The next morning, Lia walked into school like nothing had happened. Her expression was calm, almost serene, but her eyes told a different story. Every movement, every whisper, every glance around her was analyzed and cataloged. Kairav walked beside her, careful not to step in front, but close enough that she could speak without anyone else overhearing.
Lia didn't speak to anyone in Section E, but her presence alone was enough to make everyone alert. Jay laughed quietly at a joke, then glanced toward Lia to gauge her reaction. Angelo shifted nervously in his seat, keeping his voice low. Aries avoided eye contact entirely, tapping his pen as if trying to appear busy. Lia observed everything. She noted who was genuinely loyal, who was hiding something, and who might betray her in the future.
"They're still scared," Kairav whispered softly, "but I think they're starting to understand they can't hide anything from you."
Lia smirked faintly. "Good. Let them learn."
From the edge of the hallway, Lia occasionally glanced toward Section A, where Kiara sat with her friends. She didn't need to approach them — she already knew what was being said. Every whisper, every smirk, every secretive glance was cataloged in her mind.
"Are you going to confront them?" Kairav asked quietly.
"Not yet," Lia replied. "First, I need information. I need to see who talks, who listens, who spreads the rumors further. Then… I decide the next step."
Throughout the morning, Lia executed her plan. She ignored everyone who tried to get her attention, including Jay, Angelo, and Aries. She positioned herself strategically in classrooms and hallways to observe movements without being approached. Any signs of deceit, nervousness, or disloyalty were silently recorded in her mind.
By lunchtime, Lia had already gathered plenty of information. Section E students were cautious around her, careful not to say anything wrong. Kiara's gossip from Section A was reaching even the teachers, but Lia remained untouchable. She had learned who in Section E could be trusted completely, and who might falter under pressure.
Kairav handed her a notebook. "You've been jotting things down?"
"I've been memorizing," Lia said simply. "Writing is slow. Observation is fast."
Even without raising her voice, Lia held complete control. Students moved aside for her in hallways. Teachers were careful when she approached, knowing the chaos she could create if crossed. Kiara remained oblivious to how much Lia already knew, and that made Lia's power even stronger.
By the time the final bell rang, Lia had a full mental map of everyone's loyalties and weaknesses. Kairav walked with her to the car. "You're not talking to anyone else?"
Lia shook her head. "Not until it's time. Only you. Everyone else can wait."
She didn't smile, she didn't relax. But Kairav noticed the faintest hint of satisfaction in her eyes — the satisfaction of someone who knew exactly what they were doing. Lia had regained control. And this time, she wouldn't let anyone slip past her.