The clash of Ms perfect and Mr. lazy genius

Avril Hechanova navigated the bustling halls of Imperium Academy, a familiar weariness clinging to her. Expectations, responsibilities, the crushing weight of being perpetually perfect—it was all exhausting.

Then she saw him. Soren Castillo, leaning against the lockers, radiating an infuriating nonchalance. His lazy smirk widened as she approached, as if he knew exactly how much he annoyed her.

"Good morning, Hechanova," he drawled, his gaze flicking over her. "You look—exhausted."

Avril clenched her jaw. "And you look like you just rolled out of bed. Oh wait, you probably did."

He chuckled, unbothered. "Still scored higher than you in the last mock test, though. Tragic, really."

Before she could retort, Elena, her best friend, grabbed her arm. "Breathe," she whispered, barely containing her amusement. "Murder's illegal, even in Imperium."

Soren winked, strolling away. "See you in class, Hechanova. Try not to let me distract you too much."

Avril exhaled sharply, her hands curling into fists. This was going to be a long year. And she refused to lose.