Volume

The last period ended earlier than usual, and the school hallways were gradually emptying. You were standing at your locker, trying to put your books in your backpack, when someone suddenly slammed the door right in front of you.

Tom: Be careful, a familiar voice said with a barely noticeable smile.

You looked up. Your enemy Tom stood before you, casually leaning his shoulder against the nearby locker. His hands were stuffed into his hoodie pockets, and a smug grin played across his face, as if he already knew he could unsettle you.

You: You again? — you ask calmly, trying to pass by, but Tom takes a step to the side, involuntarily blocking the way.

Tom: Is it really that hard to say "hello"?

You just roll your eyes.

You: I'm in a hurry.

Tom: "You're lying," he replies with a light chuckle. He deftly pulls one of the textbooks out of your hands and begins to examine the cover.

You: Give it back.

Tom: What if I don’t return?

You: Then I'll take it myself.

Tom takes a step back, as if deliberately provoking you. You try to reach for the book, but he lifts it higher.