Weeks passed quietly.
Not perfectly—but better.
Saint Elara Academy moved on, as schools always did. Whispers faded into ordinary chatter, and stares lost their sharpness. Section H wasn't the joke anymore. They were still loud, still imperfect—but now, they were seen.
And Mira?
She no longer tried to disappear.
The afternoon sun warmed the classroom as she packed her bag. Jade's laughter echoed behind her, arguing about something trivial again.
"Mira."
She looked up.
Lucas stood there, holding two drinks from the vending machine.
"You remembered," she said softly.
He handed one to her. "You always drink this."
They walked out together, side by side. No rush. No distance.
Near the stairwell, Lucas stopped.
"I don't want to observe anymore," he said quietly. "I want to be honest."
Mira's heart beat faster, but she didn't look away.
"I like you," Lucas continued. "Not because of how you look. Not because of rumors. I like you because you're kind, brave, and real—even when you're scared."
Mira felt her eyes sting.
"I like you too," she said. "You saw me when I didn't know how to stand yet."
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then Lucas stepped closer—slowly, giving her time to pull away.
She didn't.
He gently lifted a hand, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.
"Mira," he whispered.
She nodded.
And he leaned in.
The kiss was soft. Careful. Brief—but full of warmth.
Not rushed.
Not hidden.
Just real.
When they pulled back, Mira smiled—wide and unafraid.
From behind them, Jade's voice echoed down the hall.
"FINALLY! Took you two long enough!"
Mira laughed, cheeks warm, and Lucas smiled—truly smiled—for the first time.
Hand in hand, they walked back toward Section H.
This time, Mira didn't hide her smile.
Because behind it
was love, courage, and a future she wasn't afraid to face.