Author's NoteThank you so much for reading š In this chapter, Ryu's small gesturesāchocolates, laughter, and her bond with Rey's siblingsāreveal the warmth she brings into everyone's lives. The tension between Rey and Ryu deepens subtly, showing how even the smallest actions can stir unexpected feelings. Your support, comments, and votes ā inspire me to continue exploring these delicate, heartfelt moments.
BlurbChocolates, laughter, and unexpected bonds ā a simple act can speak louder than words. Ryu's warmth lights up her classmates, while Rey silently wrestles with emotions he doesn't understand. And just when everything feels familiar, a new nameāIvyāenters the story, hinting at secrets and past connections that may change everything.
The classroom buzzed with morning chatter when Ryu stepped in, holding a bright paper bag in her hands. Maya was already there, leaning against a desk, deep in conversation with Kabir and Avi.
"Good morning!" Ryu grinned.
Maya turned and raised a brow. "You look suspiciously happy."
"I brought chocolates for all of you!" Ryu declared with a cheeky smile.
Gasps filled the room. "Oyeee what's the occasion?" Avi asked, half-rising from his chair.
"Nothing," Ryu shrugged. "Felt like giving. Hurry up or they'll finish!"
In an instant, the class turned into a chocolate-hungry parade. Everyone lined up, laughing, teasing, some even dancing a little as Ryu handed out chocolates with mock seriousness.
Then came Rey.
He stepped out of the line, arms crossed. "And for me?" His voice was casual, almost smug.
Ryu tilted her head. "Oh... I thought devils don't like chocolates."
The class roared with laughter. "Looks like Rey isn't special for Ryu after all!" someone shouted.
Rey's jaw tightened. "Stop it," he snapped, glaringābut his ears were a faint pink.
As everyone settled, Ryu quietly walked over to him and droppedĀ threeĀ chocolates into his palm.
Rey looked at them, then at her. "Why now?"
Ryu rolled her eyes. "Shut up and take it."
He smirked. "Yes, Miss Sensitive."
Ryu turned on her heel, flustered. "Stop calling me that!" she whispered, already walking away to sit beside Ravi.
Rey followed and sat right next to her.
Ryu's POV:
Why is he sitting here? He has hundreds of places to go. Why next to me?
Stop it, Ryu. It's just a chair. Just a chocolate. Just a smirk. Then why does my heart feel like it skipped a beat?
Rey's POV:
She actually brought chocolates for everyone... but gave me three. Was it guilt? Teasing? Or something else? Why did I follow her here... why do I feel this weird peace sitting beside her?
Lunch Break ā Playground
Ryu and Maya found a quiet corner near the trees. The sun warmed their backs as they sipped juice packs.
Suddenly, two small voices yelled, "Didi!"
Anika and Aarav ran up to her. Ryu bent down, pulled out chocolates from her pocket. "This is for you, my little angels."
They hugged her tight. "Thank you Didi!" and ran away, giggling.
Rey stood a little distance away, silently watching.
Rey's POV:
They love her like they've known her forever. She fits into my world too easily... too warmly. She's like sunlight in this cold house I've always lived in.
Maya nudged Ryu. "I can't believe the devil has such adorable siblings."
"I know, right?" Ryu laughed. "And I've developed such a sweet bond with them. They make me so happyāunlike their brother."
"Unlike?" Maya smirked. "You sure? Because someone gave him three chocolates."
Ryu blinked, caught off guard.
Ryu's POV:
Maya, don't do this. Why are you smiling like that? Why is my heart racing again? It was just chocolates. Just teasing. Then why does his face flash in my mind? Why do his siblings' hugs make me wish they were mine too?
Maya looked toward the far end of the ground. "That's Arjun, right? With... Ivy?"
Ryu followed her gaze. A girl was walking beside Arjun, laughing at something he said.
"That's Ivy," Maya confirmed. "They've been getting close lately. Did you know... she was once in Section C? Before you came."
Ryu blinked again, her chest tightening. "What? I... I didn't know."