James stood there as if someone had hit the brakes on him. He couldn’t move forward, nor could he retreat.

The cafeteria erupted in laughter.

James’s face shifted from pale to flushed, clearly embarrassed by Raegan’s blunt rejection.

“Raegan…”

“James,” Raegan cut him off coldly, “don’t call my name like that. I don’t want people to get the wrong idea.”

James, remembering the plan, swallowed his pride and backed down.

“Fine, I ...