READERS DISCRETION IS ADVISED - This Chapter contains some uncomfortable topics even though they have been toned down from the original/uncensored version. (CHECK MY PATREON FOR UNCENSORED VERSION)
Habondia stood in the school garden, surrounded by countless scents and colors. The fountain's gentle murmur filled the air, its crystal-clear waters cascading over the petals of the roses, leaving a trail of shimmering droplets in their wake. With a sense of tranquility washing over her, Habondia extended her slender fingers into the cool water, relishing the sensation as it caressed her skin. A soft smile played on her lips as she inhaled deeply, allowing the sweet fragrance of the blooming flowers to fill her lungs.
At the tender age of twelve, Habondia embodied innocence and curiosity, clad in her neatly pressed navy blue school uniform. Her chestnut hair was pulled back into a meticulous ponytail, and behind her thick-framed glasses, her eyes sparkled with a blend of wonder and contemplation.
As the sun painted the garden in hues of gold, Habondia's routine led her to the statue of the school's revered founder. Each day, like clockwork, she found solace in the presence of the stone figure, her gaze filled with admiration and respect. It was a ritual she held dear, a moment of quiet reflection amidst the stress of school life.
One morning, as she made her way towards the library, a figure caught her eye. A boy with sun-kissed skin and a mop of unruly black hair tended to a mysterious rose of ethereal beauty. Intrigued by his actions, Habondia's curiosity got the best of her, prompting her to seek cover behind a nearby column. Her heart pounded with excitement as she observed the boy's tender care for the enigmatic flower, a hue so unique it seemed to defy description.
Caught off guard by his piercing gaze, Habondia stumbled backward, the weight of her books toppling from her arms. With a resounding thud, the heavy tome crashed to the ground, eliciting a sharp cry of pain as it landed on her toes.
The boy approached with concern etched in his features, his movements gentle as he knelt beside her, offering a comforting presence.
"Who are you? Are you OK?" the boy asked.
"My name is Habondia," she replied, her voice trembling slightly, a mixture of discomfort and vulnerability in her tone.
Realization flickered in his eyes. "Ah, the one they called the library ghost who hangs around with Jonna and Joanne."
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Uncomfortable with the unflattering label, Habondia remained silent, her gaze averted.
"I apologize, that was rude of me," he said, his voice softening. "I didn't mean to offend you."
With a warm smile, he helped her gather her scattered belongings and assisted her to her feet, his touch surprisingly gentle and reassuring.
"Were you tending to that rose?" she asked.
"I planted it," he explained, his eyes alight with passion. "It's a creation of mine, a Rainbow Rose. Would you like to see it up close?"
Eagerly, she nodded, a glimmer of excitement dancing in her eyes, pushing the discomfort and embarrassment into the background.
"Come closer," he beckoned, a playful grin on his lips.
The Rainbow Rose unfurled before her, its petals a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues that seemed to shimmer like stained glass in the sunlight. Habondia couldn't help but gasp in wonder at the mesmerizing beauty before her.
"It's magnificent," she said, her gaze fixed on the captivating flower, her eyes wide with awe and admiration.
"I dream of spreading these roses across the world, in every corner of my homeland.”
"Can I help you?" she offered, her voice laced with genuine eagerness and a newfound sense of purpose.
His face lit up with joy. "Of course! I would be honored to have your assistance."
Curiosity getting the best of her, Habondia posed a question with a hint of shyness, "What is your name?"
"I am Kailashnath Badradri Venkata Phani Sarath Kumar, though most call me Kyle," he revealed with a chuckle, a warmth in his voice.
"Kyle?" she asked, tilting her head in curiosity.
"It's easier to remember," he explained with a grin, a playful glint in his eyes.
Together, they admired the Rainbow Rose, their fingers delicately tracing its vibrant petals. Habondia stared as Kyle meticulously tended to the garden, his care extending to every flower, not just his Rainbow Rose. She admired his dedication and felt a warmth in her chest, appreciating his nurturing nature.
"Time for me to head to class. Nice meeting you, see you next time, alright?" Kyle's smile was infectious, and Habondia found herself blushing as she nodded in response.
As Kyle left, Habondia settled on a wooden bench, only to be joined by Joanne and Jonna. Joanne wasted no time in teasing her about her interactions with Kyle.
"You're so fickle! First, it's Mark, now it's the Indian boy!" Joanne's voice was sharp, and her gestures exaggerated. Both girls were in the same school uniform as Habondia, but Habondia's skirt was notably longer.
Habondia felt a mix of embarrassment and frustration. "I'm not chasing after anyone! I'm not like you," she retorted, her words stumbling out.
Joanne's tone turned confrontational. "What are you implying?"
"Leave Bondy alone, Jo. She's right. While we've had our share of boyfriends, Habondia only interacts with teachers. Isn't that true, Bondy?" Jonna intervened. Her voice was softer, more understanding.
"I don't like being called Bondy," Habondia muttered childishly, puffing her cheeks in annoyance.
"We're the only ones who call you that, so the more you resist, the more we'll use it," Joanne stated firmly.
Jonna intervened again, this time physically. "Enough!" She lightly smacked Joanne's head, prompting a surprised yelp.