Xiao sat in the library, uncharacteristically surrounded by several stacks of textbooks and notebooks. The usual stoic expression he wore in the halls was replaced by a slight frown as he ran his fingers through his unkempt dark hair. Looking at the daunting pile of work in front of him, he muttered under his breath.

I never thought I'd be spending my free time like this, he thought to himself.

Glancing up at the clock on the wall, Xiao impatiently drummed his fingers on the table, waiting for a certain person to show up. He glanced around the library until his gaze landed on the person he was waiting for. It was Aether, the shy, quiet boy from his class, making his way over to their meeting spot.

He watched as Aether settled into the seat in front of his. He tried to meet the latter's gaze but Aether seemed to be keen on avoiding it.

“You're late,” Xiao said coldly, his voice laced with impatience. He wasn't used to having to wait for anyone, but here he was, waiting for someone who he had previously teased relentlessly.