Chapter 24: The Tension Within
Adam entered the classroom and sat down, his mind restless as he glanced at the door, realizing Ani and Robin hadn't yet arrived.
Although he was usually calm and collected, something about this situation with Robin troubled him deeply, filling him with an unsettling mix of confusion and frustration.
Anyone observing Adam could easily sense his agitation; his friends certainly did, noticing his silence and brooding expression.
Knowing better than not to disturb him in this mood, they simply watched from a distance.
Adam's hands rested on his desk, clenched just slightly as he stared ahead, lost in thought, berating himself inwardly for the rising irritation he felt.
Just then, Pratham approached, breaking the tension with a quiet yet insistent voice. "Lord Adam," he began softly, addressing Adam with the respectful title he'd often use, "I think Robin has had feelings for Ani for a long time. He's always liked her, even back when Ani first joined PK Academy."
Adam's focus sharpened at Pratham's words, yet he remained silent, listening intently as Pratham continued.
"Robin was going to ask Ani out back then, but someone else asked her before he could. She turned them down, and word quickly spread that Ani wasn't interested in dating anyone at school. That rumor has followed her all year, and maybe because of it, robin decided to suppress his feelings. But now, it's obvious he can't hold back anymore. He's relentless."
Adam couldn't help but feel a twinge of sympathy at this revelation.
It was a story he related to a little too well.
He thought back to the first time he'd seen Ani, on the ceremonial day when he had joined the academy.