The moment Aria stepped into the classroom, something shifted.
She didn't announce herself or draw attention on purpose, yet heads still turned. Conversations lowered into whispers, eyes following her as she walked calmly toward her seat.
"That's her…"
"The transfer student."
"She's sitting with Lucien again."
Aria noticed it all. She always did. Years of growing up under constant attention had taught her how to remain composed, even when the world watched closely. She kept her expression neutral, her steps unhurried.
Lucien was already seated.
The moment he saw her, the cold indifference he showed the rest of the class softened. His gaze lingered on her, warm and quiet in a way no one else ever received.
"You're early," he said.
She shrugged lightly. "Couldn't sleep."
A faint smile curved his lips. Subtle—but genuine.
She sat beside him, placing her bag down as their shoulders brushed briefly. Across the room, several students watched in silence.
Lucien, the top-ranked student.
Aria, the mysterious transfer.
Together, they were becoming difficult to ignore.
Another substitute teacher took over the lesson, and as usual, the class appeared uninterested. Yet when questions were asked, Aria answered with calm confidence.
Her explanations were clear. Logical. Precise.
The teacher paused, surprised. "That's correct. Excellent reasoning."
Lucien glanced at her, admiration flickering in his eyes.
She caught it.
"Stop staring," she whispered.
"I'm not," he replied softly. "I'm impressed."
She looked away, but a small smile betrayed her.
By the end of the lesson, the teacher had called on her repeatedly. Each answer confirmed what the class was beginning to realize.
She wasn't just beautiful.
She wasn't just Lucien's desk mate.
She was intelligent.
During break, the room buzzed.
"She answered everything…"
"No wonder Lucien trusts her."
"She's hiding something, isn't she?"
Aria leaned back in her chair, unfazed. Compared to the entertainment industry, this attention was mild.
Lucien stood suddenly.
"I'll be back," he said.
She raised an eyebrow. "Where?"
"To make sure no one annoys you."
His tone was calm—but final.
As he left, a girl scoffed quietly from the back of the room. Aria heard it but didn't react. No one dared approach her while Lucien was gone.
His presence lingered like a warning.
At the end of the day, the teacher made an announcement.
"Class A will participate in the academy's academic and cultural showcase next month. Attendance and participation are mandatory."
The room erupted with excitement.
"A showcase?"
"Performances too?"
Aria straightened slightly.
Lucien turned to her. "You should join."
"Why?" she asked.
"Because," he said simply, "you belong in the spotlight."
She met his gaze, something unreadable passing through her eyes.
Standing out had never scared her.
Being seen… that was different.
As the bell rang, she picked up her bag.
The classroom that once ignored her was now watching.
And this time—
She wouldn't step aside.