When They Beg, I Rise!

Lemira was still trying to wrap her head around the situation when Thaddeus' scream pierced through the air.

"Holy smokes, Sweet Lemon, your score got shielded. Damn, let me congratulate you in advance!"

Lemira was a tad bit dazed, her gaze inadvertently falling on Orion next to her, "Does that mean I did pretty well?" "Pretty well? You nailed it!"

Thaddeus immediately snapped a photo, ready to post on Facebook: "Met this awesome girl whose test scores got shielded. Let's all take a break from whatever we're doing and congratulate this hardworking young lady." Orion's lips curved into a slight smile, "Congratulations." His expression was calm, as if Lemira's performance today was no surprise to him.

Only after hearing his praise did Lemira allow herself a radiant smile. She finally understood what her shielded scores signified.

She had truly made it. Getting into Orvin University was now a sure thing!

Lemira stood up, joining Thaddeus in his excitement, then turned and hugged Orion, her cheeks flushing, "I did it!"

Orion's body stiffened slightly, his gaze soft, "Indeed."

Lemira quickly looked down, then acted as if nothing had happened and let go of him, turning to find Thaddeus.

She hoped her actions hadn't attracted Orion's attention. For her, that brief embrace was more than enough.

had been there, like

a sapling he had tenderly nurtured had finally grown. Soon after,

The scores

ove but we could

Your progress

fus.

hand, smiled. Looking up, she saw

felt, was

had started

major, and

Scorer". She smiled, "When did you guys

Lemira and picked up a cap to put on her head. They were very

Standing obediently before him,

fet

tall Orion was. From her vantage point, she could only see the buttons

brushed her hair, and he swallowed hard. Orion stepped