CHAPTER 17

### Fiona's POV

I followed Adrian, watching him closely as he left the field. My timing had to be perfect.

When he was alone, I called out to him.

"Adrian."

He turned, curiosity flickering in his eyes.

Good.

I didn't waste time. "Let's be friends."

His expression shifted. "Why? Are we close enough to be friends?"

I kept my face neutral. "Must we be close to be friends?"

He was quiet for a moment, studying me. I held my breath. If he refused, I'd have to rethink my entire approach—

"Okay. Let's be friends."

…Wait.

That's it? Just like that?!

I blinked at him, struggling to mask my surprise.

"We… ehm, you agreed?"

He didn't even bother responding. Instead, he turned and started walking.

Step one: Get close to Adrian? Done.

Now for step two… Be shameless.

Emboldened by his easy acceptance, I casually threw an arm around his shoulders as we walked.

Is this how guys interact?

If Adrian was surprised, he didn't show it.

The moment we stepped into the classroom, I felt the weight of multiple stares on us. I ignored them. My focus was on the mission.

Unfortunately, someone else had different plans.

"Well, well, well," a voice drawled.

I turned to see one of Adrian's teammates smirking at us.

"Adrian, aren't you going to introduce us to your new friend?"

"Why would I?" Adrian deadpanned, not even bothering to look at him.

But I felt his gaze on me.

The other guy—James, if I remembered correctly—chuckled. "I'm James. The idiots next to me are Luke and Josh."

"What's your name?"

"Jace," I said flatly.

I wasn't here to make friends with them.

James's smirk faltered slightly, but before he could push further, Josh cut in. "Let's take our seats."

Finally.

I sat down beside Adrian, relieved to finally get a moment of peace—

Until I felt that gaze on me.

Florida.

Her eyes burned with unspoken threats, but I just raised an eyebrow, daring her to do something.

Her face flushed red with anger.

My satisfaction was short-lived.

"What are you doing?"

A deep voice interrupted my silent victory.

I jumped slightly. Adrian was watching me with a bored expression.

"N-Nothing," I muttered, shifting in my seat.

For the first time in a while, I felt… free. Able to act without worrying about my mother's strict expectations.

It felt—

Childish.

I shook off the thought as the teacher began speaking.

"Students, there will be a camping activity next Monday."

A collective groan rippled through the class.

"It's compulsory," the teacher added, making the complaints even louder.

I turned to Adrian.

"Are you going to the camp activity?"

He gave me a dry look. "As you just heard, it's compulsory."

I scowled. Dumb question.

I was about to ask something else when—

Pinch.