I'm Not in Love

“Accidents happen, young man.” There’s a dangerous gleam in Professor Santini’s eye. “I certainly hope more painful accidents don’t happen to you… at night, when you’ve finished modeling for Jillian Stitt’s sculpture class and are crossing campus in the dark.”

“That sounds like a threat.” I’m not sure where Remi came from, but he has materialized before us and is positioned in Professor Santini’s personal space. “The administration would be disappointed to learn that their life drawing professor verbally threatens and physically harms classroom models.”

“Ah, your knight in shining armor has arrived, lovely Tristan.” Professor Santini scowls. “For your sake, I hope he’s nearby next time you unintentionally trip and fall on your ass.” He turns from us and strides away.

Remi leans down and grabs my forearm. “Let me help you up.”

“I’m fine, really.” I bat his hand away and dust the pebbles from my butt as I rise.

“You shouldn’t walk alone at night.” His combative tone suggests that this is more of a demand than a suggestion.

“He wasn’t alone,” Dacia says. “He was with me.”

“Hell of a lot of good that did him,” Remi mutters. “Tristan, I’ll walk you to the bus tonight and after class on Wednesday night.”

“I can get home in one piece, Remi. But thank you for the offer.”

“Suit yourself.” His tone is aloof, but he shadows me all the way to the bus station.