The Killer in The Clasrroom Of The Elite

Chapter 14

Chapter 14: A New Normal

With Shin now securely in custody and the remnants of his organization scattered, a strange sense of calm settled over Alex and Arisu's lives. It was a calm Alex had rarely experienced—one where he didn't feel the need to constantly watch his back, knowing that, at least for now, Arisu was safe. For the first time, they could focus on something beyond survival.

Returning to the academy after Shin's capture was surreal. The atmosphere was so different from the tension-filled life Alex was used to that it almost felt foreign. Students chatted idly in the halls, discussing homework, club activities, and gossip. Life moved on, blissfully ignorant of the battles Alex had faced in the shadows. But Alex felt no bitterness; rather, he felt a sense of peace.

Alex's first day back was almost quiet. He walked beside Arisu, their steps in sync, drawing occasional glances from other students. His presence was hard to ignore, especially after the rumors about his background had started spreading. Yet most of them, especially after what had happened with Kakeru, now seemed more wary than curious.

Kakeru himself tried to avoid Alex as much as possible. The few times they crossed paths, he would quickly look away, his face pale, lips pressed tightly together. It wasn't lost on Alex, and while he had no desire to push things further, he couldn't deny the satisfaction he felt at seeing Kakeru's fear. The message had been clear.

However, Arisu had other plans. She gently nudged Alex, giving him a knowing look. "We should make amends," she said. "Leaving things like this isn't ideal."

Alex raised an eyebrow. "You're worried about Kakeru after everything he tried to pull?"

She nodded. "As much as he tried to undermine us, it's important to lead by example. If we show strength and control, he'll understand who truly holds the upper hand."

He sighed, but he knew she was right. A grudging respect had developed between him and Arisu—one where he began to value her instincts beyond just tactics. "Fine. But I won't apologize if he starts something."

Arisu just smiled, and they made their way over to where Kakeru was standing, visibly tense.

"Kakeru," Arisu greeted him, her voice calm and friendly. "We haven't had a chance to talk since the... incident."

Kakeru's eyes darted between them, his face a mix of shame and resentment. "I don't need your pity," he muttered.

"It's not pity," Alex said, his tone even. "It's a chance to move forward. You understand what I'm capable of, and I'm sure we both prefer peace over constant rivalry."

Kakeru's shoulders slumped slightly, the hostility in his gaze dimming as he finally met Alex's eyes. There was a hint of fear, but also a reluctant acceptance. "Fine. I'll... back off."

Arisu nodded in approval. "Good. Let's keep things civil."

With that, they left him behind, and for once, Alex felt a strange sense of relief. Perhaps there was a way to keep the peace, after all.

The following days passed in a surprising routine. Arisu and Alex worked through their studies, and in their free time, he continued his role as her bodyguard. But now, there was an understanding between them that went deeper than just duty. It was as though they had each accepted their roles, not only as protector and ward but as partners who shared a mutual respect.

One evening, as they were studying together in the library, Arisu looked over her textbook at Alex, a thoughtful expression on her face.

"You've changed, Alex," she said quietly.