"The best lies are the ones people want to believe."
***
The corridor outside Theoretical Foundations was nearly empty when Leo von Valerius emerged from his seminar. Most students had already scattered to wherever students scatter. His golden hair caught the afternoon light through the arched windows, and I swear the guy actually glowed. Like someone had installed special Leo Lighting just for moments like this.
Passing servants straightened. Students lowered their gazes. The whole atmosphere shifted into "important person approaching" mode.
And there I was. Slouched against the wall near the classroom door. Robes wrinkled. Hair falling across my face because I couldn't be bothered to brush it. Satchel hanging open to reveal a disaster of books and parchments.
Perfect image. Exactly as planned.
"Kaelen."
