Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life

They'd already exchanged pleasantries at the base earlier that afternoon, and everyone was told to steer clear of Flora and Selene. Yet here he was, making his way over deliberately. Wasn't that just a bold move? Kylie didn't say anything, just watched Flora and her friends with a somber look. Finally, she let out a dry laugh, her lips curling slightly in a cold smirk.

"Hey, Kylie! That's Judson, the senior!" Tina suddenly exclaimed, surprise lighting up her voice.

Kylie followed Tina's gaze and saw Judson striding in through the entrance. "Senior Judson, what brings you to the cafeteria?" she asked, trying to sound casual.

The others in the cafeteria noticed Judson too, their curiosity piqued. Kruiz's lab had its own little kitchen, so they usually didn't bother coming to the cafeteria. What was different today?

"Obviously, he's here for Kylie!" someone remarked with a knowing nod. It was no secret around the base that Kylie might be joining the lab this year. Judson's presence had to be about that, right? Maybe he was here to discuss her joining the team. Instantly, eyes full of envy turned towards Kylie. But envy wouldn't change a thing. Kylie was just that talented.

"Tina was buzzing with excitement. "Senior, Judson must be here for you! Maybe Kruiz is so impressed by you that he sent Judson personally to invite you into the lab?"

Lab recruitment happened in March, right after the new student tests, but sometimes they made exceptions for early entries. Kylie couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement. Even though deep down she suspected Judson wasn't there to talk about the lab, Tina's words fueled her hopes.

Taking a deep breath, Kylie approached Judson with a smile. "Senior Judson, what a surprise to see you here."

Judson was actually there for Flora. He scanned the room and, spotting her, was about to head over when Kylie intercepted him. He remembered Kylie; she was a regular in the lab, always eager to learn.

He nodded politely. "Kylie."

Kylie beamed even more. "What a coincidence meeting you here, Senior. I have a few questions. Could you help me with them?" Everyone in the room was green with envy; they all wished they could have their questions answered by Judson.

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"I don't have time right now, let's catch up later," Judson replied, clearly focused on Flora. He apologized, sidestepping Kylie, and headed straight for Flora.

"Flora! Flora!" he called out, picking up his pace.

Kylie's smile dropped, leaving her expression frozen. The room was in shock.

Judson wasn't here for Kylie? Why was he making a beeline for Flora, calling out her name with such enthusiasm?

"Senior," Flora acknowledged him with a slight nod, still in the middle of her meal.

Judson's face broke into a broad smile. Oh wow, Flora called him senior!

"I heard you were here, so I thought I'd stop by," Judson explained, grinning, "You know, you could've just gone to the lab's kitchen. Master had some special dishes made for you."

"I'll do that next time," Flora replied, considering the not-so-great

cafeteria food. She then glanced at Selene, "Can I bring her along too?"

Judson instinctively glanced at Selene, considering her request.