The mood changes

The two of you sit in silence for a few moments, sipping coffee and not looking at each other. Something in the atmosphere of the meeting has changed, but you're not sure how or why. Rachel seems suddenly anxious and withdrawn, and you assume that she's embarrassed about revealing so much of her past on first meeting.

Unsure of how to reassure her, you finish your coffee and look at her.

"I should really be heading back. I've got a few things I need to take care of."

"Of course," she says with a neutral expression that slowly becomes a smile. "And we wouldn't want to miss dinner. Luisa would be very disappointed.

You drive back to school in silence, Rachel still seeming preoccupied. When you park she gets out quickly, muttering thanks and striding away before you can reply. Shrugging, you get out of the car and lock it, suddenly freezing at the sound of a timid voice behind you.

"Mr. Carter? Please sir? Can we talk?"