Hale and Olivia

Prologue

She listened to the echoing footsteps – two pairs, her own and those of the deputy director. She trailed behind him, maintaining a significant distance. Though she'd never been to a school with a uniform requirement, she could see the potential advantages. Her skirt gently brushed against her thighs, and stress-induced sweat made her blouse cling. Nervously, she tapped her fingers on the empty notebook in her hands. They trembled.

The deputy swung open the classroom door of the graduating class. Snowflakes danced outside, creating a picturesque winter scene. She watched through the vast hallway windows, hesitating to enter the classroom until summoned. Finally, she emerged from around the corner, straightened her posture, and stood in front of the chalkboard. Countless curious eyes stared at her. No one smiled, and neither did she.

"Please, have a seat in the empty desk on the right," the deputy instructed.

Without a word, she nodded and complied. The elder gentleman offered a few encouraging words before departing. The classroom fell into silence, which the students eventually broke with hushed whispers. She stared at the pristine desk surface when suddenly, perfectly manicured nails touched it.

"So... Olivia?"

"Yes," she replied to an unfamiliar blonde.

"Welcome."

"Thank you."

Another girl joined the conversation: "You're quite beautiful."

And another chimed in: "Indeed, your complexion is flawless. Do you use any special skincare products?"

"No."

"Not even for your hair? It's remarkably thick and glossy," one of her classmates mused.

"No."

"You're rather reserved, aren't you?" the first girl pouted. "Are you shy?"

"Not particularly."

"Why did you transfer here?" the fourth girl inquired, her eyes green as summer grass.

"I'm not sure, my mother chose this school," Olivia lied.

"Since you're new, you can join us for lunch today," the brunette suggested.

"I appreciate the offer, but I won't be eating here."

They were surprised: "Are you on a diet?"

"You appeared slim to me right away," one of them observed.

"No, I just prefer not to eat at school," she explained.

The bell rang, sparking excitement among the group of students.

"Girls' favorite class," they exclaimed.

Olivia raised an eyebrow in confusion.

"Mr. Bates is simply enchanting. Strict, but his charm more than makes up for it. We can't take our eyes off him," the blonde said, winking as she hurried to her seat.