The next day, Amanda saved Victoria a seat at lunch, hoping to build on their slight connection. However Victoria arrived late, and their conversation felt forced. Amanda tried to engage Victoria with lighthearted topics, but Victoria`s responses remained brief. As they ate, their classmates joined, asking Victoria questions about her past.
Victoria`s defensiveness grew, and she shot Amanda a piercing glance.
"Can we talk about something else?"
Amanda`s friendly demeanor faltered, but she quickly recovered.
"Hey, no worries! Let`s focus on the school play auditions instead."
Victoria`s expression softened slightly, and she nodded.
"Okay."
As they discussed the play, Amanda noticed Victoria`s passion for drama. Maybe, just maybe, they had common ground.
But just as things seemed to improve, a group of students teased Victoria about her "standoffish" nature. Amanda intervened defending Victoria.
"Hey guys, let`s not be too hard on her. We all have our reasons for being reserved."
Victoria`s gaze met Amanda`s, and for a moment, Amanda saw a flicker of gratitude. But Victoria`s mask slipped back into place, leaving Amanda wondering what lay beneath...