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Branden’s expression remained unfazed, despite Catherine’s cold rejection. His eyes, still locked on her, exuded a mix of amusement and persistence. “Busy?” he repeated, his tone casual but with an underlying certainty. “I’m sure we can find some time for a meal, even for someone as busy as you.”
Catherine raised an eyebrow at his words, her gaze flickering momentarily to the sleek Maybach behind him. She knew exactly who he was, and she knew his type — persuasive, determined, and used to getting what he wanted. But that didn’t mean she would easily yield to his charm.
“I don’t need you to waste your time on me,” Catherine replied, her voice cool, almost dismissive.
Branden chuckled softly, taking another step closer, though still respecting her space. “I don’t consider it a waste of time, Miss Swann. You may be busy, but I’m quite certain we can make time for a proper dinner. It’ll be a good opportunity for us to… discuss some things.”
Catherine’s gaze hardened slightly, but she didn’t retreat. She wasn’t intimidated by Branden’s composed demeanor, nor his fame or wealth. But there was something about him that intrigued her — something she couldn’t fully place, yet it tugged at her curiosity.
“I’m not interested in discussing anything with you,” she said, her tone final. She turned slightly, preparing to walk away, but then glanced back at him over her shoulder, her expression still unreadable. “You’re wasting your time.”
Branden’s smile didn’t falter. “You’ll change your mind,” he said, as if the idea were inevitable.
Catherine didn’t answer, instead walking past him toward her motorcycle, her movements smooth and purposeful. She felt the weight of his gaze on her back but refused to acknowledge it.
Bryan, who had been watching from a distance, saw the entire exchange unfold. He had caught up with Catherine earlier, but had remained silent as he observed the interaction between her and Branden. As Catherine walked away, Bryan couldn’t help but feel a mix of jealousy and confusion. What was it about Branden Duncan that made Catherine so indifferent?
“Catherine, wait up!” Bryan called out, rushing to catch up with her.
Catherine didn’t look back, but her pace slowed slightly as she heard his voice. Bryan was close now, a little out of breath, but still determined.
“I thought you might want some company after the day you’ve had,” Bryan said, trying to break the tension. “I can at least walk you home, if you want.”
Catherine stopped in her tracks for a moment, considering his offer. She wasn’t particularly fond of having someone accompany her, but Bryan had been kind to her since the start, even if his intentions were a bit… misguided. She didn’t particularly mind him, unlike the rest of the class who seemed to be caught up in their own judgments.
“I’m fine,” Catherine replied, her tone softer than before. “Thanks, but I’ll be okay on my own.”
Bryan hesitated, but ultimately nodded. He couldn’t help but feel a little disappointed, but he understood. “Alright, then. Take care, Catherine,” he said, offering a small smile.
Catherine didn’t respond directly, but she did glance at him for a brief moment before turning her attention back to the road ahead. She mounted her motorcycle and revved the engine, the sound sharp and commanding. With one last glance at Bryan, she sped off, leaving him standing there, still processing everything that had just happened.
Branden, still leaning casually against his car, watched the scene unfold with a knowing smile. It was clear Catherine had her own way of doing things. But something about her — the way she carried herself, the quiet confidence that radiated from her — made him even more determined. She might think she could ignore him now, but Branden knew better.
He was patient. He’d wait for the right moment.