy in that photo."Penelope didn't laugh.
But she didn't shut it down either.
Later that night, Julian texted her:
> Should I be worried?
She stared at the message. Then at her reflection in the dark window.
Because for the first time since this whole thing started…
She didn't know how to answer.
Want Chapter 31? Scott's not just charming—he's hiding something. And it might change everything.