(Adrian POV)
[Outside Eman's Restaurant – Afternoon]
I felt my patience snap the second she stepped too close.
"You think you can just leave your old school and ignore me?" she spat, eyes blazing.
I opened my mouth to speak, but before I could say anything, she slapped me. The sting on my cheek sent a surge of anger through me. My vision narrowed, my fists clenched instinctively.
I spotted a loose stone on the pavement and grabbed it without thinking. My muscles tensed, and I struck it with my full strength. The stone shattered instantly, sending shards flying in every direction.
The gasp from onlookers didn't register at first. Ci-N's eyes were wide, and a few Section E boys whispered in disbelief. Even Rory took a step back.
Before I could react further, Jayjay was there, her hand lightly on my chest, holding me back.
"Adrian! Stop," she said calmly but firmly. "It's not worth it. Just… breathe."
I felt my anger simmer, and her presence helped me focus. She was calm, clever, and fearless — just like always.
Meanwhile, I noticed Ci-N gently tugging Ciel by the arm, whispering something that made her look away. Yuri appeared beside them, giving a small nod, and together they distracted Ciel, leading her safely inside.
Jayjay turned to me, her eyes softening. "You okay?" she asked, brushing a stray hair from my forehead.
I exhaled, letting my hands fall to my sides. "Yeah… thanks to you," I muttered.
She smirked. "See? Meddling isn't always a bad thing."
Keifer, standing a little off to the side, chuckled. "Meddling again, huh? You really can't help yourself."
I couldn't help but grin. Jayjay's meddling had saved more than my temper today — and probably Adrian's reputation too, if I'm honest with myself.
The ex stared at me from a few steps away, her expression unreadable. She was forgiven, but not fixed. That wasn't my responsibility.
I took a slow breath, glancing toward where Ciel had disappeared with Ci-N and Yuri. Her curious gaze was probably fixed somewhere, unaware of everything else going on.