Micah stayed in the cafeteria with Darcy for a while longer after their teasing conversation. The earlier tension around Darcy slowly faded as they talked. Micah deliberately kept the conversation light, asking about classes, complaining about professors, and making ridiculous jokes that made Darcy sigh more than once.
Still, the small corner of the cafeteria that had once been empty around Darcy gradually became less intimidating as time passed. A few students began sitting at nearby tables again, though they still avoided getting too close.
Eventually, after finishing the borrowed lunch and chatting about trivial things, Micah stood up. "I should head out," he said casually.
Darcy glanced up. "Already?"
Micah shrugged. "I came to campus mostly to escape boredom. Now that I've had my lunch and entertainment, it's time to go."
Darcy shook his head ."What peacock woman? You're freeloading off poor people and proud of it," he muttered, looking at the spotless tray.
