Ever since she chose the path of strength, Flavia constantly found herself surrounded by individuals with hidden motives. It felt as if an unending tide of ulterior intentions wanted to drown her, making it hard to distinguish the genuine from the deceitful. Every look, every gesture, and every word from her peers seemed to bear a hidden agenda, burdening her under a constant weight of distrust and caution. This toxic environment made her erect walls around herself, shielding her from those seeking to exploit her.
Accustomed to this tense atmosphere, Flavia remained reserved. That night, however, while exchanging brief friendly words, she found herself smiling more times than she could remember. She wasn't used to the genuineness of that interaction.
