Page 111 of Even Ground
Judith starts talking about plans for next term, and I lose interest as she drones on. And of course because my eyes are firmly on the wall clock above her head, the hands move slower than a sloth.
“There’s one more thing I need to do before we finish for the term, and that’s to tell you who will have their works on display in my store.” She smiles, and I blink a few times, waking myself up to listen to her. “There are some outstanding designs this year, and I’m so proud of all of you.”
I hold my breath. I’m positive she won’t pick me—she never does, but a girl can hope.
“It’s been such a hard choice, but the designers on display will be—Caitlyn Ruddock, Aroha Potu, and …” She fixes her gaze on me. My heart leaps. “Samantha Crew.”
I blow out a long breath.
“I can’t believe she didn’t pick you. Again. You’re so much better than I am,” Sam says.
Swallowing down my disappointment, I turn to her. “Thank you. And congratulations. It’s so awesome for you.”
“Thanks.” She puffs. “I really wasn’t expecting it. And I don’t know about Caitlyn’s work being on display—there’s a good chance a seam will fall apart.”
I bite my knuckles to stop myself from laughing. “Stop it.”
“You know it’s true.” She runs her tongue across her upper lip. “I didn’t want to say anything because I’m sure you don’t want to be hassled, but …”
“You want to know about Reece.”
She nods, her eyes crinkling at the corners as if she’s reluctant to say the words.
“Hey. I think I’m early.”
Reece’s voice comes from the doorway. My heart speeds up as I raise my gaze to meet his.
Sam nudges my arm. “He’s here to see you, right?”
“What are you doing here?” I mouth.
His lips curl into a mischievous smile. “You said you’d be done about two.”
“It’s not two yet.”
I shift my gaze to Judith and clamp my lips together. From the wide-eyed expression on her face, you’d think it was the second coming of Christ in the door.
Reece knows the effect he has on women. I have no doubt about that. As I cast my gaze around the room, there’s plenty of similar expressions on my classmate’s faces, including Sam.
But his eyes are firmly on me.
“Mr Evans.” Judith shakes herself out of her stupor and smiles. “I’m Judith Brookes.”
“Please, call me Reece.” He crosses the room to shake her hand. “I apologise for interrupting.”
“Not at all.” Her tone’s so soft, and I press my lips together even tighter to stop myself from laughing. “We’re just about to finish for the term.”
He nods. “Pania told me.” She bristles, and he looks back at me. “I’ll wait outside.”
“No, please. We’ll be done in just a moment.” The most dazzling smile appears on her face, and I snort, then cover my nose in embarrassment.
“I’ll just grab a seat,” he drawls.
I’ve noticed his accent changes a little when he’s putting on the charm. It’s like it slows even more. He’s such a flirt.
Wait. He uses that on me all the time. Did I not notice him flirting with me at all? How did I miss that?
Awareness rockets through me as I look toward him and meet his gaze. He winks, and Sam nearly melts beside me.