The golden hues of the afternoon sun paint the Combat Department with a warm glow as Kai and his friends, adorned with secretive smiles, tiptoe into the room.
The air buzzes with anticipation, each conspirator sharing knowing glances.
Amid the scattered chatter during the break, the group subtly positions themselves, concealing the surprise gift and holding back giggles.
Kai exchanges nods with Emily, Rachel, Michael, Alex, Aoi, Sarah, Ethan, Jackson, and Akane – the conspirators ready to spring the surprise.
When the break arrives, Emily, the appointed spokesperson, leads the group to the center, creating a pocket of excitement that veils their intentions.
Suspense lingers in the air, the carefully wrapped gift hidden behind Kai, waiting to be revealed.
Seizing the opportune moment, Kai motions for Leon to join them. "Hey, Leon, come over here! We've got a little something for you," he calls out, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
Leon, sporting a mix of curiosity and skepticism, approaches the group.
Kai, holding the gift with eager anticipation, can't contain himself. "Happy Birthday, Leon!" he exclaims, presenting the meticulously wrapped box of chocolates.
The room erupts in cheers, and classmates join the celebration.
Leon, genuinely touched, accepts the gift with gratitude.
"Wow, you guys didn't have to do this!" he expresses, a genuine smile softening his usually composed demeanor.
Amid the joy, Leon's sense of responsibility surfaces. "Don't we have to continue training?" he questions, wary of letting the celebration overshadow their commitments.
Kai reassures him, "Don't worry. Alex here talked with Master Liang, and he got a response that today our classes wouldn't be taken.
Teachers have to leave for somewhere urgent, so we already were going to have an early leave. Got it?"
Leon nods, appreciating the thoughtful consideration.
The atmosphere lightens as the group delves deeper into the celebration. Chocolates are passed around, laughter echoes, and camaraderie flourishes.
Emily's gift, a delicate bracelet, finds its place on Leon's wrist. Other friends follow suit, presenting their tokens of appreciation.
Each gift holds a unique significance, reflecting the genuine connections within the group.
In the midst of the joy and shared laughter, Akane approaches Kai. "Nice job, Kai. You guys really know how to surprise someone."
Kai, basking in the success of the plan, responds, "Well, birthdays are meant to be memorable, right?"
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow, Leon expresses gratitude once again.
In the background, Emily, known for her playful banter, leans in. "Admit it, Leon, you're enjoying all this attention, aren't you?"
Leon, with a smirk, replies, "Well, who wouldn't? But let's not make it a habit, alright?"