The class started, and everyone was sitting in their seats, introducing themselves one by one.
"Hey, I'm Lilly. I'm 20, and my hobby is singing."
After a few students, it was Ella's turn. She was quite nervous since it was her first time speaking in front of so many people.
"Hello… my name is Ella, and I'm from the neighboring city. My hobbies are reading and photography. I'm 19 years old," Ella said, gathering all the confidence she had.
Everyone in the class looked at her—some with admiration, others with jealousy.
"Hey everyone, I'm Anna, also 19. I like to sing and dance. Hope to get along with you all," Anna said in a charismatic voice, loud and full of confidence.
After a few more students, a deep voice echoed through the classroom.
"Hello everyone. I'm Elliot, 20 years old, from this city. I love to write, read, and play sports. I hope to get along with you all," Elliot spoke with effortless confidence, his charisma making it all seem so easy.
"Now, if everyone is done introducing themselves, shall we start with something basic?" Miss Nora, the homeroom teacher, said.
She began explaining the basics of the course in her calm, sweet voice.
Ella turned her head slightly, feeling someone's gaze from behind. When her eyes met a pair of deep black ones, she realized it was Elliot. He gave her a gentle smile and a small wave.
Ella quickly turned back to the front, not daring to wave back.
"What are you doing?" Anna whispered.
"He just waved at me," Ella replied, trying to hide her nervous excitement.
"Elliot? That jerk," Anna said, annoyed.
"Don't get involved with him, Ella," Anna added seriously.
"Okay," Ella nodded.
"Alright, that's it for today. Everyone, enjoy the rest of your day," Miss Nora said, dismissing the class.
Ella and Anna were about to leave when they were suddenly swarmed by students.
"Hey, where are you from? You're so beautiful," a girl asked.
"Wanna hang out later?" a boy's voice called out.
Ella grew nervous and speechless, clutching Anna's hand tightly.
"Hey, leave them alone," a voice cut through the crowd.
"What do you want, Lindsey?" another girl asked, annoyed.
"That you back off," Lindsey snapped as she walked forward.
"You two wanna come?" Lindsey asked.
Without hesitation, Anna and Ella followed Lindsey.
"Thanks for that, Lindsey," Anna said.
"No need to mention it, girl," Lindsey replied.
Lindsey was tough and brave—no less beautiful than anyone else in class—but often ignored because of her rowdy personality and muscular build.
"Hey, Ella," a deep voice called from behind.