clarias
Later that day, as Clarias walks through the hallway, Grace and Rosalie spot her. They quickly close in, their expressions full of malice.
Grace
Look who it is. Did the witch run out of spells?
Rosalie steps forward, blocking Clarias's path.
Rosalie
*Mockingly* Maybe we should teach her a lesson she won’t forget.
Clarias braces herself for the worst, but before they can act, Asher appears, stepping between them and Clarias. His presence is calm but firm.
Asher
Leave her alone. This isn’t funny, and it’s not okay.
Grace and Rosalie exchange surprised glances. They hadn’t expected anyone to stand up to them.
Grace
And who are you to tell us what to do?
Asher
I’m someone who cares about Clarias. And I won’t let you hurt her anymore.
Rosalie rolls her eyes, but there’s a hint of uncertainty in her expression.
Rosalie
Oh, look, Clarias has a protector now. How sweet.
Asher doesn’t flinch, his gaze steady and unwavering.
Asher
Just go. Find something better to do with your time.
Grace huffs and reluctantly backs off, dragging Rosalie with her. They retreat down the hallway, casting one last glare over their shoulders.
Asher turns to Clarias, his eyes softening.
Clarias looks at him, overwhelmed by the kindness he’s shown. No one has ever defended her like this before. Her heart swells with gratitude and something deeper
clarias
*Voice trembling with emotion* Thank you, Asher. I... I don’t know what I’d do without you.
Asher smiles, his expression full of warmth.
Asher
You don’t have to thank me. You deserve to be treated with respect.
Clarias feels a blush rising in her cheeks. She realizes that her feelings for Asher are growing stronger with each passing moment. His bravery, his kindness, and his willingness to stand by her side have touched her deeply.As they walk together down the hallway, Clarias can’t help but feel that her heart is no longer her own. She’s falling for Asher, and for the first time, she dares to hope that love and friendship might be possible, even in the darkest of times.
Clarias and Asher often meet on the rooftop during lunch, finding a quiet haven away from the chaos below. One sunny afternoon, Asher surprises Clarias with a small picnic.
Asher
*Smiling as he lays out a blanket* I thought we could have lunch together up here. It’s a lot nicer than the cafeteria, don’t you think?
Clarias looks at the spread of sandwiches, fruit, and cookies, her eyes lighting up with delight.
clarias
This is amazing, Asher. You didn’t have to do this.
Asher
*Shrugging modestly* I wanted to. Besides, I figured we could both use a little break.
They sit down together, the gentle breeze rustling their hair. As they eat, they share stories and laugh, their worries momentarily forgotten. Asher watches Clarias with a soft smile, happy to see her relaxed and smiling.
Asher
You know, you have a really cute laugh. *smiles*
Clarias blushes, a shy smile spreading across her face.
clarias
Thank you. I don’t get to laugh much, but... you make it easy.
Their hands accidentally brush as they reach for the same cookie, and they both laugh, a warm, shared moment that lingers between them.
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