Chapter 3: Moonlight Academy
720words
I frowned, continuing to organize my few belongings. "Not adopted, just staying temporarily. And they're not..."
"Come on, I've seen the Moon family," Lina interrupted. "All the girls at school are talking about them. Especially that Jay Moon from the art department, he's like a walking hormone factory."
I didn't respond. Three days ago, William Moon had suggested I enroll at Moonlight Academy, claiming it was the best school in town and could offer me a scholarship. I had wanted to refuse, but the reality was I had nowhere to go, and—though I was reluctant to admit it—the warmth of the Moon family was beginning to melt the ice walls I had built.
"You have Professor Luke's history class today, right?" Lina asked while applying makeup. "He's super strict, but extremely brilliant."
I nodded, feeling a bit nervous. Luke was the only Moon family member who maintained an obvious distance from me. His sharp gaze always made me uncomfortable, as if he was waiting for me to make a mistake.
Walking into the history classroom, I chose a seat in the last row. Students were chatting in small groups, occasionally looking at me curiously. I lowered my head and opened my notebook, trying to ignore the surrounding glances.
"Miss Grey." Luke's voice suddenly sounded in front of me. "In my classroom, new students don't sit in the back row. There's space in the front."
I looked up, meeting Luke's serious golden eyes. The classroom fell silent, everyone watching this confrontation.
"I prefer sitting in the back," I replied calmly.
Luke raised an eyebrow. "This isn't a choice."
After a moment of silence, I gathered my things and moved to the front seat. I could feel the curious gazes and whispers of my classmates.
"Today we'll discuss moon worship in ancient civilizations," Luke began his lecture, his voice steady and powerful. "The moon represents change, mystery, and rebirth in many cultures..."
Despite my reluctance, I found myself drawn to the content of the course. Luke's way of teaching made history come alive, especially the parts about how ancient tribes connected lunar phases with human destiny.
When the bell rang, students began to leave. I was about to get up when Luke called me.
"Miss Grey, stay for a moment."
After the classroom emptied, Luke leaned against the podium, examining me. "Your notes are very detailed."
I hadn't expected him to notice this. "I like history."
"But your records from previous schools show average grades."
"I changed schools too often, never had enough time to really invest in learning," I answered, with a hint of defiance in my tone.
Surprisingly, Luke's lips curved slightly upward. "Good answer. I look forward to seeing your progress, Ella."
This was the first time he had called me by my name rather than my surname. I felt a bit surprised but quickly regained my composure. "I'll prove myself."
Leaving the classroom, I found Jay leaning against the corridor wall waiting for me.
Sunlight streamed through the windows onto his silver hair, with a gentle smile in his blue eyes.
"Did Luke give you a hard time?" he asked, naturally taking the books from my arms.
I shook my head. "No."
"Don't worry, he's like that with family." Jay said, then seemed to realize his word choice was inappropriate and quickly added, "I mean, he's like that with everyone."
We walked silently along the campus path, the autumn sunlight warm but not harsh.
"I heard you joined the art club?" Jay broke the silence.
I nodded. "I like painting. Thank you for the art supplies."
Jay was the third son of the Moon family. I had been thinking about the easel and that card, wanting to thank him but never finding the opportunity.
"You're welcome," Jay smiled. "I saw the sketches in your room. You have talent. If you need help, feel free to ask me anytime."
I looked up at him, truly observing this man with an artist's temperament for the first time. His eyes were like the deep ocean, making one want to explore them.
"Okay," I answered softly, feeling something inside me begin to loosen.
