Unexpected Bloom [OCs X Highschool DXD]

Chapter 2

Aebelle came across the garden—the same one the girls were talking about. The garden is really beautiful, and it doesn't blend in with the rest of the school.

"Wow~ this place is... breathtaking," Aebelle breathed, her fingers lightly brushing the velvety petals of a vibrant crimson rose. "It's like it doesn't even belong to the same school as the rest of it."

She closed her eyes, taking in the symphony of the garden – the gentle rustling of leaves, the soft chirping of unseen birds, and the sweet, heady scent of blossoms. It was a world apart from the bustling hallways and noisy classrooms of Kuoh Academy.

"Like what you see?"

Aebelle jolted, spinning around to face the voice. Her eyes widened as they landed on Rias Gremory, the famed beauty and Occult Research Club President, standing before her with a soft smile gracing her lips.

"Oh! Sorry, I didn't hear you approach," Aebelle stammered, her cheeks warming slightly. "I was just... admiring the garden. It's so peaceful."

Rias chuckled softly, a melodic sound that seemed to carry the scent of blossoms. "It's a place where two individuals can converse alone, a little haven away from the bustle of school life."

Aebelle's eyes lit up with newfound understanding. "Y-yeah, I've heard whispers about it. Oh! I'm so sorry, I haven't introduced myself. My name is Aebelle Runemind."

"My name is Rias Gremory," Rias replied, her smile widening ever so slightly.

Aebelle's eyes widened further, her cheeks flushing a delicate pink. "Wh- You're Rias Gremory!? The Rias Gremory?"

Rias' smile broadened. "Hahaha... You're so adorable when you're surprised."

Aebelle's blush deepened. "Wow! I've only heard stories about how beautiful you are and how you're the club president. Everyone talks about you."

"You've heard right," Rias said, a hint of amusement in her tone.

Aebelle's gaze darted around the secluded garden. "So, this is the only place where anyone can talk to you privately?"

"It's generally understood to be so, yes," Rias confirmed. "Though, you are the first to actually seek me out here."

Aebelle's excitement warred with a sudden surge of nervousness. "Oh~ Oh! I... I better get going. It was lovely talking to you, Rias-senpai!"

A thoughtful expression crossed Rias' face. "Bye..."

Aebelle waved frantically, a bright, genuine smile plastered on her face. "Bye bye!" She scurried away, leaving Rias alone in the garden.

Rias watched Aebelle's retreating figure, a faint smile playing on her lips. Aebelle's unadulterated innocence and genuine admiration were a refreshing change. She wondered what secrets the gentle, oblivious girl held, and whether she might be more than just a curious student. A spark of intrigue ignited within her, a feeling she hadn't experienced in quite some time.