4SINS: DECEPTION OF LUCIAN MARCUS GREY

5

The days following the orphanage volunteer work felt like a blur for Glaryse. What had initially seemed like a simple way to fulfill a freshman requirement had grown into something far more significant—something that had shifted her perspective on people like Lucian. His quiet support and genuine encouragement had left a lasting impression on her. His leadership as Student Council President wasn't just about authority—it was about seeing potential in others, and for the first time in a long while, Glaryse felt like someone saw potential in her. Not just as a student, but as a person.

Her admiration for him deepened, especially in those moments when he subtly offered guidance, whether it was a quick word of advice after the orphanage visit or his attentive watch over her progress in class. Despite his aloofness, Glaryse couldn't shake the feeling that Lucian truly cared about her success, even if his methods were hard to understand.

Zarisha, on the other hand, seemed almost indifferent to Glaryse's growing connection with Lucian. She'd merely shrugged off any mention of him, busy as always with her own social circles and events. That left Glaryse with a growing curiosity—and a quiet, budding sense of unease. Something about Lucian's attention seemed too good to be true, but every time he spoke to her, she couldn't help but feel comforted by his calm, assured presence.

It was during their Classroom Management class that Glaryse's attention was momentarily diverted. The lecture was one of those early morning sessions where the professor talked at length about teaching strategies, and most of the students struggled to keep their eyes open. As always, Glaryse took diligent notes, the rhythmic scratching of her pen against the paper grounding her in the lecture.

Sitting next to her was Albie—an amiable guy with a disarming smile and an easy-going personality. They'd gotten along well enough in previous classes, and he had quickly become one of those people who was easy to talk to. He and Zarisha often exchanged jokes during lectures, which kept Glaryse from feeling too isolated. While Zarisha was always the more outspoken one, Glaryse appreciated Albie's more laid-back charm. His friendly demeanor made her feel comfortable, especially in moments when the overwhelming nature of the semester threatened to make her retreat into herself.

"Hey, are you two up for lunch?" Albie asked after class, his tone casual but warm. He shot them both a grin, clearly hoping to continue the good mood that had followed the lecture. "I'm starving, and the cafeteria is calling my name."

Zarisha, already gathering her things, shot him a playful wink. "You always have food on your mind, Albie. But sure, why not? I could go for a salad today."

Glaryse smiled politely, nodding. "I'm fine with whatever," she replied. She hadn't really had the chance to bond with Albie outside of class, but there was something about him that was reassuring. He made her feel a little more connected to university life, as though she wasn't so alone in the sea of new faces.

The three of them walked out of the classroom together, chatting about assignments and upcoming exams, their laughter echoing down the corridor. As they passed a series of windows, Glaryse felt a sudden sense of warmth—something like relief. It wasn't a grand gesture or a breakthrough moment, but the way she felt surrounded by the casual camaraderie was a far cry from the loneliness she'd first arrived with.

But just as the three of them turned the corner toward the cafeteria, something else shifted in the air.

From the opposite end of the corridor, Lucian stood leaning against a set of lockers, one hand in his pocket, the other holding a coffee cup. His eyes were fixed on them, particularly on Glaryse, though his gaze seemed distant, almost predatory. For a moment, he didn't move—didn't even blink. His sharp, calculating eyes followed every motion, every laugh, every word exchanged between Glaryse and Albie.