Sorry My Step-Uncle, I'm Not Your Backup Plan novel Chapter 8

Gabriella's POV

I was just leaving the lab when Ryder Gomez, my labortory classmate, blocked my path.

"Come on, Gabriella, why are you so cold? Just give me one chance!"

Other students gathered around, eager for drama.

I sighed, facing my persistent admirer. "Look, Ryder, like I've told you a hundred times - I'm focused on my PhD right now. Dating isn't on my radar."

He'd been trying for months, refusing to take no for an answer.

Ryder stepped closer, insisting I come to some party he was organizing.

Before I could shut him down for the hundredth time, a tall figure stepped between us.

"She said no. What part of that isn't getting through?"

I knew that voice. I knew that stance. Kayden.

Even in a parallel life, I'd recognize him anywhere.

Things escalated fast. The guys started shoving each other, and I jumped in to break it up. The last thing I needed was campus police getting involved.

"Stop it!" I yelled at Kayden, pulling him back. "What is wrong with you? Did you not get my message?"