Ray stood there patiently waiting for a response. She was about to speak again, unsure if Maya had even heard her greeting in the noisy lunchroom. It was then that her frosty blue eyes looked up and blinked in confusion. They were so icy that it caused Ramona to freeze, but only for a moment. Sure, her stare was intimidating... but when it came to Ramona's origin, a lot of people were unnerving at first. However, she knew better than most that a persons true worth lies inside. Never judge a book by it's cover.
"Hmm? Are you speaking to me? "If so, I imagine that wouldn't be very wise." Her voice was equally cold as her appearance. Although, there was an unmistakable note of sorrow in her tone. Ramona knew the sound all too well. It was the slight expression of loneliness after being on your own for so long. A pang of sympathy struck her heart, steeling her resolve to become friends with the mysterious girl. While she spoke her head tilted to the side causing her golden hair to cascade across her shoulder. The warriors eyebrows knitted together as she processed her words. However, instead of inquiring as to why it would be foolish to associate with Maya, the red head waited patiently allowing the girl to finish in hope of further explanation.
Maya smiled meekly in an attempt to cover her pain. It was clear as day to Ramona, but the warrior knew first hand that most would not notice the tell tale signs.
"Do not let my presence cause issues. 'I've not seen you before, Miss Ramona. New, I assume? I worry if you speak with too much, the other students will alienate you.""Ah, so that's the reason." Ray thought while taking the seat next to Maya.
"The students here must have went out of their way to isolate her. I am not sure why, she seems friendly enough. Either way, it is unacceptable behavior."Her chivalrous nature kicked into overdrive just then. She rested her arm on the back of her seat and turned sideways so she could face Maya. A warm smile lit her features while she tipped her head to the side setting her emerald gaze thus giving the loner her full attention. With her other arm she reached out toward Maya in an attempt to give a proper handshake.
"You are absolutely correct, I just enrolled this year." Her voice came across as warm but with an authoritative edge. A permanent attribute due to constantly maintaining control.
"As for the student population you should know that I tend to disregard the judgement of peers." She shrugged her shoulders, acting as if popularity was of no concern to her. Which, in truth, was the case.
"Why would I wan't to associate with those who are too closed minded to go as far as alienate me for someone I am simply talking to? I will always do what I feel is right."She grinned once more, still maintaining eye contact.
"Now, you have two choices... You could either come back to the table with me. Possibly make new friends." Ramona paused for dramatic effect with yet another shrug.
"Or... I will go back, get my food, and come join you over here. Either way, don't worry. I'll protect you from any bully." She added with a wink.