Chapter 1661

With a sudden, forceful yank, the girl threw the boy forward, sending him crashing into Finn and the others as they charged ahead. The group collapsed in a tangled heap, groaning in pain. "If any of you even think about bullying him again," she said coldly, "you'll have to go through me first." Terrified, the boys scrambled to their feet, scattering in all directions. Once they were out of sight, the girl's expression softened. She turned toward Lincoln, her face quickly slipping back into the shy, hesitant demeanor from before. She lowered her head, pressing her lips together, too nervous to speak. After a moment of awkward silence, Lincoln broke the stillness. "Are you… from the track team?" The girl looked up at him, clearly startled by the question. She shook her head, her expression still guarded. "Why not give it a shot?" Lincoln said flatly. "You've got the talent, and your physical condition is ideal for it. He added, "Track could open up great opportunities for you.