Bound By Rivalry

Episode 1: The Boy Named Kael "Isn't she just so perfect?" "I know, right!" "You can never catch her being imperfect!" As I walked down the hallway, I could hear their whispers. Those compliments were the sweetest sound to start my day. The cold breeze chilled me as I strolled down the hallway, a stark reminder of the reality I'd chosen. I didn't regret my path, even if it meant being perceived as competitive. Why should their opinions matter? Why should they judge me based on limited knowledge? Their judgments didn't phase me. In fact, my selfishness had propelled me to the top of the school. I was content with who I was. Until a transferee appeared in my peaceful haven. "Oh, Elara! There you are. I was just about to introduce you to our new transfer student. Could you help him familiarize himself with the campus?" "Of course, Teacher. I'd be happy to help," I replied with a closed-eye smile. "Thank you so much, Ela. He should be arriving soon. You can wait for him in the waiting shed. That way, he won't get lost on campus." "I understand. Don't worry, Teacher. I'll take good care of him," I assured her. "Oh, Ela! You're not only smart but also incredibly kind. That's why I adore you so much!" She paused, a look of shock crossing her face, before breaking into a wide smile. "Oh, please, Teacher. You're flattering me. It's really no trouble at all," I modestly replied. I glanced at Teacher Clare as she continued to gaze at me adoringly. "Uh, Teacher—" The bell rang, interrupting our conversation. "Oh, that must be the bell. Break time is over. What was it you wanted to ask, Ela?" "It's nothing important, Teacher. You can go to your next class. Don't worry about me." "Alright, don't worry. Your next class knows you're here. You're excused," she said, waving goodbye as she walked away. It was unfortunate that the bell rang just as I was about to ask her a question about the transfer student. Regardless, it wasn't crucial, so I continued walking to the waiting shed. Upon arriving, I saw the car that had just pulled up. "That must be the new transfer student," I muttered to myself, unaware that he would soon disrupt my peaceful existence. I stood up to greet him, offering a beautiful smile. "Hi! You must be the new transfer student! Welcome to La Lerana High School! I assume you're a bit lost, so I'm here to guide you around campus." I knew he'd be impressed by my introduction. "I don't think I need much of an introduction. However, I appreciate your eagerness to help," he replied with a smirk, extending his hand for a handshake. His attitude somewhat annoyed me. I still forced a smile and shook his hand. I proceeded to show him around the school, and he remained mostly quiet. I didn't mind, as it made the tour quicker. "If you have any questions, feel free to ask," I offered. "I appreciate you taking the time to show me around," he said with a genuine smile. It was the first time I'd seen him smile so genuinely. His captivating blue eyes were quite alluring. "Oh, it was my pleasure," I replied, snapping out of my trance. I realized I hadn't asked his name. Before I could, he spoke. "My name is Kael Smith. I apologize for the abrupt introduction earlier." "Ah, Kael. Nice to meet you," I replied, surprised that I was just about to ask the same. "Well, I think that's it for now, Kael. Feel free to ask if you need anything else." "Alright, goodbye, Elara," he said, waving as I walked away. "Kael, huh? A handsome name for a handsome guy," I murmured to myself. — End of Episode 1 —