The Golden Crush for Midnight (8)

Finally, after an endless amount of time, the bell echoed through the classroom, announcing that it was the awaited lunchtime. The entire class rose from their seats and quickly left the classroom. Starfania was determined to leave Professor Shadow's class and swiftly dashed out the door. Gasping for breath, Aeron finally caught up with her and exclaimed, " You were certainly in a hurry! "Without turning her head, she couldn't help but chuckle as she responded, " Yeah I suppose I was. "Soothingly he proposed, " Are you ready to indulge in this delicious meal and forget this horrendous show? "She enthusiastically nodded, fully convinced about this plan." Sounds perfect, " she said, heading towards the cafeteria. The bustling cafeteria was filled with students and chattering and laughing, their voices making this place lively. Aeron and Starfania grabbed their trays and selected their meals, as they found a quiet corner to settle down and eat. As they dug into their food, Aeron looked at Starfania with concern. " You seemed distracted in class. Is everything okay? "Starfania sighed, feeling the weight of the morning's events. " It's just been an eventful morning already. It's overwhelming between the confrontation with Becka and .... Well everything else. "Aeron reached across the table and gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. " You know I'm here for you, right? No matter what happens with Daniel or anyone else, I'll always be by your side. "Starfania smiled, grateful for Aeron's unwavering support. " I know, Aeron. Thank you. I don't know what I do without you. "They continued eating, their conversation shifting to lighter topics, sharing stories and jokes that helped lift the heavy mood. For a moment, every problem seemed to disappear, as it was now being replaced by a cherished friendship. After chatting for a while Starfania told Aeron she was gonna buy a cookie from the lunchlady. She asked if Aeron wanted something but he politely declined as she made her way. Once she got her cookies she made her way back to Aeron she didn't plan for destiny to have a different path for her. Suddenly, her foot became ensnared in a seemingly harmless discarded banana peel. She found herself hurling towards the merciless ground, with gravity seizing control, leaving her no time to grasp the reality of the situation. Fear engulfed her as she braced for an incoming impact against the surface. Soon two powerful hands appeared and firmly wrapped around her waist, creating a moment that resembled a scene from a romantic movie. Just like a guardian angel, her savior effortlessly lifted her back up, saving her from the humiliation and agony of a potential fall. As she turned around, filled with gratitude, a delightful surprise awaited her: it was none other than Daniel, standing right in front of her. With a warm smile, Daniel asked, " Are you alright? "Starfania's heart raced as she met his gaze, her cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and elation." Yes, thank you. That was quite the save, " she replied, trying to steady her voice. Daniel chuckled softly. " Glad I could help. You should watch out for those sneaky banana peels though, " he said playfully. Aeron, who had witnessed the entire incident approached with a mix of relief and slight apprehension." Now that was a close call, " he remarked, his eyes flickering between Starfania and Daniel." Yeah, thanks to Daniel, " Starfania acknowledged, her smile lingering as she looked at him. Daniel nodded, his blue eyes twinkling with a friendly warmth." I was more than happy to help her. It was no trouble at all, " Daniel replied his unwavering smile still in place. As our small group started to adjust to the aftermath of the event, Becka suddenly stormed towards us, grabbing Daniel's arm with a dramatic gesture." Oh my goodness, what on earth happened, Danny Pooz? Are you alright? Did she harm you? " she exclaimed theatrically. Becka's deep worry about Daniel's safety was evident as she examined him for any injuries. With a gentle touch, she moved her arms away from his, her face instantly relaxed when she saw he had no injuries. Daniel wore a smile as he comforted her, saying, " Don't worry, I'm perfectly fine. I was simply helping Starfania before she tumbled to the ground. "However, the atmosphere suddenly changed as Becka turned her gaze towards Starfania, her eyes filled with disgust." Why are you always so clumsy? " she asked, her voice dripping with revulsion. Starfania couldn't help but roll her eyes and mutter, " I don't do it intentionally, you know? "Daniel nodded, his blue eyes twinkling with friendly warmth. " It was just an accident, Becka. Let's not make a big deal out of it. "Becka huffed but seemed to relent slightly, still casting a disapproving glance at Starfania." Fine, but you should be more careful. I guess, " she said, her tone less harsh but still pointed. Aeron stepped in, his protective nature evident." How about we just move on with the rest of our day? Sounds like a plan to me, " he suggested, trying to defuse the lingering tension. Starfania nodded in agreement, grateful for Aeron's support. She felt a mix of different emotions. Daniel's kindness had caught her off-guard, and Becka's jealousy was more intense than ever. Then she quickly averted her gaze, pretending not to hear what Aeron said, and refocused her attention on Daniel. She playfully called him by a nickname, " Danny Poo, " and asked if he was still coming. Daniel reassured her, saying, " I will arrive in a short while. Just remain patient and wait for my arrival. "Becka responded dutifully, " Sure thing, Dany Poo, I'll be waiting for you with our friends, " punctuating her message with a sweet kiss on Daniel's cheek. The gesture made Starfania's stomach churned.