AYRA'S POV:

Coming back after submitting my acceptance, Mrs. Laura's stunned reaction lingered in my mind. Evidently, she hadn't expected me to return after all that had happened yesterday. With her expression etched in my memory, I retreated back to my floor, mulling over her surprise.

I directed my attention towards the work ahead, purposefully ignoring the lingering gaze I received from Kim whenever our eyes happened to meet.

"Hey Ayra," Alan greeted cheerfully, leaning in as he pulled his chair closer to mine, "It's time for lunch. How about we head out together and grab something delicious to eat?"

"No, I will pass," I replied gently, offering a smile....