"I warned you once not to look back... But here you are, tempting me again to ruin your happily ever after with her."
My words hung heavy between us, but his smirk only deepened as he leaned in, so close our lips nearly touched.
"Maybe I like the r...
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The sun shone brightly over the manicured lawns and pristine pathways of Fictus Academy as the Student Council assembled in front of the main school building.
Today, we were tasked with accompanying Principal Loring on his tour of the high school grounds. He liked to conduct these evaluations every semester, ensuring the staff were kept on their toes and the students were maintaining the "golden standard" of Fictus Academy. The pressure was always palpable on these days, though none of us dared to show it.
As Vice President of the Student Council, I was naturally chosen to lead the tour alongside Ethan, the most respected senior among the students. His perfect grades, reputation, and charismatic charm made him untouchable in the eyes of the school. Of course, he'd been elected President over me.
I could still feel the sting of inadequacy, the familiar burn of my mother's cold, disapproving gaze last week when she'd learned I had only secured the Vice President role.
"Number two is just the first of the losers, Desiree." she always reminded me.
I had tried my best, presented the perfect image, and played the good girl flawlessly. But despite all my efforts, Ethan still won because no matter how much I excelled, I was still new here.
At most schools, only seniors could run for the top council positions, but Fictus prided itself on breaking conventions. Talented students were encouraged to lead early, regardless of their grade, so juniors like me could compete for roles usually reserved for seniors. I'd thought my impeccable record would be enough, but Fictus had its own social dynamics, and Ethan's effortless charm proved more compelling.
I glanced at him now, walking slightly behind Principal Loring with that easy confidence, exchanging occasional formalities that kept the mood light.
The principal moved steadily ahead, hands clasped behind his back, his gaze sweeping over the school grounds. He was as much an institution here as the academy itself, known for his firm but fair manner, always just.
Behind us, other council members and faculty members followed, keeping a respectful distance. I maintained my posture, the very image of the Academy's model student. My shoes clicked lightly on the pavement as we walked. I nodded along when appropriate, staying in perfect sync with the flow of conversation between Ethan and Principal Loring, but never overshadowing either of them.
"I trust everything's going smoothly with the Council, Desiree?" Mr. Loring asked in his usual authoritative tone.
"Of course, Principal Loring. The council is working hard on the preparations for Foundation Day and the charity auction," I replied smoothly, offering him a small, respectful smile.
"Good to hear. I want Fictus Academy to maintain its reputation, especially after the recent... unfortunate incidents."
We all nodded. There had been some controversies lately, with students, including Wallace, getting into fights, and rumors spreading like wildfire. But it was the council's job to ensure that everything appeared in perfect order.
