The rain started halfway through the afternoon, turning the campus paths into rivers. Most students were content to wait it out in the library, Ethan included. He'd set up at a corner table with Claire, quietly finishing up group notes.
Claire nudged him. "You keep staring at the door. Expecting someone?"
He rolled his eyes, but before he could answer, the doors swung open and Isabella Wynn stepped in, a few droplets clinging to her blazer. She moved with her usual calm, scanning the room for an empty spot.
Ethan's heart thumped. Claire grinned, sensing his nerves.
Isabella set her bag down a few tables away, pulled out her phone, and made a call—her tone quiet, clipped."…It's still raining. I'll wait here."She checked her battery and frowned.
Evelyn, nearby grading papers, looked up at the commotion but said nothing.
A few minutes passed. Claire murmured, "If you're going to say something, now's your chance."
Ethan hesitated, then stood, holding out his battered umbrella. He crossed the quiet space, feeling every step.
"Uh… need an umbrella for later?" he asked, voice low.
Isabella's eyes flicked up. For a moment, her mask slipped—she looked genuinely surprised.
"That's not necessary," she said, polite but distant. "I'll manage."
Ethan glanced outside. "Forecast says it's getting worse. Seriously, take it. It's not much, but it works."
Isabella eyed the umbrella, then—reluctantly—took it from his hand. Her fingers brushed his for a second; Ethan's breath caught.
She held the umbrella like it was a foreign object."I'll return it tomorrow," she said, voice softer.
Their eyes met. Something unspoken passed between them—an awkward, almost cheesy charge.
"Thanks," she added, the word barely audible.
Ethan nodded, speechless.
Isabella turned and left the library, pausing just before the door to glance back at him. A single, silent nod—then she was gone, swallowed by the rain.
Claire snickered when Ethan returned. "Look at you. Smooth, Mr. Cole."
Evelyn watched from the desk, an unreadable look in her eyes. "Surprising," she muttered under her breath.
Ethan sat down, pulse racing. For the first time, the Ice Queen hadn't seemed so untouchable.
A system message flickered:
[Social Event: Showed Kindness to SSS-Rank Heroine in Public!]
[Skill Draw Available. Choose one:]
[Skill 1] Polite Demeanor (Common)
You come across as more polite and considerate in all interactions.
[Skill 2] Timing Sense (Common)
You develop a natural feel for the right moment to act or speak in social situations.
[Skill 3] Subtle Flirt (Common)
Your compliments and gestures are charming, never awkward or overbearing.
Ethan considered. For now, he chose [Skill 2] Timing Sense—after today, he figured it couldn't hurt.
[Skill Acquired: Timing Sense (Common) — You develop a natural feel for the right moment to act or speak in social situations.]
He pocketed the warm sense of progress and tried not to stare at the door, wondering if Isabella would remember.