Chapter 20 News of Jace's departure spread faster than expected, like a stone dropped into still water, sending ripples through the entire campus. Within a day or two, it was all over the school forums. Naturally, the rumor made its way to the dance department as well. During a class break, several girls huddled together, voices lowered but full of excitement and curiosity. "He really left? That super handsome guy who was always looking for Sloane?" "The list is public, how could it be fake? I heard he went to a top school in Lynelle." "Wow... so sudden? Didn't he used to..." "Shh! Don't say anymore... Their chatter stopped abruptly as Sloane walked into the room. A few cautious glances were thrown her way, laced with curiosity-and something like pity. Sloane paused for the briefest second before walking to her seat, face calm. Her fingers tightened slightly, creasing the edge of the page she was holding. Her daily routine didn't change. But sometimes, while walking past the avenue lined with phoenix trees, her gaze would drift instinctively to a familiar spot. It was always empty. After another joint rehearsal ended, most people packed up and left. Sloane stayed behind, just a little longer. Only she and Eli remained in the studio as he checked the doors and windows. "Let's go, that should be all," Eli said, locking the last window and turning around. They walked side by side along the quiet campus path. After a stretch of silence, Eli spoke, "Sloane." She turned toward him. "Yeah?" He stopped walking. "There's something I think I should tell you." He paused, as if weighing the most appropriate words. "I have feelings for you that go beyond friendship." Her heart skipped a beat. Her grip on her backpack strap tightened, but she didn't say anything right away. Before she could gather her thoughts, Eli continued, "I'm telling you this not because I expect an immediate response, and certainly not to pressure you in any way. I just believe that expressing one's feelings sincerely Chapter 20 90.91% is a basic form of respect-both for you and for my own emotions." He looked into her startled eyes, his voice calm but firm. "I know you've been through some things in the past, and you might need a long time to adjust and prepare. That's completely fine. I'm saying this just because I don't want to hide anything from you. Whatever your answer is, or however long it takes for you to have an answer, we can continue being ordinary friends just like now. Nothing will change; you don't need to feel any burden." Just sincerity-gently placed in front of her. He left the choice entirely in her hands. All the tension, all the discomfort and imagined awkwardness she had feared, dissolved in the space between them. She looked at the boy who had always appeared when she needed help. Who had supported her, quietly and without demands. And now, he was still standing here, offering nothing but respect. A surge of emotion rose in her chest-gratitude, surprise, relief. She took a breath. Her voice came soft, a little hoarse. "Eli, thank you... Thank you for being honest. And thank you for respecting me. I... I do still need time." "I understand." He smiled gently. His eyes were clear, without the slightest trace of disappointment. "No rush. Let's continue getting along as before, okay?" "Okay." Sloane nodded, her shoulders relaxing. As they continued walking, they chatted naturally-about finals, about next semester's club plans. Everything felt easy again. But something had changed. A line had been quietly, softly crossed-not with thunder or drama, but with sunlight. Their connection now had a name. When they reached the dorm, Eli stopped. "Get some rest." "You too," she said, lips curving in a smile. She turned and went upstairs. Back in her room, she leaned against the door, pressing her hand gently to her chest. Her heartbeat was steady. Strong. The weight of the past had started to lift. And now, something new-bright, warm, and respectful-was gently knocking on the door of her heart. For the first time, she wasn't afraid to answer. Chapter 20 90.91%