The next morning, the halls of Aurelian Academy were alive with the usual buzz of students. Yet for Aiden, every step felt like walking through a storm. Whispers followed him as if the walls themselves were talking.
Selene walked beside him in the cafeteria, trying to act casual. Her presence was comforting, but Aiden avoided meeting her eyes. He still blamed her — not consciously, but deep down, he associated her with the attention and trouble he couldn't escape.
"Eat something," Selene urged softly, nudging his tray.
"I'm not hungry," he muttered, scanning the room for anyone watching.
It wasn't just the bullies anymore. Other students — heirs of hidden bloodlines — began noticing him in ways he couldn't understand. They didn't know exactly what he was, but Selene's lingering scent on him made them curious… and jealous.
The tall werewolf boy and the vampire cousins tested him in small ways. A tray was nudged, a foot kicked. Aiden flinched but didn't retaliate. Each time, he realized he could have overpowered them, but he restrained himself. He thought he was just a weak vampire, and the thought of exposing himself made him nervous.
Selene noticed every interaction. Her crimson eyes followed him constantly, subtly positioning herself between him and danger. No words were spoken, but Aiden felt the silent protection she offered.
By afternoon, the whispers had grown into quiet rumors. "Why is Selene always with him?"
"Did she do something… last night?"
"They say he's some kind of vampire, but I don't buy it. Weakling."
Aiden didn't respond. He simply walked past the gossiping students, head down, pretending not to notice.
Yet, inside, a small spark of defiance flickered. He wasn't strong yet. He didn't know his powers. But he knew he wouldn't break. Not from them.
And Selene, walking silently at his side, made him feel… seen. Not as a scholarship kid, not as a target, but as someone who mattered.
Something inside him stirred — a quiet promise that when the time came, no one would ever underestimate him again.