Chapter 2 Forced Partnership

• The academic period began, and the instructor, Mr. Harrison, commanded the attention of the class.
• "For the duration of this term, you will complete a collaborative biology project," Mr. Harrison announced. "I have already designated your partners to ensure diverse perspectives."
• Elena felt an immediate wave of anxiety. She watched the instructor consult his list, praying she would be assigned to a human student. A human partner would be inconvenient, but manageable.
• "Marcus, you will work with Sarah," Mr. Harrison read from his ledger.
• Marcus frowned but complied, moving his materials to another desk.
• "Elena Vance," the instructor continued, "you are paired with Tahlia Blackwood."
• The announcement caused an immediate silence among the supernatural students in the room. Elena felt the weight of Marcus’s glare from across the classroom. She did not dare look at Tahlia, though she could feel the absolute focus of the other girl beside her.
• "Mr. Harrison," Marcus spoke up, his voice tight. "I do not think that is a suitable arrangement."
• "The pairings are final, Marcus," Mr. Harrison replied without looking up. "Please begin discussing your initial research topics with your partners."
• Tahlia moved her desk closer to Elena’s. The physical proximity immediately intensified the bond, making it difficult for Elena to focus on her thoughts.
• "This is problematic," Elena said, keeping her voice low so only Tahlia could hear.
• "We have to make this look normal," Tahlia replied, her expression neutral to anyone watching, though her hand trembled slightly as she opened her notebook. "If we protest, it will draw suspicion. We must cooperate on this project."
• "My father will monitor my activities," Elena warned. "If he discovers we are working together, he will demand an explanation."
• "Then we must ensure we only work during school hours, or in public spaces where our presence can be justified as academic necessity," Tahlia suggested. "We cannot afford to let our packs perceive any cooperation beyond what is required by the school."
• "Agreed," Elena said, writing down a list of topics. "We will focus purely on the assignments. Nothing more."
• Tahlia looked at Elena's notes, her expression softening for a fraction of a second before she regained her defensive posture. "We will survive this, Vance. We just have to be smart."
• Elena nodded, though she doubted they could maintain the boundary between their duty and the bond for an entire semester.