The next period was PE.
The track field echoed with footsteps and labored breathing as students completed their laps. Sweat clung to Benjamin's temples as he slowed near the water station, reaching for a bottle.
Ava appeared again.
She leaned against the railing, pretending to stretch. "You know," she said lightly, "most people would kill to be close to the future Duke."
Benjamin froze.
So that was it.
His grip tightened around the bottle, disgust curling low in his chest. He took a step back instinctively, putting space between them.
"I'm not interested," he repeated, sharper now.
"But you'll need someone eventually," she pressed. "A duchess—"
That did it.
Benjamin straightened fully, shoulders squared, posture rigid with authority despite his age. His eyes met hers directly, unblinking.
"I am betrothed," he said flatly. "To the Third Prince of Auratisia. Arron."
The name carried weight. His voice did not rise—but it did not waver either.
"I suggest you stop."
The message was unmistakable.
Ava stiffened, said nothing, and walked away.
Benjamin left the field immediately after.
The academy gardens were quiet this time of day, sunlight filtering through tall arches and flowering hedges. He walked until the scent of lavender reached him—soft, grounding, familiar.
He sank down among the plants, laying back slowly, eyes closing.
Lavender… and taiga forest.
Arron.
His heartbeat began to steady, the tension easing from his chest. This was the only place he allowed himself to breathe freely. To feel without being seen.
I don't like people, he admitted silently. I don't want them near me.
But Arron was different. Arron felt… safe.
A soft chime sounded.
Benjamin opened his eyes and checked his communicator.
Spring Trip Notification — Zandora Academy & Royal Academy (Joint Schedule)
His breath caught.
He sat up abruptly, lavender petals falling from his uniform. His heart began to race, warmth spreading to his ears before he could stop it.
I'll see him.
The realization hit harder than expected. Excitement. Nervousness. Something tender and frightening all at once.
Benjamin pressed the communicator to his chest and looked up at the sky.
"So this is what it is," he murmured quietly.
Emotions he had been avoiding—denying—were finally catching up to him.
And this time… he didn't push them away.