Chapter 98: Something Like Peace
The soft hum of voices filled the room, sunlight filtering through the high windows, catching dust motes in golden streams.
Desks scraped as students settled in, the beginning-of-week energy a blur of yawns, coffee cups, and last-minute cramming.
Emily sat near the middle row, her usual spot, notebook open but untouched. Her mood was noticeably lighter today, a half-smile playing on her lips as she leaned toward the boy beside her.
George, slightly hunched over his phone, looked up at her. "You’re weirdly cheerful for a Monday."
Emily glanced at him sideways. "That’s rich coming from the guy who usually threatens to drop out before every 9am."
George raised a brow. "Fair."
Just then, the door creaked open.
Luca stepped in alone, wearing a navy hoodie, hair neatly pushed back but still carrying that easy, just-woke-up softness.
There was something about his face—lighter, softer, unguarded. His eyes scanned the room until they landed on Emily.
He walked over and dropped into the empty seat next to her.
Emily smirked. "Well, someone looks dangerously in love."