After classes, Ivy and Ame stepped outside together. But on their way out, they ran into Joe. Ivy tried to pass him, but he stopped her.

“Joe, who’s this guy?” Ame asked, narrowing her eyes.

“I need to talk to Ivy,” Joe said calmly. “Could you give us a moment?”

Ame glanced at Ivy for approval. Ivy blinked, giving her the signal to step aside.

As Ame backed away, Joe stepped closer and lowered his voice. “Ivy,” he said.

She stayed silent.

“I’m sorry,” he said at ...