Against the Edge

Bring a Special Lunch

In the auditorium, Blanca was in full VP mode, directing the Student Union members with a focused intensity. William stood nearby, making notes on a clipboard, while Nick checked the speaker equipment. Ruby and Niall organized the donation tables, adjusting the layout with precision under Blanca's watchful eye.

"Alright, let's make sure the banners are clear from the stage lighting," Blanca said, gesturing to Nick, who was adjusting a large banner across the auditorium wall. "Ruby, could you make sure the guest list is finalized? I don't want any confusion when the speakers arrive."

Ruby nodded, already marking her checklist, and William chimed in with a steady voice. "Looks like everything's coming together. Great work, Blanca," he said with a calm smile. "And thanks for keeping everyone on track."

Blanca flashed him a quick grin, pushing a stray strand of hair back. "Just making sure we don't fall behind. You know I won't let anything slip."

Right then, the auditorium doors creaked open, and Miguel walked in, catching sight of her moving from one task to the next without pause. She didn't even seem to notice him. A soft smile tugged at his lips as he approached her, the sandwich and juice in hand.

"Hey, Ms. VP," he called, his voice low but playful.

Blanca spun around, eyes widening as she saw him holding her favorite lunch. "Miguel! What are you doing here?" She flashed him a smile, her voice softening for the first time all day. "Wait... is that...?"

"Strawberry juice and a turkey-avocado sandwich, straight from the canteen," he said, handing it to her with a lopsided grin. "Thought you could use a break since someone's been ignoring my texts."

Blanca laughed, shaking her head. "I'm sorry, I didn't even hear my phone. Things got a little... intense."

Miguel's gaze softened as he held her hand a second longer than needed, his voice gentle. "Then this is perfect timing. Five minutes. Just for you."

William looked over, his brows lifting with a faint smile as he saw the two of them. "Taking a break sounds like a good idea, Blanca. You've been at this non-stop."

Blanca hesitated, glancing back at Miguel and then at William and the team. But Miguel simply squeezed her hand. "Let them handle things for a few minutes. The world won't stop turning, I promise."

Blanca sighed, finally giving in as she took a seat on the edge of the stage, patting the spot beside her for Miguel. She unwrapped the sandwich, taking a bite and letting out a little satisfied sigh.

"This is exactly what I needed," she admitted, smiling up at him between bites.

Miguel watched her, grinning. "See, sometimes I know what's best for you."

She nudged him playfully, taking a sip of the juice. "Thank you. Seriously. You're the best."

As she ate, Miguel quietly took in the bustling scene around them, proud of the work she'd put into the event. Even amid the rush, he could see how her dedication was inspiring everyone else, and he admired her even more for it.

After a few minutes, Blanca resting her head against his shoulder, and let herself relax, if only for a moment. "You're my hero," she whispered, smiling softly, and he squeezed her hand in response. "Anytime, Blanca. You know I've got you."

—

Miguel and Blanca were still sitting together on the edge of the stage, her half-finished sandwich and juice nearby, when William approached. His expression was calm, but there was an air of importance in his steps.

"Blanca," he called, his tone catching her attention. "Just got off the phone with the dean. He said the chancellor will be stopping by soon to check on how everything's going for the event."