Professor Sterling's smile lingered for only a moment longer before she clapped her hands once, crisp and decisive.
"That will conclude today's briefing," she said lightly. "You may all leave. Prepare yourselves. The Orientation Exchange begins in three days."
Glances were most definitely thrown in Aren's direction as students made their way toward the exit.
The cocky boy passed him without a word, though his gaze lingered for a while.
The girl in the pale dress offered him a faint nod, not in a friendly matter—more of an acknowledging one.
Within a minute, the room emptied.
"All except you," Professor Sterling added mildly.
Aren paused mid-step.
But of course.
Professor Sterling removed her glasses first.
The change was subtle but immediate. Her playful authority had immediately softened into something he was more used to seeing.
It kind of reminded him of a grown-up version of Lily.
"Well," she said, exhaling lightly, "that was entertaining."
Aren blinked.
