Page 82 of The Drama King

"I know the pairing with Mr. Ashworth might seem complicated, given your history," Professor McGraw continued carefully. "But I have complete faith in your professionalism. Sometimes the most dynamic stage chemistry comes from actors who challenge each other."

Challenge each other. If only she knew.

"Thank you," I managed. "I won't disappoint you."

"I know you won't." She squeezed my shoulder briefly. "First read-through is Thursday at two. Don't let nerves get the better of you—you earned this role."

As she walked away, I looked back at the casting list. My name next to Dorian's, linked for the next two months in a way I couldn't escape without destroying everything I'd worked for.

Behind me, someone cleared their throat.

"Well, well. Looks like we're going to be spending a lot of time together."

I didn't need to turn around to know it was Dorian. His voice carried that predatory satisfaction that made my skin crawl,the tone of someone who'd just been handed exactly what they wanted.

"It's just a job," I said without turning around.

"Is it?" He moved closer, and I caught the edge of his sandalwood scent—something sharp and pleased that made my hindbrain scream warnings. "Because from where I'm standing, it looks like fate."

I finally faced him, keeping my expression carefully neutral despite the panic clawing at my chest. He looked exactly like what he was—a predator who'd cornered his prey and was savoring the moment.

"Professional collaboration," I said firmly. "Nothing more."

Dorian's smile was all teeth. "Of course. Though I have to say, I'm looking forward to exploring the intimate dynamics of Beatrice and Benedick. Wells is known for pushing his actors to find authentic emotional truth."

The threat was barely veiled. He knew I couldn't refuse, couldn't run, couldn't do anything but smile and pretend this was a wonderful opportunity while he had eight weeks to systematically destroy what little protection I had left.

"I'm sure it will be educational," I said, proud that my voice stayed steady.

"Oh, it will be." His ice-blue eyes glittered with something that made my stomach turn. "See you Thursday, Beatrice."

He walked away whistling, and I stood there in the empty hallway, staring at our names on that damned list and trying not to hyperventilate.

When I got back to the dorm, Stephanie was pacing the small space between our desks, phone pressed to her ear. Her voice carried the careful politeness that meant she was talking to her parents.

"Yes, Mom, I understand your concerns... No, I haven't been spending time with anyone questionable... Yes, I'm focusing on my studies..."

She caught sight of me and held up one finger, her expression apologetic. I dropped onto my bed, only half-listening to the conversation but catching the underlying tension. Something about appropriate social circles and being careful about associations.

When she finally hung up, her shoulders slumped with relief.

"Parents?" I asked.

"They've been concerned lately. About my friendship choices." She sat on her bed, looking exhausted. "Ever since Robbie disappeared, they've been dropping hints about making sure I don't get caught up in anything that could affect my reputation."

A chill ran down my spine. "What kind of hints?"

"The usual parental stuff. Making sure I associate with the right people, not letting loyalty cloud my judgment." She looked at me carefully. "They're worried I'm going to defend him if rumors start spreading."

"What kind of rumors?"

Stephanie was quiet for a moment, clearly debating how much to tell me. "People are saying he was dealing drugs. That's why he disappeared so suddenly, why there was no official explanation."

The words hit like a punch to the gut, not because they were surprising, but because they were probably true. And if people were connecting Stephanie to Robbie's pharmaceutical activities, how long before they started looking at me?

"Are you?" I asked quietly. "Going to defend him?"

"I don't know," she admitted. "Part of me wants to, because he was my friend. But if the rumors are true..." She shrugged helplessly. "I have to think about my own future too."