The morning bell rang sharp.
Leo yawned as he stepped into class, still sore from patching up Kieran last night. But as he slid into his seat, the classroom buzzed with something new.
"Did you hear? New transfer student again."
"Another one? That's two this semester."
"Dude's hot, too. Like, scary hot."
Leo didn't care—until the door opened.
Then he walked in.
Tall, dark jacket, silver streak in his hair. His eyes were sharp—too sharp. Like someone always looking for the nearest exit—or a weak spot.
"Class, this is Rael Nakamura," the teacher said. "He'll be joining us starting today."
Rael gave a shallow bow. "Pleasure."
But his gaze?
Locked straight on Kieran.
Leo caught it immediately. And so did Kieran, who sat perfectly still… except for the twitch in his jaw.
After class, Kieran didn't speak. Just walked.
Leo followed. "You know him."
Kieran nodded. "Rael's not just a student."
"Then what is he?"
Kieran's eyes were cold.
"He's the Crimson Vow's warning shot."