𝕆𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖 | 𝔾𝕒𝕟𝕢𝕚𝕟𝕘

𝟚. A Growing Bond

It was now the next day, and Keqing couldn't wait to see Ganyu again in school. So much so she often found herself forgetting some things in favor of thinking about their meeting the other day. Like her textbooks. She was a moment away from turning up to class without her books until she caught sight of Ganyu walking in with her books. Oh, right! How did I forget that..? Keqing reached back into her bag again and pulled out the necessary volumes before walking inside and taking a seat.

Conveniently, there was an empty seat next to Ganyu. Taking that seat, Keqing offered a smile to her friend while putting down her books and sitting down. 'Keqing! It's nice to see you again.' The half-adeptus greeted, opening her textbook. Keqing waved shortly before snapping her focus towards the front of the classroom. Their teacher for the lesson soon walked inside. Ms Beidou!

Time flung by once again and before she knew it, the school day was over for Keqing. She found herself bounding over to Ganyu, which, after a bit of self reflection, Keqing realised was sort odd when if it was anyone else around, she was quite distant and cold. Yet there was a certain warmth she felt around the half-adeptus that drew her in. Was she finally understanding what it's like to have true friendship? She smiled and waved, something that Ganyu soon gave back to her.
'So, are you busy this afternoon? I'd like to hang out.' Keqing suggested. Though calm while talking, Keqing could feel butterflies squealing around in her stomach as she spoke. Gee.. why am I this nervous about just talking to her? Keqing snapped from her pondering just before Ganyu replied.
'I'll have to check with Cloud Retainer and Moon Carver. But I'd like to hang out too!' Ganyu gave her response eagerly. Keqing couldn't help but frown at the idea of Ganyu being occupied with going table to table taking and delivering orders of coffees and cakes, especially when she could at least be studying! Yet she covered it up with a heavy sigh.
'Oh, alright. Before I forget! I'd like to give you my number, so we can talk and you can tell me if you're free or not.' Keqing reached into her jacket pocket, pulling out a shiny phone. Ganyu's eyes seemed to light up at the idea of that and she also pulled out her phone. The two exchanged numbers and went their separate ways.

Keqing pushed open the door to her college dorm, heaving as she lifted her bag from her shoulder and slumped it onto the ground. She fell back onto her bed, pulling her phone out to see any messages from her new friend.
'Sorry, Keqing! Cloud Retainer says I need to spend more time studying and working on assignments than hanging out with people..'
'Really? Well I read a article and there are many well-being books in the library stating the importance of social life in order to prevent depression and burn out.'
'Haha, I believe you, but I doubt Cloud Retainer would. Wish me luck! xx'
While ending it on a good note, Keqing couldn't help but frown. Why did Ganyu let her parents control so much of her life? Keqing knew what it was like to respect her elders, but it all felt a bit too controlling for her. I suppose I should continue with my assignments..

Every ounce of Keqing's being hoped that time would fly, but only a few minutes had passed every time she glared at her clock. Why am I like this? I need to stop procrastinating! And so she did. Or, at least desperately tried. By the time she could call her work good enough to hand in, the clock had signalled midnight. Gee.. did I really stay up all night finishing this? How bad did I slack off... While she was curious, she didn't dwell on it for long as she shut down her laptop, changed into a comfier set of clothes and fell peacefully asleep.

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Word Count: 691
Date published: 30/12/22