34 Ch. 34: Settle Things [2]

Standing upright on his feet, Péréz made his way to the chair and sat down.

"So?" Adrian opened a conversation and the wheat-haired boy fidgeted nervously.

Bracing himself, Péréz exhaled a deep breath and spoke, "I apologize for my past behavior towards you."

Adrian listened quietly with his unreadable expression.

"I mistreated you, spread groundless rumors about you, and disrespected you on multiple occasions." Péréz continued, "I know I can't undo what I've done, but I want to make it up to you. Also, I will fix the rumors once the Study Tour is over."

"..."

Silence.

There was no reaction. Although the stillness choked him down, Péréz patiently waited.

—Tap —Tap —Tap

Adrian tapped his fingers at the armrest and after seconds of consideration, he eventually answered, "I appreciate your apology, but I can't forgive you," Adrian's words were final.