"Hi Viona. Congratulations on your performance," a few people greeted as they approached her.
Viona nodded with a polite smile and thanked them. However, she declined invitations from some people who wanted to sit with her at the cafeteria.
"It's nice being the child of wealthy parents. Just the first appearance, and they're already making a big deal to buy a hot topic. Unlike us, who aren't from rich families, so we have to stay low because of them," a cold comment instantly silenced everyone surrounding Viona.
Some who initially wore happy expressions turned icy as they agreed with the statement. A few seemed to want to retort but were unsure what to say. Most students looked uneasy, not wanting to be perceived as agreeing with the girl's words.
Viona maintained her composure, though her smile wavered slightly at the cold comment. She took a moment to collect her thoughts before responding, her voice steady but gentle.
"I appreciate your perspectives, and I understand that backgrounds can create different experiences for each of us. But let's not forget that we're all here to learn, grow, and support each other. Wealth is just one aspect of a person's life, and it doesn't define their worth or their ability to contribute positively. I believe that each of us has something unique to offer, regardless of our backgrounds. Let's focus on our passions, our aspirations, and the connections we can build together. That's what truly matters."
As Viona spoke, a sense of calm spread through the group. Some heads nodded in agreement, and a few hesitant smiles began to reappear. The icy tension seemed to thaw, replaced by a more thoughtful atmosphere.
Realizing that her words had resonated with some, Viona continued, "If anyone ever wants to chat, share experiences, or just spend time together, my door is always open. Whether you come from wealthy families or not, we're all here to support each other's journeys."
"You are an actress, of course you are only acting like that," someone said with sneer.
"But, the traffic data is real. It's not from purchased comments or anything," a student beside Viona replied, crossing his arms.
Viona raised an eyebrow and studied the boy next to her carefully. Then, she recognized who he was, or more accurately, who he would become.
Reid Arkana, a famous hacker in 2031, known for being the only one who successfully breached MG Entertainment Company's system, exposing the unethical practices they forced their artists to engage in to get roles in films or dramas. Reid chose to pursue his information hacking path after the school decided he wasn't fit for stardom, and declined his applications for several of the school's programs.
Viona remembered it well due to the MG Entertainment scandal being quite notorious in its time.
A grin formed on Viona's lips, one she couldn't suppress. It seemed she had found her first potential artist for her future company. Because despite the school's rejection, Viona knew Reid would make a perfect idol, whether as a soloist or in a group. She'd have to look forward to that.
"Look at that, she's even smiling! It's useless defending her when she admits it!" a girl's voice interrupted Viona's thoughts.
Viona looked up and raised an eyebrow, studying the source of the voice. "Who are you?" she asked flatly.
"Pfftt. HAHAHAHAHA!" Reid burst into unexpected laughter upon hearing Viona's short response and her shocked expression.
"Acting or not, the truth remains the same," Viona responded to the comment, her voice unwavering. "It's essential to base our judgments on facts and evidence rather than assumptions. Reid here is correct. The traffic data supporting my performance is genuine, not artificially manipulated."
Reid gave a nod of confirmation, his arms still crossed, his demeanor calm and collected. It was evident that he had an analytical mind, one that valued accuracy and detail.
The surrounding students seemed intrigued by the exchange, their initial doubts gradually transforming into curiosity. Viona's ability to maintain her composure and her willingness to engage in a logical discussion left an impression on them. They realized that beneath her privileged background and the glamorous exterior, there was depth and sincerity.
"Enough now. Instead of causing trouble and spreading false information, it's better if you keep your mouth shut. No one would call you foolish if you didn't talk," Reid said with a triumphant smile.
The teenager then hurried away out of embarrassment. This caused some of the students who had been clustered around Viona to slowly disperse, eventually leaving Viona alone with Reid.
Viona watched as the teenager hurried away, her expression a mixture of concern and disappointment. She turned her attention back to Reid, her gaze steady despite the triumphant smile on his face.
"Reid," she began, her voice gentle yet firm, "using your skills to belittle someone isn't the best way to prove a point. Our words have power, and it's important to use them responsibly. It's one thing to challenge misconceptions, but it's another to humiliate someone."
Reid's triumphant smile faded as he listened to Viona's words. There was a flicker of introspection in his eyes, as if he was considering her perspective.
"You're right," he admitted after a moment, his tone more subdued. "I might have gone a bit too far. But sometimes it's frustrating, you know? People jumping to conclusions without any evidence, making assumptions about you based on your background."
Viona nodded in understanding. "I do understand your frustration, Reid. It's not easy to deal with misconceptions and judgment. But responding with understanding and patience can often lead to better outcomes. You have the power to change perceptions through your actions, just like you did with your hacking work."
Reid looked thoughtful, his arms uncrossed now as he seemed to mull over Viona's words. "I suppose you have a point. Changing people's minds isn't about forcing them to believe something. It's about showing them a different perspective, giving them a reason to question their assumptions."
"Exactly," Viona agreed, her smile returning. "And you have a unique way of doing that. Your analytical mind can dissect complex issues and present them in a way that resonates with people. Combine that with my experiences in the entertainment world, and we could create a powerful force for positive change."
Reid's gaze met Viona's, and for a moment, there was a sense of camaraderie between them. "You're different from what I expected," he admitted, his tone softer now.
Viona chuckled. "I get that a lot. But appearances can be deceiving, right? Just like people's assumptions about you based on your hacking work. Let's not let preconceived notions define our interactions."
Reid nodded, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Fair enough."
As they stood there, the school bell rang again, signaling the end of the break. Students began to filter back into the building, and Viona and Reid started to walk in the same direction.
"Listen," Reid began, his voice tentative, "if you're serious about that collaboration offer, I'm willing to give it a shot."
Viona beamed, her excitement genuine. "I'm thrilled to hear that, Reid. I think we can make a real impact together."
And so, as the students returned to their classes, Viona and Reid walked side by side, their unexpected partnership a testament to the fact that bridges could be built between seemingly different worlds, and that understanding and collaboration had the power to break down barriers and create positive change.