Carlo's steps echoed softly as he wandered through the vibrant campus of Crescendo Art University, a living tapestry of cherry blossom petals and warm sunlight. The air buzzed with energy as students embraced the first day of school, clubs clamored for attention, and laughter filled the atmosphere. Amidst this kaleidoscope of colors and joyful commotion, Carlo couldn't shake a feeling of detachment.
"They say spring brings new beginnings. But to me, it doesn't feel that way at all. My best friend in elementary school moved away in spring. The book I used to love also came to an end in spring. Before I realized, my third spring in this university was already before me."
Beside a serene pond adorned with delicate petals, Carlo found himself captivated. The ethereal beauty of the surroundings compelled him to reach out, his hand yearning to touch the fleeting essence of nature's artistry. Amidst this enchanting moment, his thoughts unraveled into a tender soliloquy, his words carried away on the gentle spring breeze.
"Like cherry blossoms carried by the wind, cherished friendships have faded over time. Now, in my third spring at this university, I wonder if anything truly begins or if everything simply fades away. Like those petals, drifting and cascading, my days seem to pass without any changes. Until that day..."
Lost in contemplation, Carlo's senses were suddenly captivated by a vision of enchantment. A young maiden, graceful and serene, delicately placed cherry blossom petals into the tranquil pond. Her presence breathed life into the tableau, as sunlight danced upon her radiant features, casting an ethereal glow that bewitched the air around her.
Carlo's heart stirred, as if a vibrant canvas had burst into life, saturated with emotions too profound to articulate. Their gazes met, forging a connection that defied the constraints of time. In that suspended moment, as petals danced upon unseen currents, an indelible impression etched itself upon Carlo's heart. Her smile, a mesmerizing blend of warmth and allure, painted his world with hues of romance and possibility.
Yet, before Carlo could fully surrender to the intoxicating symphony of their encounter, a familiar voice shattered the stillness.
"Carlo!"
Turning, Carlo discovered Edward, bedecked in a flamboyant cape, while Max labored, pulling a wooden wagon. Surprise mingled with amusement on Carlo's face as he beheld the whimsical sight before him.
"Carlo! Hurry up and join us!" Edward exclaimed, his cape fluttering with eccentric writings.
Perplexed, Carlo questioned, "What in the world are you doing?"
"No time for explanations! Hop in!" Edward urged, bounding out from the wagon.
With a mischievous glint in his eye, Edward playfully grabbed Carlo's collar and tossed him into the wagon, causing a solitary button to pop loose and dance to the ground. Carlo's confusion and resistance were no match for Edward's unwavering enthusiasm, as if they embarked on an adventure that defied all reason.
"What madness is this?" Carlo protested.
"Let us forge ahead, my friend!" Edward declared, brimming with unwavering determination.
Their journey unfolded like a whimsical ballet, laughter harmonizing with the rhythm of their progress. Amidst the adventure, Max valiantly struggled to maintain his balance, infusing the journey with comedic moments. Carlo, caught in a whirlwind of surprise, exasperation, and unbridled excitement, surrendered to the kaleidoscope of emotions that accompanied their spontaneous escapade.
As their laughter and mirth receded into the distance, the young maiden, enthralled by the enchanting spectacle, discovered the abandoned button resting upon the ground. It became a mysterious connection that had woven itself into her heart, leaving a gentle smile upon her lips.
☘
Carlo found himself tied up in the wagon, his confusion growing with each step as Max energetically pulled it, Edward running alongside, his vibrant cape billowing behind him like a kaleidoscope of colors. Edward, with his mischievous eyes sparkling, possessed an infectious enthusiasm that seemed to radiate from every fiber of his being. Max, his appearance scholarly and distinguished, wore a pair of eyeglasses that perched confidently on his nose, adding an air of wisdom to his countenance.
The campus was abuzz with curiosity, students stealing puzzled glances at the unusual trio. Edward's flamboyant cape, adorned with intricate patterns, turned heads wherever he went. Its vibrant hues seemed to mirror his exuberant personality, capturing the essence of his zest for life. Max, in stark contrast, exuded an air of quiet confidence. His scholarly appearance, accentuated by the eyeglasses that framed his sharp gaze, hinted at the wisdom and intellect that lay beneath his calm demeanor.
Carlo couldn't help but ask, "Where are you guys taking me?"
Max, his glasses reflecting the sunlight, flashed a knowing smile, his scholarly appearance a testament to his discerning nature. As the duo ran alongside the wagon, their personalities came to life, Edward's vibrancy and charisma contrasting with Max's steady presence. Together, they formed an unlikely but inseparable duo, their dynamic a blend of exuberance and intellect.
Edward's eyes sparkled mischievously, "We're embarking on a food-filled escapade, my friend!"
Max chimed in, his glasses shining in the sunlight, "That's right! We need your expertise to fully enjoy the culinary masterpiece awaiting us."
Carlo's skepticism kicked in, "This sounds like another one of your pranks. I'm not falling for it!"
Edward wagged his finger playfully, "Oh, Carlo, this is no trick. We're on a mission to satisfy our taste buds!"
Carlo, burdened by the weight of academic responsibilities, pleaded, his voice tinged with worry, "But what about my class? Missing it might jeopardize my grades."
Edward dismissed his worries, "Missing this out will jeopardize us. Don't fret, my friend. This is a unique opportunity. Let's not let studies dampen our spirits."
Max, with mischief in his eyes, whispered to Edward, "A little persuasion might do the trick."
Edward's eyes gleamed as he leaped into the wagon, hugging Carlo tightly. "Carlo, you must experience the legendary All-Out Curry with us! It's a first-day-of-school tradition, and we can't enjoy it without you."
Carlo's eyes widened in disbelief. "You went through all this trouble just for curry?!"
Edward nodded enthusiastically, his vibrant cape fluttering in the wind, "Absolutely! We couldn't let you miss out on this culinary spectacle."
Max, keeping a steady pace, added, "Trust us, Carlo. This is an adventure worth skipping class for."
As they raced through the campus, their antics captured the attention of fellow students. Edward's flamboyant cape billowed behind him, drawing curious glances, while Max expertly maneuvered the wagon, skillfully avoiding obstacles in their path. Laughter and whispers followed in their wake, their infectious joy spreading like wildfire.
As they dashed forward, Edward's hunger couldn't be contained any longer. "Max, my friend, let's pick up the pace. I can practically taste that curry!"
And so, Edward's plea spurred Max into action. Their destination awaited, and the legend of the All-Out Curry beckoned them.
☘
The trio arrived at the bustling school field, where a vibrant tapestry of students and school clubs painted a lively panorama. The air crackled with excitement as students buzzed around, eager to explore the array of offerings. Edward, Max, and Carlo found themselves amidst a sea of cheering students inside the university.
"Whoa... What an amazing line."
Carlo's eyes widened in surprise as he surveyed the scene before him. The line for the legendary All-Out Curry snaked through the field, brimming with hungry students eagerly awaiting their turn. The sight of the lengthy queue left Carlo momentarily speechless.
Edward, always the harbinger of culinary tales, leaned in and whispered to Carlo, "You won't believe it. This curry is the creation of a master chef who returns to our university once a year just to treat us. It has become a revered tradition."
Max, adjusting his glasses, chimed in, "Many of our international students came here just to taste the curry. It's a global sensation."
Carlo's skepticism wavered as he observed students from diverse backgrounds indulging in the savory delight. He glanced at Max, seeking confirmation, "Is it really worth the hype? I mean, is it that good?"
Max nodded emphatically, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "It's an experience like no other. The flavors, the aromas, and the communal atmosphere... It's something you won't want to miss."
As Carlo pondered their words, a staff member passed by, accidentally thrusting a marketing poster into his face. He quickly skimmed the details, his eyes widening in realization.
"Wait... Look at this. It is written here that the curry is limited to new students only."
Edward and Max exchanged mischievous glances, unable to contain their laughter any longer. Edward replied with a playful grin, "That's why we need you, Carlo."
☘
Carlo reluctantly found himself in line, disguised as a first-year student, to get his hands on the coveted legendary all-out curry. His heart raced, his nerves frayed, as he wondered if Edward and Max's audacious plan would actually work. Doubt gnawed at his mind, threatening to unravel the entire charade.
Just as Carlo was contemplating an escape, a sudden commotion erupted nearby. His eyes widened as he witnessed a hapless student being thrown out of line, exposed as a second-year student attempting to deceive the club members. Carlo's anxiety skyrocketed, beads of perspiration forming on his forehead. He contemplated abandoning the masquerade, but a stern glance from Edward and Max reminded him of the stakes.
Carlo's inner self spun in a frenzy, "What have I gotten myself into? I can't do this. It's madness! But... maybe, just maybe, I can pull it off. For the sake of that curry and my sanity, I'll see this through."
As he inched closer to the front of the line, Carlo's palms grew clammy, his heart threatening to burst through his chest. The two club students scrutinized him, their eyes searching for any signs of deception. Carlo stood frozen, his nerves on edge, hoping his disguise would hold up under their scrutiny.
After what felt like an eternity, the club students broke into warm smiles, seemingly convinced of Carlo's first-year status. They handed him a plate piled high with steaming all-out curry and fragrant rice, their voices filled with cheer.
Club Student 1: "Welcome to Crescendo Art University! Enjoy our famous all-out curry!"
Club Student 2: "May this curry fuel your artistic journey and fill your belly with joy!"
Carlo's eyes widened in delight as he clutched the plate, feeling the warmth seep through his fingers. His stomach rumbled in anticipation, a symphony of hunger echoing through his being. He stepped away from the line, finding a moment of solitude to savor his victory.
Carlo's gaze fell upon the curry, an enticing aroma wafting up to greet him. His mouth watered, the tantalizing flavors tempting his senses. Just as he was about to take his first bite, two other club students abruptly halted his movement, sending a shock through Carlo's system.
Club Student 3: "Hold on just a moment! You're not a first-year student!"
Club Student 4: "Our eyes don't deceive us. You're a third-year!"
Carlo's face contorted in disbelief, his cries of protest filling the air. "But... but... how did you know?!"
The club students exchanged knowing glances before responding, their voices laced with mischief.
Club Student 3: "We have our ways, my friend. Don't underestimate the discerning eyes of curry connoisseurs!"
Club Student 4: "You thought you could fool us, but alas, the truth revealed itself."
Carlo's expression twisted into a mixture of defeat and amusement. As he stood amidst the club students, he braced himself for the divine punishment that awaited him, knowing that his misadventures with Edward and Max always came with a humorous twist.
And so, with a playful yet gentle reprimand from the club students, Carlo's quest for the legendary all-out curry took an unexpected turn. Edward and Max exchanged amused glances as they observed Carlo enduring his divine punishment. Their initial plan had crumbled before their eyes, leaving them no choice but to find humor in the situation.
Max chuckled, shaking his head. "Well, Carlo, it seems your attempt at deceiving the club members didn't quite go as planned."
Carlo, a mixture of frustration and self-deprecating humor, replied, "Yeah, yeah. Laugh it up, guys. Your brilliant plan really worked, didn't it?"
Edward playfully patted Carlo on the back, sarcasm dripping from his voice. "Oh, Carlo, we admire your courage in attempting to pull off such a daring act. Truly, your skills as a master of deception are unmatched."
Edward and Max shared a laugh, momentarily forgetting their failed endeavor. However, as their attention refocused, Edward's eyes twinkled with mischief.
"Wait a minute," Edward exclaimed, pointing towards the two club members retreating with a pot of curry. "Do you see that, guys? They're heading back to their club room with the precious cargo."
A mischievous grin crept across Edward's face as a light bulb flickered to life in his mind. Gathering Carlo and Max close, he whispered, "I have an idea. I thought of a brilliant and foolproof plan."
☘
The two club members carrying the pot of curry went into the club room, a haven of enticing aromas and culinary activity. They put the pot of curry on a wooden table surrounded by many vegetables that were cut into bite sized pieces. The room was bustling with club members, their aprons stained with traces of their culinary creations. Shelves were adorned with an array of spices and ingredients, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Edward, Carlo, and Max, cunningly disguised in the club members' attire, ventured into the club room, their hearts pounding with anticipation. They approached the other club members, exclaiming in unison, "Your shift is over! We'll take it from here!"
The club members, caught off guard, exchanged bewildered glances but yielded to the unexpected turn of events. They bid their hasty retreat, leaving Edward, Carlo, and Max to revel in their victory.
With a mix of relief and excitement, the trio shed their disguises, revealing their true identities. Laughter erupted from their lips, filling the room with an infectious joy that couldn't be contained.
Edward's eyes twinkled mischievously as he surveyed the pot of curry, its tantalizing aroma wafting through the air. "Look at that heavenly pot of curry! It's hot, it's tasty, it's... calling our names!"
Carlo's stomach growled in agreement, and he couldn't help but join in the merriment. "I'm so glad I attended this university. Who knew it would lead to sneaking into a club room for curry?"
Max, ever the voice of reason, chimed in with a playful smirk. "Carlo, I'm pretty sure this has nothing to do with attending the university, but let's not dwell on technicalities."
Edward, the mastermind behind their culinary adventure, declared with a flourish, "Enough talk! Let's eat!"
Carlo's enthusiasm dampened slightly as he realized they didn't have any plates.
"But... I don't see any plates here."
Edward's eyes caught sight of a plastic bag nearby, and a mischievous grin spread across his face. "Fear not! Behold, a ceramic bowl!"
Carlo couldn't help but marvel at Edward's resourcefulness. "Edward, where did you even find that? Never mind, it's perfect!"
Edward, basking in the praise, flashed a proud smile. "Well, I do have moments of brilliance!"
Edward skillfully filled the bowl with the steaming curry, while Max reminisced, "You know, I feel like I've seen this bowl somewhere before..."
Carlo dismissed Max's remark, his hunger overpowering any further thought. "Forget about it, Max! Let's dig in!"
Edward's eyes sparkled as he firmly held his plastic spoon. He couldn't resist the aroma of the curry. "Let's savor this all-out legendary curry!"
Just as they were about to savor their first bite, the room was graced by the presence of a stunning young woman in a striking red dress. Her gaze carried an air of intensity and frustration, captivating the attention of the trio.
"Hey! You guys!"
Edward's voice quivered as he called out her name, "Evelyn Madison..."
Evie strutted in front of them, catching Max's attention as he peered into the ceramic bowl. His eyes widened as he noticed the name "Evelyn Madison" inscribed beneath it. A mischievous grin crossed his face as he realized the bowl might belong to Evie.
Without warning, Evie assumed a fierce fighting stance, causing Edward and Max to instinctively prepare for her roundhouse kick. They deftly evaded her attack, but poor Carlo wasn't so lucky. He found himself on the receiving end of Evie's powerful kick, leaving him stunned and stumbling for words.
"Ouch! That wasn't part of the plan," Carlo exclaimed, rubbing his sore side.
"Stop messing around, will you?" Evie scolded them, demanding that they stop their foolish antics.
Carlo couldn't help but retort, "Well, maybe that should be our line."
With a frustrated sigh, Evie confirmed that the ceramic bowl they were using indeed belonged to her. She snatched it away, pouring the precious curry back into the pot. The mixture of hot curry and ceramic created a truly unappetizing sight.
Disgusted, Evie lamented, "This ceramic bowl is my creation for the school art competition! And now it's covered in this... this mess!"
Edward, never one to shy away from expressing his opinions, boldly stated, "Speaking of creation, it's not for people to critique but for people to use. That's where the true value lies, right?"
Evie, annoyed by Edward's logic, swiftly covered his mouth with her hand, silencing his words. "I don't want to hear your philosophical musings, Edward!"
Edward flashed her a mischievous smile and replied, "Don't be mad, Evie. We're all great friends here. Let me just... plant some positive thoughts in your mind." He attempted to grab her arm, but Evie forcefully pushed him away with surprising strength.
Edward stumbled back, colliding with Max, who in turn bumped into Carlo. Carlo's head met the door with a soft thud, eliciting a pained exclamation. "Ow! That's the second time you've done that!"
Suddenly, a loud announcement blared through the campus speakers, catching the attention of the group. A voice, anonymous and authoritative calls out to someone, suddenly reporting about something.
"The person who left a cart on a hill and almost injured a teacher, third year architecture student Carlo D'Amico. Come to the Beaumont Laboratory immediately. If you don't come within 10 minutes, I will call the police! That's all!"
It was Professor Arthur's voice, and Carlo immediately felt a wave of nervousness wash over him. He believed he had done something awful to his professor, although he couldn't recall any such incident.
"Why is it my fault?" Carlo pleaded, desperately grasping Edward's arm.
Edward, with a dismissive shrug, replied, "You'll have to figure that out on your own, my friend." He held his shoulder dramatically, as if burdened by Carlo's supposed transgressions. Edward and Max merely exchanged glances and shrugged, ignoring his plea.
Just as Carlo felt a sense of desperation, Evie, seizing the opportunity for payback, shouted from the window, "Hey, everyone! There are three dangerous criminals who trespassed the club room and wanted to devour the legendary curry!"
Evie stared at the trio with a mischievous glint in her eye, relishing the chance to give them a taste of their own medicine. Panic washed over Edward, who couldn't resist blurting out, "You're such an idiot, Evie!"
The scene ended with the three friends sprinting out of the clubroom, their dreams of tasting the legendary all-out curry shattered. Defeated, they left the aroma of the legendary All-Out Curry untasted.
☘
Within the Beaumont Laboratory, Professor Arthur Beaumont, the father figure of the group, stood before Carlo, holding the broken pieces of his bicycle seat. His stern expression mixed with a tinge of annoyance as he accused Carlo of breaking his prized possession. The laboratory itself was a fascinating sight, filled with various scientific apparatus, colorful charts, and a chaotic yet organized mess of projects.
Arthur's voice was filled with disbelief as he asked Carlo, "Do you hate me so much that you would destroy my bicycle?"
Carlo, looking bewildered, quickly defended himself, denying any involvement in the bicycle mishap.
"Why would I destroy your bicycle?"
But Edward couldn't resist adding his own touch of mischief, chiming in with a mischievous grin, "You know, Arthur, studies have shown that it's scientifically challenging to listen to teachers sometimes. It's a biological thing, you see."
Arthur's frustration grew, and he forcefully placed the broken chair in front of Carlo, sitting down with a serious gaze fixed upon him.
"So you're that kind of guy, D'Amico?"
"No, he's lying. Don't believe him!"
Carlo, caught off guard, replied with a mix of confusion and indignation, urging Arthur not to believe Edward's accusations.
Carlo couldn't help but ask, "Why is it always my fault?" His expression showed a blend of exasperation and humor, as if he couldn't quite believe the absurdity of the situation. Meanwhile, Edward and Max continued their activities, seemingly oblivious to the brewing tension.
With a sudden determination, Arthur rose from his chair, and with a theatrical flourish, revealed a cloth covering a wall in the lab. On it, in the same handwriting as Carlo's, were the words "Carlo D'Amico" scrawled under the wagon.
"It's your handwriting so it must be you."
The evidence seemed to point to Carlo as the culprit. Carlo, ever quick-witted, retorted, "It must be a copycat! Look, the handwriting is exactly like Edward's and Max's." He pointed an accusing finger at his friends, who remained nonchalant, engrossed in their own tasks.
After passionately defending himself against Arthur's accusations, Carlo looked at the professor with pleading eyes.
"Professor Beaumont, please, you have to believe me," Carlo implored, hoping to find some trust in Arthur's gaze.
Meanwhile, Max, buried in his book, couldn't resist injecting a touch of humor into the tense situation.
"Well, if I were the esteemed teacher here," Max quipped with a mischievous grin, "I would expel Carlo without a second thought!"
Arthur, unable to resist the opportunity for a playful jab, joined in on the banter.
"Actually, Max, I must confess, I had already been considering it," Arthur chimed in with a chuckle, his eyes twinkling mischievously.
Carlo's heart sank as he heard Arthur's response. He couldn't help but fear that his fate was sealed.
"Wait, Professor, you can't be serious!" Carlo exclaimed, his voice filled with a mix of desperation and disbelief.
In that moment, Edward, ever the friend to bring levity to any situation, sprang up from his chair, calling out Carlo's name. With an exaggerated display of affection, he wrapped Carlo in an exaggeratedly tight embrace.
"Oh, Carlo, my dear friend," Edward declared dramatically, "even if you were expelled, we would still be best friends forever! Nothing could tear us apart!"
Carlo, caught off guard by Edward's over-the-top display, managed to push him away, shaking his head with a wry smile.
"Edward, you're being ridiculous," Carlo retorted, trying to regain his composure. "I highly doubt I'll be expelled."
Evie, always the calming presence, joined the conversation, holding a cup of coffee in her hand.
"I believe in you, Carlo," Evie said, her voice warm and reassuring. "You wouldn't intentionally harm anyone or anything."
Carlo's spirits lifted at Evie's vote of confidence. Grateful for her support, he expressed his gratitude.
"Thank you, Evie," Carlo said, a genuine smile spreading across his face. "Your belief in me means a lot."
However, Evie couldn't resist one final jab, her eyes sparkling mischievously.
"But Carlo," she added playfully, "I suppose you did indirectly attack Professor Arthur's bicycle."
Carlo's jaw dropped in mock horror as he realized that even Evie was joining in on the teasing. It seemed he was being accused by all of his friends, and their playful banter brought a mix of frustration and amusement.
"Come on, guys," Carlo protested, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Is this what friendship looks like?"
Max, always quick to add his two cents, couldn't help but chime in.
"Well, Carlo," Max interjected with a sly grin, "it seems like this is exactly what friendship looks like."
Carlo rolled his eyes, playfully dismissing their teasing. Their conversation came to an abrupt halt as a loud crash resonated from the other side of the laboratory. Startled, Arthur sprang to his feet, his concern evident on his face. Without hesitation, he rushed towards the source of the commotion, followed closely by the four students.
"Honeylyn!" Arthur's voice rang out, filled with concern.
As they turned the corner, they were greeted by a chaotic scene—a sea of spilled paint, with cans strewn about, and in the midst of it all, a young woman in a white outfit, her face and clothes covered in vibrant streaks of color.
Arthur quickly approached her, extending a helping hand. "Oh my goodness! Are you alright?"
Max couldn't contain his curiosity. "Who is she? And what on earth happened here?"
"She doesn't quite look like a college student, does she?" Evie, her eyebrows furrowed, observed the young woman.
Carlo's heart skipped a beat as he recognized her from the pond earlier. Although he didn't utter a word, a rush of familiarity washed over him, making his heart flutter with intrigue.
Max turned to Carlo, a mischievous grin on his face. "Do you know her, Carlo?"
Carlo quickly shook his head, denying any connection. "No, not at all."
This was the moment when Arthur stepped forward to introduce the young woman. "Everyone, allow me to introduce Honeylyn Beaumont.You can call her Honey. She will be joining us as a first-year student in the Oil Painting department."
The mention of her surname sparked curiosity among the four students, and one by one, they began guessing her relation to Arthur.
"Beaumont?" Carlo asks as if he's being intrigued by her surname.
Max, with a mischievous glint in his eyes, playfully remarked, "Professor, is Honeylyn related to you? I mean, with the same last name and all."
Edward couldn't resist joining in, "I bet she's your long-lost cousin."
To his surprise, Arthur played along, nodding. "You've got it, Edward. Honeylyn is indeed my distant cousin."
Carlo couldn't help but wonder how Edward had guessed correctly. "Wait, Edward, how did you know that?"
Edward shrugged with a sly grin. "I have a knack for these things, my dear friends. Call it a hidden talent."
Evie chimed in, rolling her eyes. "Oh, please, Edward. We all know your 'talent' lies more in mischief-making than guessing family connections."
Edward chuckled, teasingly. "Well, Evie, living solely for academic achievements won't bring you true happiness."
"Why you!"
Evie, feeling slightly irked, reached for the nearby red bucket, ready to hit him. Edward, catching on, swiftly moved behind Honeylyn, using her as a shield.
Arthur chuckled at the banter, then continued his introduction. "Honeylyn will be starting her first year in the Oil Painting department. It was her first time in this city. She's always lived in France. She's a bit shy and mostly keeps to herself, but she creates some truly fascinating artwork. Let's all make an effort to welcome her and support her artistic journey."
Despite her shyness, Arthur expressed confidence in her ability to create captivating artwork, urging everyone to extend their kindness and support. Everyone's taking a good impression from her.
Carlo, unable to tear his gaze away from Honeylyn, found himself lost in her presence. He couldn't explain the mysterious pull he felt, as if he had encountered her before, but his thoughts remained unspoken, locked within the confines of his mind.
Edward, unable to contain his curiosity, inspected Honeylyn closely and asked, "Do you understand English?"
Caught off guard by Edward's intense scrutiny, Honeylyn's discomfort was palpable. She nodded timidly, her eyes darting around the room.
Arthur couldn't resist a playful jab at Edward. "Well, Edward, it seems Honeylyn might just surpass you in the realm of artistry."
Max and Evie exchanged knowing glances, their excitement building. "Things are bound to get interesting with Honeylyn around."
As Edward stood there, his eyes widened in disbelief when he saw a plate that seemed like Honey ate a meal of the legendary all-out curry. Unable to contain his curiosity, he couldn't help but blurt out, "Wait, you actually ate it? What does it taste like?"
Before Honeylyn could respond, Evie swiftly kicked Edward in the hips, reprimanding him, "Stop fooling around, Edward! Can't you see she's being uncomfortable with you?" The force of Evie's kick sent Edward flying backward, causing him to crash right into a stack of paint buckets.
Sitting amidst the spilled paint, Edward scrambled to get back on his feet, his face now adorned with streaks of vibrant colors. He frantically wiped at the paint with his hands, only to find that it stubbornly spread across his face, creating a comical and mismatched pattern.
Edward introduced himself with a flourish, his voice filled with pride and confidence. "Allow me to present myself in all my glory," he proclaimed, his words dripping with theatrical flair. "I am Edward Hayes, hailing from the prestigious Sculpture Department. But don't be deceived by my youthful look. I am actually a seasoned 26-year-old!" He struck a pose, his chest puffed out with pride.
Max chimed in, his voice tinged with amusement. "This is his seventh year of college at this university. A record-breaking feat, I must say."
Edward shot Max a mischievous grin. "Ah, records are meant to be broken. I shall turn the seemingly impossible into a realm of possibilities."
Evie couldn't help but burst into laughter. "You're an absolute idiot, Edward," she remarked, her eyes sparkling with mirth.
Amidst the jovial banter, Arthur leaned in closer to Honey and whispered in her ear, "Don't worry. There is no one more eccentric and peculiar than Edward in this whole university."
Evie stepped forward, extending her hand with a warm smile. "Well, enough about Edward's antics. My name is Evelyn Madison, and I am from the renowned Pottery Department. You can call me 'Evie' for short. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Honey."
Max followed suit, introducing himself with a nod and a friendly smile. "Maximillian Dawson. Max for short. I'm from the Architecture Department. Welcome to the university."
As the introductions carried on, Carlo patiently waited for his turn to speak.
"I-"
"That's all!" Arthur interjected, declaring that the introductions had reached their conclusion.
Carlo's face registered a hint of disappointment. "Wait, but I haven't been introduced yet," he protested, slightly perplexed.
Edward couldn't resist adding a touch of sarcasm. "Oh, it's perfectly fine to skip Carlo. No worries, right?"
Carlo, however, was not about to let it slide. "No, no, it's not fine to skip me," he insisted, feeling a bit perplexed by the situation.
Meanwhile, Honey's gaze shifted towards Carlo, her steps slow and deliberate as she approached him. There was a gentle grace in her movement, and as she reached him, she extended her hand, offering him a small button. She didn't say a word, but her actions spoke volumes.
Carlo's eyes widened in recognition as he observed the button. His hand instinctively reached for his collar, and a realization washed over him. One of the buttons was missing. The button that had fallen into the pond earlier.
Silence settled over the group as they watched the interaction between Carlo and Honey, a hint of curiosity dancing in their eyes.
"Thank you."
Carlo, overwhelmed with gratitude, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. Honey responded with a warm smile, her eyes sparkling with kindness.
Max couldn't contain his curiosity any longer. "What's going on, Carlo?" he inquired, a playful grin tugging at the corners of his lips.
Carlo, his eyes still fixed on Honey, simply shrugged, keeping his answer a secret. It was a moment meant for him to cherish, a little secret shared between them.
Professor Arthur, seizing the opportunity, interjected with a decision. He called out to Carlo, his voice carrying a hint of authority. "Carlo, I have decided to forgive you, but under one condition. You must clean up the mess that Honey unintentionally created in the laboratory."
Carlo's eyes widened in surprise, a mix of relief and determination flooding his expression. He nodded, accepting the condition with a newfound sense of purpose.