"I enjoy drama, but that was just boring."
After saying this, Ember left the cafeteria without waiting for a response. Her friends, a well-dressed trio including Chloe, were confused by her words. They exchanged quick glances and hurried after her, their footsteps breaking the sudden silence.
The crowd watched them leave and then started to talk loudly. Some praised Ember for being fierce, while others admired her beauty. A few laughed at Kenji, mocking him for being humiliated.
Kenji felt angry, his fists clenched. He wanted to respond, to stop their laughter, but he held back with effort. He looked at Maya, who had stopped crying and was watching with surprise and relief.
"You'd better watch your back," Kenji warned, his voice low and threatening. "If I find something on you again, you will regret it." After that, he left the cafeteria with his followers behind him.
In a quiet corner of the cafeteria, a boy sat hunched over with a spoon in his hand, not noticing it. His dark hair covered part of his glasses, hiding half his face but showing his strong jawline. Even though he was sitting, it was clear he had an athletic build. He held a book in his other hand but stared at the spot where Ember had just disappeared. A spark of interest shone in his eyes as he quietly said, "So that's Ember, huh? She's quiet different from the rumors. interesting."
As breakfast was ending, a cold, robotic voice came through the speakers, interrupting the noise. "Attention, Zenith Academy students. Please check your school email now for an important announcement about changes in academics. This message is for all grades."
As soon as the voice finished speaking, everyone quickly opened their phones. Upon seeing the email, their faces filled with surprise and shock. The noise around them grew louder as students exclaimed, "What is this? That's so ridiculous! Do they want to close down the school or start a bloody storm?" They continued chatting in disbelief.
Kael also pushed up his glasses and glanced at the email, which was saying—
Subject: IMPORTANT: NEW CLASS ANNOUNCEMENT - ZENITH ACADEMY
Listen up, Zenith Academy Students,
A new, special class is starting. It's called the "Advanced Studies Track."
This class is only for our top students. It's about pushing you further and getting you ready for the future.
If you are chosen for this class, you must join.
The students chosen are:
Aisha Sharma (Grade 11)
Chloe Davis (Grade 11)
Ember Blackwood (Grade 11)
Hiroshi Tanaka (Grade 11)
Kaelen "Kael" Li (Grade 11)
Kenji Sato (Grade 11)
Liam Chen (Grade 11)
Maya Gupta (Grade 11)
Noah Lee (Grade 11)
Eva Reed (Grade 11)
Lily (Grade 11)
Xxxxx
Xxxxxx
Xxxxxxxx
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If your name is on this list, your first meeting is today, right after your last class. Go to the Boardroom (Annex Building, 3rd Floor). Don't be late.
This is a big change for Zenith. Be ready.
Principal Eleanor Vance Zenith Academy