Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

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“Good morning, Noona!”

“Ohhhh! You're wearing a complete uniform, Noona….”

“Noona.”

“Noona.”

“Noona!”

“ENOUGH! GODDAMNIT!”

To say Baek Saheon is stressed is an understatement, he was experiencing a fusion of extreme mental pressure and the highest level of humiliation.

Baek Saheon wants nothing right now but to escape the mortification he has to face every single day. Ever since the result of that freaking sketch contest was revealed, he was always reminded of the shameful and dubious mistake of an act that he committed.

It had been five days.

Five fucking days since the results of that goddamn sketch contest had been posted on the bulletin board for the entire school to see. And somehow, winning first place had become the greatest mistake of his life.

Every morning, there it was. On the bulletin board….

His name and his artwork.

First Place:

BAEK SAHEON

“Noona”

He had considered tearing the paper down until it can no longer be restored.

He had also considered pretending he had never participated. ‘Sketch contest—what?; Baek Saheon—who?’

He had even briefly considered transferring schools again for the humiliation is too hard to swallow. But of course, that will only make him look like a fool who has succumbed to shame and decided to start anew. Now that's even more embarrassing!

Unfortunately, the problem wasn't the artwork.

“......”

The problem was the people who had seen it. The people who had laid their eyes on the lump of muscles on his paper.

The outsiders, who were the students who hadn't participated in the contest—were still far too intimidated by Baek Saheon's reputation to ask him what the hell “Noona” meant. They merely stared at the bulletin board, stared at Saheon, then quietly walked away with the most confused expressions imaginable. Which he's thankful for.

The participants, however, had absolutely no such restraint. They were thick-skinned bastards! A bunch of students who are acting chummy with Baek Saheon even though he has no recollection of them being close in the first place.

And they had apparently decided that winning first place came with a complimentary lifetime supply of humiliation.

“Morning, Noona.”

“Looking good today, Noona.”

“Your tie is crooked, Noona. Want me to fix it for you?”

“I'm going to fucking kill you all.”

The student immediately backed away.

“See? That's exactly what a Noona would say.”

“WHAT DOES THAT EVEN MEAN?!”

Laughter erupted around the hallway. Saheon clenched his fists. It had been five days, and these people still hadn't gotten tired of it. If anything, they seemed to be getting worse.

“Lee Seonghae, why do you keep muttering nonsense? You are not even acquainted with him?...”

Baek Saheon glanced at the girl with purple locks beside Seonghae. ‘Oh, as far as I can remember—she's also a participant. Jin Nasol, was that it? At least someone's still sane.’ It's been a while since Saheon is touched…

“Thank you—

“Leave the noona alone, the bell will ring soon” Nasol stated as she dragged Seonghae along. All hope left Baek Saheon, replaced by a sudden, strong urge to punch every single one of those shameless people. 

The students lingering in the hallway slowly began making their way back to their classrooms. Saheon remained where he was for a moment, glaring at the retreating figures. With one last irritated sigh, he shoved his hands into his pockets and followed the crowd.

By the time he reached the classroom, most of the students were already in their seats. Saheon walked in without acknowledging anyone and dropped into his chair at the back. For once, he hoped the classroom would be quiet.

It lasted approximately three seconds.

“Baek Saheon-ssi.”

He looked up. Kim Soleum was standing beside his desk with his bag hanging on his shoulder, holding a stack of papers.

“Did you finish the assignment?”

“.....Damn, chill. I did.”

The boy nodded then soon placed his bag on the desk next to him. This act made Saheon confused.

‘Hell. Why are you putting your bag here?! Go away!’

Soleum quietly settled in the seat then brought out all his textbooks and notes. He glanced at his seatmate, taking notice of the bewildered expression he currently has.

“I'm sitting here from now on. It's much more convenient that way.”

‘NO WAY. WHAT THE FUCK?’ Baek Saheon’s two-faced ass laughed trying to mask his disapproval. He doesn't want to interact with this freak for the rest of his time in this school. What do you mean he has to see him not only during their break time, but during class as well? If this isn't karma for all the shit Saheon pulled then he didn't know what this is.

Their first period today was self-study. Sir Lee Jaheon stated that he had an important meeting that’s why he won't be able to attend his period and just decided to give his time for students to reflect or learn on their own. ‘Probably what drove this man to sit next to me right now and permanently.’

He grabbed his notebook from his bag and handed it to his seatmate. Soleum reached out to take it, but for some reason, Saheon didn't let go. Soleum tugged at the notebook once.

Nothing. So he tried again.

Still nothing. Confused, Soleum looked up at Saheon, who was still holding onto the other end of the notebook. 

“What’s wrong? Hand it over.”

“Take it down, first.”

“....take down what?”

“My sketch that was unfortunately displayed on the bulletin board! Take it down!”

Baek Saheon whispered-shout, making Soleum narrowed his eyes. Then soon shakes his head calmly while disapproving firmly.

“No. That is your art and you won first place. You should be proud of yourself, of all people. It's a great feat.”

“It's not like that, I fucking swea—

“No. I won't ever take that sketch down. Not until a month has passed. I will keep your work and the rest up there for everyone to see. I. WON’T. TAKE. IT. DOWN. YET.”

Baek Saheon jeered and he became more irritated when Kim Soleum decided to act like they were not having a conversation. The bastard one-sidedly ended the small talk and opened his notebook with the assignment.

But before Soleum could check his assignment, a familiar shout echoed from the corridors—one Saheon had come to dread hearing. His shoulders stiffened at the sound, and his expression immediately soured.

‘Not again for fuck’s sake…..’

“Aigooooo….how diligent, noona!”

“KANG YIHAK! YOU INSUFFERABLE PIECE OF SHIT. SHUT YOUR MOUTH BEFORE I SHUT YOUR WHOLE FAMILY DOWN!”

Of all the things he could tolerate at school, that was the one he wished would disappear. Yihak ran while laughing with the sound that was becoming more aggravating to Saheon's ears since the last five days. ‘Why the hell is that girl out and about during class hours?! Someone! Anyone! Just chain her down to her seat!’

Baek Saheon angrily sat on his seat with a huff while sending daggers to his classmates who kept looking at him after the commotion.

“I swear Kang Yihak you're going to get a piece of me someday. And Nasol—don't think I've forgotten about you either.”

He clenched his jaw glaring toward the hallway while mumbling curses through his breath then soon glanced at Kim Soleum who is now staring at him with his creepy red iris full of questions. Saheon rolled his eyes.

“Don't ask.”

“I wasn't going too.”

A dead silence engulfed their specific row after that, then Kim Soleum decided to break it again after a few minutes.

“But, what really is with the noona?”

Baek Saheon sighed frustrated.

“It's because of the sketch. I'm sure you already know, it's the competition you guys hosted after all. A specific art called Noona with a muscular man as its content. Pretty unique isn't it?” Saheon uttered, his words glazed with sarcasm.

“Well, I do hear that people are arguing about its meaning these days.”

“Tell me something new.” Saheon shoved his hands on the pocket of his jacket as he leaned on the backrest of his chair.

“........”

“Saheon-ssi…. Is your sister perhaps very masculine?” Kim Soleum suddenly asked with an extremely serious expression on his face.

“.........What the fuck did you just ask me?”

“I'm sorry if that came off as insensitive however, I just can't help but think that your art might be metaphorical and you're challenging conventional perceptions of femininity and not exactly the physical property of your sister.”

Soleum shared his perspective of the artwork with the seriousness of someone analyzing an architectural blueprint. Unfortunately, he outlooked one thing; Baek Saheon’s mind was nowhere near as complicated as Kim Soleum’s to be able to come up with that idea as of now. Soleum continued his explanation with a slight smile.

“What a great meaning, really. I'm sure your sister might be truly one of a kind for you to get that inspired and dig deeper into the topic of femi—

“It's you.”

“—nism…...........excuse me?” Soleum’s smile dropped.

“The man on the sketch. It's you.”

“.........”

(⁠・⁠_⁠・)

The silence lasted for a minute. Baek Saheon decided to just admit it straightforwardly to the person at fault. Why would he be embarrassed of this asshole of all people? It's not like he drew that thing….willingly though. Baek Saheon soon began his explanation, not giving Kim Soleum enough time to process the bad news.

“I was originally supposed to draw a petite girl, which is my sister. However, I was so nervous that I took your advice and imagined the person I hate naked—which is you. I hate you with all my guts, you see. Then I guess I was so distracted that I ended up drawing your half-naked body. I hope you know that I am not sorry at all, it's because of you and your shitty advice in the first place.”

“......”

“You fucker—then all this time… the man on the paper was….”

Saheon nodded hesitately. He was now a little terrified ‘Was I wrong to tell him this directly? Will he finally kill me?’. Soleum looked like he was experiencing a mixture of anger, humiliation, and confusion—however, he looks like he's handling it really well. What a patient and well-disciplined person. 

With a trembling voice, Soleum once again tried to confirm the situation.

“The naked…man on the paper…displayed on the bulletin board for EVERYONE to see is—

After the first period, all the work including the “Noona” that was on the bulletin board was taken down out of the blue for the private reason that the student council president felt very much molested.

***

Kim Soleum tried to forget that the artwork which had him as a subject had ever existed. Unfortunately, he could still see it whenever he closed his eyes. 

‘Why was it so muscular? Is that really me or is that just how Saheon saw me through his lens? How humiliating...'

He sighed and forced himself to focus on the papers in front of him. There was, thankfully, something much more important to worry about. The upcoming preliminary examination. Soleum looked over at his seatmate, who was currently staring blankly at his notes as if they had personally did something wrong to him.

Their tutoring sessions had been going on for a while now—but with classes, assignments, and the limited time they had after school, they barely managed to cover enough material to catch up with the latest lessons. Yes, Baek Saheon is a fast learner but that is still not enough to make up for all the years that have been lost with him goofing around.

At this rate, Saheon would graduate before understanding the first chapter and passing the exam. Soleum pinched the bridge of his nose. ‘We need more time.’ He glanced at Saheon again 

“Baek Saheon-ssi.”

Saheon softly hummed in response.

“We need to study somewhere else.”

Saheon slowly turned toward him.

“...What?”

“We don't have enough time during our usual tutoring sessions. If we're serious about catching up and getting passing marks on the upcoming test, we need longer study sessions.”

Saheon stared at him with exhaustion and defeat in his eyes. He let out a breath of sigh having accepted his fate because even if he disagreed, Soleum's words are absolute. He won't give a shit about what Saheon has to say.

“So?”

“We'll study at one of our houses after school and during weekends.”

“.........”

Saheon looked genuinely horrified which made Soleum slightly frowned.

“No way. You're asking me to go to your house?”

“I said one of our houses.”

“That doesn't make it better.”

Soleum groaned as he stared straight into Saheon's eyes. “Then choose.”

Saheon stared at him for several seconds before muttering, “Fine, if it's like this—I’d rather study at MY place.”

“Alright, then I'll head straight to your apartment on Saturday.”

***

TIP TAP TIP TAP

Kim Soleum is currently looking up at the tall building in front of him with an umbrella to shield himself from the drizzle of rain. Everything about it screams luxurious. The facade, the people, the interior design, and the overall atmosphere. 

‘Am I in the right place?’

Today is Saturday; 7:24 am in the morning. Just like what they talked about, they planned a schedule for the weekends as well. However, Soleum is still hesitant to take a step inside the extravagant condominium building.

He glanced at Saheon’s message for the nth time trying to make sure he wasn't in the wrong place at all.

‘According to the address he gave me, this is indeed the Diamond Residence.’

With final confirmation, Soleum finally decided to step inside and search for Baek Saheon’s condominium number.

‘Room 12, 9th floor. Room 12, 9th floor…..’

“....! Here”

Without further ado, he knocked at the door as soon as he found the given number of the flat. The doorknob turned indicating that someone was about to open it. An innocent-face was revealed when the door opened and that harmless-looking face turned sour the moment he saw the visitor.

“......Come in.”

“Thank you for having me.”

Kim Soleum went inside and was ready to enter the field of studying when all he saw was....

Trash. Absolute trash.

He stopped at the entrance. His eyes slowly traveled across the room. The condominium itself was enormous. Expensive furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows, a view that probably cost more than his entire education—and yet somehow, it looked more like a garbage dump than a home.

Clothes were scattered across the floor. Empty food containers were stacked on the coffee table, some threatening to collapse under their own weight. Crumpled papers and bills were everywhere—on the couch, underneath the table, beside the television, and, for some reason, on top of a refrigerator.

There were also shoes in places where shoes should not be. One was beside the sofa. Another was ender the dining table. Soleum even spotted a third one sitting on the kitchen counter. He stared at it with disbelief.

‘Why…?’

The kitchen was somehow worse. An unopened carton of milk sat beside several empty cups of noodles, while snack wrappers formed what appeared to be a small civilization near the plates that had been abandoned on the counter long enough and was compressed on the sink.

He took one cautious step forward remembering that he should enter when his shoe nearly landed on a sock. His step halted then he looked at Saheon with a disgusted face.

Saheon stood there completely unfazed.

“What?”

Soleum pointed everywhere all at once.

“What is this, this, this, and this?”

“...? My humble home.”

“I can see that.”

“Then why did you ask?” Saheon questioned with irritation. ‘He still has the nerve to be irritated?...He has a visitor and his place is like—’

Soleum took a deep breath. He looked around again. This was a condominium belonging to the heir of a wealthy family. It had expensive furniture, appliances, and an unnecessarily large television. It even had an entire wall of windows overlooking the city.

And yet the most dominant feature of the entire residence was a half-eaten bag of chips sitting on the floor. Soleum slowly turned toward Saheon.

“Do you mainly live here?”

“Obviously.”

“Then why does it look abandoned?”

Saheon frowned. “It doesn't.”

Soleum stared at him dead in the eyes, making Saheon clear his throat.

“I guess…? I mean I don't stay here most of the time. For me, this is just a place to eat and sleep…”

Soleum closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose. ‘I have made a terrible mistake.’ He had come here expecting to study—instead, he had entered a whole new world.

“Forget studying.”

“What…?”

“Grab your broom, we're going to clean this shithole.”

“....”

That's how the supposedly study session turns into a cleaning session. How can they even study in a place such as this? To study well, one needs a good environment too!

The gentle sound of raindrops echoed inside the luxurious condominium, creating a cold, relaxing vibe that made you want to sleep. But Soleum wasn't able to rest—he was busy doing a massive cleanup in Saheon's now cozy home all this time. He didn't even realized the time until he was done and finally saw how dark the sky is from the large window.

He felt both exhausted and incredibly proud. He can now surely say that the place is really an extravagant unit suitable for the sole heir of a big corporation.

He was sweating heavily, his clothes were drenched, and his face was wet from working so hard on the enormous unit. Now that he was done, he felt really uncomfortable with how sticky and dirty his tired body felt.

‘Ugh, do I smell bad…?’

He glanced at the owner of this unit. Baek Saheon was lying face planted on the floor, he seemed tired as well. Well Soleum did most of the work, but Saheon also lent his help considering he was the one living here after all.

“Hey, let's just study tomorrow. It's already late—we're both tired and I also feel so unclean right now…”

Saheon just groans in response. Too exhausted to form another word. Actually, Soleum was quite surprised that Saheon obliged every order when it's obvious that he's not fond of cleaning that much considering the initial state of this place—so he decided to praise him for his hard work.

“Good work.”

Saheon raised his head and stared at him with an expression Soleum couldn't figure out, then soon turned his head away avoiding Soleum’s gaze.

“Then I'll be goi—

KRA-THOOM! CACKLE! CRACK!

“!!!” 

“!”

A bright lightning followed by a loud roar of thunder echoed throughout the unit. Then the gentle raindrops turned into a rough harmony of water pouring down everywhere outside the massive window accompanied by a dancing wind.

“...”

“...Looks like I'll have to pay for a cab. What a waste of money.”

Saheon briefly looks at him with hesitation before puffing an exhausted breath and coming up with a decision he deemed best.

“Just stay the night…”

“..........!!!” 

Gasp! (⁠☉o⁠☉⁠)

Soleum widened his eyes dumbfounded. ‘Did he just offer for me to stay because it's pouring out there and…he's worried?’

“I’m not so ungrateful and rude that I would send the person who just cleaned my entire place back out into the pouring rain.”

Soleum was deeply touched. Overwhelmed by a sudden wave of pride, he was practically crying on the inside. ‘Oh, my dear student. Is he finally listening to his conscience? Telling his tutor to stay because it's pouring outside—

“If you got struck by lightning and died, sure, that would make me happy. But I can already picture everyone pointing at me as your killer. They already think I murdered my sister. I can’t afford to be blamed for your death too.”

“....” (⁠☉_☉⁠)

“If you’re going to die, do it somewhere far away from me—

““Watch what you say, or I will tie you up outdoors and let the lightning strike you dead instead.”

“....”

“I-I was just kidding, sir” Saheon gave a nervous laugh, trying to ease the tension. He really didn't want to be stuck with a visitor who was so upset and might actually try to kill him if things got worse.

“Is it alright for me to take a shower first? I don't think I can spend any more seconds looking like this. I'll lend you my unused clothes after, so don't worry about anything for now.” Saheon stated very politely trying to please his visitor.

“Go ahead and take your time, I'll wait. Thank you for letting me stay, Baek Saheon.”

“........”

‘Hmm? Does he have a habit of pausing mid-conversation?’

“Then, I'll clean up first. Just stay put.”

While Baek Saheon was taking a shower, Kim Soleum decided to roam and observe the unit. He wasn't able to take a clear look earlier since he's focused on cleaning.

The place is painted with a soft neutral palette, giving a modern and minimalist finish. It also has a stair leading up to what seems like a mezzanine floor where all the private rooms are located. Overall, the style gives off a deluxe yet simple interior. Just the way Kim Soleum wanted.

‘I would one day like to live in a place just like this. Maybe with my wife and my kids if possible—or even with someone important to me...’

Soleum knowingly smiled at the thought. He has to work extra hard to achieve the humble and peaceful life he wants. He then continued roaming around for a long time until he turned his eyes to the empty shelf in one corner. It really is empty, well except—there is only one picture frame in it.

A young Baek Saheon together with a teenage girl.

‘Is that his sister?’

“How beautiful…”

“See? That's my real definition of beauty and absolutely not your naked body.”

Soleum was cut off from his thoughts when Baek Saheon suddenly appeared behind him fresh from the shower. Kim Soleum frowned, he really has to remind him about that nude artwork of him again don't he? 

Kim Soleum lifted his hand holding a pack of cigarettes. He had found this earlier while walking all over the place, he had actually forgotten about it for a while. He was able to remember it again when he was finding reasons to fight back with the man in front of him.

“Then, explain this.”

Contrary to what Soleum expected, Saheon wasn't shocked even by a bit.

“Oh? I still have that? You should've just thrown it away, it doesn't even taste that good.”

“.....”

“Nevermind, give it to me and clean yourself up already.”

He snatched the pack of cigarettes and pushed Soleum inside the bathroom.

***

Kim Soleum stepped out of the bathroom together with a steam of clouds. He was wearing the black tee and jog pants that Saheon prepared for him while drying his hair with a towel on his right hand. His hair is slightly messy without being styled with gel. 

Baek Saheon turned to take a look at him and was slightly taken back. Everything about him looks different right now after all. His usual parted hair is down, he doesn't have his glasses, and he's wearing….

‘My clothes…’

Kim Soleum—noticing his gaze, moved his head to look at him. Saheon quickly averted his gaze. ‘Now what? It's suddenly awkward…’

“Are you sleepy?” Soleum asked while still ruffling his hair with the towel.

“.....Not yet, the shower woke me up.”

“Then, how about a short study session?”

“.....”

‘Is he a monster? After all that cleaning?’

“If it's short, then I guess it's fine.”

He still agreed though for an unknown reason. And that's how they ended up studying at 7:45 pm in the evening after eating a cup of noodles for dinner.

While tutoring Baek Saheon, Kim Soleum is also studying for the preliminary examination in between. For the next hour, the condominium grew unusually quiet. Aside from the occasional sound of pages turning, the only thing filling the room was Saheon's increasingly frustrated sighs.

Soleum glanced at him. Saheon had been staring at the same problem for several minutes now. His pencil moved—stopped—oh it moved again!—and stopped again, obviously. Then he erased the entire thing.

“...This doesn't make sense.”

Soleum continued reading his own notes and without glancing at Saheon, he muttered “You skipped a step.”

“I didn't.”

“You did.”

“No.”

“Yes.”

“Then show me.”

Soleum stopped what he was doing and leaned closer. He looked over Saheon's calculations, following each line until he found the mistake.

“There.”

He reached over, placing his finger beside one of the numbers. “You changed the sign here.”

Saheon looked down and stared at the sign for a moment finally accepting that he indeed made a mistake. Soleum on the other hand, glance at his fingers since it feels like it's been touching something warm since earlier.

‘...oh, shoot.’ Kim Soleum suddenly froze when he noticed that his hand accidentally slightly touched Baek Saheon's hand. Soleum was about to pull his hand back when he realized something.

Saheon hadn't moved. Normally, the moment Soleum got too close, Saheon would instinctively pull away. Sometimes he'd even slap his hand aside before Soleum could finish whatever he was doing just like the first time they met.

But this time—Saheon simply remained where he was, looking at the equation. Then Saheon finally glanced sideways.

He looked at Soleum's hand and at the small distance between them. His expression froze as well. The silence suddenly felt much louder than before, making Saheon cough as he raised an eyebrow feeling a little vexed at the sudden awkward silence.

“...What?”

Soleum looked back at the equation.

“Nothing.”

He quietly moved his hand away. Saheon turned back to his notebook.

“Right.”

The night slowly passed and neither of them mentioned it. Somehow, they continued studying as if nothing had happened before drifting to slumber.

***

It was the day of the preliminary examination and Saheon could say that he did quite well. He's not sure if he'll pass though but still, he did better than he thought. All that nagging from the psychopath is somehow finally bearing fruit.

He was walking down the hallway when he spotted Kim Soleum holding a pile of papers. ‘How can he live like that? So busy and so demanding.’ After the first batch of examination, Soleum swiftly sprint outside the classroom to do his other duties leaving Baek Saheon alone. A few seconds had passed and Soleum finally noticed him and started walking towards his direction.

‘And—there he is…’

Unbeknownst to Baek Saheon he was actually looking forward to telling Soleum that unlike before, he actually had a chance of passing even by a small margin. He was unconsciously waiting for the big question.

“I'm sorry for suddenly leaving. How did you do? Did you find the questions too hard?”

‘There it is!’

Baek Saheon somewhat raised his head and smirked proudly. 

“Hah! I'm quite confident that I answered most of the questions correctly. All the materials we reviewed during the weekends appeared!”

Kim Soleum chuckled gently. 

“Really?”

“Yes! Don't you have faith in me?! I swear I might pass this first batch! Not a hundred percent sure though, but it's still possible!”

“Alright, alright….Good job. I'm proud of you, Baek Saheon.”

“....”

“Of course, I did a good job.”

Kim Soleum continued listening to the proud chatter of Baek Saheon when he noticed Go Youngeun marching towards him with a smile. She was waving her hands while holding what seemed like the notes he had lent her. Soleum glanced at Baek Saheon and realized the situation.

‘Oh shit. Go Youngeun thinks badly of Baek Saheon. If they meet, she might show her fear without meaning to, which might offend him and lead to an unwanted scene. I can't let them cross paths at all!’

“Kim Soleum-ssi! You're such a lifesaver—

Before Go Youngeun could say any more words Soleum hastily pinned Saheon to the wall with the hand that was not holding the pile of papers—trying to block Baek Saheon’s view of the female. 

“....Kim Soleum-ssi, what's—

Soleum turned his head to face Youngeun to stop her words again because she still couldn't take the hint. Slowly, he mouthed Baek Saheon and swiftly glanced at the boy between his arms and back to her.

This act drained all the colors from Go Youngeun’s face as she nervously nodded before sprinting far away letting Soleum exhale the air he has been holding. Realizing what he did, he hurriedly glanced at the boy full of worries.

'Nooo, what if he gets pissed off at me instead??’

He cautiously glanced at the boy’s expression and Saheon’s expression seemed…confused?

“....?”

“You. For some reason, I don't feel offended and disgusted with your touch like before…”

Baek Saheon muttered. A wash of relief dawned upon Soleum, since he's not raging with fire. He was also curious about what Saheon said so without thinking twice—he tried to touch the boy’s head to confirm the statement but he instinctively jumped away startling Soleum.

“Oh…. Was I wrong…?” Saheon mumbled with a face full of confusion. Meanwhile Kim Soleum is now weeping inside.

‘Oh no, he seemed angry this time!!!’ 

Soleum panicked internally, catching the reddish tint on Saheon's ears that showed just how angry he was getting from his impulsive stunt.

***

Go Youngeun was now happily skipping in the hallway. He did perfect on today's batch of exams. Now, she just needs to do well in tomorrow's batch too.

“Aww, I'm craving fish cakes but I'll save it for tomorrow after the exam…”

Right now, she has to go home quickly to review the remaining exam for tomorrow. She's not that worried though, she has the sacred notes. In short, Kim Soleum’s notes! For some reason, his notes were easy to understand and ideal as a reviewer before a major exam.

She feels bad though, it seems like she was always on the receiving end. Not to mention that he also let her get away once from the penal labor during the first day.

‘I should treat him sometimes…’

She hugged the notebooks against her chest as she walked toward the stairs.

Then—BAM!

“Ah!”

Someone suddenly came around the corner at the same time she did, making Youngeun stumbled backward as Soleum’s notes flew from her arms.

“W-Wait—!”

She lost her balance near the top of the stairs. But before she could fall, a hand grabbed her wrist.

“Careful.”

Youngeun froze.

‘That voice.’

Her eyes slowly traveled upward. Brown hair and an innocent-looking emerald eyes. The familiar expression that always looked like he was one bad mood away from committing a crime.

Baek Saheon.

Her face went pale.

‘Oh.’

‘Oh, no.’

‘OH, FUCK!’

Of all the people she could have collided with—him? After all the trouble Soleum did to let them not meet. Saheon frowned when he noticed her expression but soon decided to ask her.

“Are you okay?”

Youngeun didn't answer. She instinctively tried to pull her arm away. Saheon tightened his grip for a second, trying to keep her from stumbling down the stairs.

“Don't move.”

Which, unfortunately, sounded significantly more threatening than he intended. Youngeun's eyes widened out of fear and shock.

“L-Let go of me!”

“What?”

“Let go!”

“Idiot! I'm trying to stop you from falling!”

“I SAID LET GO!”

Saheon immediately released her. Except Youngeun had already lost her balance again.

“Whoa—!”

She stumbled forward. Saheon instinctively reached out to catch her, making the two of them collide awkwardly. Youngeun landed against the wall, while Saheon ended up bracing one hand beside her shoulder to keep himself from falling.

For a few seconds, neither moved. The problem is—it looked absolutely horrible from a distance. Think of this. Saheon was towering over her, one arm was against the wall, his other hand was near her shoulder and Youngeun looked terrified.

Not to mention, the bad timing—several students happened to walk around the corner at exactly that moment.

Multiple students stopped upon seeing the situation as silence engulfed that specific area. One student stared with fear, another slowly covered their mouth, and most started murmuring.

“...Is Baek Saheon threatening Go Youngeun?”

Youngeun and Saheon’s eyes widened.

“WHAT?!”

He immediately pushed himself away from the wall and the girl.

“I wasn't—!”

But it was already too late—more students had begun gathering at the stairs as whispers spread through the hallway.

“Isn't she the girl who sells information?”

“Didn't he beat people up at his old school?”

“Why is he cornering her?”

Saheon's expression darkened while the students around them continued to talk nonsense.

“This isn't what it looks like…”

Youngeun—still frozen against the wall, could only stare at him as thoughts started running through her mind. ‘Wait, now that I think about it. Did he try to save me? How foolish of me, arghh.’

She glanced at Saheon again and saw how the defensive boy from earlier turned into an exhausted one. His face is devoid of emotions, as if he just decided to give up on explaining his side.

‘No!! You're the infamous brave and strong delinquent, don't just give up! Explain!!!’

Guilty about the whole commotion that her prejudiced ass caused, Go Youngeun tried to explain the truth behind the situation.

“It really isn't what it looks lik—

“Go Youngeun, is he threatening you to defend him?”

“What? No! In fact he just save—

“You must've been so scared, poor you.”

“I was indeed scared, but not after I realized that he saved me—

“I know it's really scary, isn't it?

“Not really. Like I said, he save—

“Don't worry, we’re all on your side!”

‘This bitch…’ (⁠ノ⁠ಠ⁠益⁠ಠ⁠)⁠ノ

“Look at you trembling, oh no…”

‘Look at me trembling, oh no—I’m sooooo gonna rip all your hair off!’

“What is with this commotion?”

Go Youngeun was this close to jumping the student who won't even let her explain when the cold voice of a certain student president sent chills all over the area.

All the students fell into silence. Kim Soleum’s presence was too much to handle after all. Go Youngeun let out a breath of relief then soon glanced at Baek Saheon to tell him that she won't let him be punished by the president.

However, Saheon's face immediately lightened up upon Kim Soleum's appearance. A smile unconsciously made its way to the boy’s face as he kept on staring at the president.

‘.....!!! Wha—

Saheon suddenly cleared his throat and calm his face down which unfortunately removed the smile he just made, before shouting—startling not just Go Youngeun but everyone as well.

“Kim Soleum!!”

“...!!”

“....!!!!”

“Baek Saheon?? What are you doing here? Now, what really is going on?”

Kim Soleum walked towards their direction, clearly bewildered.

“This stupid girl almost fell down the stairs and I happened to help her out.” Baek Saheon stated calmly unlike earlier where he was desperately explaining to everyone.

“Stupid—what?! How dare you—” Go Youngeun responded feeling insulted but Saheon cut her off.

“You are stupid, you are clearly not in your right mind during that time.”

“Really? That could've been serious. Are you hurt anywhere Youngeun-ssi?”

Hearing the question, Youngeun decided that this is the chance to put those arrogant students into their place.

“HURT? WHO? ME? OF COURSE NOT! HAHAHAHAHA BAEEK SAAAAHEEONNN JUST SAVEDDD ME FROM FALLINGGGGG!!!!!!”

Go Youngeun exclaimed—rather announced, making sure that everyone heard what she had to say. Especially the bitch earlier who was clearly not worried about her, that motherfucker was obviously just finding reasons to put the delinquent into a tight spot.

With this, everyone looked at each other and the crowd started to retreat—wanting nothing but to just head home. 

“I see… That's good to hear. No need to shout, Go Youngeun-ssi.”

Go Youngeun just shrugged her shoulders feeling satisfied. Soleum soon asked Saheon too.

“How about you? Are you hurt?”

“..... I'm not, keep your worried ass away from me. Who do you think I am?”

‘He’s saying all that, yet he looks like he's glad that Soleum's worried for him. Ugh, look at him trying not to smile. What a complicated and two-faced bastard.’ Youngeun thought with a frown as she kept on looking at both of them—well, specifically Baek Saheon.

“I could've handled myself.” Baek Saheon said with a scowl while acting cool, making Youngeun look at him with disbelief.

‘Hah! Handle yourself? Don't make me laugh. Dude, you just give up halfway while explaining!’ Youngeun exclaimed in her mind. She decided to clear her throat to gain the attention of the two of them so she can finally go and she was taken aback when Saheon glared at her for interrupting their conversation.

'...'

“I’m heading first, thank you….Baek Saheon-ssi.” 

Go Youngeun can't believe that she was thanking this person. But, at the end of the day—he still helped her.

Baek Saheon helped Go Youngeun.

Wait—

Baek Saheon helped someone?

***

‘He believed me. Take that you fools.’

Baek Saheon was now walking in their neighborhood. He was actually upset about the situation earlier, he had always hated those types of eyes looking at him. He decided that keeping his mouth shut was the best decision.

However, Kim Soleum showed up. And he asked him of all people about the commotion! It's just proof that whatever happens, Soleum is there to believe him. He had one person on his side right now who'll believe him unconditionally.

‘How odd….’

Saheon thought as he held his chest. It suddenly hurts, was this because of the stress he's feeling these days?

He just paid it no mind, his priority right now is to study for tomorrow’s remaining exam. Kim Soleum was supposed to be with him to study together, but an emergency suddenly came and he had to do something after school so he had no choice but to study alone.

“Saheon-ah.”

He was now in front of the building when a disgustingly familiar voice called out to him. A well-groomed middle-aged man stood a few steps away leaning on a black sedan, dressed in a perfectly tailored suit with not a single strand of hair out of place. Saheon’s expression immediately flattened.

“Father…”

His father glanced at him from head to toe.

“Your uniform... At least you're now wearing it properly.”

“So? What about it?”

Saheon asked sarcastically, making the man in front of him sighed—well not in an angry way, this one’s worse. Like Saheon had simply given him another reason to be disappointed.

“I heard about the incident with the girl.”

Saheon’s eyes narrowed.

“Youngeun-ssi?”

“Yes.”

“How the hell did you even—”

“Does it matter?”

Saheon fell silent. His father adjusted his cuff, seeing as it's slightly crooked.

“You've only been at that school for a short time and there are already rumors about you.”

“I didn't do anything.”

“You know that isn't the point.” 

Saheon scoffed. “Of course it isn't.”

His father ignored the disrespectful remark of his son. “And your studies?”

“Fine.”

“Fine?”

“I'll pass…this time.”

"Hah, sure.”

Saheon clenched his jaw. His father looked at him like he was looking at an inanimate object for a moment before continuing.

“I was also told you participated in some kind of…....sketch contest.” His father snickered mockingly, making Saheon only blinked even though he didn't like how his father said that in a really insulting tone.

“Yeah.”

“And?”

“I won first place.”

His father stared at him. “In a drawing contest.”

“....Yes.”

“And you think that's something worth mentioning?”

Saheon’s expression slowly changed. The small trace of amusement he usually carried disappeared. Finally giving in on his father's usual way of dragging him down in the pit bottom no matter what he does.

“No.”

A dead silence echoes in the front of the building. Not the awkward one, it's the silence that will make you suffocate as time passes by. Saheon was looking down on his feet feeling completely defeated. His father's hand however—made its way on the top of his head, seeing the massive hand from his peripheral vision was enough to cut out all of the air in Saheon's lungs.

The man aggressively grabbed a handful of his hair forcefully tilting Saheon's head up to face him.

“Haven't I told you multiple times that when I'm talking to you, listen and look at my eyes.”

Baek Saheon can't breathe. It was hard to breathe! He was basically panting as his father gave him one last look of disgust before letting him go and turning his head toward the car.

“You have enough distractions already. Your transfer was supposed to give you a chance to clean up your reputation, not create more stories for people to talk about.”

Saheon clenched his chest with his hand, desperately gasping for air. But he still managed to form a sentence.

“I'll….handle it….”

“Oh please. When have you ever handled something, Saheon-ah?”

His father stopped walking. Then, almost casually, he added, “Your sister never caused this much trouble.”

Saheon froze. The words were quiet and almost careless as always. But they never fail to land harder than anything else his father had said. His fingers tightened on his chest. 

“Get in the car.”

Saheon didn't show signs of any movement. His father looked back at him with disbelief from his son's stubbornness.

“I said, get in.”

“I can't.”

“What did you say?”

“I have an exam tomorrow.”

His father stared at him as though he'd just heard something ridiculous. Since when did his bastard son care about his education? As far as he knew, Saheon's a lost cause and has no other choice for a future except inheriting his family’s fortune. What an easy life for him!

“You can study at home from now on.”

“I can't study there.”

“Why?”

“Because I need to study with someone.”

His father's expression hardened. “Someone?”

“My tutor.”

“Then cancel it or fire him. I'll hire you a professional tutor. The best of the best, if you want."

“No!”

The answer came too quickly. Almost quickly that even Saheon himself seemed surprised that he'd said it. His father slowly turned toward him, he can't believe what's happening right now.

“You're refusing me?”

“I have an exam tomorrow so I'm staying.”

“You're prioritizing some meaningless schoolwork over your family? Well, you can still take the exam even if you go home.”

“It's not meaningless.”

Saheon stared at his father's eyes as their jaw tightened from the fury and impatience he's currently feeling toward his son.

“You've already embarrassed this family enough and you will surely do it again after the failing score of the exam you are desperately trying your best right now comes out. Mark my words.”

Saheon scoffed. “Right. Because apparently everything I do is embarrassing.”

“Watch your tone. You're talking to your father.”

“Why? You'll tell me I'm not like her again?”

That was a slip of tongue. Saheon didn't mean to blurt that out and he immediately regretted saying it. But he was already too angry to take it back. His father stepped closer.

“Don't bring your sister into this.”

“You brought her up first.”

“Saheon.”

“I've been hearing that my entire life.” Saheon’s voice cracked with frustration.

“She was better. She was smarter. She never caused trouble. She never embarrassed you. Is that what you want to hear? Well, don't pour all your anger on me, you're one of the reasons noona’s gone after all.”

“Enough.”

“But I'm still not getting in that car. Not only because you always see me as a failure. But because you also reminded me of my noona’s death every single time, knowing damn well you are part of why she's not here right now.”

His father stared at him. For a moment, neither moved. The next moment happened so quickly though that Saheon barely had time to react.

His father struck him.

Saheon staggered a step and instinctively brought a hand toward his face, on his left eye specifically. His father looked at him coldly, no hint of regret from what he just did. Saheon stood there, breathing heavily, holding his throbbing left eye.

“Go. No matter what you say, I won't get in your luxurious car.”

His father stared at him for several seconds before getting into the vehicle.

“Fine. You'll crawl back to us soon anyway.”

The car door slammed shut but Saheon remained on the pavement as he watched the car disappear from his sight.

For once, he wasn't angry—he was simply tired. He zipped up his jacket to cover himself, and to somehow feel safe between it's embrace. His heart hurts more than when it hurts earlier. This time, the pain left a bitter taste in his mouth.

Somewhere in the back of his mind, one thing kept repeating:

'I want to study......with Kim Soleum.'

***

“What?”

“I said… Choi’s shift today is mascot.”

Kim Soleum stared at the giant fluffy yellow cat mascot with deer antlers. He was supposed to be helping Saheon study right now but no. Choi just had to beg him to cover his shift on his part-time job. Choi is already in his third year, hence he needs to focus on his exams more since he'll be entering college soon.

He insisted that Soleum would be fine without studying but not him. 

Kim Soleum sighed and he stared at the mirror. He can't believe he was inside a mascot.

'Well, at least it's cute...'

That's how he ended up roaming around the amusement park wearing the huge fluffy cat mascot while entertaining the visitors with silly moves and cute poses.

‘I can't believe I'm doing this…’

Even though Kim Soleum is complaining, he's still doing his job really well. He believed that if he's going to do it anyway, he won't do it half-heartedly. That's why he was doing an excellent work as the school's president even though he doesn't have any interest in that position. It's all because of Choi again.

He was taking a picture with a little girl when he noticed a familiar figure seated at one of the benches. He couldn't see the face because the hood of his gray jacket was covering his face, however, Kim Soleum still recognized the person.

‘No way, Baek Saheon…?’

After waving goodbye to the little girl. He hurriedly ran towards the boy as he could see and hear how people around laughed because the mascot looked cute while struggling to run because of how huge it is. He paid it no mind.

He finally reached the bench and the mascot created a panting movement, he was breathing heavily after all. Baek Saheon didn't seem to notice him so he hesitated before patting his shoulder gently and there—the boy finally looked up at him.

Except, the only thing he could see was the badly hurt eye of Saheon. The previously jolly mascot panicked and Saheon noticed it.

“Don't worry, I'll treat this later at home. I just want some peace right now. Please...don't make a fuss.”

Hearing this the mascot halted, then soon decided to just sit quietly next to Baek Saheon and accompany him since he was concerned—Soleum was always concerned of Saheon since everything about him is unpredictable and unexpected. Seeing the mascot sat quietly beside him made Baek Saheon chuckle without emotion.

“You're still not going away, are you?”

The mascot just continued to stare straight ahead—not at Saheon. Kim Soleum noticed how Saheon doesn't seem to want anyone to see him that way.

They just sat together in complete silence. A rather comfortable silence as the sun was slowly starting to set, painting orange and yellow to the sky.

“How ironic. I don't like amusement parks because they're noisy yet, I'm at an amusement park because it's noisy…”

Saheon suddenly broke the silence and the mascot flinched slightly. This act made Saheon chuckle once again because of how ridiculous this overall situation is. He's talking to a mascot, meaning there's someone in there and that someone is a stranger.

“I'm afraid if I stay home where it's quiet, I'll end up having thoughts I shouldn't have. Then I'll soon drown in those and you know, maybe end up doing something stupid only for me to regret it the next day."

Saheon looked at the mascot briefly before letting out a breath of exhaustion.

“Do you have time?"

"......?"

"Mind if I tell you about some random things?”

The mascot nodded and so Baek Saheon continued his rants even if he sees this situation as something stupid.

“You know what's annoying?”

The mascot remained still.

“People. Actually, no. That's too broad.” Saheon hid his hands inside the pocket of his jacket and leaned on the bench lazily.

“Specifically, people who think they know everything about you when they don't know shit.”

The mascot tilted its head cutely without looking at him. Saheon took that as permission to continue.

“There's this guy at school who's especially annoying.”

The mascot nodded again.

“The school's student council president.”

Behind the oversized mascot head, Soleum blinked. ‘....me?’ 

Saheon sighed. “He's always nagging me about something. My uniform, my studies, my attendance, my attitude, and even my messy condominium.”

The mascot slowly nodded.

“And don't get me wrong. He's not exactly a bad person.”

Soleum paused. ‘Oh…’

“He's just...” Saheon searched for the word.

“Annoying.”

Soleum nodded sympathetically and agreed without hesitation. He's been called annoying multiple times that he was low-key convinced already.

“Really annoying to the point that I think I'm starting to hate him…”

Another nod of the mascot made Saheon stare at him.

“Why are you agreeing with everything?”

The mascot immediately stopped moving making it look like a yellow cat statue.

“...Whatever.” Saheon looked away. “Anyway, he keeps trying to help me.”

He kicked the small stone below his feet playfully.

“I don't even know why.”

“I mean, people usually don't.”

“....”

That made Soleum stop moving. Saheon continued before the thought could become too serious to his likings.

“And my dad is a pain in the ass.”

The mascot tilted its head again.

“He only cares about honor, reputation, and whether I'm embarrassing the family.”

His voice had become quieter the moment he mentioned his good-for-nothing father.

“Sometimes I think he'd be happier if I just stopped expressing myself.”

Soleum's mascot hands curled slightly at his sides. Saheon gave a humorless laugh before talking again.

“Actually, he'd probably be happier if I were the one who died and not my sister.”

The mascot didn't react. Saheon glanced at the yellow cat, that was exactly why he kept talking. He didn't need sympathy, questions, someone telling him what he should feel, nor he needs unsolicited advice. The mascot simply listened. Saheon looked up at the oversized head.

“You're a good listener.”

The mascot nodded.

“You know that now is the right time to shut the fuck up unlike everyone in school.”

Another nod which made Saheon smiled faintly. “You're weird.”

The mascot gave him a small nod then it soon tilted its head after realizing that weird was not exactly a compliment. For the first time that day, Saheon laughed—not the usual sarcastic and mocking laugh.

“Thanks.”

Behind the costume, Soleum said nothing. He simply stayed there before Saheon complained about someone again.

“And there it is, I'm thinking about him again.” Saheon ruffled the hood of his jacket frustratedly.

“Ughhhh, I hate him sooo much…”

The mascot tilted its head again confused at the sudden shift of mood. 'I feel like we're playing charades. I just really don't know what's running on his mind.' Kim Soleum thought.

“I hate how I sort of want to see him…that bastard…” Saheon whispered slowly, making Soleum only heard a murmur. Saheon then turned his head toward the mascot who's still staring straight ahead at who knows where.

“I'll ask you a really broad question. Do you think I'll get there…?”

“....”

The mascot nodded enthusiastically.

“Haha, how dramatic. Then I guess I'll go home now before it gets dark. I was supposed to be studying right now.”

He turned his head towards the mascot.

“Thank you, let's not see each other again.” Saheon stood up but before he could go, the large paw of the mascot gently pat Saheon’s head.

"........"

“....You know, I hate it when people touch me. But since you don't look like one, I'll let you slide.” Saheon grins mischievously.

“Goodbye, I feel much better now…”

After that encounter, Soleum decided that he won't ever let Saheon find out that it is him under the mascot today. After all, he doesn't want to take that safe moment away from Baek Saheon. He doesn't want to rob him off his very first sanctuary where he could freely express himself without any thoughts and judgement.

Absolutely not. 

***

Loud cheers and cries were heard inside the room of Class 2-1. The preliminary examination had officially ended! The moment the teacher left the classroom, everyone erupted into celebration.

“FINALLY!”

“I'm FREE!”

“I'm never studying again!”

“You say that every exam.”

Everyone was already making plans for after school. Some wanted to eat. The boys wanted to go somewhere stupid and probably lose one of their nine lives. Others were simply planning to go straight home and sleep for twelve hours to make up with all the sleeps they've lost.

Saheon leaned back in his chair, watching the chaos unfold. He fixed his eye patch as it was about to fall down from his eyes. He find it inconvenient to wear but thanks to his father, he had to wear one.

“Finally..." he muttered.

Beside him, Soleum was quietly arranging his papers. Saheon glanced at him and at how pathetic Soleum's life is.

“You're not celebrating?”

“I am.”

“You're organizing papers. That doesn't count, asshole…”

Soleum ignored him as he adjusted his eyeglasses. Then the classroom continued getting louder as everyone finally prepared to leave.

Bags were being packed and chairs were already scraping against the floor. Someone had already even started shouting about where they should eat—then Soleum suddenly stood up deciding it's time.

“Everyone.”

The room immediately fell silent upon hearing the authoritative cold voice. Just a single word and everyone stopped what they were doing, turning all their focus at the person walking to the front. Saheon looked at the class representative who was his seatmate. 

‘How creepy…’

Soleum held a sheet of paper in his hand and slightly waved it in the air. “Before everyone leaves, I have a few announcements.”

A collective groan filled the room. “First, don't forget about the remaining assignments.” More groans and dramatic complaints followed.

“Second, it looks like sir Lee Jaheon had gotten in a conflict with one of the teachers explaining how he's not been attending class lately. He's still not sure if he will be here tomorrow as well, so we'll probably have a lot of vacant time.”

A few students nodded even though they're curious as to what happened to their adviser. Soleum looked down at the paper. “And lastly...”

He paused. His expression became strangely serious, making everyone nervous. “There is one more thing.” Everyone looked at him. Soleum took a breath and—

“The school has officially announced the upcoming Sports Fest. It will be happening this Friday."

Kim Soleum braced himself for he knows what will happen next. Silence suddenly felt like virtue for one second, two, three, then—

“WHAT?!”

The classroom suddenly exploded.

“SPORTS FEST?!”

“HOW COULD I FORGOT ABOUT THIS SHIT?!”

“ME!!! I HAVE TO RUN!! I STILL REMEMBERED HOW THAT BASTARD HO YUWON TRIPPED ME IN RELAY RACE. I WILL BE TRIPPING HIM THIS YEAR—IT'S MY TURN!” Eun Haje exclaimed, she will be getting her revenge in the upcoming festival no matter what!

“I DON’T THINK I CAN HANDLE CLASS 2-4 BASTARDS LAUGHING AT OUR FACE THIS TIME!” Park Minseong suddenly shouted full of determination and humiliation from last year's event. 

“I swear to God, if they bring up the potato incident again—”

“SHUT UP!!”

“WE ALL AGREED WE'RE NOT TALKING ABOUT IT!”

“I didn't though?”

“YOU JUST DID!”

Saheon stared at the students arguing. ‘Tripped? Class 2-4? Potato incident….? What the hell happened last year?’

The whole class agreed in unison. Feeling worried, embarrassed, angry, and helpless at the same time. Well, let's say their class had—skill issues and….issues.

Saheon slowly lowered the pen he was about to shoved inside his bag. He can't believe that everyone was losing their mind over a physical event? He could even hear the person seated in front of him asked and weep:

“Is chess a sport? I think I'll do well if it is. Just don't make me crawl in the mud again, Kwak Jekang almost...” Jang Heoun wasn't able to complete his sentence before he silently sniffled as Saheon just stared at him with a scowl. This is ridiculous. Everyone is ridiculous.

He looked toward Soleum and Soleum looked back at him. Neither said anything though. Saheon already had a terrible feeling about this. Unfortunately, Soleum had the exact same feeling. It seems like they'll be facing a new war after the great preliminary examination.

Class 2-1’s nightmare last year. THE SPORTS FESTIVAL AKA THE CLASS WARS!

────୨ৎ────

────୨ৎ────

EXTRA:

Jay was walking down the corridor, one hand lazily shoved into his pocket while the other held a half-eaten donut. He survived the exams and all that's left is to laze around.

He took another bite of his donut as he casually passed by Class 2-1. Then he noticed it. An eerily silence and atmosphere resonating only in that specific class, compared to the bustling and outgoing vibe the rest of the corridor radiates.

Jay slowly looked toward the classroom. Several students were staring directly at him—they were glaring at him and this made him stop chewing.

“...What?”

No one answered.

The students inside were narrowing their eyes at him while whispering to one another.

Jay blinked. 

He looked behind himself, maybe they were looking at someone behind him. But—nobody, he looked back at the classroom.

—STAAAAREEEEE—

“...Do I know you guys?”

Still not receiving any response, Jay shrugged.

‘Whatever…’

Maybe they were just weird. Everyone has a bit of weirdness in them. He took another bite of his donut and continued walking. Behind him, Class 2-1 watched as his figure disappeared.

“That’s one of them.”

“Class 2-4...”

Jay, completely unaware that he had just walked through enemy territory, continued toward the school exit. He took another bite.

“Good donut.”