Heart whispers || Ni-ki

02

The morning sun streamed through the windows of the auditorium, casting bright squares of light on the polished wooden floor. Students filled the rows of seats, buzzing with excitement and anticipation. Celine sat near the back, her legs crossed, eyes scanning the crowd. Today was important; everyone knew that the annual school festival announcement would be made.

As the principal stepped onto the stage, the chatter slowly faded into a murmur of whispers. He cleared his throat, a practiced smile on his face. "Good morning, students! It's that time of year again time for our beloved annual school festival!"

The crowd erupted in cheers, and Celine couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement. She loved the festival the games, the food stalls, and especially the freedom to break from the usual school routine. But then she remembered Ni-ki, the relentless rule enforcer.

"Let's make this year's festival the best one yet!" the principal continued, his enthusiasm infectious. "I'm pleased to announce that our very own Ni-ki will be heading the organizing committee!"

Celine felt a mixture of annoyance and amusement at that. Of course Ni-ki would be in charge. He was the type to relish control, the epitome of everything she wanted to rebel against. She leaned over to her friend Mia, who was sitting beside her.

"Looks like the fun police is at it again," Celine whispered, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

Mia giggled, but her eyes sparkled with mischief. "What if you volunteered to help? You could keep an eye on him."

Celine smirked, considering the idea. It would be the perfect opportunity to get under his skin. "Maybe I will."

As the principal continued his speech, outlining the festival's events and activities, Celine's mind raced with possibilities. She could already envision herself leading a food stall or coordinating games. The thought made her grin, and she straightened in her seat.

The moment the assembly ended, students flooded the stage to sign up for various committees. Celine joined the throng, her heart racing with determination. She spotted Ni-ki at the front, flipping through a clipboard, the very picture of focus.

"Hey!" she called, striding up to him, ignoring the way a few of her classmates looked at her. "I want to help with the festival."

Ni-ki looked up, his expression turning from mild interest to instant irritation. "Celine, this isn't a free-for-all. We have a system in place."

"Right, because that's worked so well for you," she shot back, crossing her arms defiantly.

"Do you even understand what this involves?" he replied, his voice low but sharp enough to slice through the chatter around them. "This is serious."

Celine leaned closer, a smirk on her lips. "And you think I'm not serious? I can bring some excitement to this committee. Trust me, you need it."

He sighed, shaking his head. "You're not qualified. This isn't just about fun; it's about organization. We can't have chaos because you want to play around."

Celine's eyes narrowed. "So, you think I'll just mess things up? Is that it?"

"I think you enjoy breaking rules more than following them," Ni-ki shot back, his tone icy.