Jessica's POV
As we settled in, the barista approached, her eyes wide with excitement. "Max! Welcome! Your usual?"
Max nodded, his gaze never leaving mine. "Ask the ladies what they want."
The barista's smile faltered for a moment before she turned to us, her tone slightly strained. "Miss, what would you like?"
"I want a caramel latte, please," I replied.
Annabelle ordered a cappuccino, her eyes never leaving Max's face.
The barista nodded hastily and retreated to prepare our drinks.
Max leaned back in his chair, his eyes still fixed on me. "So, tell me. What do you think of the campus so far?"
His sudden change in demeanor caught me off guard. From intense to casual, Max's mood swings left me wondering what was genuine.
"I love it," I said, trying to sound casual. "But everyone seems... nervous around you."
Max's smile was enigmatic. "Do they?"
