[Samael Ashwood's POV]
"Honestly, I fully expected you to reject the offer to join my team." Seraphina blinked in surprise, her expression softening with a hint of curiosity. "Reject it? Why would you think that?" she asked, her tone genuinely puzzled.
I looked up, meeting her eyes with a small, thoughtful smile. "Well, given our rocky start, I figured you might not be too keen on teaming up with someone who once saw you as a rival." I paused for a moment, gauging her reaction. "Plus, you're one of the academy's top talents. You could easily join any team you wanted."
Seraphina let out a light laugh, shaking her head. "You underestimate yourself, Samael. Sure, we had a tense beginning, but you've proven time and again that you're someone I can rely on." She took a sip of her coffee, her eyes never leaving mine. "And honestly, I'd rather be on a team where I know I'm truly valued, not just for my abilities but also as a person."
