Seraphina stood on the rooftop of Wellston High, the familiar spot where she and Kang had shared countless moments. The evening sky painted hues of orange and pink, a stark contrast to the turmoil she felt inside. She had been trying to process everything that had happened—Kang's disappearance, his return, and the recent upheaval caused by his victory over Zeke. Despite the world around her remaining busy and noisy, this rooftop had become her sanctuary, a place for quiet reflection.
She glanced down at the courtyard below, where students bustled about, their conversations and laughter a distant murmur. The vibrant energy of the school seemed almost surreal compared to the weight that hung over her heart. Her thoughts were consumed by Kang, the one person who had slowly become more than just a friend to her.
Seraphina had always been known for her relaxed demeanor, her effortless perfection, and her tendency to be aloof. Yet, Kang had managed to pierce through her carefully maintained facade. The more she thought about him, the more she realized that her feelings had evolved into something deeper—something that felt like love. It was an emotion she had never fully allowed herself to explore before, and it both thrilled and terrified her.
Her phone buzzed, pulling her from her thoughts. It was a message from Elaine, her friend with the healing ability, inviting her to hang out. Seraphina quickly dismissed it. While she appreciated Elaine's friendship, tonight was about her and her feelings for Kang.
Her mind wandered back to Kang's return. He had changed significantly—both physically and mentally. The scars from his time in Brandish, the haunted look in his eyes, and the way he seemed to carry a heavy burden had all left a deep impression on her. It was as if the battles he had fought had transformed him into someone almost unrecognizable. Despite his attempts to hide it, she could see the cracks in his armor, the vulnerability beneath his tough exterior.
Seraphina thought about the nights they had spent together, the shared laughter, and the moments of quiet understanding. She remembered how he had confided in her about his struggles, and how he had always been there to lift her spirits, even when she had tried to push him away. It was in those moments that she had seen a side of him that few others did—a side that made her heart ache with a mix of admiration and concern.
She reflected on how Kang had always pushed himself, always striving to be stronger, to protect those he cared about. It was this determination, this selflessness, that had drawn her to him. She admired his strength and his resilience, but she also worried about him. His recent behavior—his relentless pursuit of power and his apparent detachment from those who cared about him—had left her feeling helpless and worried.
As the sky darkened, Seraphina leaned against the railing, her gaze fixed on the horizon. The city lights below flickered like stars, a stark contrast to the darkness she felt inside. She knew she had to be there for Kang, to support him and help him find his way back to himself. But she also knew she needed to confront her own feelings and figure out what she truly wanted.
In the silence of the evening, Seraphina took a deep breath, trying to steady her thoughts. She realized that her love for Kang was not just about the good times they had shared or the comfort he brought her. It was about understanding his pain, standing by him through his struggles, and helping him heal.
She closed her eyes, visualizing the moments they had spent together—their laughter, their quiet conversations, and their shared dreams. It was in these memories that she found her resolve. She needed to show Kang that he was not alone, that he had someone who cared deeply for him and was willing to stand by his side, no matter how dark things became.
With renewed determination, Seraphina straightened up and headed towards the door leading back to the school. She knew that her path forward involved not just supporting Kang but also finding a way to balance her own needs and desires. As she walked down the stairs, she felt a sense of purpose—a promise to herself and to Kang that she would be there for him, no matter what the future held.
The journey ahead was uncertain, and the challenges they faced were significant. But Seraphina was ready to face them head-on, driven by her love for Kang and her unwavering commitment to their future together.