"You're the one who transferred in this week, right? The one with the..." She made a vague gesture toward the cafeteria entrance. "The entourage. We saw you this morning."
Qing Qing tightened her grip on the tray.
"Yes."
"Must be nice," another girl remarked, her tone carrying an unmistakable edge. "Having people walk you to class. Must be nice not having to figure things out on your own."
Minghao had already pushed back her chair and was preparing to stand, her expression sharpening with displeasure. However, before she could intervene, Qing Qing answered.
"It was my first day," she said quietly. "I didn't ask them to come. They came because they wanted to make sure I was okay. I don't think that's something to be ashamed of."
The first girl blinked, apparently surprised by the calm response.
"I didn't say—"
