Cherreads

Chapter 4 - 2: First Encounter with Love Interests

Janna's POV:

Elaine and I were sitting, waiting for Sophia, when a figure suddenly came running toward us, waving her left hand frantically and calling our names. Her ponytail bounced with each step, and the scent of strawberries seemed to follow her. Of course, it was Sophia—energetic as ever, with the Limited Edition Strawberry Shortcake she had bought clutched in her right hand, making her seem to glow like a little treasure. I guess her love for sweets knows no bounds. Unlike her, I'm not exactly a "sweet tooth" kind of person.

Sophia handed the snacks over to us.

"Thank you, Sophia!" I said sincerely.

"No problem, Janna! It's really nothing. Let's head back to class if we don't have anything else to do here," she replied.

We got up and started toward the canteen exit when someone suddenly bumped into me. It was Eric Sembrano, one of the most famous students at Glistening High.

"I'm sorry for bumping into you. Oh—aren't you the famous 'Campus Belle?' Are you okay? Want me to take you to the infirmary?" he asked, his usual teasing grin in place.

"No, thanks. I'm fine. But… thank you for worrying about me." That was all I could manage to say. I'm shy, and I didn't know what else to say. Besides, I'm fully aware of his reputation as a bad boy who loves teasing girls. As much as possible, I'd like to refrain from having any kind of interaction, much less any kind of relationship with him.

"Okay, if you say so," he replied with a wink.

Sophia and Elaine helped me get up, and we walked to class. Not long after we returned, the school bell rang, and our homeroom teacher entered to address the class.

"Alright, class. Most of you are familiar with each other since you were classmates last year, so we'll skip self-introductions. Today, we'll elect class officers to help keep things organized. Since Sophia achieved the highest rank last grading period, she will continue as Student Council President. I'd also like to appoint her as our class president—having a top student lead this class will make things easier. Any objections?" Sir Wilson asked loudly.

"No, Sir!" we all answered simultaneously.

"Good. Who would like to volunteer as vice president to assist Sophia?"

The room fell silent, no one stepping up. I didn't want Sophia to shoulder all the responsibilities alone, so I was about to raise my hand… when someone beat me to it.

It was Prince, Sophia's seatmate and friend.

"Sir, I'll be the vice president. I want to support the class president however I can, and I promise to be responsible in fulfilling the duties," he declared confidently.

"Very well. Sophia is class president, and Prince is vice president. I have matters to attend to, so I'll leave you all to your classroom activities. Miss Sophia, the class is yours," Sir Wilson said, leaving the room.

"Yes, Sir!" we chorused.

Sophia's POV:

With the teacher gone, I stood and addressed the class.

"Hi everyone! DFirst of all, I want to tell you to ease your mind because I promise that I won't be a tyrant and bossy class president. I want this class to feel like a place where we can help each other and have fun while learning. If anyone struggles, I'll be happy to help. With your help, I hope we can build a close, supportive, and friendly class . Thank you! I'm looking forward to working with all you. Let's make this year memorable, together! "

The class erupted in applause, smiles all around.

I returned to my seat and turned to my seatmate, Prince. I wanted to thank him for volunteering.

"Hey, Prince. I'm glad you'll be working with me this year. Having a friend as my right hand will make class duties so much easier. I think I'll enjoy being class president even more this year. Please take care of me!" I said, reaching out my hand.

"No problem! We're buddies, so I can't let you handle everything alone. Don't worry—you've got my back, and I'll support you however I can. But take care of me too," he said, shaking my hand firmly.

I smiled and nodded.

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