After the bell rang, marking the end of the basketball challenge, the various groups slowly began to disperse, each heading to different parts of the school. The tension that had filled the game quickly faded, and the atmosphere in the cafeteria was much more relaxed. I knew this lunch break would be more than just a time to eat. It was an opportunity to build connections—and to gather crucial information. Every moment counted, and I intended to seize every opportunity that came my way.
I sat down at the table where Saya, Isabella, Mia, and Nikolas were already chatting. The others were deep in conversation, exchanging jokes as if the basketball match had been nothing more than a minor obstacle, something far less important than their usual concerns. Isabella was engaged in a lively conversation with Mia, while Saya and Nikolas seemed more reserved, simply observing. I stayed silent, but listened carefully to every word, every movement. Nothing escaped my notice. Every detail could be useful.
Saya was the first to speak, her gaze fixed intently on Isabella.
— "So, how have your studies been going, Isabella? You seem to have had a pretty busy month, right?"
Isabella smiled slightly, a smile that betrayed a hint of exhaustion.
— "Yeah, I won't lie. It's been quite intense. I had to focus not only on our classes but also on my tasks as a legal assistant. Scheduling appointments, handling legal documents, and now even managing the office calendar."
Saya nodded, an understanding look on her face.
— "Working in public service isn't easy."
Isabella smiled again, but this time, there was a slight hardness in her gaze—a sign of being locked into the demanding world of work.
— "But I'm not complaining. This is where I see myself in the future. It's all helping me build experience, even if it comes with a lot of sacrifices."
I listened silently, appreciating their exchange. I hadn't expected them to get along so well. Cutting into their conversation, I spoke up.
— "Wow, that's interesting. I didn't expect you two to be that close. But if your boss is giving you more responsibilities, it shows he trusts you, right?"
They both looked at me, smiling. Saya answered proudly:
— "Isabella and I have known each other since we were nine. Our fathers belong to the same golf club."
I couldn't help but react, slightly surprised.
— "Oh really? That sounds interesting. Maybe I should learn a bit more about Isabella's father."
Saya continued, her tone shifting slightly, becoming more intense.
— "We're kind of rivals, actually."
She flashed a proud smile, and I could see that this statement lit up Isabella's eyes—she seemed quite pleased with the dynamic. There was something about their relationship—a blend of admiration and competition—a complex but fascinating bond.
I couldn't help but wonder what that meant for their future. If they were rivals, what role would Isabella play in this delicate balance? I was curious, but I had other priorities for now.
— "It must not be easy for your boyfriend, Isabella, seeing you in this kind of rivalry, huh?"
The moment I finished my sentence, Isabella froze, blushing instantly. She stood up abruptly, visibly embarrassed, and everyone at the table turned toward her, intrigued.
— "What?!" she exclaimed, almost in shock.
I immediately realized she hadn't expected that at all. Aware that all eyes were on her, she sat back down, her face crimson.
— "Don't say stuff like that out of nowhere, Jessy! It's embarrassing!"
I smiled inwardly, amused by her reaction.
— "Hmmp, don't you have a boyfriend, Isabella? I thought you did."
She scratched her head, avoiding my gaze—an obvious sign of discomfort. Maybe she had taken my question as a compliment or at least as an attempt to deepen the conversation, but her shyness gave her away.
— "B-between work and everything else, it's not easy to have a love life on the side."
Her answer, although timid, revealed a more vulnerable side of her—a rare moment, one she wouldn't normally display unless she truly felt cornered.
Mia, who seemed to be enjoying the situation, jumped into the conversation with a mischievous smile.
— "Even at the law firm? No handsome guy you like?"
Isabella shrugged, clearly ready to dodge the topic.
— "I don't mix work and personal life."
She then met my gaze, as if wondering whether I believed her. She wasn't naive; she probably sensed that this was part of some underlying game. And maybe, she wasn't entirely opposed to playing along—in her own way.
Then, almost timidly, she asked:
— "Jessy, do you have someone?"
I chuckled internally. I hadn't expected her to turn the tables on me. But I wasn't about to get too personal either. I kept a neutral, almost detached expression and replied calmly:
— "No, I'm not seeing anyone."
Mia, ever the straightforward one, scooted closer to me and grabbed my left arm.
— "Me neither, I'm single."
Isabella, a bit surprised, responded casually:
— "Oh, so it's over between you and Jason?"
Mia shrugged with a sly smile.
— "Nothing ever really happened between us. It's probably for the best."
Then Mia turned her attention back to me, flashing a teasing smile.
— "So, Jessy, what's your type of girl?"
I smiled at the question, thinking for a moment. I knew this wasn't just idle curiosity—it was a way for Mia to test my reactions, to see how far she could push. Isabella, too, seemed ready to listen carefully.
— "Hmmp, I don't have a particular type. For me, personality is what matters most."
They both watched me closely, and I knew they wouldn't be satisfied with just that answer. But for now, that was all I was willing to give them.
Saya, who had been quietly observing the conversation, then turned toward me.
— "Jessy, do you feel good here at Onkawa? I think you're adapting quite well."
I nodded slightly, appreciating that she took a moment to address me directly.
— "Yeah, everything's fine. There's still a lot to learn, but I'm taking my time."
She seemed satisfied with my answer, a faint smile appearing on her lips, as if she saw potential in me—someone capable of growing in this environment.
I took a bite of my meal, silently observing the others. The meat-stuffed crêpe I was eating was exquisite. It was my third one today, and I couldn't help but savor each bite. But even as I enjoyed the meal, I kept in mind that in this school, every interaction, every detail mattered.
Suddenly, the bell rang again, signaling the end of lunch break. Time to return to reality. But I knew this lighthearted pause had planted seeds.The real game was just beginning.