Riley had already noticed it on his way back—the festival was still alive, still loud in the distance—but the grand competition itself had come to a halt.
At first, he thought something went wrong.
But then he caught bits and pieces from passing students.
The interviews. Apparently, they had blown up inside the academy more than anyone expected.
People were talking, replaying moments, arguing over outcomes—it had pulled more attention than the matches themselves.
"…So the broadcast actually worked, huh."
He muttered it under his breath.
If anything, it worked too well.
Though… how long the break would last because of that, he had no clue.
Riley let out a small breath and shook his head, deciding not to think too deeply about it. His attention drifted back to the room—to the quiet, to Seo, still fast asleep like nothing in the world could bother her.
And unconsciously, his expression softened.
They'll probably be back soon…
