...Until in one of the stalls, I found a beautiful hand-crafted bracelet made of delicate silver links. It had an intricate design that reminded me of Aria's elegance. I bought it as a gift, hoping she would like it.

"Here," I said, handing her the small, wrapped package. "I saw this and thought of you."

Aria looked surprised but pleased. She unwrapped the package and her eyes widened slightly as she saw the bracelet. "It's beautiful... Thank you."

"You're welcome," I replied, feeling a warm sense of satisfaction. "I'm glad you like it."

We continued to explore the market, enjoying the festive atmosphere and each other's company. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the snow-covered park, we decided to head back to the academy.

Of course, the date hasn't ended yet. There was still the New Year Dinner I was going to prepare. Cooking was one of the few hobbies I retained from my past life, and I wanted to share a special meal with Aria. We made our way back to the academy, the cold air invigorating but not unpleasant after the warmth and joy of the day.

Upon arriving at the academy, we parted ways at the dorm. She said she would help me this time too so she went into her own room to change.

I returned to my room and changed into more comfortable clothes, ready to start preparing the special New Year dinner. Cooking was a skill I had honed over the years, a hobby that brought me a sense of calm and satisfaction. Tonight, I wanted to create a meal that Aria would enjoy, something to make the day even more memorable.

I headed to the kitchen, already planning the dishes in my mind. I had gathered ingredients from the market earlier, ensuring I had everything I needed. As I began to prepare the ingredients, I heard a soft knock on the door.

"Come in," I called, knowing it was Aria.

She entered, now dressed in casual clothes and looking eager to help. "I thought I'd come and lend a hand," she said, smiling as she approached the kitchen counter.

"You really don't have to," I replied, though I appreciated her offer. "I can handle it."

"I know," she said, rolling up her sleeves. "But I want to. Besides, it's more fun to cook together."

I couldn't argue with that. We started working side by side, chopping vegetables, mixing ingredients, and talking as we cooked. Aria was surprisingly skilled in the kitchen, and together we created a variety of dishes: a hearty stew, a fresh salad, and a selection of pastries for dessert.

As the food simmered and baked, the kitchen filled with delicious aromas. It felt cozy and warm, a stark contrast to the cold winter night outside. We chatted easily, sharing stories and getting to know each other even better.

"You know," Aria said, as she stirred a pot on the stove, "I never expected to find someone like you here at the academy."

I looked up from the salad I was preparing, curious. "What do you mean?"

"Someone who understands me," she said softly, her eyes meeting mine. "Who makes me feel... happy."

Her words touched me deeply. Damn, I was melting. "I'm glad I can be that person for you," I replied sincerely. "You mean a lot to me as well."

"Hmm..."

We continued cooking in comfortable yet awkward silence, the unspoken understanding between us growing stronger. When everything was ready, we set the table with care, creating a beautiful and inviting spread.

"Wow, it looks amazing," Aria said, admiring our work. "I can't wait to try everything."

We sat down and began our meal, savoring each dish. The food was delicious, and the company made it even better. We talked and laughed, the conversation flowing easily. It felt like we were in our own little world, away from the pressures and responsibilities of the academy and the world.

As we finished the last of the pastries, I leaned back in my chair, feeling content. "This was perfect," I said, smiling at Aria. "Thank you for helping me make it special."

"Thank you for inviting me," she replied, her eyes shining with warmth. "I had a wonderful time."

I cleared the table alone despite her offer. When everything was clean and put away, we moved to the living area and sat down on the couch, the cozy atmosphere making it easy to relax. I glanced at the clock; it was almost midnight. "It's almost the New Year," I said, feeling a sense of anticipation.

Aria nodded, looking thoughtful. "It's hard to believe how much has happened this past year."

"Yeah," I agreed. "But I'm glad we met. You've made this year unforgettable."

"Me too," she said softly, her gaze meeting mine. "Here's to many more unforgettable moments."

As the clock struck midnight, signaling the start of the new year, we sat in comfortable silence, enjoying the peaceful moment. It was a perfect end to a perfect day, filled with warmth, joy, and a deepening bond between us.

"Happy New Year, Aria," I said, my voice filled with sincerity.

"Happy New Year, Adrian," she replied, her smile radiant.

We stayed there for a while longer, talking and enjoying the quiet companionship. Eventually, we both knew it was time to part for the night. Aria stood up, and I walked her to the door.

"Thank you for today," she said. "It was truly special."

"Don't mention it. It was special for me too." I replied.

She left with a smile, and I watched her enter her own room. As she closed the door, I knew that this new year would bring many challenges and adventures.

But man... I would have hugged her right then and there many times if I had a bit of courage...

But it's not that bad to improve step by step...

With a smile on my face, I headed to bed, ready to embrace whatever the future held.

The knowledge from the novel, the friendships I had made, and the bonds I had formed all filled me with a sense of purpose and determination. The new year was a blank slate, full of possibilities, and I was ready to make the most of it.

Even if I end up being expelled. Even if I leave without confessing...

I won't regret a single moment of my time here or the choices I made and will make.

___ ____ _______

[Volume 2: End]

[Announcement: I returned updating my other novel - The Strongest Monarch In The Apocalypse. I will update a chapter for now. Those who are interested in a similar genre and theme, may check it out. You can search for it manually or find it on my profile.]