The Arrogant Prince Who Stole My Heart

As a scholarship student at École Royale, I, Aurélie, prioritize academic success over social validation. Unfazed by the elite surroundings, my sole focus is graduating with distinction. While rich kids clamor for attention, I'm content flying under the radar. My goal? Graduate with honors, zero drama. While others may view my circumstances as challenging, I consider myself fortunate. As a scholarship student at École Royale, I've avoided bullying, unlike many peers. I guess my low profile contrasts sharply with Helia Laurent's captivating presence. Her intellect and beauty make her a compelling rival. She's the ultimate competitor for valedictorian – motivation personified. Helia Laurent embodies privilege, princess of the illustrious Laurent dynasty. Their wealth is staggering, with luxury brands and haute couture at their fingertips. While her status is coveted, I cherish my humble life and family, eschewing opulence for authenticity. Well, I can't imagine myself living as a rich brat. “Ms. Dumont? What brought you here?” Mrs. Windham, our English professor, asked. “I forgot to give you this, ma'am. Mr. Moreau asked me to deliver the files. He is raging mad.” I winked at her as small chuckles were formed on her lips. “That old man is all worked up, huh? Who angered him?” A subtle smile appeared. “Apparently, the ice hockey team stole the answer key for the Philosophy test. Mr. Moreau saw it on CCTV. He immediately called their parents out.” I elaborated the story to her. “I'll be going now, ma'am. I still have to give them these forms.” I waved her a goodbye as she gestured a wave at me. As the lunch hour drew to a close, I hastened to the ice rink, I was entrusted by Mr. Moreau to kindly deliver the suspension notices to the ice hockey team. Despite my reluctance, I recognized the importance of complying, given Mr. Moreau's potential influence on my future recommendations. Upon entering, I spotted Henri Laurent, whose beaming smile belied his impending suspension. I approached him but he was so adamant to engage in a conversation with me. He was deliberately ignoring me. “Ehem. Mr. Moreau asked me to give you and your teammates this. Ciao!” He blankly stared at me, eyes wandering around. “Yo, Henri! Is that your new chick?” A tall guy tapped Henri’s back as he proceeded to remove his headgear. “Wait, isn't that Moreau's dog? What's her name again? Aurora? Auriel? Hey, what's your name?” I forced a smile as I tried to keep my composure. “It's not your concern, Sir. This is the form, kindly give this notice to your parents, please.” Fortunately, he promptly accepted the suspension notice, although he dramatically ripped it apart, eliciting laughter from the other team members. I left a bitter chuckle. “I'll print another one and I'll come back.” After a moment of relief, I realized my diary was missing. Following a futile search in the head's office and inquiry with Mrs. Windham, I recalled it might be at the ice rink. Damn, I'll be meeting those shitty assholes again. How dumb can you be, Aurélie? Unfortunately, my return coincided with an inopportune moment. I recognized the two individuals as acquaintances and fellow scholars. However, I was perplexed to see one aggressively assaulting the other. The ice hockey team's enthusiasm for the altercation further surprised me. Upon closer observation, I noticed a syringe nearby, suggesting illicit substance use. Goodness gracious, how did they attain LSD? It's literally banned here! I guess, connections. Now, I need to leave, as discreetly as possible. As I turned to leave, Henri grasped my hand, his grip firm. The ice hockey team's gaze shifted toward me. "Hand over the syringe," he demanded. Realizing his intention, I tried to break free, but his hold was unyielding.