Don't Be In Love

by Liana Cincotti

“Is this the student you’re helping?” Beatrice asked. Everyone seemed to move forward in their seats. I pinched the bridge of my nose. ​His brow arched in curiosity. Talking about me, huh? I rolled my eyes. “Yes. This is Dorian.” “You didn’t mention he was handsome,” Cora whispered conspicuously. He bit his lip, catching a laugh before it could escape. “Are you two dating?” Lottie dug for more information. “No!” I interjected. “Leave the poor things alone,” Dotty attempted to quiet them down. “Why aren’t you two dating?” Evelyn asked, knotting the end of the thread. “Because we’re not interested in each other like that,” I blurted out. He bit the inside of his cheek, crossing his arms. Oh really? ​“That can’t be possible,” Evelyn shook the idea away. “Isn’t she pretty?” she asked Dorian. ​“She is very pretty.” He nodded. His eyes met mine. It was so earnest that it was painful to absorb. Brown orbs swirling with a palette of golden watercolors that threatened to pull me in. ​“And isn’t she smart?” ​“Incredibly smart.” He nodded. I couldn’t read his face. It was quiet but full of thought. A closed book full of wisdom written in foreign languages, disguised with a simple cover. Only, his face was never simple. ​“Well, why don’t you ask her out!” Evelyn argued. ​I lost hold of his gaze. He turned to Evelyn. “I have. Unfortunately, she’s uninterested in me.” Oh.