The morning light spilled over the courtyards of Veyl Academy, soft and golden, making the banners ripple gently in the breeze. Students were already gathering at the mess hall, trays clattering, voices filling the space with laughter.
Khael walked alongside Ceyla, trying to look calm even though his throat felt tight.
"Why are we here?" Ceyla asked, crossing her arms. Her tone was sharp, but there was no real bite to it.
Khael smiled faintly. "Let's eat as Team 9. It seems like Juno can't accompany us since he's busy with his siblings at home." He chuckled softly, rubbing the back of his neck.
Ceyla scoffed, turning her head away. "Hmmm."
But her thoughts betrayed her composure.
(Me and Khael only? Is this… a date? No, no, no… idiot, stop thinking that! Khael is just like that… he's kind. This idiot…!)
A blush crept across her cheeks as she shook her head quickly, trying to rid herself of the idea.
