Location: Avalon Elite Academy – Courtyard Patio, After Lunch
The sun dipped just slightly, casting golden rays across the courtyard. Students scattered in groups—some huddled in curiosity, others whispering in awe.
But the most watched group?
The table where Grayson Lysander lounged effortlessly.
Still the same smooth smirk.
Still surrounded by Avalon's elite.
And still acting like he didn't own the room—while clearly owning the room.
Scene: Introductions (for Show)
Arielle extended her hand across the table, voice playful but sharp.
"Arielle Vale. Theater, fashion, and—according to school rumors—intimidating."
Grayson (taking her hand slowly):
"Ah. Dangerous, beautiful, and dramatic? You might be my next obsession."
Arielle (laughing, to the group): "And modest, too."
Elina sipped her drink.
"Elina Vale. I keep the chaos from getting too chaotic."
Grayson (leaning in):
"I get the feeling you could break hearts and necks. I respect that."
Caelan, watching from across the table, subtly raised a brow.
"Is that… how he talked to Mom back then?"
Nova tilted her head, her voice velvet-smooth.
"Nova. I study medicine, history, and war."
Grayson: "So you're the quiet killer."
Beat.
"You're definitely my favorite now."
Nova smiled. Soft. Dangerous.
And Azra almost dropped her drink.
"That's definitely how he met Mom," she whispered.
Rico and Zeke played along like pros.
Rico (grinning): "Rico. I punch things. Also charming."
Zeke: "Zeke. I stab things. Less charming."
Grayson (nodding): "Balance is key."
Scene: The Kids Process Quietly
Liora leaned toward Azra.
"He's really going all in."
Azra: "I'm starting to think this is just how he operated."
Caelan (dryly): "And now we know why they fell for him."
Scene: Friendly Tension Builds
Across the courtyard, more students watched.
More whispers.
"He's flirting with all of them…"
"And they're letting him?"
"Is he even human?"
No one had answers.
And Grayson?
He was already helping Arielle open her water bottle—smiling like they'd known each other forever.
Final Scene: Alone for a Moment
Later, as the group dispersed for class, Grayson paused by a hallway window.
Nova walked up beside him.
"Enjoying yourself?"
Grayson (smirking): "It's been years since I got to flirt with my wives in public."
Nova (softly): "You haven't lost your touch."
Grayson: "Didn't plan to."
And with that, he walked off—coat fluttering behind him, swagger intact.