Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

This chapter begins at the Eden Academy Courtyard where Becky, Damian and Anya are hanging out together, chatting away as they enjoy their moments together happily.

☆ Also clarification that Becky, Anya and Damian are sitting on a bench together (Becky to the right, Anya in the middle and Damian to the left)



"Wow, don't you just love today's weather?! It's such a delight to see the skies being this crystal clear after all these days of such monstrosity..." Becky speaks out, the gentle breeze hits lightly on her face as she inhales the fresh air with a smile.

Anya replies back "I know right?! To be honest, I could sleep here all day..." she yawns noisily, rubbing her eyes as she tries to stay awake.

"Well, you can't sleep here forever and dream about peanuts all day, you dummy! You have to study for the Imperial Scholar exams that's coming up soon y'know..." Damian answers back to Anya.

"Ughh, I don't wanna studyyy! All I want is to just sleep and eat my peanuts in peace! Is that too much to ask for!?" Anya exclaimed.

Damian sighs whilst shaking his head in disappointment "Are you that stupid?! If you don't study then you won't improve any of your grades and you'll never get that one Stella Star you need to become a Imperial Scholar! Besides, I was going to give you some limited edition new peanut flavors that I bought, but I suppose I won't give it to you."

"Sy-on boy has the new flavors of those limited edition peanuts?! GIVE THEM TO ME!!"

"No way Forger, you are not getting these peanuts unless you study for it." 

"Whaaat?? That's a scam!" 

"If you're going to act like that, you won't be getting my help with studying nor you're going to be getting any peanuts from me, dumbo." he explains.

"How dare you do this Sy-on! You're so cruel to me!" she crosses her arms teasingly, turning away from his direction.

Becky chuckles as she stares at them with a cheeky grin "You guys are such dorks. It's honestly adorable but hilarious at the same time, it's almost like you guys are flirting with eachother~"

"W-what?!" Damian replied quickly "D-don't try to make anything weird!" his face turns hot red as he turns away from Becky's direction.

"Uh huh. Okay you're just saying that because you li–" Becky hinted, but before she could finish her sentence it got cut very short.

"DON'T SAY WHAT I THINK YOU'RE SAYING, BLACKBELL!" He demanded, trying to stop her from saying another word that could make anything obvious.

As Becky is teasing Damian with his obvious signs, Anya starts to doze off, the warm, glowing sunlight hitting on her face that makes her feel drowsy, her eyelids close as her head slowly tilts to the side of Damian's shoulder.

Damian gets startled as he gazes over to his shoulder, only to see his sleeping beauty, peacefully asleep and relaxed on his shoulder. Her cotton candy, pink wavy hair strands placed so delicately in front of her as if it was barely touching her face, the afternoon sun glimmers on her face that gives the golden hour feeling, almost like she was the chosen one in that very moment.

All he could do is admire her presence all the day, he thought to himself, however that gets interrupted very quickly by a fangirling Becky across the other side of the bench.

"Awww, look at how Anya trusted to sleep your shoulder Dami!" Becky squeals in excitement "This is exactly how it happens in the romance movies I watch!!" she stares at them in awe, Damian turns away feeling embarrassed, his face bright red, almost like a tomato that's about to ripe.

"S-shut up, Blackbell! And for the love of god, please don't call me that nickname." he rolls his eyes at her, but that doesn't stop her face lighting up even more.

"My goodness! Stop being in denial with your feelings Dami, it's so damn clear that you have y'know..." she whispers across to Damian "feelings for her."

He rolls his eyes and crosses his arms "Oh whatever. And for your information I'm not in denial, I just cannot risk the bond we have now to get ruined, okay? It took a while to get to the point we are at now since I was acting like an asshole in the past to her."

"I mean...You still are one might I add." Becky mutters to herself, covering her mouth with her hand as she tries to block out whatever came out so he doesn't hear a word.

"What did you say you–"

"I said nothing!" she exclaimed quickly, she changes the topic before she makes matters worse "Alright, listen, if you want to avoid damaging your relationship with her, my advice is to take things slow and steady. That way both of you can get comfortable with each other and maybe she'll realize you're not just a jerk and that you have some good qualities."

"Wow, I'm actually surprised you gave a pretty decent advice. T-thank you I guess. I'll take note of that" he tries to give a slight smile, which makes Becky surprised by his reaction.

"Could you say 'thank you' but louder for me this time? I need to hear you say it again~" she grins mischievously at Damian, he rolls his eyes at her with annoyance.

"I will not! I've said enough and that's all you're going to get from me."

"Fineee! I wont push it then." she then checks the time above the building where the clock is placed, squinting her eyes to make sure she had read the time correctly "Well, it seems that lunch will be ending quite soon so I should head to the lockers to grab my books for next period."

"Alright then. See you in class, Blackbell."


"See you soon, Desmond!" she starts to get up and leave the two lovebirds alone at the benches together.

Damian sighs as he then turns his gaze back at Anya as he takes off his cloak to wrap it around her like a blanket, he smiles softly at her and then looks above at the sky, admiring the soft, fluffy clouds.

After a while, Damian also starts to doze off as his eyelids slowly drop and his head titling onto Anya's head, sleeping together peacefully in the warm sunlight that radiates the entire atmosphere, just the two alone at the benches with no one to bother them, no one to disturb their moment together.

Twenty minutes has passed since the occurrence with both Damian and Anya together on the benches asleep, now at the Eden hallways with Emile, Ewen and Becky.


Emile and Ewen are chatting away in the hallways when they notice Becky near the lockers alone, grabbing her books as she giggles to herself about what had happened earlier.

Both Emile and Ewen decide to walk up to her out of curiosity, wondering what the commotion is about.


"Hey, you over there!" Ewen points his direction towards Becky, startling her without noticing the two walking towards her.

"Uhm, are you talking to me or–" she scratches her head in confusion.

"Yes, he's referring to you. Are you dumb?" Emile argued, making Becky's temper fuming across the hallways.


"Well, It'd be better if you just refer me to I don't know...MY NAME PERHAPS? Also, you do know pointing at someone like that is rude? Oh wait. You both are way too childish to even understand that though." she flips her hair with satisfaction of her own insult.


"Oh whatever, stubby legs. We just need to ask you a simple question that's all." Ewen ordered. 


"Are you being serious right now?" Becky raged "I will not tolerate you calling me 'stubby legs', especially because y'all used to call Anya that when we were younger. In fact, the only reason you guys stopped calling us that for some time is thanks to Damian." her face is full of irritation as she glares at both Ewen and Emile.

"Oh gee, thanks for wasting our time with your foolish rant. Very much appreciated." Ewen eyes rolled, not caring about a word she had just said.


"Excuse you?! You're the one who just–"


Emile demanded "Guys please, enough with the chit chat now. Look, we just wanted to ask if you know where Lord Damian is? We haven't seen him most of lunch period ever since we got out of class and it's quite unusual for him to just wonder off without any communication to us."


"Ohhh I see~" Becky giggles amongst herself, Emile and Ewen stare at her with cringe.


"Why the hell are you giggling like some gremlin? You're acting strange. As usual..." Ewen scoffs.

"Now this I have to agree with Ewen on this one."


"Well I definitely know where Dami is~" 

"Can you just tell us instead of actually wasting our time now, lunch doesn't last forever." Emile pinches his nose with annoyance, both waiting for an answer impatiently.


"Alright, alright. I was with him and Anya at the courtyard sitting on the benches together! Now does that answer your question, hm?"


"YOU were with him?! And with stubby– Anya? Hold up, why didn't he tell us this beforehand instead of running off then...?" Ewen responded with confusion, not understanding why Damian had ran off without any interaction.


"If you think about it, he would definitely feel embarrassed if he told us if he had hung out with those two weirdos the entirety of lunch period."


"I'm right here you know! I'm not just some statue to be neglected by!" she raged, trying to contain her patience towards the two.


"Oh my god, just be quiet for once will you? You're getting on my last nerves." Ewen clenches his fists tightly, about to loose his temper in a short matter of time.


Becky gasps "How dare you talk to a girl like that you little shit! You sure have the guts to speak out, don't you?!" she gritted her teeth so much that it could crack in any second, but it was all stopped as Emile stepped in.


"JUST STOP THIS INSTANCE!" 


Becky and Ewen hurriedly turns their gaze, facing Emile's direction as they both became pin drop silent.


Emile lets out a deep breath, containing his anger towards the two arguing like a bunch of immature children "Look, both of you need to stop with this nonsense! At least we now know where Lord Damian is so we can go find him there! Thanks for the help I suppose."


Becky smirked "My oh my, I never knew one of the rats knew how to apologize to a lady..." she added a sarcastic tone in her voice, teasing the two boys in front of her.


"Just be grateful he even said it! He didn't have to say it to a problematic person like you!" Ewen responded.


"I'm only being sarcastic, for goodness sake! But I suppose it's no problem with helping you guys for once." she mumbles the last sentence to herself.


Both of them stare at eachother in unison with a confused expression with Becky being genuine with them for once.


"Now we got that out of the way, let's go find Damian!"


"Ugh, finally! Just go to your 'master' already and leave me alone. Shoo, shoo!"


They both sigh and nod their heads as they start to head outside towards the Eden Courtyard to continue their quest to find Damian, not expecting for what they will be seeing.

After several minutes have passed, Emile and Ewen walk outside the Eden Courtyard, where the benches are in their surroundings, they spot Damian from a distance.

"Ewen look! Lord Damian is over there." he taps Emile's shoulder and points directly at where Damian is sat, Emile squinting his eyes until he could also spot their best friend from afar.


They start to walk towards Damian and suddenly approach the two asleep together, their heads onto eachothers, the surroundings was very serene like this whole moment was meant to be theirs. The afternoon sunlight shines directly on their faces with a soft, vibrant glow.


"No wonder Becky was laughing like some fanatic back there." Ewen acknowledged.


"She honestly didn't mention this part to the story, although it does make sense to why she was acting so odd earlier when she was bringing it up."


"Do you think we should wake him up then?" as he says this he turns his direction in front of Damian.

"Hmm...Damian seems unusually calm, a rare sight considering his usual stress levels. If we disturb his rest, it might bother him, putting him in a bad mood." Emile explains to Ewen, leaving him rather confused with that answer.


"So you're saying that we should leave him alone?" he questions.


"If do say so myself, he looks quite peaceful without any disturbances, besides there is still fifteen minutes remaining of lunch period so there is time left."


"But what about our movie night we was going to have in the dorms together? We still don't have his answer if he wants to watch it with us!" 


"We could always ask him later when he is awake, I suggest we shouldn't bother him for now."


Ewen nods "Alright then, If you say so."


After a long conversation, Ewen and Emile start to escort themselves back to the hallways of Eden Academy, leaving Damian and Anya to themselves for them to wake up in their own time.

Five minutes have elapsed since the two had left Anya and Damian alone. In this moment Anya gradually starts to blink her eyes back open after a long, restful nap.

She turns her gaze below the Imperial Scholar cloak that has been wrapped around her during the entirety of her slumber.


How long have I been asleep for...Also how did this cloak get on me so suddenly?? It's definitely not mine so it must Sy-on's! she thought to herself. 


As she yawns from her nap she looks above her head to see her Sy-on boy, who is comfortably asleep next to her which to her surprise she then smiles unknowingly to herself.


To be honest, Damian looks so calm when he's asleep like a baby, I've never seen him so relaxed like this before since he's always so grumpy and wares himself out all the time. He kinda looks cute...


The heat rushes down her face as she experiences these unusual thoughts that she never had thought before in these ten years of knowing Damian, her heart pounds so fast like it hasn't before.

For Anya's case she has experienced her heart racing fast before when it comes to being with her family or watching Bondman on TV, but this sensation feels more a lot more different, something she cannot describe this feeling.


The more she thinks about Damian, the more her heart races rapidly and sweat starts to drip down her face like a running tap.


Am I having a stroke while thinking of Sy-on or something?! I don't get why the more I think of him, the more my face feels hotter and my heart races faster! I really need to ask Becky about this if she knows the reason to this... she ponders, leaving all these scrambled thoughts for herself to be even more confused by.


Whilst Anya is feeling confused about these thoughts towards Damian, he starts to also wake up, then his gaze turns at Anya, who immediately bounces up from her position to happily talk to him.


"Ah, Sy-on boy you're awake! It seems like you also felt so tired that you slept next to me! It must've been comfy here~" she ends up going closer to Damian's face, he turns into a hot mess as his cheeks burn like the sun itself, their eyes staring into eachothers deeply and sunken in like their eyes are drowning into one another.


"H-huh?! i slept t-together with you?! D-DON'T GET THE WRONG IDEA YOU IDIOT! IT WAS ONLY BECAUSE IT WAS WARM OUTSIDE AND–"


"Awww, do you really not like being with me, Damian?" Anya stares at him with puppy dog eyes as she pouts.


Suddenly all these thoughts rush in Damian's mind. I love being with you every second of my life, you light up my face when no one hasn't, you are an absolute joy and radiate the whole atmosphere with just a simple smile, but I could never say that aloud.


Anya in that very moment had read his mind, not expecting to hear these sweet, sincere thoughts about her.

That alone makes her heart start fluttering with joy and her emerald eyes start to glimmer at Damian's golden eyes with sincerity.


"W-what?! Don't get anything stuck in your head, dummy! I never said anything." he refuses, not admitting that he truly enjoys his every moments with her.


"So you do like being with me, huh? Well I am a wonderful person to be around after all so I don't blame you~" she says this with making the iconic smug face.


"Y-you've got the nerve to make such that stupid face to a mvp like me?! You're so strange."


"Heh. You didn't deny once that you didn't like being here with me though! So that simply means Sy-on likes being with me!" her face beams up with excitement, making Damian feel the hot flush rushing up his face, in that moment he could explode any second.


Fortunately, he got saved by the sound of the bell ringing for the next period, making him be able to escape this situation before he could even faint right there and right then.


"S-shut up, you weirdo! W-we should get going now! We're going be late for our next period because of you so let's hurry up, idiot!"


Damian nervously sweats as he starts to collect his belongings, hurriedly walking as fast as he could away to hide his real emotions, but he didn't have to since Anya already knows he likes to hang around with her just by simply reading his mind.

He may be confusing at times that she may not understand him and his odd behavior, but she still is aware that he genuinely cares for her and has shown his kindness without needing to say anything.

She begins smiling to herself with a hint of blush dusting on her cheeks as she looks back at Damian walking away from a distance.

She still may not understand these strange sensations when she thinks about Damian, and being around his presence makes her heart skip a beat. For now, that mystery will remain unanswered as she tries to figure it out on her own.

Chapter Text

Three days have passed since Damian and Anya shared that memorable moment together, sleeping side by side on the benches at Eden Courtyard.

In the present chapter, the story shifts during lunch period in the hallways of Eden Academy, where Anya rushes briskly towards the library, determined to join Damian for a study session to prepare for her upcoming exams.

• Anya's overall goal: Have a study session aimed at acing her exams and securing her final Stella Star, the key to achieving the coveted status of an Imperial Scholar in three months time.

Anya panting from her rushed journey, she finally arrives at the library and hurries over to Damian, who waited as patiently as he could for her.

Anya rushes to her seat quickly as possible, placing her bag down beside her chair "Heya Sy-on boy! I'm sorry that I came a bit late, but at least I'm finally here now!" she speaks out, smiling sheepishly at him.

"You dumbass! We was supposed to be studying ten minutes ago, what took you so long?" Damian responds back at Anya, his unamused expression gives a unsettling aura.

"O-oh! I uhm...I may or may not have gotten detention again..." she whispers, scratching her head nervously, waiting to hear Damian's response.

"What the hell did you do this time?" he questions, face palming with disappointment by her tardiness. as usual.

"Well, I accidentally forgot to complete the homework for English so I got detention for it. The English teacher made me finish the entire homework during my detention! I may have also received a Tonitrus Bolt too..." Anya mutters the last sentence to herself, trying to not feel anymore embarrassed than she currently feels.

All Damian could do is just sigh at the frazzled girl in front of him, not shocked by her excuse at all.

"Oh Forger, when will you ever learn how to not be so dumb and forgetful."

Realistically, he genuinely finds her adorable for her flustered moments.

She replies quickly, the blush dusting on her cheeks without realization "J-just shut up! You should be grateful I came here at least!" she crosses her arms defensively.

"Whatever you say." he checks the time on the clock that is above the wall on the opposing side "We've already spent five minutes just wasting time on talking about your tardiness so let's get to studying now before we have no time left."

"Awww, damn it! I already had forgotten about the studying! I really don't want to do it thoughhh..." 

Damian rolls his eyes with that expected response, he gets out of his seat impatiently "Alright then. If that's the case, I'll be on my way spending my time somewhere else inste–"

Before it's too late, Anya hurriedly grabs Damian's arm so he doesn't leave her sight.

"Wait! Please don't leave! I promise i'll study and try my absolute hardest to focus on the revision, you're the only person I can trust with helping me for the upcoming exams"

She subtly pouts her lips, while her emerald eyes fixate on him with an air of desperation, causing his entire visage to flush, resembling a ticking time bomb on the verge of being ignited by her charming and high-spirited personality.

I find it incredibly difficult to refuse you, especially when your gaze holds such a genuine and caring expression. Damian found himself lost in contemplation, a surge of warmth coursed through his veins.

"I-I was only joking, dummy! You clearly need the help for it anyways." rolling his eyes, not stopping Anya's face from lighting up with glee.

Anya brightly smiles at him and giggles "Thank you again for doing this Damian! I seriously appreciate that you're spending your lunch time with me!"

Her face flushes with warmth, creating an almost untouchable sensation as Damian's genuine care for her reignites. It's reminiscent of the feeling she experienced just a few days earlier.

Why do I feel like I felt this sensation before...The hot flushes, the sweating, feeling like I can't breathe around Damian?! I remember asking Becky yesterday and she told me it's a sign of having a crush. That just sounds absolute nonsense! Nope, there is no way that I like him! He's only my best friend, nothing more than that.

Anya unknowingly ponders in her seat, lost in all of her thoughts, not being aware of Damian's presence.

Damian taps on her shoulder lightly, jolting her back up from reality "Hey, are you doing okay? You just spaced out for a moment."

"Huh? Oh sorry! I-I'm doing great! Just got lost in my thoughts that's all!"

"Alright, if you say so. Now show me what subject you need to study for." 

"Unfortunately it's maths that I need to study for and you know I'm pretty bullshit at it. That's why I need your help so I can pass it!" Anya declared, having the confidence in acing her exams with Damian's guidance.

He laughs loudly "You definitely got the 'bullshit' part right!" 

"You're such an idiot! Is this the only reason you wanted to offer and help me is so you can mock me?!" she interrogates him, the clear irritation in her tone only makes Damian tease her more.

"Hmm...Maybe. Consider yourself lucky that I even gave you this offer to study with me, it's honestly a big deal for me to make time for someone like you~"

Anya feels the urge to smack Damian's head with a notebook. which she does.

"Oi! You idiot, don't do that! I apologize for being immature, just show me your textbook and I'll help you. I am a Desmond after all so you can trust me with this subject~" Damian playfully smirks at her, gaining satisfaction from her reactions.

Anya scoffs, crossing her arms and turning her direction away "You're such a narcissist Sy-on!"

"Not my problem that I'm the smart one here!"

Anya mischievously sticks her tongue out at him, a playful tease in her expression.

"You commoner! How dare you do such a thing!"

"Ugh, can we just get studying now?! I want to get it over and done with." Anya demanded, making Damian surprised by that reply.

"Oh, I see that Forger finally wants to study now? How ironic." 

"Do you want me to punch you again? Seems like the last time didn't help you with your head."

"Don't even think of doing that again! You'll get expelled for sure!"

As their laughter fills the air, they embark on their studying journey, playfully teasing each other as they go.

Half an hour has passed and their unwavering focus remains on preparing for Anya's Stella Star exam. Damian guides and supports her, ensuring accurate answers, while Anya diligently grapples with the material, experiencing a mixture of confusion and determination.

As Damian and Anya are deeply engrossed in their studies, immersed in their own world of concentration, a sudden occurrence takes place. A female Imperial Scholar enters the library, unaware that her classmate, Damian, is also present in the same library.

Meet Cassie Evans, a captivating 16 year old attending Eden Academy as an Imperial Scholar. With her honey-brown, straight hair adorned by wispy bangs, almost concealing her striking ocean blue eyes, Cassie's charismatic appearance draws attention effortlessly. Her olive skin tone complements her charm, highlighted by a solitary beauty mark gracing the side of her cheek. Despite her best efforts to keep it under wraps, it's evident to everyone that Cassie hides a secret crush on her classmate, Damian Desmond, who she has been pining over for a long time. Behind her alluring facade, Cassie conceals a stubborn and selfish personality, which she attempts to mask whenever Damian is around.

While Cassie observes through the historical books displayed on the shelves, she sees Damian from a distance and decides to communicate to him with the given opportunity she has now.

"Oh my god, that's not the correct answer! Please recall the method I just explained to you." he scolded, struggling to keep his patience in check.

Anya lets out an annoyed sigh as she pinches her nose "I'm trying my best! This method isn't that simple you know!" she raged, feeling more stressed about the exams than she anticipated.

"With your peanut-sized brain, anything would be difficult to comprehend." 

"Excuse you?! You're the one who–"

Cassie approaches Damian from behind his chair, happily surprising him.

"Hey, Damian! Look who is here!" Cassie exclaimes in excitement, she hugs Damian tightly.

"Huh?! Who is thi–"

Damian experiences a brief startle as he realizes that his classmate, Cassie, is standing right behind him.

"Oh hello Cassie. I told you that I'm not very fond of hugs, remember?"

"Sorry, it slipped out of my mind! Although, you should open up a little more, it's a lovely feeling when you can be more expressive around people!" Cassie giggles.

"Mhm. Sure..."

"By the way, what brings you here in the library today?" she questions him with curiosity.

"I'm here studying of course, what about you?"

"I was trying to find books about learning the history of Ostania! I had an assignment based on it."

As Damian and Cassie communicate to eachother, Anya just blankly stares at them without knowing who she even is or why Damian was only paying attention to her in that moment.

Who is this girl and why is so standing so close to him? She seems to be another Imperial Scholar so she must be from Damian's class...But why isn't he concentrating on me right now? He was supposed to help me with studying. What is so special about her that he needs to give her more attention than me?

Anya begins rolling her eyes at Cassie, glaring at her as if they were rivals. Even her voice irritated Anya for odd reasons she didn't understand herself.

"Hey Damian, I could use some help with the history homework. Would you be interested in studying together?" Cassie asks nervously, blushing as she approaches closer to him.

The instant those words departed from Cassie's lips, they echoed in her ears, kindling a brewing frustration. Anya's gaze hardened, distinctly conveying her sense of feeling neglected.

"I'm usually not availa–"

"Hi there, can't you see he's busy with helping me right now? You can ask someone else."

Damian casts a bewildered look at Anya in response to her comment. His confusion deepens as he observes her reaction, while Cassie remains frozen in a state of shock.

"I didn't even notice you were there!" Cassie gasped, not expecting Damian to have company.

Anya pursed her lips, feeling the rage burn her entire body. Damian was taken aback by the unusual sight of someone with such a lively personality wearing a distinctly bitter expression.

"I feel like I've seen you around before. Tell me, what is your name?"

"My name is Anya. Anya Forger."

Hold on. Why do I recognize that name. I remember hearing about a girl with the surname "Forger" that she had punched Damian in first grade. Wait, could this be actually the Anya Forger I've been hearing about? How is this girl even hanging out with Damian with a reputation like that?

As soon as Anya heard these negative thoughts about her, she starts to sweat in fear. Oh shit. She knows about me from everyone spreading information about the time I had punched Sy-on! This interaction definitely won't go smoothly at all...

Cassie glares back at Anya "Ah, so you're Anya Forger, a.k.a the the girl who punched Damian in first grade? How did you not face expulsion from this school given your actions?"

"It's honestly a long sto–"

"Damian, you hang around with this violent commoner who punched you since your first day here?! She's a humiliation with that disgusting act! You as a Desmond shouldn't even associate with her at all. Not to mention the fact that she has a terrible reputation with many Tonitrus Bolts. Honestly, who could be this much of a failure in such a prestigious school?" she argued, folding her arms with disgrace.

"You can't just assume how I actually am as a person! You–"

"Believe me Anya, I know already everything you've done and how you are a horrible person. In fact, you probably manipulated Damian to be helping you with your 'studying' so how about you move your commoner tush somewhere else whilst I can be a better replacement instead, hm?"

Anya's eyes fill up with heated tears of anger, whilst Damian watches helplessly, his heart aching as he witnesses his beloved Anya being wounded by the cruel words of a classmate. In mere moments, his entire demeanor changes, his body tenses, his expression grows icy and a simmering hatred takes hold.

This girl has the guts to talk all this shit about Anya in front of me without any fucking care? Not considering I won't say a single word?! I am not letting this slide. Damian's irritation towards Cassie can only increase even more.

His fists tighten as he rises from his seat, heading directly towards Cassie.

"How about you shut the fuck up."

Cassie blinks in disbelief, her eyes wide open with pure shock "Excuse me. What?"

He gritted his teeth so tight, his temper can only rise so rapidly "Do I need to repeat myself? HOW FUCKING DARE YOU even talk to Anya with all that shit in your mouth, do you think that I'd let that slide just sitting there and letting you talk all that smack?!" 

"What are you even saying?! Can't you see how much of a manipulator she is? How can you fall into her–"

Before Cassie can finish her sentence, Damian cuts it off in a short mattter of time. Not wanting to hear what other useless information she has to offer.

"If you want to continue running your mouth, I suggest you shut it before matters get worse for you. I can easily report you to the headmaster for that shameful act of yours and can even deduct a Stella Star so if I were you, keep your goddamn words to yourself before assuming someone's personality."

Cassie remains frozen like a statue, while Anya watches as her Sy-on boy defending her right before her very eyes.

"Don't act so damn shocked. Yes, she may have thrown a punch, but that doesn't warrant everyone jumping to these fucking conclusions about someone as kind and compassionate as her. None of you even know the full story about that incident, so it's absolute bullshit to consistently point fingers at her. In reality, I'm the one responsible for that incident in the first place." Damian expressed.

Anya's eyes start to shimmer with a glint of surprise as she processes his response. His strong defensiveness catches her off guard, revealing a side of him she's never witnessed before. This vulnerability he's showing towards Anya feels entirely unfamiliar to her.

"W-who even is she to you anyway? I'm sure you're just saying that from manipulation!"

Damian's defensiveness starts to emerge, his eyes meet Anya's with sincerity "She is my best friend and what are you going to do about it?" his gaze stiffens as he turns his direction back at Cassie "I suggest you move your shit attitude somewhere out of my goddamn sight and never look at me nor Anya in the eyes ever again. YOU HEAR ME?"

Cassie remains stood, not believing the response she had heard from someone who she had been pining for since a long time. Her heart shatters into pieces and her personality switches into a whole different facade that reveals her true self.

She fixes a frigid stare directly on Anya "You'll regret not believing me, Damian. Just you wait and see what will come next, especially for you, Anya Forger." 

"Don't even dare bother me in classes that we have together. Go find someone else who can relate to your depressing life, talking shit about people seem to be your hobby so find another person to deal with instead."

You'll pay for you ruining my chances to be closer with Damian, Forger! You will not see the last of me, i'll get my revenge for stealing him away from me.

Cassie exits the library, her expression heated as she storms away, leaving behind an emotional Anya and a seething Damian at the table.

After passionately pouring his soul into the argument, Damian returns to his seat to find Anya, full of tears running down her eyes as she embraces into a hug, whilst burying her head into his chest.

"A-anya?!"

Alarmed by Anya's sudden emotional outburst, Damian instinctively rushes to her side, wrapping her in a comforting embrace.

Anya sniffles, the tears drenched Damian's chest, although in this moment of time he couldn't care less about it. All that was in his mind was Anya, ignoring everyone else in his surroundings.

"T-thank you so much, Damian! I don't know what I'd do without you! You seriously saved me from her." she cried out, her voice coming out muffled. She holds onto Damian's arms tightly.

He gently runs his fingers through her long, wavy hair, soothing her anxiousness. With care he drapes his cloak around her, offering a reassuring sense of warmth and comfort.

"It's no problem at all, Anya. However, please don't let this happen to yourself. What if I wasn't there? You could've been more hurt emotionally that you would've worried your parents, Becky and including me."

"I'm sorry, I was stupid to let her talk down on me. I've been an absolute coward during that whole time."

"What the hell are you talking about?! You weren't being stupid at all!" he scolded, hearing that come out of someone who is always so optimistic 24/7 was indeed a rare occurrence.

"I honestly can't blame you with not being able to say a single word after hearing such fucked up insults being thrown at you for no reason."

In this moment Anya doesn't say a word, letting more of her tears run down her face, the way she's feels calm and safe in Damian's arms is already enough for her to gradually calm down within minutes.

I can't believe how cruel people can be. It's absolutely revolting how people even talk all this bullshit about Anya and the past?! Hell, I've even gotten over the fact that she punched me in first grade so I cannot understand everyone else going on about this ever since ten years ago. Why can't people see that she has such a kind and innocent soul who hasn't got any bad intentions to hurt their feelings, who will be willing to help anyone whenever they're in trouble and will take the blame for it. She is an extraordinary girl who has such a loveable personality that I have grown to adore ever since.

As these thoughts linger in his mind, Anya's gaze shifts toward Damian, a gentle smile playing on her lips. The profound ability of his sincere thoughts to mend her tears instantly proves the depth of Anya's admiration for him.

Her cheeks flush once more as she watches him offer a pack of tissues that he pulls out from his backpack.

He shyly turns his direction away from Anya, his cheeks flushing with a subtle rosy hue "H-here is a pack of tissues so you can wipe your tears away, you'll need it." 

She takes the tissues, wiping her tears away "Thank you, Sy-on" she smiled softly.

"Look, if you don't feel like you don't want to continue the study session, we can always postpone it for another day. You still have about three months left until the exams occur so we can sort it out another time." Damian suggested, gazing at Anya with soft, concerning eyes.

"NO!" Anya shouted, making Damian feel utterly confused "Are you kidding me?! I wouldn't want all this time go to waste now after everything you've done! You spent already so much time for me and it wouldn't be fair if I don't spend these last thirty minutes of lunch period not continuing the revision with you, I'd feel so guilty for wasting your time for nothing."

Damian's heart can only handle so much pounding. Anya consistently proves him right in showing how deeply she cares for him. Despite the countless times others have exploited his popularity and wealth, Anya has never done so and that fact continues to bring a genuine smile to his face.

"I appreciate that. Thank you, Anya."

Their eyes are locked onto one another, staring deeply into eachother, not caring about a single soul in room.

They stay like that for a few moments until one of them breaks it.

"I-I think we should continue where we left off now! Let's not waste any time!" Anya stutters on her words, feeling her face sweat definitely gives her deja vu from the experience she had the other day.

Damian nods, agreeing with her. Both placing their heads down at the books in front of them, concentrating on their tasks before the sixth period starts.

Ten minutes have passed since they've been studying together, Damian began to be more patient towards Anya, taking his time to let her understand everything in her own way.

Pointing to the next question, Damian kindly reads it out for Anya "Alright, the next equation states, 'The value of x is in the following equation: 4x + 10 = 30.' What do you think it is and remember to use the method I taught you."

"Hmm...Is it..." she writes down her answer and eagerly shows it to Damian.

"Is it x=4?"

He squints and leans closer to her notebook, his face lightens up with approval "You're actually close! The answer is x=5. To be honest you're actually not doing terribly this time! It seems that taking your own time helps you instead of me pressuring you"

"Really?! It's all thanks to you of course! I wouldn't have done this without you, Damian!" she said happily, she goes closer to Damian's face very excitedly.

"W-whatever, dummy! Let's just move onto the next question."

While Damian tutors Anya more on how to solve equations accurately, she determinedly works hard to write down the notes word to word of his methods and techniques.

As she writes down all the necessary information in her notebook, her hair becomes a sudden distraction for her, the wavy hair strands bothering her as she tries to blow it out of her face.

Observing her struggle to put her hair away from her face, Damian moves closer to her face to tuck it back behind her ear, not realizing his actions at first.

After a brief pause, he comes to a realization about his actions and covers his face in embarrassment.

Anya feeling shy, she avoids making eye contact and starts to feel flustered. Once again, her heart flutters.

"O-oh my goodness I deeply apologize for that! I didn't know what came over me I–"

"I-It's fine Sy-on! N-no need to apologize at all!" 

For goodness sake, why do I keep stuttering around him like a fool?! I never used to be like this around him, ever since that day of us sleeping together in the gardens I've been acting so strange...I cannot be liking him! It's not like he's charismatic with his tall presence, his beautiful golden eyes shine at me everyday or that his hair always looks neat yet so fluffy that I could play with it all day and his academics?! He always manages to impress me every damn time! Oh, how can I forget the fact that he can be very sweet and the way secretly shows his vulnerable side is so...No, snap out of it Anya!

Oh my god, what the hell am I doing?! I seriously couldn't resist this time. She's just so damn cute. No, she's the epitome of beauty, an angel who has come to brighten my miserable life. Her kindhearted personality is so alluring, making me feel loved after so much neglect. How could I not adore her with that sweet smile and the way she always cheers me up on my hopeless days? Okay, I really need to shut up and stop blabbering like an idiot so I can focus on assisting her.

Damian sighs, trying to block out those wholesome distracting thoughts. He instantly gets back to studying and scans through the textbook for the next task he has to guide Anya for.

Pausing in her tracks, Anya directs her gaze towards Damian, her eyes aglow with the thoughts she's absorbed. The shimmering effect resembles a tapestry of sparkles woven across her gaze.

The presence of Damian has a way of making her feel truly extraordinary, enveloping her in a comforting warmth that radiates from within. His unwavering focus only adds to his charm, creating an aura of captivating allure.

After a minute passing, Damian stops to gaze at Anya and admire her dedication and determination as she tries her absolute hardest to get each answer correct.

He glances at her with sweet, sincere eyes. Turning away as soon as she looks at him with the known sweet smile that had always made his day much better.

After a whirlwind of an hour, the school bell finally rings.

Everyone slowly exiting out of the library one by one to their classes for sixth period.

Damian and Anya begin to also pack both of their bags, making their way out of the library after having an eventful hour.

"I'm so glad this lunch period is over now, I thought it'd never end!" Anya sighed, feeling the relief she truly needed.

"That was definitely the most chaotic study sessions we've ever had..."

"Oh hell yeah. Thanks to that shithead who had to ruin our study time is reason why most of it was so chaotic." 

He rolls his eyes just by remembering that moment vividly "I agree with that sentiment. It's difficult for me to comprehend individuals who completely lack a filter in their communication."

They both stay silent for a few moments, thinking about that awful interaction that clearly affected the two.

Unexpectedly, Anya is the one who breaks the silence first.

"Hey, Damian?"

"Yes?"

She moves closer, rising on tiptoes and gives him a warm, tight hug.

"I seriously could not thank you enough for taking your time to help me with my revision for the exam and I feel immensely grateful that you defended me when I felt so hopeless just makes me want to show my gratitude and buy whatever you'd like!"

Damian responds with a hug in return "It's really not a problem at all trust me, also you don't need to do anything."

Anya breaks the hug as soon as she heard those words come out of Damian's mouth "What?! No Sy-on, you've done tons for me already so please let me buy you anything you want! It's a thank you gift to express my appreciation to you!" she declared, trying to persuade him.

"You idiot, don't get me a gift please. I swear I have too many things already so don't go wasting your money for nothing."

"You're so boring! Stop being so modest and let me do it for you! That would basically be using you after all of the effot you put into helping me so don't even try to decline it!" 

"Okay, fine. As long as you stop bickering in my ears."

She swiftly transitions from a persuasive expression to one of pure joy, beaming at him with delight.

"Don't worry Sy-on! I'll give you a wonderful gift for sure! Just give me some time and trust me it'll be worth it~" she winks at him, making Damian once again feel like a tomato.

"W-whatever! I never asked for it in the first place!"

"Oh, is Sy-on feeling shy? How adorable~" Anya giggles playfully.

Once again her cheeks feel a sudden heat that makes her extremely embarrassed, not expecting to say her thoughts aloud. 

"U-um we should, uh, definitely head to our classes now! S-see you tomorrow, Sy-on!"

Before Damian utters a single word, Anya swiftly scurries off, burying her face in her bag, a mix of bashfulness and confusion that overflows her mind.

The puzzling part for Anya is her shifting perception of Damian, one she resists acknowledging her growing fondness for him. She ponders whether this feeling aligns more with friendship or something deeper, a question that remains unanswered for the time being.