The noisy chatter filling the classroom died down the instant the door opened.
Zareth... no, Professor Thorne—walked in at his own unhurried pace, dressed in black trimmed with gold that shimmered faintly under the light. His presence alone was enough to command silence, yet he didn't so much as glance at Veronica, as though she didn't even exist.
Several eager students immediately stood up, swarming him with questions.
"Professor, did we do alright on the assignment?"
"Will this be on the exam?"
Their voices overlapped, chasing his attention like a pack of starved puppies.
Veronica stifled a yawn, resting her chin on her palm. So the so-called villain really wasn't interested in her anymore? The thought was strangely comforting. At least she wouldn't have to deal with being targeted for once. Maybe she could finally live like a background character—quiet, invisible, and blissfully free.