#onlymeljayficexchange

[jaijeijayjei]

For @echoingvoids 🫶🏼

Jayce’s Uni Crush

Rating: G

Summary:

Jayce is an engineering student at Piltover University, eager to bring his dreams to life. An elegant and mysterious young woman catches his eye, will their paths cross?

The Kiramman’s gala to celebrate the winners of their talent outreach program was as lavish as always. Jayce almost couldn’t believe it—a full-ride scholarship to study engineering at Piltover University with his best friend Viktor. An opportunity to conduct the research they both knew would change the world for the better. This was just the first step in their journey.

Jayce glanced around at the other winners, most of whom were students from prestigious private schools, as well as the foundation’s many donors, talent scouts, and a melange of guests from Piltover’s elite. He pulled at the collar of his rented suit and straightened his posture, hoping the smile on his face read as confidence and not the creeping self-doubt he felt washed over him.

“And now,” Ms. Kiramman announced from the stage, “it is my honor to invite one of our most illustrious scholars to the stage for a few words. Valedictorian of her class, Student Bar Association president, and soon-to-be law student at Piltover University. Please welcome Ms. Mel Medarda!”

A stunning young woman walked to the platform, draped in an elegant gold dress that cascaded over her lithe form. Gold jewelry was tastefully arranged in her elaborate hairdo contrasting beautifully with her vibrant green eyes and deep skin. She sparkled radiantly in the light of the chandelier.

“It is a privilege to stand before such a diverse collection of talented individuals,” Ms. Medarda began, with the commanding tone of a queen. “To behold so many, joined together not by birth or dictum but by all that we share. Our hope. Our curiosity. Our compulsion to leave behind us a world better than that before.”

Jayce listened to her intently, enthralled by her confidence and poise. Viktor glanced over at him and rolled his eyes affectionately at his partner’s sudden focus.

“... To conclude, as my mother once said to me, there is no shame in coming from humble beginnings. The dedication put forth by each and every candidate here today is a testament. You belong here. You deserve to be here. And I have every confidence that with courage and determination, you will find success. Thank you.”

It felt like she was speaking directly to him. He felt butterflies tingling in his stomach. Mel Medarda. Grace, intellect, strength. Would she ever look his way? “Focus Jayce! No time for daydreaming,” he chastised himself in his mind. “But maybe… just maybe our paths will cross one day.”

—

Jayce never expected him and Viktor would ever apply to the Ferros Clinic for Law, Technology, and Public Policy. But as Professor Heimerdinger reminded him, being a well-rounded student would expand their research opportunities. “Besides, young man,” he advised, “As a wise man once said, it has been appallingly clear that our technology has exceeded our humanity. If you wish to be a successful inventor, you must learn how to navigate the world in which we live."

He and Viktor rarely explored the campus aside from the science and technology department buildings. They made their way to the swanky building where their first meeting was scheduled. And beyond the glass doors, there she was.

Her. Jayce felt a blush creeping up his face. Aside from admiring her from afar at House Kiramman’s seasonal social events (and occasionally looking through her social media accounts, in a completely non-creepy way) this would be his first real interaction with Mel Medarda. Whenever he felt insecure and self-conscious amongst his peers, he thought back to her words “You belong here. You deserve to be here.” Would she ever know how much those words meant to him?

“And that is our proposal for the use of bionics in Zaun’s mining sector. This technology would allow miners to work faster and without fatigue. We believe scientific advancement should solve real problems, not just trade disputes or increasing shareholder value. These inventions have the potential to improve lives for the better for those who need it most.” Jayce stated passionately.

Their program director had requested that they present their current research project as a case study. Viktor covered a simple technical introduction to the engineering principles behind what they dubbed the Hexclaw and Atlas Gauntlets. Jayce took over and discussed the applications of their work and what inspired them to create them. Their presentation was seamless, and the extra push to make a good first impression on Mel didn’t hurt.

“Are there any questions?” Viktor prompted the room.

A graceful hand arose and they both felt the energy in the room shift. Ms. Medarda had made quite a reputation for herself in recent years and easily commanded respect in any room she was in. His breath caught, wondering what she was about to say.

“While I admire your enthusiasm, gentlemen, it appears there are several factors you have failed to consider. You intend to release this for commercial use, yes?” she prodded. Jayce and Viktor glanced at each other questioningly.

“Yes, we do,” Viktor said after a pause. “We are very close to producing a suitable finished design. We wish to put Hextech in the hands of the masses, Ms. Medarda.”

“You claim this will improve lives. But if you are not careful, this could exacerbate the economic disparity in Zaun tenfold,” she intoned, standing up from her seat.

“Say you release this technology to the public. Mining magnates purchase it, and there is an unprecedented boom in the mining industry. With the documented history of workers' rights violations in the undercity and a renewed incentive to compete with other mining companies, what might they do? Picture this, gentlemen. Impossible quotas, justified by the introduction of this technology. Massive layoffs to save on labor costs, and pressure to increase working hours for those who remain-”

“But what else could happen?” Jayce blurted out. The group stared at him agape for daring to interrupt. He took a deep breath in.

“What if these aids make the lives of miners easier and safer? What if, with Hextech, the need for miners decreases and Zaun can expand their other sectors? Think of how many artists, entrepreneurs, and scientists have no choice but to work in the mines all their lives. Your concerns are valid. But Viktor and I will work to make sure that our inventions are used for good.”

Mel’s demeanor relaxed, and he thought he caught a glint of amusement flash across her face. He continued, looking directly into her eyes, “With all due respect, Ms. Medarda, I won’t let fear of what can go wrong stop us from trying to leave the world better than it once was,” he concluded.

There was silence as everyone absorbed the shock of Jayce’s outburst. Mel stepped forward and paused in front of him.

“I wholeheartedly agree Mr. Talis. If you had let me continue, I was about to say this is an excellent case study for our cohort to discuss,” she looked softly at him.

“You and Mr. Reveck have brilliant minds. It would be criminal to allow such talent to go to waste. Now, may we continue?” she asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Yes ma’am,” Jayce said with a light flush staining his cheeks.

The group, aided by their mentors, discussed the logistics of introducing Hextech to the world in an ethical, socially aware manner. Jayce was of course enthusiastically engaged with the discussion. Yet he couldn’t help but pay especially close attention to Ms. Medarda. She was like an enigma to be solved, a mysterious phenomenon to study and research. She intrigued him. Who was she? And like the excellent researcher Jayce was, he decided he would just have to find out for himself.

—-

Jayce’s part-time job at the local cafe was a decent setup. He mostly worked weekends and Fridays, to build up his savings and support his mother every bit he could now that he wasn’t working for the family business. It was a quaint shop where haggard students would come to treat themselves for a job well done or a change of scenery in their study marathons. Ambient jazz filled the room and various houseplants and fresh flowers for sale livened up the place.

He was wiping down the counter on a slow, rainy Saturday, chatting quietly with Viktor when the bell rang. “What can I get you- Ms. Medarda!”

Mel walked in and her eyes widened for a moment in recognition. “Mr. Talis. Mr. Reveck. I didn’t realize you worked here.”

“Ah yes- it’s a nice place, and it pays the bills! I mean, not that we have bills since we got a scholarship -which you know-, but it’s a decent job... What can I get started for you?”

“Very smooth,” Viktor chuckled under his breath. Jayce glanced at him pointedly.

Mel laughed softly like. Jayce immediately wanted to hear it again. “Relax, Jayce. Just be yourself. You’ve got this!” he thought.

“What would you recommend?” she asked.

“Our seasonal drinks are always excellent,” he said, handing her a menu. “My favorite is the brown sugar latte.”

“Then that’s what I’ll have,” Mel said. She took a seat after paying for her drink and pulled out a sketchbook. Jayce didn’t know she had an interest in art. “What does she like to draw? What else does she like?” Jayce wondered as he prepared her drink. He hesitated before preparing her drink. Would a heart-shaped latte art be too much? Would she read into it? Damn it- what has he got to lose? He made the heart and brought the drink to her table.

“Here you are, Ms. Medarda.”

“Thank you, Mr. Talis,” she said, reaching for the cup. Her hands brushed over his fingers and his heart leaped in his chest.

“Please, call me Jayce,” he said with a warm smile. Mel smiled back at him. “In that case, please call me Mel.” He felt a jolt of electricity between them. He realized he was still holding onto her hand and quickly pulled back after setting the drink on the table.

“Please let me know if you need anything.” His partner watched smugly as Jayce walked back to the counter. Viktor crept up behind him as he was reorganizing their tea selection.

“This is your chance, you know. Ask her out already, for god’s sake. She won’t bite you,” he said, nudging his foot with his cane.

“Don’t you have inventory to count?” Jayce hissed.

Viktor gave him a flat look over his glasses. “Hm, I seem to recall someone telling me ‘It’s never too late to take a chance on love!’”

Jayce rolled his eyes at Viktor’s bad impression of him. “Hey, you and Sky are doing great now!”

“Exactly my point. Ask her to dinner tonight. Sky and I like that Italian place down the street. I can get you a table.”

Viktor walked away to organize the storage room, leaving Jayce with his thoughts.

“Should I? What’s the worst that can happen… What if she refuses to work with us anymore? No, Mel wouldn’t do that…” He ruminated over his options.

“Thank you for the recommendation,” Mel said, standing behind the counter, breaking him from his reverie. “It was exquisite.”

“I’m glad you liked it, Mel.” Mel. Her name tasted like honey on his tongue. Mel, Mel, Mel. He liked it.

“Also… are you busy tonight?” she asked. His pulse quickened, “No, Viktor and I are all caught up on the safety tests Professor Heimerdinger requested so we’re free this weekend.”

“Would you like to have dinner with me tonight?”

“I would love that.” He answered immediately. “Is… there something you’d like to discuss about our research?” Maybe she was only about business.

“Not quite. Is there something unusual about wishing to get to know a fascinating young man?” she teased lightly. He smiled brightly.

“What about the Italian restaurant down the street? I’ve heard good things about that place, maybe at 6?” he suggested.

“That sounds perfect. I’ll see you then.”

Jayce looked at her wistfully as she left the cafe, in disbelief at what just happened. Excitement bubbled in his chest... he has a date!

https://archiveofourown.org/works/66034267