After all her afternoon classes ended, Vivian headed toward the Student Council office on the west side of the Academy's main building with steady steps, carrying several heavy Magic Books and Student Council documents, just as she did every day.
The evening sunlight stretched her shadow long, casting a clear outline onto the smooth stone path.
Yet when the oak door carved with the Student Council emblem came into view, her steps slowed involuntarily, until she stopped about three paces from the entrance.
The words she had overheard on the Tree-Lined Avenue that morning flashed uncontrollably through her mind, along with the blond boy's profile, full of affection and loneliness.
If... he's inside right now... what should I... say to him?
Order him to mind his words and actions from now on, and stop saying strange things in public? Or... simply pretend I heard nothing and handle business as usual?
Several possibilities raced through her mind, but every one seemed to come with an indescribable awkwardness.
A rare trace of hesitation flickered in her ice-blue eyes. Usually so decisive, she now stood outside her own office, briefly trying to brace herself.
Yet just as she took a deep breath and prepared to push open the door, determined to remain businesslike no matter what awaited her-
"President? What are you doing out here? Aren't you going in?"
A familiar, slightly timid voice suddenly sounded close behind her.
"!"
Vivian's body stiffened almost imperceptibly.
Though her expression instantly returned to its usual cool composure, as if covered in a layer of frost, the sudden voice had undoubtedly startled her while she was lost in thought.
She slowly turned toward the source of the voice.
Yelina stood a short distance behind her, holding a large cardboard box full of documents in both arms.