"Scholarly Hearts" When academic rivals found love

Chapter 9: Distant

The next day at school, a palpable tension hung in the air between Jennie and Lisa. They avoided each other in the hallways, their eyes darting away whenever they were in the same room.

Jennie's friends noticed the change in her behavior. She was quieter, more withdrawn, and often lost in thought. They worried about her, but she brushed off their concerns, insisting she was fine.

Lisa, on the other hand, seemed to have thrown herself into her club activities with renewed vigor. She was always busy, practicing, strategizing, and leading her team with unwavering determination.

One afternoon, after a particularly intense training session, Lisa found herself alone in the club room. She sat on a bench, her thoughts racing. She missed Jennie's presence, her laughter, her unique perspective.

But she also knew that she had to respect Jennie's wishes. If Jennie wanted distance, then she would give it to her.

JENNIE'S POV

As I watched Lisa from the sidelines, my heart ached with guilt. I had hurt her, and now I was too afraid to face her. I knew I needed to apologize, but my fear was paralyzing.

Lisa was in her element, guiding her classmates with confidence and enthusiasm. She was a natural leader, and it was inspiring to watch.

I wanted to go up to her, to tell her how sorry I was, but my feet seemed glued to the ground. The thought of her rejection was too much to bear.

As the club activities continued, I couldn't help but admire Lisa's passion and dedication.

She was so good at what she did, and it made me feel even smaller and more insignificant.

I knew I had to face my fears, but I didn't know how.

Lisa was in her element, guiding our classmates with confidence and enthusiasm. She was a natural leader, and it was inspiring to watch.

I watched from a distance, her heart heavy. I wanted to be part of it, to be with Lisa, but my fear held me back.

As I struggled to carry a heavy table across the room, I felt a pang of frustration. The weight seemed to double with each step, and my arms ached.

I glanced around, hoping someone would offer to help. But everyone seemed busy with their own tasks.

Just as I was about to give up, I felt a strong hand on the other side of the table. I looked up to see Lisa, her eyes filled with concern.

"Let me help you," she said, taking hold of the table.

Together, we lifted the table and carried it across the room. The weight felt lighter with Lisa's help, and I couldn't help but feel grateful.

Once we had set the table down, Lisa turned to leave. "Thanks," I said, my voice barely audible.

Lisa nodded, a small smile playing on her lips.

And then she was gone, leaving me standing there, my heart feeling a little lighter.

My friends, Irene and Nayeon, approached me, their eyes filled with concern. "Are you okay?" Nayeon asked. "You look a bit pale."

I forced a smile. "I'm fine," I replied, trying to sound casual. "Just a little tired."

Nayeon raised an eyebrow. "You sure? You've been acting weird all day."

I hesitated, not knowing how to explain what I was feeling. "It's just... a lot going on right now," I said.

Irene nodded, understanding. "Want to talk about it?"