explosive

CHARLOTTE

Running my tongue over my dry lips, I stretched my hand to get the glass of water for my parched throat, gulping the liquid, while keeping my eyes on the book in front of me. I dropped the glass, my eyes moving to the last line on the page before I flipped it open.

"Char, look at my nails!" Madeline chirped from the bed, and I turned to glance at the work she had done on her toes.

Today we didn't have classes, but I chose to use my time studying while Madeline opted to get a DIY manicure.

“Pretty,” I drawled, observing her handiwork.

Her nails were painted purple, with a touch of dark and sparkly glitter. Madeline wiggled her toes, “If you like, I can do yours?"

I let out a laugh, turning the chair to face my books. "Maybe later."

From the corner of my eyes, I saw her shrug, before going back to admire her nails. She hummed into the silence, admiring her artwork, while I spun a pen between my fingertips, contemplating dropping math.

"Madeline Soloh!" A hearty male voice boom