32. I'm Good

The early morning chill had yet to dissipate when I jolted awake, anticipating the usual rush to class because I had overslept.

Still half-asleep, I shuffled out of bed, reaching for my jersey to throw on over my dark-colored undershirt from last night.

That's when Alec, already more alert and upright as usual, threw me a curveball. "No dude, it's Wednesday. You gotta wear the uniform today."

Another rule I had yet to catch. The constant onslaught of Ironcrest's regulations seemed endless, and I still fumbled through most of them. And there I was, unprepared to change into my uniform shirt in front of Alec.

Alec, noticing my hesitation, nonchalantly added, "I'll tie your tie, don't worry," before returning his gaze to his book. It seemed he was back to his usual self. Very observant and precise. Though it was odd he had waited around for me to wake up. Usually, when I woke up this late, he was already long gone.

Our conversations and bonding over yesterday's issue over practic