Chapter 1397

Chapter 1397:

She glanced down at the pages of her comic book.

The protagonist—her favorite character—stood tall, unwavering, always at the center of attention. No matter the odds, she never faded into the background.

Lilyana ran her fingers over the printed image, determination building in her heart.

“I’ve made up my mind! This year, I’m going to focus even more on sharpening my skills. I won’t let Calan steal my spotlight again!” With newfound resolve, she set the comic book aside, washed up, and went to bed.

The next morning, Lilyana walked into class with sharp focus, her mind set. She listened attentively, engaged in every discussion, and tackled every question with precision.

After class, Lilyana made sure to shine, handling activities with poise and chatting effortlessly with the student council members. Everyone around her enjoyed her company.

Meanwhile, the transfer student, Calan, remained at his desk, dressed sharply in his custom-fitted school uniform, writing with deliberate focus. He kept to himself, even after class.

Yet, despite his aloof demeanor, students passing by couldn’t help but be drawn to him. Their gazes lingered, a mix of admiration and curiosity flickering in their eyes.

Lilyana couldn’t wrap her head around it. How could someone like Calan exist—someone who mastered the art of crafting an image even better than she did? It was almost infuriating!

“Lilyana, didn’t you say you were going to the library to return a book? Let’s go together.”

Snapping out of her thoughts, Lilyana quickly composed herself and responded with a polite smile. “Sure, let’s go.”

The two of them rose from their seats, books in hand, ready to leave. Just as Lilyana passed by Calan’s desk, a pen suddenly tumbled to the floor.

Without thinking, she bent down to pick it up—only to realize another hand had reached for it at the same time. That hand hesitated, withdrawing slightly when its owner saw that she had already grabbed the pen.

Lilyana straightened up and handed the pen over.

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Calan took it, his voice calm and measured as he said, “Thank you.” Two words. Simple, steady, yet oddly captivating.

Lilyana felt an inexplicable sensation stir within her. Had she really just helped her only rival?

She quickly shook it off, offering a casual wave. “No problem.” With that, she followed her classmate out of the classroom, heading toward the library.

Lilyana figured that would be her only interaction with Calan—at least until exam results came out and they could finally see who reigned supreme.

But the next day, her younger brother, Collier, came running toward her, beaming with excitement.

“Lilyana, I made a new friend! He helped me out, and I helped him too!” Collier excitedly rambled, his voice filled with enthusiasm. Then, as though sharing the most important news, he added, “He’s been looking for a place to stay, and I remembered the villa next to ours is empty—so I recommended it! He’s moving in this weekend, and I’ll introduce him to you!”

Lilyana knew her brother well—he was always eager to make new friends. But for him to go as far as recommending the house next door and personally ensuring an introduction? That meant he truly admired this person. Her curiosity was piqued.

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