"No reason," I shrugged. "I just thought it was an accessory."
She laughed. "Well, even though this ring isn't very expensive, it represents a bond with someone special. It's a symbol of love and commitment."
She gazed at me intently, her eyes reflecting the dim light filtering through the cafeteria windows. "Also, I heard a rumor that you got into a fight with some seniors?" she asked, her voice a mix of curiosity and concern. "What happened?"
"Me? Oh, that's nothing, They pulled my hair out of nowhere, and I just defended myself. It turned into a bit of a scuffle."
She reached out and gently stroked my long hair. "You have such beautiful hair, How long has it been since you cut it?"
"Two years, maybe, i've lost track," I replied, shrugging.
"Hmm... I'm still surprised the headmaster allows you to keep it long, It's against school rules, isn't it?"
"Yeah, I don't know why either," I admitted.
"When I first saw you, I actually thought you were a girl."
"Heh, that's why they call me 'pretty boy,' I guess," I chuckled, a familiar twinge of self-consciousness creeping in.
Mrs. Nay chuckled, her hand still gently stroking my hair. "Well, you certainly are a handsome young man, but don't let it get to your head, okay?" she said, her voice soft and warm
I smiled, a warmth spreading through my chest. It was nice to have someone who genuinely cared about me, who saw me as more than just a student or a potential troublemaker.
Kringg! the school bell rang, signaling the end of the break. Mrs. Nay sighed and stood up, brushing off her skirt.
"Well, duty calls, I have to go check on the other students. But it was nice chatting with you, Xian."
"Me too, Mrs. Nay.Thank you for listening," I replied, standing up and bowing my head respectfully.
She patted my shoulder gently. "Anytime, dear, and remember, stay out of trouble."
I watched her walk away, her small figure disappearing into the bustling hallway. I was left with a feeling of warmth and gratitude, a reminder that even amidst the chaos and uncertainty, there were still people who cared, who saw the good in others.
I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the rest of the day.
Let's see what I should do next... Ah, I should ask Dove about the driver's license.
I opened my phone and sent a message to Dove.
[Me: Dove, can you help me get a driver's license?]
I waited for her reply, but it didn't come immediately. It was still early... maybe I should skip school and go straight to the gym?
A rebellious thought sparked in my mind.
Yes, let's skip school.
With a mischievous grin, I stood up and headed towards the school entrance, my footsteps echoing in the empty hallway.
At the school gate, I spotted the security guard eyeing me suspiciously.
I pulled out my wallet, preparing to bribe my way out.
"Hmm? Xian, where are you going again?" he asked, his voice laced with a hint of annoyance.
I flashed a 20,000 in front of him. "Just be quiet," I said with a wink.
He hesitated for a moment, then snatched the money from my hand.
"Okay, okay..." he mumbled, averting his gaze as I slipped past him.
I stepped out onto the bustling city streets, a newfound sense of freedom washing over me. The weight of school and its mundane routine felt distant, replaced by the exhilarating prospect of exploring my newfound powers and unraveling the mysteries of my family's past.
As I walked, I pulled out my phone and opened the map app, my thumb hovering over the gym's location. But then I hesitated, a different idea taking root in my mind.
Should I really go straight to the gym? Or maybe... maybe I should go to a cafe and wait for Dove's reply.
I opened Univerese Maps and searched for nearby cafes. A cozy-looking establishment with good reviews caught my eye.
With a new destination in mind, I followed the map's directions.
A few minutes later, I arrived at the cafe, its warm glow spilling out onto the sidewalk. I stepped inside, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling my senses.
I approached the counter, where a young barista with a friendly smile greeted me. "Welcome! What can I get for you today?"
"Um, one regular coffee, please," I replied, my eyes scanning the menu board.
"Alright, one regular coffee," the barista confirmed, grabbing a cup and a marker. "What name should I put on it?"
"Xian," I said.
"Xian it is," the barista replied with a smile. "Just a minute, okay?"
I nodded and found a seat by the window, anticipation bubbling within me. I couldn't wait to hear back from Dove and learn more about the next steps in my training.
I pulled out my phone, checking Dove's chat for a reply. Nothing yet.
She must be busy, I thought, a pang of disappointment hitting me.
I closed my phone and glanced around the cafe. It was filled with a mix of students and young professionals, most of them dressed in casual attire. I was the only one still wearing my school uniform.
I must look out of place, I thought self-consciously, tugging at the collar of my shirt.
Ting! My phone vibrated, a notification from Dove flashing across the screen.
[Dove: Huh? Yeah, I guess. Why?]
I smiled at her response.
[Me: Where are you right now?]
[Dove: At my house.]
[Me: I thought you were at the office.]
[Dove: I'm still getting ready. What's up?]
[Me: Can I get my driver's license today?]
[Dove: I suppose so. Where are you now?]
[Me: At a cafe.]
[Dove: Send me your location.]
[Me: Sending location.]
[Dove: I'll be there in a few minutes.]
I grinned, satisfied with her quick response. But then another message popped up.
[Dove: Wait, aren't you supposed to be at school?]
[Me: I'm bored. Come rescue me.]
[Dove: Haha, such a troublemaker. Okay, I'm on my way.]
I leaned back in my chair, a sense of anticipation building within me.
At least I'm getting out of here, Once I have my driver's license, I can go straight to Lenna's house and talk to Hana.
"Xian!" the barista called out, interrupting my thoughts.
I stood up and made my way to the counter to collect my coffee.
< Chapter 038 > Fin.