Third person's POV
The bustling cafeteria was filled with the clatter of utensils and the low hum of conversation when Andrew's eyes locked with Jade's.
The moment stretched, taut with tension, until Jade's face visibly paled. Her eyes widened, pupils dilating with fear, and her breath quickened. In a flash, she was gone, and the swinging door of the cafeteria was her only trace.
"Jade, please wait..." Andrew mumbled, his chair scraping against the hard floor as he made to stand. The scent of fear lingered in the air, sharp and acrid, triggering his protective instincts.
"Don't go after her," Lydia mouthed, her disapproval evident in the firm set of her jaw and the slight shake of her head. The fluorescent lights overhead cast shadows across her face, emphasizing the concern in her eyes.
