--
"A-Aphrodite?"
The intimidating look on Chad's face instantly melted into a wide, playful grin.
He moved to pull Chastine into a hug, but she quickly dodged and grabbed him by the cheek, holding him in place to stop him from getting any closer.
"I-I miss y—urgh—"
"Get off me, you jerk." she snapped, shoving him away with a scowl.
Chad's grin didn't fade. in fact, it grew even wider. He looked like an overly excited child finally reuniting with a long-lost playmate. His eyes practically sparkled with delight.
"Hehe, I missed you, Aphrodite. Did you miss me too?" he teased, pouting dramatically.
Chad's group, on the other hand, froze. They were utterly dumbfounded by the scene unfolding before them.
This playful, childish version of Chad was a contrast to the stern and intimidating figure they had just witnessed moments ago. It was as if his entire demeanor had transformed in the presence of the girl before him.
