"Holy crap, Nelly! Your results were hidden! Amazing!" Alfred yelled, his excitement bubbling over.

Noelle stared blankly at Cedric. "Does that mean I did well?"

"Exceptionally well!" Cedric replied calmly, a faint smile playing on his lips. Alfred snapped a photo. "Everyone, congratulate this genius!" he announced, already posting it online.

Noelle's smile bloomed. Yole University was within reach! Jumping up, she joined Alfred's celebratory shouts, then hugged Cedric tightly. "I did it!"

Cedric's body stiffened slightly, but his gaze remained gentle. "Yes, you did."

Noelle quickly released him, seeking Alfred's company. That hug, though—in her darkest moments, he’d been her guiding light.

Cedric watched them, a relieved smile touching his lips. He felt like the sapling he'd nurtured had finally blossomed.

Her homeroom teacher called. "Noelle, you're the city's top scorer!"

"Really?"

"Really! Your achievement is incredible!"

Noelle beamed. Looking up, she saw Cedric approaching with a cake. This was the happiest moment since her rebirth.

"Noelle, come to school tomorrow to discuss your major. We're making a promotional poster!"

"Okay," Noelle replied, ending the call. "When did you get this?" she asked, glancing at the "Top of Honor Roll" cake.

"This morning," Cedric said, placing it before her and carefully setting a party hat on her head. His nearness made her acutely aware of his height; from her angle, she only saw his shirt buttons.

His fingers brushed her hair, his Adam's apple bobbing. He awkwardly stepped back. "All set."

Alfred lit the candle. "Make a wish!"

Noelle closed her eyes. Cedric's face filled her mind. She made an impossible wish, then blew out the candle.

"Congratulations on the start of your new life," Cedric said, his voice steady.

Alfred grinned. "What'd you wish for, Nelly?"

Noelle coughed, blushing. "Wishes don't come true if you say them aloud."