Academy days (Book 2 of IA)

[31] One sided love

Illyria approached Wyndham after the student council meeting, her heart pounding in her chest. Gathering her courage, she finally spoke up.

"Hey, Wyndham, do you have a moment to talk?" she asked timidly.

Wyndham turned his attention to her, his thoughts still on Veritas from the night before. "Oh, Illyria, sure. What's up?"

Illyria's cheeks flushed slightly, but she pushed through her nervousness. "Well, I just wanted to tell you that I think you did a great job during the meeting. You always handle things so well."

Wyndham offered her a polite smile, though his mind was elsewhere. "Thanks, Illyria. I appreciate that."

Illyria hesitated for a moment before continuing. "You know, I was wondering... Would you like to grab a coffee sometime? Maybe we could talk more about the council and, um, get to know each other better?"

Wyndham's expression turned apologetic. "That's really nice of you to ask, Illyria. But I have a lot on my plate right now. I need to stay focused on my duties and... Veritas." His eyes momentarily drifted, betraying his true feelings.

Illyria's heart sank, but she tried to hide her disappointment with a smile. "Oh, I understand. Don't worry about it. We're all quite busy."

With a slight nod, Wyndham excused himself, leaving Illyria standing there, her unrequited feelings a heavy burden on her chest.

I knew it...Illyria thought.

"Don't bother with him, he's too focused on Veritas," Zeloto commented mockingly, clearly enjoying her discomfort.

Illyria jumped slightly, not expecting Zeloto to be there, lurking behind a pillar. His cruel grin sent a chill down her spine.

Illyria frowned, trying to regain her composure. "Why are you eavesdropping, Zeloto? It's none of your business."

Zeloto chuckled, his sadistic humor evident in his tone. "Just observing the scenery, sweetheart. It's always amusing to watch the hopeless ones pine away."

Illyria's cheeks burned with embarrassment and anger. "You don't know anything about my feelings, Zeloto. So just stay out of it."

With a smug grin, Zeloto stepped out from behind the pillar. "Oh, I know more than you think. But don't worry, your secret's safe with me. For now."

As he walked away, Illyria clenched her fists, her emotions a whirlwind of frustration, embarrassment, and sadness.

"Wyndham senpai..." Illyria muttered, as she stared at the now empty hallway.

Q: Have you ever had a crush on someone who had a crush on someone else?