Too Late to Hold Me Back novel Chapter 635

"How did you know I could fight?" Mira asked, genuinely curious.

"Those of us who grew up training in martial arts can recognize our own. The way you carry yourself is completely different from the average student. Plus, I've seen videos of your martial arts routines," Instructor Vance replied with a smile.

"Not to mention the look in your eyes. That sharp, predatory gaze and calm intelligence—you practically radiate an aura of absolute dominance."

Mira had always assumed she blended in perfectly with the rest of the students. No one around her, not Liora, Elara, or even Harvey, had ever pointed out anything unusual. This guy was incredibly perceptive.

"To be completely honest, I took this instructor job just to meet you. Experiencing life outside the military base was just a bonus."

"To meet me? We've never even crossed paths before," Mira said, locking eyes with him.

"You might not know me, but I know you. In fact, most of the guys in my unit know exactly who you are."

That wasn't too surprising. As a public figure, having widespread recognition just meant she was successful.

"So how did you find out I got into Aethelgard University? And that I was in this specific class?"

"There's nothing weird about it. The news of your acceptance to Aethelgard was everywhere, so pretty much everyone following you knew. As for your class schedule, I looked into that after I arrived on campus and swapped assignments with Callum Young. He was originally supposed to be leading your squad. As a fan, I never wanted to intrude on your life. I just wanted to get a closer look and observe my idol in person. If we ended up becoming friends, well, that would just be the cherry on top."

Mira nodded. This guy wasn't annoying, at least. Whether they would actually become friends remained to be seen. Given their vastly different career paths, it was unlikely they'd cross paths much after this anyway.

The girl holding the books froze, instinctively shrinking away from Mira's intense gaze. A sudden, chilling wave of apprehension washed over her. Was she imagining things? She had to be. It was probably just the draft from the hallway.

"Daisy, hurry up and put them in the confiscation bag. What are you waiting for?" one of the other girls snapped. They had volunteered for this little mission today specifically to score points with their higher-ups. If they screwed this up, their chances of moving up the ranks were shot.

Daisy Yates moved to shove the books into her bag, but in a blur of motion, they were snatched right back into Mira's hands.

"Get the hell out, or I'm reporting you for breaking and entering." Since they were classmates, Mira was willing to give them one chance to walk away.

"We're members of the Student Council on official business. Your desk is cluttered, which means your things get confiscated."