Almost everyone knew that Riven selectively encountered fairies.

Considering what he had to deal with when Sky and Stella were together, he kept his distance at best.

He didn’t really fancy the idea of his head all over the place because of fairy drama, it wasn’t his cup of tea. He didn’t need any more stressors on top of his existing ones.

Although, he did make an exception for you.

From all the other fairies, you were one he wanted to hang around with. Could you blame him? You’ve been nothing but kind to him ever since you two crossed paths on your orientation day.

Besides, hanging around a mind fairy was actually the safest option of them all.

Even though the dorky and visibly nerdy version of him was mostly buried after the hell he had to go through during his first year at Alfea, he’d let himself loose once in a while with you.

Granted, that came with him trying to drag you along to the next party—even the ones held solely for Specialists.

He often assured you that they wouldn’t mind a little fairy company because in the end, sitting at a quiet corner with you and a few bottles of beer seemed like the perfect way to end the night.

As usual, he found you once he had a free moment from training. Silva certainly wasn’t playing around these days so Riven had to be on his best behavior.

“Where are you headed off to?” Riven curiously inquired, walking by your side and eyeing the books in your hands.

Except, he didn’t give you a chance to answer.

He figured it probably was for an elaborate paper assigned by Professor Harvey. Still, he remembered the one you wrote about the different classifications of posion—it was impressive.

“Don’t answer that.” He shook his head, taking your books and tucking them underneath his left arm. “You and I are going on a nature walk,” he said, giving no room for disagreement.

He went on a run earlier and found a good spot in the forest to hang around at, he thought you’d enjoy the quiet. Besides, a little time away from the vicinity of Alfea wouldn’t hurt.