HIATUS//Becoming Lila Rossi

Chapter 13: Distraction in Class

The classroom buzzed with the usual morning energy as Miss Bustier prepared to start the day's lesson. Students chattered animatedly, organizing their notebooks and exchanging gossip about recent events. The atmosphere was light, but all eyes soon turned to the front row where Adrien and Lila were seated.

Lila had taken Nino's original seat in the first row, her crutch propped up against the desk. Her ankle was wrapped snugly in a bandage, and despite the injury, she seemed to be making the most of the situation. Adrien sat beside her, his posture attentive and engaged. Lila's presence and their close proximity quickly became the center of attention.

Lila subtly activated her Angel Aura, a soft, ethereal glow surrounding her that amplified her innocence and vulnerability. She had learned how to use it to her advantage, and today was no exception. The warm, inviting aura seemed to radiate from her as she leaned towards Adrien.

"Adrien," Lila began, her voice soft and inviting, with just a hint of pleading. She leaned in slightly, her eyes wide and shimmering with a mix of charm and vulnerability. "Do you think you could help me with the homework tonight? I'm having a bit of trouble understanding some of the material."

Adrien turned to face Lila, his eyes immediately softening at her plea. He took in her genuine look of concern and the gentle aura that surrounded her, his expression shifting to one of sincere care. His smile was warm and reassuring. "Of course, Lila. I'd be happy to help. What do you need assistance with?"

Lila's face brightened as she saw Adrien's response. She could tell that her aura had the desired effect. She had expected him to be receptive, but seeing his genuine concern made her feel a surge of triumph. "Thank you so much! I'm really struggling with some of the concepts. Maybe we could go over it together after school?"

Adrien's smile grew even warmer, his eyes reflecting a genuine interest in helping her. "Sure, we can go over it together. It'll be no problem."

Lila's eyes sparkled with satisfaction. She knew she had successfully captured Adrien's attention. She gave him a grateful smile. "You're a lifesaver, Adrien. I really appreciate it."

As they continued talking, Lila leaned closer, her voice dropping to a confidential tone. "I've heard you're quite good at this subject. I'm sure you'll make it much easier to understand."

Adrien chuckled softly, clearly flattered by the compliment. "Well, I'm glad to help. Just let me know what specific parts you're struggling with, and we'll work through them."

Lila's smile widened, her eyes twinkling with satisfaction. "That sounds perfect. I was feeling so lost before, but now I'm feeling much better about it."

Adrien nodded, his gaze lingering on Lila for a moment longer than necessary. "I'm sure we'll get through it easily. Don't worry too much."

The interaction between Lila and Adrien was mesmerizing to the other students. Adrien's focus on Lila was intense, and his attentive responses made it clear that he was completely engaged with her. The way Lila leaned in and the way Adrien looked at her with such earnestness seemed to draw everyone's gaze.

Marinette Dupain-Cheng, now seated at the back of the classroom after moving to accommodate Nino, tried to focus on her own work. However, her attention was repeatedly drawn to the front row. She watched as Lila and Adrien engaged in their conversation, her frustration growing with each passing moment. The sight of Adrien's rapt attention and Lila's smooth, practiced charm stirred a deep-seated unease in Marinette. She shifted in her seat, attempting to concentrate on her notes, but the growing sense of jealousy and disappointment was overwhelming.

Marinette's heart sank. It wasn't that she thought Lila was being insincere—rather, she felt a pang of sadness at seeing Adrien so captivated by someone else. She wished she could be the one Adrien was talking to so intently. The way Adrien seemed completely absorbed by Lila's presence made Marinette feel left out, and she couldn't shake the feeling of being sidelined.