The lecture hall hummed with energy as students murmured among themselves. Whispers of speculation rippled through the room, growing louder as the department head stepped onto the stage.

Professor Laurent, a strict but well-respected figure, cleared his throat and silenced the chatter with a single glance.

"As you all may know," he began, his voice smooth but commanding, "Aurelius University’s annual festival is approaching. Every department is expected to showcase their talents, and the Music Department is no exception."

Vaelis leaned back in her seat, barely interested. She had read about this event in Eclipsed by Summer. It was one of the highlights of the novel, where Serena Vale—the so-called heroine—would have her moment in the spotlight. It was her first step toward becoming the campus star, the center of attention.

Not that Vaelis cared.

She wasn’t here to play into a storyline.

"This year, we are holding a grand showcase," the professor continued. "We expect exceptional performances, and I trust our top students will not disappoint."

Rowan, lounging beside her, chuckled. "Looks like you’re in trouble, Black Swan."

Vaelis didn’t bother acknowledging him.

"Vaelis Cara," the professor called out, making her inwardly sigh. "As one of our top students, you will be part of the showcase."

She met his gaze evenly. "I don’t recall signing up for that."

"You don’t have to," he replied smoothly. "Your performance is already expected."

Annoying.

Rowan smirked beside her. "Guess you’re the star of the show now."

Before she could retort, another professor entered the hall, whispering something to Laurent before turning to the students.

“The university is also organizing a charity gala in collaboration with the Business and Law Departments,” she announced. “Selected students will be invited to attend. If your name is on the list, consider it an honor."

Vaelis remained composed.

Laurent glanced at a sheet of paper before speaking again. “The selected students from the Music Department are Rowan Sinclair and Vaelis Cara.”

She blinked.

“I apologize, Professor, but I don’t believe I’ll be able to participate in the gala.”

The room fell silent.

Laurent’s brows lifted slightly. “This is a prestigious event, Vaelis.”

She nodded. “I understand, and I’m grateful to be considered. However, I am already committed to the Music Department’s performance for the festival. Given the time and preparation required, I wouldn’t want to take on another responsibility I cannot fully dedicate myself to.”

The other professor frowned. “Many students have managed both.”

“I respect that, but I would prefer to give my best to the performance I’ve already committed to,” she replied calmly. “I wouldn’t want to disappoint either event by dividing my efforts.”

Laurent studied her for a moment before sighing. “You are certain about this?”

“Yes, Professor.”

A pause, then Laurent gave a short nod. “Very well. Your dedication to your craft is noted.”

Vaelis inclined her head slightly. “Thank you for understanding.”

Rowan muttered under his breath, “You really don’t make things easy, do you?”

Vaelis ignored him.

---

After class, Vaelis returned to her dorm, exhaustion settling into her bones. She tossed her bag onto the chair, stretching lazily before collapsing onto the bed. The moment her head hit the pillow, her phone buzzed.

She almost ignored it, but something made her check.

Her eyes narrowed at the notification.

Congratulations, Vaelis Cara. You will be participating in the Aurelius University Charity Gala.

She sat up instantly.

What?

She had declined

Yet, her name was still there.

A sharp, uneasy feeling curled in her chest.

Someone had ignored her refusal.

Or worse—someone had deliberately put her name on that list.

And she was going to find out who.