Benjamin led Draven to a table where a blonde beauty and a curly-haired youngster sat, engrossed in their lunchtime conversation. As they approached, Benjamin grinned mischievously, ready to introduce Draven to his friends.
"Hey, guys," Benjamin greeted, his voice filled with familiarity. "Long story short, he just transferred here. Jake, Maria, this is Michael Reed, the new student."
The curly-haired youngster, Jake, looked up from his plate, his eyes filled with curiosity as he surveyed Draven. "New blood, huh? Welcome to the madness," he said with a playful grin.
Maria, the blonde with an air of confident poise, nodded in acknowledgment. "Nice to meet you, Michael. Littlerock Academy can be quite an adventure."
Draven couldn't help but feel a sense of surprise and intrigue. He had heard of Jake Cruise and his family's wealth and influence in Stegia. To encounter him here, at Littlerock Academy, was unexpected.