The fluorescent lights of Rowan's dorm room buzzed overhead as I shifted uncomfortably in the desk chair. We'd been working on our project for over an hour, and something felt... off. My head was starting to pound, and concentrating on the notes in front of me was becoming increasingly difficult.
"You look tired," Rowan said, his voice sounding strangely distant despite him sitting right across from me. "Want some coffee? I just made a fresh pot."
I rubbed my temples, trying to focus. "Actually, that would be great. Thanks."
He smiled—a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes—and poured me a steaming mug. The coffee smelled different, slightly bitter with an odd aftertaste when I sipped it.
"Is there something in this?" I asked, frowning at the mug.
"Just my special blend," Rowan shrugged casually. "It has cinnamon and a few other spices. Don't you like it?"
I took another hesitant sip. "It tastes... strange."