The lecture hall buzzed with murmurs as Mr. Thompson announced the next assignment: a group presentation on dyslipidemia. The class erupted in groans and whispers — everyone knew working with a partner meant either a potential blessing or a disaster.
Zara folded her arms tightly as the names were called out. When she heard "Zara Collins and Sky Blackwood," her stomach dropped.
She glanced around, trying to spot Sky in the room, but the seat next to her remained empty. Great. Just great.
Inside, she was seething.
Of all people, Sky? she thought. The guy who won't even talk to me, let alone collaborate.
She scribbled down her frustration on the side of her notebook — not my problem, not my fault, not my circus. But the reality was clear: if they didn't work together, both risked failing the course.
Throughout the lecture, Zara tried to catch Sky's attention, but he sat rigid and silent, his gaze fixed on the board or somewhere far beyond. No nods, no agreements, no spark of cooperation.
By the end of class, Zara was ready to explode.
---
After school, she dragged herself home, the weight of the day settling on her shoulders.
Her father, Mr. Collins, was in his study when she walked in, the faint scent of old leather and polished wood filling the room. He looked up from his papers and immediately noticed her clouded expression.
"Zara, what's wrong?" he asked, voice calm but concerned.
She sighed, sinking into a chair. "Dad, you won't believe this. We got paired for a group presentation — me and Sky."
He raised an eyebrow. "Sky Blackwood?"
She nodded, biting her lip. "Yes. The same guy who's been giving me the cold shoulder since forever. He won't even talk to me in class. I don't know how we're supposed to work together. If we don't get this right, we'll fail. I'm worried."
Her father nodded thoughtfully, folding his hands. "Sometimes, people don't give us what we want on a silver platter. You might have to meet him halfway. Have a one-on-one discussion—figure out his schedule, his strengths, and find common ground. It doesn't mean you have to like him, but cooperation is key."
Zara exhaled sharply, frustration flaring again. "That's easier said than done. He's so cold, so distant. What if he won't listen?"
Her father smiled gently. "Then you keep trying. Don't let your pride or anger sabotage your success. Sometimes, the toughest partnerships teach us the most."
---
That night, as Zara lay on her bed staring at the ceiling, her mind replayed the day's events.
That mean guy.
Will he even listen to me?
God, give me strength, because I'm losing it.
She rolled over, closing her eyes, bracing herself for the inevitable meeting.