Their Classes

"Do you think he's going to be at the top of the class now?" someone whispered behind Theron as he sat back in his chair.

"He's already friends with the prince and princess. That's just unfair," another voice murmured.

Theron's jaw tightened, forcing himself to ignore the murmurs. He had always known that being friends with the royal family would draw attention, but this? This would only make it worse. He glanced over at Royce, who gave him an encouraging nod as if to say it was fine.

"Don't let it bother you," Sirena whispered softly from his other side. "You're just good!" She exclaimed in a gentle voice. 

Theron managed a small smile in return, though it didn't reach his eyes. He appreciated their support, but inside, he was somehow a thorn in between.

He had never wanted to stand out this much—at least not so early in his studies. All he had wanted was to slowly climb the ranks, to grow stronger without all the extra attention.