Chapter 35. Distance

Elena's POV.

As we walked out of the classroom, I felt a mix of emotions: relief that the tense class was over, gratitude towards Mercy for standing up for me, and excitement for the training session ahead.

"Thanks," I whispered to Mercy, squeezing her hand.

She smiled and nudged my shoulder. "It's nothing, really. You know I've got your back."

I shook my head, feeling a lump form in my throat. "It means a lot, Mercy. You're a true friend."

We stepped out of the classroom, hand in hand, and made our way to the training grounds. The news had spread like wildfire: Derek, was now our combat professor.

I couldn't wait to see him again, to learn from him and train with him.

As we approached the training grounds, I saw Derek standing there, his eyes scanning the area with an intensity that made my heart race. He looked up and caught my gaze, a hint of a smile playing on my lips.

"Re