Page 74 of When Darkness Calls

I nod.

“Any genres or topics catching your eye?”

I chew on the inside of my lips. “Uh, yes, sir. I particularly enjoy the study of horror— “

“Ah, yes. Perfect. I also find the multiple facets of horror extremely fascinating. There is much to be discussed in terms of social frameworks.” Professor Logan leans forward, stacking his hands on top of his desk, a twinkle in his eye.

“I’m looking forward to seeing you grow, Miss Beckett. You’ll do wonderfully in this career.”

A weight lifts from my shoulders, and I sigh in relief. “Thank you, sir. That means a lot coming from you.”

“No thanks, needed, dear. Now, about this project?”

And my good mood instantly shatters. I cringe, rubbing my arms. “Well, sir, I haven’t gotten very far—”

“No worries. No worries at all. Have you decided on a topic?” He pulls out a legal pad and a pen and begins to make small notes on the paper.

“I’ve started on multiple themes, but I can’t seem to keep inspiration for the ideas.”

I’ve tried my idea of before and after, my dad’s on Blackwoods and my roots, I even considered the concept of potential, but after two or three photos, my muse is shot.

“Hmm, I see. Mr. Cochrane confided in me that you had been meeting together sparingly and have discussed the class. Are you two still meeting?” He lifts his head from the paper to me with my confused expression.

“I’m sorry?”

“Ethan mentioned you two have briefly talked about the portfolio, is this why? Your issues with the theme?”

“I think there may be a misunderstanding, Professor Logan. Our meetings have been completely coincidental.”

He waves a hand as if to dismiss me. “Either way, are you still meeting him for additional help?”

I shake my head absently. “No, sir. I suppose not? Not in this context.”

Professor Logan nods, writing something down. “Perhaps you should consider it.”

“No.” I blurt. Embarrassment of my outburst fell over me. “I mean, no, thank you, sir, but that—I don’t think that will be necessary.”

He sits back, a stern look of concern etched on his face. He clears his throat, casting a curt nod. “Alright. If you don’t want to work with Ethan on this, then you should consider speaking to Grayson. You see him often from what I can assume. He could be a great asset.”

I muttered my agreement, sitting back in the chair.

“Don’t worry so much about your progress, Miss Beckett. Inspiration is a wild and unyielding mistress. And I for one am extremely excited to see what you do with it.”

twenty-three

Dani

Ethan texted me yesterday asking if I’d like to go out tonight. When I said yes, I thought maybe we’d go to the really nice Italian restaurant in Blackwoods. Or maybe the arcade or theater in Pinehaven. I wasn’t expecting him to follow up with saying we’d be going to Bruiser’s warehouse for the fights.

In hindsight, that was red flag number one. But…

I agreed.

Okay, I know, I know.

“But Dani, that's a horrible idea!”

Yes. Again…I don’t make great decisions. Clearly.