The Rival's Game

The air in Imperium Academy was thick with anticipation and the usual hum of ambitious students. For Avril Hechanova, it was just another day to prove she belonged at the top.

She walked through the bustling hallways, the weight of expectations a familiar pressure on her shoulders. But then she saw him.

Leaning against the lockers, looking like he hadn’t a care in the world, was Soren Castillo, her academic nemesis. He met her gaze with that infuriating, lazy smirk.

“Good morning, Hechanova,” he drawled, his voice dripping with amusement. “You look—exhausted.”

Before you could retort, your best friend, Elena, squeezed your arm, a silent reminder to breathe. You clenched your jaw. This year was going to be a challenge, and Soren Castillo was already making it worse.