The corridor was unusually quiet as Gia walked alone, the last of her lecture notes clutched tightly in her hands.
She had just finished her minor subject class, feeling light and hopeful after the morning's excitement.
The warmth of the sun spilled in through the high windows, casting soft patterns on the floor.
But the quiet was deceptive.
A sharp tug on her arm yanked her into a secluded corner, the papers in her hand scattering like fallen leaves.
She stumbled, her back hitting the cold wall as a group of girls closed in around her. Gia's heart lurched, her breath catching.
The girl who seemed to be their leader stepped forward, her expression cold and calculating.
Without warning, she jabbed a finger against Gia's forehead, forcing her head back roughly.
Listen, girl. The leader hissed, her tone dripping with venom. Stay away from Sky and Nani. They don't need someone like you hanging around.
Gia blinked in shock, her pulse racing. She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came. The leader smirked at her silence, pushing harder. What, cat got your tongue ? Thought you were special ? You're not.
Before Gia could react, a voice cut through the tension like a blade-calm but firm, laced with an authority that demanded attention.
Take your hand off her.
The group turned, startled, as Fourth stepped forward, his face devoid of its usual cheer. He looked completely different-his smile was gone, replaced by a hardened, unreadable expression.
His eyes, usually bright and full of warmth, were cold, sharp as steel.
The girls exchanged confused glances, clearly trying to place him. One of them scoffed, rolling her eyes. And who are you supposed to be ?
Fourth's gaze didn't waver. Someone you don't want to mess with.
The leader crossed her arms, trying to maintain her bravado. She's the one messing where she doesn't belong. Why do you care ?
Fourth stepped closer, his presence imposing despite his calm demeanor. The air shifted subtly, a new scent filling the space around them.
Gia caught it immediately-creamy coconut, rich smoked cedarwood, warm vanilla, and a faint, sharp touch of ambergris. It was soothing and fierce all at once, wrapping around her like a shield.
You don't know who you're dealing with. Fourth said, his voice low, dangerously soft. Walk away. Now.
Something in his tone, or perhaps the sudden intensity of his pheromones, made the leader falter. She glared at him, but her confidence was waning. Whatever. She spat, stepping back. Let's go, girls.
One by one, they peeled away, their bravado crumbling as Fourth's silent warning hung in the air. As the last of them disappeared around the corner, Fourth exhaled slowly, the tension leaving his body.
Gia, still pressed against the wall, stared at him, her heart racing for an entirely different reason now.
Fourth... She began, her voice barely above a whisper. You... you didn't have to do that.
He turned to her, his expression softening, the cold edge fading. Yes, I did.
You were... different. She said, bewildered. You didn't smile, and your pheromones... I've never smelled anything like that.
Fourth rubbed the back of his neck, the corner of his mouth lifting into a faint, sheepish grin. Sorry if I scared you.
C'mon I am a pure-blood alpha , I can't get scared so easily. Gia admitted, stepping closer. And you protected me , so there was no need for me to get scared.
But that didn't seem like the case back there , you looked a little scared. Fourth commented with a teasing smile.
I-I wasn't scared , I was just caught off-guard. Gia retorted back avoiding eye contact with the male.
His smile widened, but there was a hint of seriousness still lingering in his eyes. No one should be treated like that Gia.
She felt a warmth spread through her chest, her earlier fear replaced with gratitude and something deeper. Thank you.
Fourth gave a casual shrug, though his eyes shone with sincerity. Anytime. But I hope next time, it's just us walking back peacefully.
Gia laughed softly, the tension finally dissolving. I wouldn't mind that.
As Fourth and Gia strolled down the sunlit path back toward the campus, the tension from the earlier encounter had fully dissolved into an easy rhythm between them.
Fourth's usual grin had returned, and Gia found herself smiling more freely than she had in a long time.
You know. Fourth said, glancing at her with a playful glint in his eyes. I'm seriously craving cheesecake. There's this café nearby-wanna join me ?
Gia blinked in surprise but felt warmth spread through her at the casual invitation. Cheesecake? That's random.
It's not random. Fourth countered with mock seriousness. It's destiny. Cheesecake has magical powers. It can heal all wounds-physical, emotional, and minor annoyances like those girls earlier.
She laughed softly, shaking her head. How can I say no to that logic ?
A few minutes later, they arrived at a quaint café tucked away from the bustling campus. The scent of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries greeted them as they stepped inside.
They found a cozy table by the window, and after placing their order-cheesecake for Fourth and a simple latte for Gia-they settled into easy conversation.
Just then, Gia's phone chimed with a soft ping. She glanced down and saw Gemini's name flash across the screen.
Where are you ? I'm picking you up.
A small, fond smile tugged at her lips. She quickly typed back her location and set her phone aside.
Brother ? Fourth asked, curious at the sudden soft expression.
Gia nodded. Yeah. He's coming to get me.
Huh. Fourth said, raising an eyebrow. Is he as serious or is he easy-going ?
Gia smirked. You'll see.
Minutes later, the café door opened, and the atmosphere shifted. A ripple of quiet whispers spread through the room as eyes turned toward the entrance.
Gemini stood there, exuding quiet authority. His tall frame, sharp features, and the natural dominance of a pure-blood alpha radiated effortlessly, making him the focal point without even trying.
His icy composure contrasted sharply with the warm ambiance of the cafe.
As he scanned the room, searching for Gia, heads turned, lingering on him. His aura was magnetic-cool, commanding, and undeniably alluring.
But Gemini was oblivious to the attention. His eyes locked on Gia, her laughter ringing out as she sat with someone he hadn't expected-a boy.
His steps were slow but purposeful as he crossed the room, his gaze steady and assessing. When he finally reached their table, Gia's face lit up.
Phi Gem ! She greeted cheerfully, standing up slightly. You're here.
Gemini's eyes flicked to Fourth, who was grinning up at him, completely unfazed.
I see you have company. Gemini said, voice low and smooth.
Right! This is Fourth. Gia said, gesturing between them. Fourth, this is my brother, Gemini.
Fourth's grin widened, and he stood up, offering his hand. Nice to meet you, Phi Gemini.
Gemini's expression remained stoic as he took in the boy standing before him-too casual, too relaxed, too comfortable sitting with his sister.
He didn't immediately take the offered hand, letting a beat of silence stretch. Fourth raised an eyebrow but kept his hand extended, his smile unwavering.
Gia, sensing the tension, nudged Gemini gently with her elbow.
Phi. She said softly, a hint of teasing in her tone. Don't be rude.
Gemini sighed quietly, the faintest sign of yielding, and clasped Fourth's hand in a firm handshake.
His grip was strong, measured, and cool, while Fourth's was warm and friendly.
Nice to meet you. Gemini said, though his tone was polite yet cold.
Fourth chuckled as they released hands, clearly amused by the interaction. You've got quite the entrance, Phi. Everyone in here was staring.
Gemini arched an eyebrow but didn't respond, instead settling into the chair next to Gia.
Is that so ? He said dismissively, his eyes sharp but calm.
Gia laughed, the tension breaking. He's always like this.
Fourth sat back down, smirking. You must be used to it.
No response.
And Gia could only sit still , laughing awkwardly , while Fourth continued to maintain his blinding smile at the antics of the pure-blood male and for Gemini it felt like he was judging the alpha male (Fourth) deep down to his soul.
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