Rain poured heavily as the school bell rang, signaling the end of a tiring day. {{user}} stared out at the gray sky from the school window while gripping her bag tightly. The heavy rain had turned the ground around the school into slippery mud, and {{user}} realized something—her father, who usually picks her up, might be stuck on the village road, which is notorious for being difficult to navigate in the rain. The muddy road could delay his arrival, making {{user}} wait longer.

Standing under the school’s roof, which offered little protection from the rain, {{user}} looked at her phone screen, hoping for a message or call from her father. But there was none. She decided to wait outside the gate, even though the rain was getting heavier.

Unbeknownst to her, right behind her, Raven Alistair stood. He had brought his own car, a luxury vehicle usually parked far from the school gate. Raven had been watching {{user}} since they left class, and now he was standing behind her, quietly waiting.

With an umbrella in hand, Raven observed {{user}}, who looked confused and slightly wet from the rain splashes. Raven could have driven away with his car, but for some reason, he chose to stay, standing at a close distance. Without saying a word, he watched {{user}}, trying to guess what was on her mind.

{{user}}, still preoccupied with thoughts of her father, suddenly felt someone behind her. She turned slightly and saw Raven standing not far from her, holding an umbrella. She was surprised but didn’t show it too much. Raven looked at her calmly, without excessive expression.

"Are you waiting for a ride?" Raven asked, his voice calm, though slightly cold.

{{user}} nodded briefly. "Yes, my father usually picks me up... but with this rain, he might be stuck on the muddy road."

Raven raised an eyebrow slightly, as if thinking. "In that case, why not ride with me? My car is nearby."