As they stepped out of the canteen, Eve found herself holding Victor's hand, their fingers intertwined in a new and comforting way.
She glanced up at him, the warmth from their earlier exchange still lingering between them. Despite Raphael's teasing, Victor seemed calm, his usual composed self, though there was something softer in his eyes whenever he looked at her.
The group walked down the hallway toward their respective classrooms. Raphael, ever the prankster, threw occasional glances their way, but his teasing had simmered down for now.
Emily walked beside Eve, smiling widely as she nudged her playfully with her elbow. "So... this is really happening, huh?"
Eve chuckled, her nerves finally starting to settle. "Yeah, I guess it is."
"I knew something was up between you two," Emily said in a sing-song voice, clearly excited for her friend. "But seeing it all come together... I'm so happy for you."