“However…”

Just as Eve turned to leave, Haya called out to her.

“Eve, if it were you—would you protect a roommate you barely knew on the second day of school, even at the risk of offending Teresa?”

“No.”

Eve shook her head firmly.

“Then… this Shilufei is more than she appears. Take leave tonight. Return to the family and investigate her.”

“Understood, Young Miss.”

After Eve left, Haya remained leaning against the windowsill, head bowed in quiet thought.

…

“You and Shilufei are getting along quite well, huh?”

That night, inside Teresa’s dorm.

Loko sat across from Teresa. Steam curled from the teacup before her—but she didn’t dare take a sip.

After all, Young Miss Teresa had poured it herself.

“I merely followed your instructions, Young Miss.”

“Mm.”

Teresa gave a slight nod.

“You were sent to spy on her. Building rapport early helps the family’s plans.”

She lifted her cup, took a delicate sip, and set it down.

“But… why aren’t you drinking the tea I made?”

“I don’t deserve it without merit, Young Miss. I’ve done nothing noteworthy…”

Teresa shook her head, cutting her off.

“Nonsense. You’ve done exceptionally well.”

“It’s only day two—you were sparring one moment, nearly hugging the next.”

*We did hug already,* Loko silently grumbled.

“Loko… when did I ever notice you had this talent?”

Though the words sounded like praise, Teresa’s tone carried a hint of jealousy.

Loko didn’t catch it. To her, Teresa only had two modes: calm or angry.

And right now? Definitely angry.

“I’m sorry, Young Miss!”

“No need to apologize. Drink the tea first.”

Loko stared at the cup like it was poison.

*But… she drank from the same pot. It can’t be poisoned, right?*

She lifted it gently, steeled herself, and downed the warm tea in one gulp.

Sweet. Heavy on sugar. Not a trace of bitterness.

As she set the cup down and looked up—Teresa’s face was suddenly inches away.

Teresa leaned forward. A fingertip brushed Loko’s throat, traced slowly upward, and paused at her lips.

The intimate gesture flashed her straight back to her dreams.

*In the dream… this is when the punishment starts.*

But this time, Teresa simply leaned back and dabbed her fingertip with a handkerchief.

“I said drink it—not gulp it. So eager?”

She propped her chin on her hand, resting against the sofa arm, and watched Loko.

“My apologies, Young Miss. I was rude…”

“It’s fine.” Teresa shook her head.

“About the election—what’s your take?”

“Huh? Me?”

Startled Teresa was actually asking, Loko forgot even the usual taboos.

Teresa just blinked. “You’re the only one here.”

“Th-then… I’ll share my humble thoughts.”

The tea’s sweetness and Teresa’s closeness had sharpened her mind.

“I researched Senior Haya’s campaign. She’s allying with the top students of second and third year—claiming to form the strongest student council ever.”

“We seem outmatched… but her team has flaws.”

“Each top student is proud. They may not truly follow Senior Haya.”

“Especially now that you’ve entered the academy and declared candidacy. York Family supporters will split.”

“Francois and Augustine are ducal heirs too. Less powerful than York—but they’ll see opportunity.”

“We do nothing. Even feign weakness. Let Senior Haya’s momentum rise above yours. They’ll turn on each other.”

Teresa listened, silent long after Loko finished.

Only a soft cough brought her back.

“Young Miss… I’ve said all I have to say.”

“Mm. Solid plan. I’d prefer facing Cousin Haya head-on… but you’re right. If she unites all three top students, we’d have no chance.”

“You’ve laid it out clearly. We’ll proceed as you suggested.”

One thing Teresa did well as a leader: never meddle just to assert control.

“Time to go.” She added with a half-smile, “Or… stay for more tea?”

“No. If I’m late, Shilufei might grow suspicious.”

“Doesn’t matter. Everyone knows your family’s ties to the Yorks. She’ll learn eventually.”

*She already knows,* Loko silently grumbled again.

“No need to distance yourself from me in front of her. Just say I’m your friend.”

“Friend? A one-sided, domineering friend?”

*Like Nobita and Gian?*

Besides—I told Shilufei *today* I dislike the York Family. If I suddenly call you my friend? She’ll think I’ve got split personality.

“Understood, Young Miss. I’ll handle it.”

“Mm.” Teresa seemed pleased.

“But don’t push too hard.”

“As a spy or in battle—leave yourself room.”

“If you get hurt…”

Teresa’s words caught. She swallowed them.

“Your family would worry.”

*Room?* Loko almost laughed inwardly. *Will the York Family allow it? If I don’t betray Shilufei when the time comes… I’m the one who dies.*

Outwardly, she bowed with sincere gratitude.

“Thank you for your concern, Young Miss.”