Crush on Ryu

After the various classes and introduction to the teachers, they could finally go for recess.

"I'm so famished now... my energy was drained from all those teaching" Arya lamented.

"Don't worry, we will head to the cafeteria now" Emelia said with a soft laughter, her plumpy cheeks bouncing a little as she did.

In the bustling heart of the Royal Academy, Arya and Emelia made their way to the grand cafeteria, a place where the aroma of delectable dishes mingled with the excited chatter of students. As they stepped inside, their eyes were immediately drawn to a large, ornate chart displayed prominently near the entrance.

The chart, titled "Culinary Hierarchy," outlined the cafeteria's unique serving system, where students were granted access to different food stations based on their academic rank. The higher the rank, the more exclusive and diverse the culinary options became.

Arya and Emelia who just started the school , held a low-level rank, which was granted them access to the "Classic Corner," which featured traditional comfort foods and daily specials.

Arya's mouth watered at the sight what was served there, but her mouth watered even more at the sight of the gourmet gallery which was for those in the mid-level rank. She couldn't wait to increase her rank at all.

As they navigated the cafeteria, they couldn't help but notice the subtle distinctions in the atmosphere of each section. The Gourmet Gallery buzzed with lively conversations and the clinking of elegant cutlery, while the Classic Corner exuded a cozy and relaxed ambiance.

"Wow" Arya awed at how the difference in rank was so obvious.

They found an empty table and sat down there.

Arya smiled at the aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces filled the air. She opted for the comforting shepherd's pie, a hearty dish of seasoned ground lamb topped with a fluffy blanket of mashed potatoes, baked to a golden brown. It was served with a side of buttered peas and carrots. For dessert, she couldn't resist the warm apple crumble, its cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a buttery oat crumble and a scoop of vanilla ice cream that slowly melted into the warm dessert.She took a bite of the mashed potatoes and looked at Emelia's tray, which most of her food was vegetables.

" You are trying you know, I can't stand eating grass that much"

Emelia laughed softly again, " well this grass is edible " she said

" And I don't have a choice anyways, my mom made me eat this, she's keeping me on a diet " A hint of saddness lingering in her eyes but it disappeared as quickly as it came.

" I don't see anything wrong with you, you are beautiful and perfect the way you are " Arya smiled

"Thank you " she smiled sincerely, looking at Arya who was enjoying her food.

This was the first time someone didn't judge her for her size and looks and she was really happy.

A hush fell over the Royal Academy cafeteria as Prince Ryu entered, his presence immediately commanding attention. He wasn't alone; Daven and Xavier trailed slightly behind with a nonchalant expression. The trios drew every eye. They moved with an easy grace, their tailored uniform impeccably crisp, an air of quiet confidence radiating from them. Ryu scanned the room, his gaze lingering momentarily on the various tables, before settling directly on Arya's.

A ripple of whispers went through the cafeteria. "The Prince… is he going over there?"

"To her table?"

"But she's just a…" The murmurs trailed off, replaced by a mixture of curiosity and speculation.

Arya, now engrossed in conversation with Emelia, initially didn't notice the sudden shift in atmosphere.

Ryu, however, made a beeline for their table. He didn't stride, but rather approached with a polite and almost casual air, though his purposeful steps left no doubt about his destination. As he neared, the chatter intensified, some students craning their necks for a better view, others whispering behind their hands. Emelia, sensing the change, nudged Arya and gestured subtly towards the approaching prince. Arya turned, her eyes widening slightly as she saw Ryu standing before them, a friendly smile playing on his lips.

"Ryu! What are you doing here? " Arya said surprised, he wasn't anywhere near her rank if she remembered correctly.

" Already missed you " he smirked, taking a sit beside her and his friends followed suite.

Soon a young boy brought their trays of food and went back quietly, now the chatter has died down but glances was still thrown their way.

" Hi beautiful" Xavier sent his signature smile towards Emelia who was all red by now.

" I- I - I'm fine, thank you " She stuttered not raising her head up as she speak.

" Wait to go on making me the centre of attraction Ryu " Arya said now eating her dessert.

" Here, you should eat more " he said ignoring her statement and placing a chicken wing on her tray, his friends copy his actions and she thanked them delighted.

Emelia, watched the scene displayed in front of her, a smile on her face and also a pang of jealousy in her heart. How did Arya come to know these three, not any regular boys but the Aces. Her face was still all red from blushing and she couldn't continue eating just watched. She had a lot to ask Arya, how come she knew them ?, most especially Crown Prince Ryu, She had had a crush on him,since the first time she saw him in her coming of age ceremony. It was love at first sight. Emelia noticed that there was nothing romantic going on between them and decided to use Arya to get to Ryu.