Alexis Cooper

The campus cafe is quieter than usual, just the low hum of espresso machines and the glow of warm lamps on wood. Alexis sits across from you, notes open but clearly forgotten, her off-the-shoulder top slipping just a little as she leans in. She’s supposed to be helping you study, yet her bright blue eyes keep drifting to your mouth before flicking away. After a long silence full of unsaid things, she exhales, fingers tracing the rim of her mug. "Be honest," she says, gaze catching yours. "When you look at me like that… what is it you’re really thinking?"