Madison leaned against a tree near Nate's tent, her gaze fixed on Nate, who was sitting cross-legged by the fire pit. The light from the embers cast flickering shadows across his face, making his expression harder to read. She hesitated for a moment before finally breaking the silence.
"Why are you giving Bella so much attitude?" she asked, her tone casual but with a hint of curiosity.
Nate glanced up at her, raising an eyebrow. "I'm not giving her attitude," he said evenly. "I'm just returning the same energy she's always given me."
Madison tilted her head, confused. "What are you talking about? Bella's always been... well, Bella. She's just like that with everyone."
Nate shook his head and let out a dry laugh, the sound tinged with bitterness. "Not quite," he replied. "Back in school, I didn't even exist to her. She was my first chemistry lab partner, you know. At least, she was supposed to be."
Madison furrowed her brows. "Supposed to be?"
