54. A spark of recognition.

54:

Isla’s POV

As I arrived at school, I immediately thought about how to confront Silvan.

This was going to be awkward; I sighed as I contemplated how to handle the tension between Silvan and me that has become so evident in recent days.

Well, when the guy you thought has a sister who hates you and even goes to the extent of kidnapping you, things just don't go back to normal between you guys, do they?

I hesitated before stepping out of the car, opting to wait until the school bell rang, granting me a moment of respite from the eventual awkwardness that clouded our interaction.

When I finally made my way to class, the timing was uncanny; I entered just as the teacher did, his eyes lighting up with a spark of recognition as I crossed the threshold.

I quickly averted my gaze, his attention feeling like a spotlight on my every move. Quickly, I made my way to my seat beside Silvan, and I noticed how his face lit up when he saw me.

Surely, he wasn't part of his sister's plan, right? I had