The New Student

Nicole Jane's POV I was jolted awake by consecutive knocks on my door. 'Just a moment." I groggily walked towards it and lazily opened it. 'What—" 'Good morning too, Nicole." Kira's smiling face greeted me as soon as I opened the door. But he paused as his gaze swept over me from head to toe. 'Sorry for waking you up." He scratched the back of his head. Uncomfortably, I stepped back and looked at myself in the large mirror. My eyes widened when I saw how messy my hair was right now. And to think I was even wearing my Hello Kitty pajamas! I glared at Kira, who suddenly burst into laughter. 'Don't worry, Nicole. You still look beautiful." I scowled at him. 'Whatever! What are you doing here anyway?" I crossed my arms as I approached. He turned around and seemed to call for someone. That's when I noticed there was someone with him. 'Well, I'm here to introduce your roommate, Miss Stephanie Miller." He looked back at the girl beside him. 'Steph, this is Nicole Jane Parker. The royalty that you're going to protect." My forehead wrinkled at his words. 'What do you mean by that?" He just smiled at me. This vampire really has always a mischievous grin. But I noticed there was something different about the way he smiled now. It seemed sad and forced. And his eyes... Is it just me, or did I see pain in them when he looked at me? I was about to ask him, but he quickly excused himself to leave. I shrugged before turning to the woman he introduced as Stephanie, who was still standing in front of me. 'Come in." I held the door open and stepped aside to let her pass. Once she entered, I closed the door and faced her again. But I was taken aback when she suddenly bowed. 'Good morning, beloved princess." I was stunned, and my mouth hung open. I remained in a daze for a few more minutes while she stayed bowed down. 'Hey! You don't have to do that. Besides, I'm not one of the princesses here. I'm just a normal human student," I laughed to recover from the surprise. 'But you're still the most powerful pureblood princess no matter what happens. And I will be your protector from now on," she said, determined. I blinked. What she had just said completely woke me up. What? She'll be my protector? So, that's what Kira meant earlier! 'Protector? But why? I didn't understand!" After all, I'm just a regular human now and no longer a vampire in need of protection. Moreover, only vampires with high positions usually have protectors. 'I apologize. I'm just following the king's orders. Besides, it's an honor for me to protect you," she said. I sighed in defeat. As if I have a choice. I thought I would be accompanied by a normal student here. 'Fine! But I'm a human now. So, don't be too formal with me. I want you to treat me as your friend and not as a princess who needs protection." I looked at her with a smile. 'And just call me Nicole, okay?" She looked up and was about to protest, but I immediately cut her off. 'I will not take no for an answer. That's an order," I said seriously. She hesitated for a moment, then nodded. 'Okay. N-Nicole." I couldn't help but smile. 'Good. That's better. You were too formal earlier. It felt like I went back to the past." She smiled back at me. 'Anyway, it's not that I'm underestimating you, okay? But you seem quite young to become a protector," I asked, curious. This is the first time I've encountered such a young protector. 'Don't worry. Because I assure you that I can protect you," she said confidently. I shook my head and waved my hand dismissively. It seems like she misunderstood what I said. 'I didn't mean anything bad by that. I was just wondering. Sorry." 'It's fine. I understand anyway." I nodded and we started chatting. Somehow, I felt comfortable with her, so it seemed like the two of us would get along. Finally, I had a roommate. No more lonely and boring nights. The only downside was that I also had a guard. *** 'Hello! I'm Mikan! Nice to meet you." Mikan extended her right arm to Steph. 'Nice to meet you. I'm Stephanie. But you can call me Steph for short." She hesitantly shook hands with Mikan. Mikan laughed. 'Oh! Don't be so formal. It makes me look like an old lady. We're actually the same age." Steph's expression remained blank. 'I'm sorry. It's just something I'm used to." She stared intently at Mikan, which puzzled me. It seemed like she was examining her in a way I couldn't understand. 'Used to it? Why? Is that how you address people even if they're not older?" Mikan asked curiously. I was about to join their conversation when Sir Martin suddenly entered. We were now in the classroom, and I introduced them to each other here because Mikan and I didn't go inside the classroom together. She wasn't in her room when I knocked on her door earlier. Apparently, she had already left because she had something to do. But what I didn't know was why Kyle hadn't arrived yet. I let out a deep sigh. I remembered what he told me last Saturday. Perhaps due to shock, I couldn't say anything after his statement. He didn't insist on talking about it and changed the topic instead. What got into his head that made him suddenly propose? Yes, we are of legal age already, but we're still too young for that. I felt like he was just scared it might be interrupted again. Like what happened in the past. But even so, we didn't need to rush. 'Okay, class. I heard that our new student will be in this section again." Sir Martin scanned the room until his gaze landed on Steph, who was sitting next to Mikan on her right. 'There she is. Please introduce yourself to us first before we start," he said seriously. Steph stood up, then made her way to the front. She stands there straight with both of her hands on her back. She was about to speak when the door suddenly banged open. I raised my eyebrow when I saw the four of them. They always love to make a scene. What's their deal? Are they the F4? Kyle, Kira, and Hiro started walking in as if nothing happened. I frowned. These vampires really don't know how to show respect at all. Annoyed, I glanced at our teacher who was still looking down at them. But I furrowed my brow when I noticed Vince standing outside, still staring at Steph intently. I glanced at Steph, and she's doing the same thing with him. Okay? What's with those weird stares all about? Vince was the first to look away and started walking in. He seems to be in a bad mood because his face can't be deciphered. Everyone looked at him as he plopped down on his seat. 'What?" he shouted, and my classmates quickly averted their gaze. I redirected my attention to Steph as she started speaking. 'Good morning, everyone. I'm Stephanie Miller. But you can call me Steph for short," she said with no enthusiasm before promptly returning to her seat. Wait, why does she suddenly seem to be in a bad mood too? After the awkward entrance and introduction, the discussions have finally started. Our class went smoothly. But I couldn't focus properly because of the bad aura surrounding me. I secretly glanced at Steph. She was just quietly listening while slouching. I then turned to Vince. But I quickly looked away when I noticed the hostile look he was giving Steph. What's this guy's problem? I let out a frustrated sigh. Whatever. Let them be. I'll just listen for now because our exam's week is approaching. *** 'Let's eat now! Hurry up over there. I'm really hungry." Mikan pouted while I was still fixing my things. We had just finished our fourth subject, and it was already break time. I just glared at her. 'Wait a minute. You're acting as if the dining room was going to get up and run away." I stood up. She just flashed a peace sign at me. 'Hey, let's go." Kyle approached me and took my bag. 'How sweet." Mikan poked my side a few times. 'Cut it out! For all I know, you two are just as sweet," I whispered with a grin, glancing at Kira. Her cheeks suddenly turned red. Finally, I got back at her. If she tries to tease me, I might just reveal her secret. We walked silently towards the dining hall. We were about to sit down when Miley suddenly arrived. The guys asked for permission to buy our food. I also told Kyle and Kira to include Steph and Mikan. Despite their strong objections. 'So, the news is true. We're glad that you're already here, Steph!" Miley said, smiling from ear to ear. 'Thank you. It's so nice to be back," she politely replied. 'Oh. You girls knew each other?" Mikan kept shifting her gaze between the two of them, as if she couldn't believe it. 'Definitely. It's pretty obvious, isn't it?" Rei said with a hint of sarcasm in her voice, which left me stunned for a second. Mikan seemed embarrassed and suddenly fell silent. I pondered as I looked at both Miley and Reiri. Their faces were so serious and both of them looked so irritated. 'Is there a problem?" I asked, concerned. It's not like them to act this way, especially since I often see them smiling and happy. 'None. We're okay. Really," Miley answered, giving Mikan a pointed look. I felt so confused. I could sense an unknown tension growing between the three of them. 'It seems like we're discussing something serious, huh." I turned my head when Kyle arrived, who had just returned. The three followed him. 'Not really. It seems like these two are just a bit down. Maybe they're just hungry already." I forced a smile, even though the truth I'm starting to feel anxious. He just nodded, and we started eating. An awkward silence enveloped all of us. I didn't know if I was just being paranoid, or if there was really a tension between each of them. Add to that the whispers of other students because once again, there were new additions to the group of royalties. Specifically, Steph, who was again human. To be honest, I've noticed this about them since last Saturday. Ever since we met again, I felt that something was off. I just couldn't figure out what it was. Sure, I can read their minds now. Just like Kyle. But I don't want to do that. What I want is for them to tell me and share with me willingly. All of them started to act weird since then. Except for Vince. But because of how he has been acting since this morning, I can say that he's one of them already. I'm just not sure if Kyle has noticed it too. Based on my observation, Miley seems to be avoiding Kira. Though in fact, they seem like two siblings because of how close they are to each other. Reiri and Hiro, on the other hand, are no longer teasing and arguing like they used to. Which is very unusual as well because there doesn't seem to be a day when the two of them don't fight. But what surprised me the most was when I saw Mikan and Kira having a serious conversation behind our dorm building last night. That's suspicious because Mikan couldn't even bring herself to look at Kira, or talk to him properly. And then I would see the two of them acting like they've been close for a long time already. This is what I meant when I was teasing her earlier. But I just let them be for now, and I'm just waiting for the right time to talk to Mikan and ask her about that matter. Then the way that Miley and Reiri looked at Mikan, it seems that they have something against her. Though I wish I was wrong. But that's what I see in their eyes. Same with Vince, who's glaring at Steph right now. I put down the spoon and fork I was holding. I just can't take it anymore. 'Vince," I called him out. He gave me a sharp look, but I just ignored it. 'Do you have a problem with Steph?" I asked him directly. No more beating around the bush. Everyone was taken aback because of my question. Even Reiri's eyes widened. I felt Kyle's tight grip on my hand. I looked at him, and he gave me a look that said, 'You shouldn't ask that." I was about to speak when suddenly I heard a loud crashing sound, accompanied by screams from the people around me. I looked at the direction where the sound came from. I gasped when I saw a table overturned near the front, close to the door. I glanced at Vince's seat, but he was no longer there. I noticed that he was already leaving the dining hall. 'Oh my god! How did that happen? There was no one there, right?" 'Could it be a ghost who did it? That's so scary." 'How could it be thrown in the front without anyone moving it? Is there magic involved?" Those were just some of the whispering I've heard from the students here. They really had no idea what had happened, so it's not surprising that their reactions were like that. While the vampire students seemed unaffected by it. Though fear was still evident on their faces. 'Excuse me," Steph stood up and hurriedly went out. I guess she will follow Vince. 'I still have something to do. I'm leaving too," Kira said. My eyes widened as Mikan quickly stood up beside me and approached Kira. 'Let's go together." Doubt was evident on Kira's face, but he nodded immediately. I furrowed my brow even more as Mikan intertwined her arm with Kira's. I wonder, will she still like Kira once she discovers his true identity? After they left, Hiro stood up. I couldn't handle what was happening anymore, so I spoke again. 'Don't tell me you're leaving too? What are your real problems?" I couldn't control the volume of my voice anymore. I was really confused by their actions! The hell I care with those whispers and deadly glares that the others sent to me because of my sudden outburst. 'Sorry. But you will not understand." He clenched his fist before running out. I massaged my temple. How can I understand if they didn't want to make me understand? I glared at Miley and Reiri as they stood up. 'Where are you two going?" For the first time, they disregarded me and left together. Thank you very much for understanding and answering! 'Nicole, calm down," Kyle tapped my shoulder. I looked at him in disbelief. 'How can I calm down with this kind of situation? Kyle! What's happening? Why do I feel like they're keeping something from us?" Kyle Ethan's POV I don't know what's happening. But Nicole and I seem to be feeling the same way. I noticed something unusual about them since last Saturday. We're all together in the mansion, so I clearly see the change in how they treat each other. I tried to read their thoughts, but I couldn't see anything. I understand Vince's behavior now because we all know what happened before. But as for the others... I actually have no idea. I ignored it these past days, but I don't think I can overlook what's happening now anymore. 'Don't worry. I'll take care of them," I assured her. I know Nicole is also confused right now. 'But what will you do? It seems like they have no intention of telling us!" I shrugged. 'Then we won't force them to speak up. I know them. I'll talk to them first, then let's just wait for them to open up." That's the only solution I see for now. I don't want to meddle in their problems, especially if they seem personal. I called the guards to remove the broken table and to calm down the other students who still seem afraid before we finally leave because both of us have lost our appetite. I need to talk to Vince first. What he did was wrong and very risky. What if someone noticed what he did? No one should know about our existence. Only the vampire hunters and protectors should be aware of us. We don't need any more additions. From the beginning, Dad shouldn't have allowed humans to study here. I think it would be better if we change the academy's rule starting next school year. *** Third Person's POV 'Where have you been again? You didn't even help or show up when we were attacked by enemies, and now you're always missing and very hard to find!" Marcus shouted loudly, almost deafening anyone who could hear it. But his son, Dave, remained unfazed, standing confidently in front of him. 'If you're just going to scold me, maybe it would be better if I just leave," Dave replied disinterestedly before turning away. But he was halted by what Marcus said next. 'Don't turn your back on me while I'm still talking to you! I'm still your father, so respect me!" he said, his anger evident, veins almost popping out of his neck. Dave laughed, which only made Marcus even more furious. If it wasn't his own son that was standing in front of him, he would have already killed him. 'A father? Oh, right. You're my dad. But I don't think I can still respect you," Dave said. Marcus didn't expect such a response from his son. He quickly moved closer to confront him, but he was stopped by what Dave said next. 'Not especially when you killed my own mother." Dave's eyes were turning red as he stared at him with anger. Marcus was shocked by what he heard. 'W-what? I don't know what you're talking about! I told you before that the Clarkson's—" 'The ones who killed her? If before I could believe you about that, well, not anymore! So don't even attempt to lie because I already know the truth!" Dave interrupted. Marcus couldn't utter another word. He desperately tried to figure out how his son found out about his secret. 'If you have nothing more to say, I'll leave now." Dave's eyes returned to their previous color before he finally left. Minutes passed since Dave disappeared from his sight, but Marcus still stared at the door through which he had left. He let out a deep sigh. He didn't want to do it, but he had to. In order for him to regain what he wanted, someone close to him had to die. That's why he chose to kill the child in his wife's womb during those times, instead of Dave getting involved. Someday, Dave, you will understand why I had to do that. Because the right time for his return is drawing near.