The Academy: Detective Stories - Part I

Chapter 22. The Farewell Party

The dorms were bustling with activity – servants coming and going, carrying trays of food and drinks. The party was set up in the backyard, adorned with tables, chairs, and vases filled with fresh flowers for the first time in years. Elisa perched on a chair at the entrance, securing a large flower garland above the doorway. The scent of daffodils brought back bitter memories of the previous spring. If someone had told her then that she would become a cadet, Elisa would have never believed it.

After fastening all the ribbons in place, Elisa hopped down from the chair and smoothed out the hem of her light-blue dress, making sure she looked presentable.

Theo approached with two glasses of champagne, offering one to her. "Would you relax already and have a walk with me?"

She chuckled. "Sure."

They strolled through the yard, basking in the warmth of the spring evening.

"I told you the flowers would add a nice touch," Elisa remarked with a smile. "Hopefully, the evening won't turn into a chaotic bachelor party."

Theo took a sip of his drink. "Well, there's still a chance it could. There will be thirty-four intoxicated men here, after all."

"Are you planning on getting drunk?" Elisa teased. "With three women in attendance, you might need to stay focused."

He twirled his glass, watching the bubbles rise. "And you've decided I should hit on Laura?"

"Why not?"

"We actually talked and agreed to remain friends," he explained.

"Really?" Elisa scoffed. "I can't believe she let you go so easily. She seemed really into you."

He shrugged. "I think that spark just fizzled out."

"What happened to your hunter instinct?" Elisa playfully poked his shoulder.

"Nothing," he teased back. "And what about yours?"

"Touché." Elisa sighed, taking a big gulp of her drink.

Ever since she kissed Jackie and then pushed her away, Elisa couldn't stop thinking about her, even in her dreams. Surprisingly, her lie seemed to have a positive impact as Jackie focused on her studies and significantly improved her grades in law and history. The least Elisa could do for her was throw a surprise party, a small gesture to lift her spirits after a challenging year.

His hand landed on her shoulder. "Sorry, Sparkle. Sometimes, I forget that you still have feelings for her."

"It's just so strange that being in love is considered illegal in my situation," Elisa whispered. All these months, since she had confided in Theo about the kiss and her subsequent heartbreak, he had been a constant source of support.

"You've done nothing wrong," he reassured her. "And with the upcoming summer practice, you'll likely move on from her by fall."

"I hope so."

"Speaking of practice... Are you certain that going to Santos is a good idea?"

"The farther away from her, the better," Elisa declared, finishing her drink and placing her empty glass on the table.

The waitresses she had hired had yet to arrive, leaving no one to serve the drinks. Luckily, Urchin was at the entrance, engaged in conversation with Riley, a guy who claimed to see the future in his dreams. Elisa was drawn to the bottle of fine whiskey that Urchin held, so she waved him over.

"I thought you didn't particularly care for Urchin." Theo chuckled.

"Today, I appreciate anyone who helps me forget my worries." Elisa winked at Theo. "Let's go."