"See, this is what happens when for the first time I decide to get a snack before coming here. I find my spot taken by a pretty girl."
Vin stands up so fast, her seat topples to the ground, a loud crash echoing in the empty library.
Stupid, stupid, stupid. One of Reen's lessons was to always keep your guard up. But I'm in school, I'm supposed to be safe.
Vin feels herself start to panic. Her palms are sweaty and her heart is racing. She starts to reach for her knife but then she remembers she's in school now, she didn't need to carry it.
"Hey! Whoa! I'm sorry for scaring you," the voice says, startled.
Vin turns. It's a boy. She's seen him before. He's in her year but taking some advanced classes.
His arms are outstretched in front of him. His face is horrified and concerned.
"Hey, it's okay. I'm sorry for sneaking up on you."
Vin feels her face flush in shame.
She takes deep breaths, inhaling through her nose and exhaling through her mouth. A few more deep breaths and her heart has calmed enough for her to speak.
"I'm sorry," she whispers.
His hands come down and he grips his bag tightly.
"N-No. I'm sorry."
He watches her with worried eyes. She looks away and wraps her arms around herself.
"Are you okay?" he whispers.
It's a miracle they haven't been kicked out with the amount of noise they've made.
She nods.
"I can leave." She doesn't wait for his response, just starts packing away her math assignment.
"No!" he exclaims and Vin flinches.
He cringes. "I'm sorry. I mean. We can share. No problem. I don't mind the company."
Vin isn't sure. She's managed to keep to herself since the year started but it's a good table- away from prying eyes.
The boy moves towards her and she takes an unconscious step back. He raises his arms.
"I'm just picking up the chair."
He does as he says and holds it for her to take a seat.
She does.
He moves and sits across from her, taking out his books, notebooks and pens.
He notices her watching and smiles, "I'm Elend."
He doesn't hold out his hand and Vin is relieved. She doesn't like being touched.
"I'm Vin."
"I know," he blushes, "I mean. I know who you are. We have chemistry together." His eyes widen. "The class! I meant the class!"
Vin frowns, confused. "What else could you mean?"
Elend flushes brighter and looks down at his books.
"Right."
The study in silence before Vin has to leave for her next class.
She hesitates. "Goodbye."
Elend looks up and he smiles widely at her. His smile is so big and friendly she can't help but smile back.
"Goodbye Vin."