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 Chapter 1: Imperfect Flower, Part I

    It was a mundane Wednesday morning. Min found himself seated at his desk, staring at a stuffy whiteboard overloaded with quadratic equations and incomprehensible formulas. As an average student, he couldn''t help but question the practicality of learning such abstract concepts. Min saw little value in these mathematical intricacies, yet he realized he had brought this situation upon himself. Despite his lack of enthusiasm, he had succumbed to familial pressure and opted for a scientific path, instead of pursuing his true passion in humanities.

    Mr. Glenn''s monotonous voice echoed in the classroom as he read out the math problems, leaving Min perplexed by the absurdity of the hypothetical situations presented to him. Unlike the bizarre scenarios described in his textbook, Min knew he would never find himself purchasing fifty-seven pineapples at a grocery store or calculating his terminal velocity after jumping off a plane. Pineapples and heights were far from his interests, and he had no intention of engaging in such activities in the future.

    Adding to Min''s frustration were those problems that barely resembled math at all. These puzzling questions involved an overwhelming number of letters and alien symbols, accompanied by complex solving methods that only served to make his life more miserable.

    After staring at the daunting problem in front of him for a few more minutes, Min decided to conserve his energy and refrain from wasting it on deciphering the hard-to-understand mess on the congested whiteboard.

    True to his routine, Min occupied the last row of the classroom, deliberately isolating himself from the rest of the students. This strategic position allowed him to escape unnoticed whenever his attention waned during class, which, more often than not, was the case. In an attempt to escape the dreary atmosphere, he turned his head to the left and gazed out the window beside him.

    Through the window, Min had a clear view of the sprawling school grounds. At the northernmost section, the grand but rarely functional school entrance gate stood, notorious for trapping unsuspecting individuals with its faulty doors. Just outside the campus, a parking lot filled with cars that seemed to mimic the ambiance of high school perfectly. The playground and sports courts on the side buzzed with the energy and excitement of young children, their innocence and enthusiasm destined to fade with time. While the commotion caught the attention of most people, Min''s gaze quickly shifted to the marvelously maintained garden, discreetly nestled in the corner, a haven of serenity amidst the chaos.

    The garden stood out like a vibrant oasis amidst the surrounding concrete jungle. A tiny patch of green, it was a sanctuary adorned with lush grass, dew-kissed and untainted by any trace of exposed dirt. An assortment of plants, including West Indian jasmines, Chinese crotons, Madagascar periwinkles, and firecracker flowers, greeted visitors at the entrance, showcasing a colorful tapestry of nature''s bounty. Along the sides, multi-hued rose bushes added their delicate charm, while butterfly pea vines cascaded down the walls, their brilliant blue flowers standing out amidst a sea of red and yellow blossoms.

    The true stars of the garden, however, were the majestic flowering plants that stood tall and proud. Among them, the plumeria plant reigned supreme, its blooms capturing the hearts of many. Children often plucked these fragrant flowers, fashioning makeshift "rings" out of the petals. Using the flower''s stalk to create a hole in the petal''s center after delicately bending it downward, they would slide it up to the receptacle, repeating the process for each petal until a whimsical ring emerged. Another favorite was the yellow trumpetbush, whose flowers once served as a source of sweet nectar for the young ones. However, this activity ceased after an unfortunate encounter with a bee, leaving one child with what resembled excessively filled lips.

    As Min immersed himself in observation, his attention was drawn to Mrs. Byun, surrounded by a group of ninth-graders near a hibiscus plant at the garden''s center. Although he couldn''t hear her words, he could easily deduce what was taking place, having found himself in the same situation before.

    The teacher meticulously dissected a large hibiscus flower, revealing its intricate parts to her inattentive students. The focus of her explanation revolved around the flower''s reproductive organs, specifically the stamen and pistil. While a few students hung onto her every word, others appeared disinterested, engaging in boisterous laughter that suggested the exchange of inappropriate jokes. A group of boys playfully handled the garden''s vegetables, finding amusement in the cucumber''s phallic resemblance. Among the girls, a gossip session came to an abrupt halt when a German cockroach scurried across their path. Undeterred by the lack of attention from those uninterested, Mrs. Byun pressed on.

    Suddenly, an unexpected shift occurred. The previously apathetic students turned their heads toward the teacher, their expressions changing. Intrigued, Min leaned closer to the window, a mischievous smirk playing on his lips. Mrs. Byun had begun discussing the different types of flowers, and the mention of the word "unisexual" proved enough to capture everyone''s eyes and ears. Pointing to the hibiscus blossom in her hand, she explained that it was a "bisexual" flower, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. She further elaborated that such flowers were referred to as "perfect" flowers.

    "Ha," Min chuckled softly, his nostalgia-laden reverie abruptly disrupted. Frustration welled up within him, not stemming from the tedious double math period he was enduring with Mr. Glenn, but from the inner turmoil surrounding his own sexuality.

    While Min understood that the concept of flower sexuality and human sexuality were not directly comparable, he couldn''t help but feel frustrated by the stark contrast in connotations. In the plant world, bisexuality was synonymous with completeness and perfection, a celebration of diversity and harmony. However, in the realm of human sexuality, being bisexual often carried negative stereotypes and misconceptions. It meant being labeled as confused, greedy, or someone who couldn''t make up their mind. Bisexual individuals were often misunderstood, caught in a liminal space where they were too straight for some and too gay for others. The invisibility and erasure of bisexual men, in particular, added to Min''s discontent, as they were deemed imperfect flowers in society''s eyes.

    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.

    Another source of frustration for Min was the prevalence of active love lives among those around him. Until about six months ago, love was the least of his concerns, and he was content with his life as it was. While there were certain areas that could have been better, he had no desire to seek out romantic connections. However, in recent weeks, an unexpected hunger for love had taken hold of him. During this love-craving phase, he even found himself watching romantic movies¡ªan act he would have scoffed at in the past.

    Min yearned to be in a relationship, and he couldn''t help but survey the people in front of him, contemplating potential candidates. However, he knew that his shyness and awkwardness would present significant obstacles in the realm of dating.

    His gaze first settled on Anna, a focused and outspoken girl who impressively twirled a pen between her fingers while engrossed in her notes. Anna possessed long black locks and a tall figure, standing out from the crowd. Although they didn''t spend much time together, they occasionally had brief exchanges when they crossed paths. Anna was well-liked and admired, but she possessed a down-to-earth nature that set her apart from the typical popular girls at school. Min appreciated her authenticity, despite their contrasting personalities. He believed they were opposites character-wise, leading him to consider her a potential match. However, upon further reflection, he realized that their differences might be too significant for the adage of "opposites attract" to hold true. The more he contemplated a relationship with Anna, the more he recognized that it would likely crumble due to the clash of personalities. He didn''t want to force himself into romantic feelings for someone if they weren''t genuine.

    The truth was, Min was attracted to girls, but his attraction to them differed from his attraction to boys. He could appreciate a girl''s physical beauty and even had fantasies of intimacy with them. However, when it came to romantic gestures like holding hands or cuddling, he couldn''t envision himself engaging in those acts with girls.

    Min speculated that his lack of romantic attraction might be rooted in a past traumatic experience. Four years ago, he found himself pursued by Katrina, a Year 3 high-schooler who expressed a desire to date him. Young and overwhelmed, Min was terrified of her. One day, near the restroom, Katrina ambushed him, forcibly grabbing his hand without permission and insisting on taking him to a "secret place." Fortunately, Min managed to summon the strength to push her away and swiftly escaped. He confided in a few friends about the incident, seeking support and understanding.

    "Ron, remember that older, creepy girl I mentioned earlier? She came out of nowhere and grabbed my hand!"

    "Why do you look so scared, bro?"

    "I didn''t like her, and she held my hand without asking me."

    "If I were you, I would''ve gone along with her and had a little fun, you know?"

    "What?"

    "You were in a lucky spot, but you blew it, bro! Have some fun next time. I''d kill to be in your shoes."

    Min contemplated whether this encounter had left a lasting impact, influencing his current romantic inclinations or lack thereof.

    Turning his attention to boys, Min already had a few individuals in mind. One of them was Denis, characterized by his greenish-blue eyes, thick blonde hair, and attractive lips. He had an air of nobility about him and behaved accordingly. Min had often fantasized about Denis, but his aloof demeanor made approaching him seem daunting. Min believed that he didn''t deserve to stand next to someone as untouchable as Denis. Also, the significant rumors of Denis''s rudeness led Min to halt his thoughts about him.

    As Min''s thoughts wandered, he found himself captivated by the idea of dating Kai. Kai''s apparent tall stature was merely an illusion, but his perfectly proportioned body, sun-kissed skin, and charming way of speaking ignited a flutter in Min''s typically impassive heart. On the surface, Kai exuded a fun-loving and warm-hearted aura, exerting a positive influence wherever he went. However, Min''s fantasies abruptly ceased when he discovered that Kai often used "gay" as an insult and engaged in locker room talk.

    Then there was Akio¡ªa person who willingly sought out Min''s company, demonstrating a level of closeness that surpassed mere friendship but not best friendship. Although Akio possessed the personality traits of a class clown, which wasn''t necessarily Min''s ideal type, he still found himself daydreaming about him. Yet, like his previous crushes, Min believed that Akio was straight. Additionally, Min recognized the potential pitfalls of pursuing a romantic relationship with one of his few friends, prompting him to suppress further thoughts about it.

    Min then thought about Hyun. Undoubtedly, Hyun held the title of the most popular guy in school, a status known to all. His social media presence boasted a substantial fan following, a testament to his widespread appeal. Hyun''s remarkable looks were the talk of the school. Standing at an impressive height of approximately 187.6 cm, he commanded attention with his towering stature. His skin showcased a gorgeous light tan that added to his allure. With long, graceful limbs that seemed to belong on a world-class fashion runway, Hyun effortlessly embodied elegance. Delicate pink lips and a well-maintained short hairstyle drew further attention to his striking face, accentuating his captivating aura. But it wasn''t just Hyun''s physical attributes that attracted Min; it was his multifaceted personality. Despite his initially unapproachable appearance, Hyun stood as the epitome of sociability and outgoingness within their class.

    Min''s sudden thoughts about Hyun instantly dispelled any notion of a quick nap. His heart raced, and a mix of anticipation and nervousness coursed through him. Min''s cheeks flushed with a deeper shade of pink, betraying his hidden heightened emotions. The mere mention of Hyun had the power to throw Min''s thoughts into disarray and render him incapable of focusing on anything else.

    As Min found himself immersed in these thoughts, Mr. Glenn''s voice pierced the air.

    "Well, time for a ten-minute break! Remember that we have one more hour to go!"

    With the announcement, some students hurriedly exited the classroom, seeking temporary refuge from the clutches of the dreaded math monster. Others arrived to meet their friends, providing a welcome reprieve from the academic demands.

    Intending to rest his head and steal a moment of tranquility, Min stayed in his seat. However, his plans were abruptly interrupted by the unexpected arrival of someone.

    It was Hyun.

 Chapter 2: Maelstrom Brewing

    Min''s heart skipped a beat as an unexpected turn of events unfolded on an otherwise grey day. The sheer presence of Hyun, seated right next to him, sent a jolt of excitement and nervousness pumping through his veins. It was a rare occurrence for Min to have such proximity to Hyun, who was almost always positioned far beyond his line of sight. Min would often find himself scanning the area, squinting his eyes just to catch a fleeting glimpse of his crush. Hyun''s perpetual movement only added to the challenge, appearing in various locations like a dragonfly darting about. Whether he was reluctantly present in the library, indulging in snacks with friends by the canteen, or engrossed in an intense game of basketball, his restlessness was reminiscent of those agile insects Min had watched in nature documentaries during his younger days.

    Min had grown accustomed to appreciating Hyun from a distance, making this close encounter all the more unusual and difficult to handle. There had been only one other instance when Min found himself this close to Hyun. It happened two months ago during the peak of soccer fever when Hyun accidentally kicked a ball out of the field amidst preparation. The ball rolled toward Min and Akio, who were engrossed in a heated conversation about mint chocolate, the ghost in the toilets, and even the possibility of the school founder''s body being buried beneath the flower bed in the garden. Akio groaned in annoyance as the ball interrupted their passionate debate, prompting Min to pick it up, unknowingly setting a life-altering scene into motion.

    As someone approached them at a brisk pace, Min soon realized that he should have heeded Akio''s advice. Regret washed over him, growing stronger with each passing second. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the towering figure reached them¡ªit was Hyun.

    Min''s entire being froze, rooted to the ground like the flowers in the bed Akio had pointed at minutes ago. He desperately wanted to move, to appear nonchalant in the presence of his one true love, but his efforts fell flat. Hyun stood before him, drenched in sweat from head to toe, evidence of his intense practice sessions in pursuit of the coveted tournament trophy. Despite the cuts and bruises on his legs, he exuded a vibrancy and freshness that surpassed everyone else in the vicinity. Even amidst the rigorous training, Hyun emitted an enticing scent that enveloped Min like a gust of wind, reminiscent of the impact a soccer ball had once made on him in a sensitive region.

    "I''m sorry! I hope I didn''t interrupt your conversation," Hyun said, his hand nervously grazing the back of his head, a hint of apology gracing his face.

    Min longed to assure him that no trouble had been caused, and to express gratitude for the blessing of his mere presence. However, his lips were rendered motionless, failing to release the words trapped within. Observing Hyun in his sleeveless white top and short black shorts, with his toned arms and legs on full display, Min became captivated, lost in a daze. A healthy, rose-pink flush swept across Min''s cheeks, unable to conceal the effect Hyun had on him.

    Taking the ball from Min''s hands, Hyun turned to Akio and asked, "Aki, is your friend ok? His face is quite red."

    "Min? Are you alright, bro?"

    "...."

    "Min? Well, I guess it''s just allergies or something."

    Hyun chuckled warmly and patted Min''s back.

    "Take care, Min!"

    With that, Hyun jogged back to the field, kicking the soccer with renewed vigor.

    As Min and Akio sat on a stone bench beneath the comforting shade of a royal poinciana tree shielding them from the scorching heat, a soothing warmth enveloped Min''s entire body. It wasn''t the enervating heat from outside the shade that sucked his energy dry but rather a cozy sensation that made him feel at ease and content.

    Anyway, Min," Akio exclaimed with conviction, interrupting Min''s thoughts. "I''m telling you, the founder''s body is right under there! Look! Doesn''t that place look haunted?" Akio''s tone carried a hint of frustration as he pointed his finger toward the mysterious garden.

    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.

    Although Min was physically present, his mind wandered off to a distant world. He found himself mentally transported, detached from the conversation that somehow continued in the background.

    A whirlwind of thoughts stormed Min''s mind. Initially joyous, they soon morphed into a melancholic torrent. Min believed that pursuing a relationship with Hyun was an unattainable dream. He saw himself as an ordinary, timid boy who could never match Hyun''s league. But the sadness went deeper. Min was plagued by the realization that he might be destined for a life of solitude. Being naturally introverted, his attraction to boys only added another layer of complexity to his struggles. He longed to like girls exclusively, to fit into society''s mold and avoid the fear and backlash he associated with embracing his true self. It pressed on him, even though he had committed no wrongdoing. He hadn''t come out to anyone, yet his internal battles were already overwhelming.

    Suddenly, Min snapped out of his bittersweet daydream and focused his gaze on Hyun, slumbering peacefully at the adjacent desk. Hyun, not even a math student, sought refuge in the back row for some rest. He slept soundly, his head resting on the desk, and his vulnerable face turned toward Min. His hands hung loose, resembling the prop roots of a banyan tree. Despite the prominent dark circles under his eyes and a slight drool, Min''s heart soared. It brought him happiness to witness Hyun''s adorable sleep.

    At that moment, realization washed over Min like a breaking dawn. He might not fully embrace who he was, but he couldn''t fathom a life where he couldn''t appreciate the depth and beauty of men. The indescribable feeling that surged through him when he saw Hyun or his favorite actor on screen exhilarated him. It painted a rare smile on his face, even in the midst of life''s draining challenges beyond his sexuality. Min grappled with his inner struggle, but he understood that trying to deny a fundamental part of himself and yearning to become someone he was not would only lead to further anguish. He wanted to accept and love himself.

    Finally, the endless class came to an end. Min wished he could feast his eyes on the handsome boy for a few more precious moments, but the chatter of Hyun''s troublesome gang just outside the classroom reminded him of the reality. He swiftly made his way to the dining area, eager to satiate his rumbling stomach.

    As Min savored his solitary lunch, the absence of Akio was conspicuous. He suspected that his friend was occupied with his girlfriend, a suspicion fueled by the unmistakable joy that illuminated Akio''s face whenever he glanced at his phone or zoned out during recent conversations.

    Amidst the boring routine, the teachers announced the cancellation of all classes for the remainder of the day in anticipation of the annual school music festival. Music held a special place in Min''s heart, yet he believed he wasn''t destined for the spotlight. He harbored doubts about subjecting innocent and unsuspecting ears to his supposedly dreadful voice, or so he convinced himself.

    Upon hearing the announcement, Min''s expectations for the day skyrocketed. With no performance obligations, he found himself liberated for the rest of the afternoon. Despite a looming workload, he resolved to indulge in his passion for drawing at his cherished hideaway¡ªa weathered bench nestled deep in the garden, concealed by a dense curtain of shrubbery.

    Min, while not a master artist, found solace in the therapeutic act of drawing. Despite his self-perceived shortcomings compared to the school''s talented art students, he appreciated the freedom of bringing his imagination to life with a simple pencil and notepad.

    His preferred subject matter often revolved around monsters, using his gloomy thoughts as inspiration to create nightmarish characters that symbolized his perceived faults. However, on this particular day, Min''s mood had lifted slightly, prompting a desire to observe and sketch the pretty sunbirds that frequented the flowering bushes during that time of day.

    As Min reached the entrance of the garden, he maneuvered his slender frame through the narrow gaps between overgrown bushes. Finally emerging on the other side, he was left in awe.

    Typically, the bench was adorned with foliage that required gentle displacement. The surrounding area teemed with life, yet an undercurrent of desolation permeated the atmosphere. Plants, insects, and sporadic birds thrived, creating a paradoxical juxtaposition of vitality and melancholy. Despite the haunting ambiance, Min felt a deep connection to the place, as it mirrored his own character. Usually, the spot remained enveloped in a profound silence, punctuated only by the occasional chirping of birds, buzzing of insects, or the gentle landing of falling leaves. However, today was different.

    Before him sat a tall figure on the bench, his hands vigorously rubbing at weary eyes, shoulders hunched forward, and his neck sagging. He exuded an overwhelming sense of despondency, with ceaseless tears rolling down his cheeks. Though muffled, his subdued whimpers carried the emotion of immense pain and suffering.

    Compelled to investigate further, Min cautiously approached, eager for a clearer view. It was then that he noticed the boy''s arm¡ªa waning crescent moon tattoo on his wrist. And at that moment, realization struck Min like a lightning bolt.

 Chapter 3: Subsurface

    "H-Hyun!?" Min stammered, his heart pulsating.

    Hyun''s sudden outpouring of emotion caught Min off guard. His heart quivered as he witnessed his beloved crush, in such a shattered state, with puffy eyelids, a runny nose, and red cheeks. The stark contrast from the usual energetic and carefree Hyun he admired from a distance left Min stunned. His own awkwardness was amplified in the face of someone in distress, but he couldn''t bear to see Hyun in pain.

    With hesitant steps, Min inched toward and took a seat beside Hyun, his mind racing to find the right words to offer comfort. He stared at the ground for a few seconds, gathering his thoughts and summoning the courage to reach out. Finally, he extended his right arm and gently placed it on Hyun''s left shoulder, hoping to provide some solace in this overwhelming moment.

    "Hey, Hyun... Y-You, um, ca-can tell m-me everything," Min spoke softly, his voice trembling with genuine concern. "I... can h-help you."

    Hyun''s tears continued to flow, his body trembling with the heaviness of his emotions. Sniffles punctuated his words as he tried to compose himself enough to respond.

    "You''re Aki''s friend, right?" Hyun managed to utter in a somber tone, his voice cracking.

    Min nodded, his worry intensifying. "Yeah, that-that''s me. But is ev-everything all right?"

    Hyun buried his head in his hands, his cries growing even more desperate. It seemed as though the floodgates had been opened, releasing emotions he had held in for far too long. His legs trembled, his hands shook, and beads of sweat dotted his forehead.

    As Hyun struggled to explain himself through his sobs, Min strained to make sense of his words. Amidst the gibberish that reached his ears, Min could discern fragments of pain and distress, but the full extent of Hyun''s turmoil eluded him.

    Min''s desire to help overwhelmed him, yet he felt his own awkwardness holding him back. The sight of Hyun, whom he admired not only for his outward qualities but also for his character, attitude, style, and energy, crying so vulnerably shook Min to the core. He had always imagined Hyun as emotionally stable, and now, the realization that he had been silently battling his own demons struck Min with disbelief.

    The weight of the moment hung heavy as Min contemplated his next move. Finally, he took a deep breath and pushed past his own insecurities.

    "I''m so sorry. I can''t ma-make out what you''re say-saying, but I''m here for you," Min said, his voice still unsteady.

    As Hyun''s tears subsided, his gaze shifted to Min''s face, searching for understanding and support. Min could sense the confusion in Hyun''s eyes, unsure of how to interpret the expression he found on Min''s face. A myriad of emotions flickered across Hyun''s face¡ªsadness, doubt, fear, and a glimmer of hope¡ªeach subtly visible. It was a realization for Min, discovering the depth of emotions that the human face could convey.

    "It''s just that... people don''t get me at all," Hyun confessed, his voice tinged with a hint of frustration, his words interrupted by sniffling.

    A wave of guilt overtook Min, his heart aching for the pain Hyun had endured.

    "What do you mean?" Min responded, his voice reflecting a mixture of concern and self-blame, as if he bore responsibility for Hyun''s suffering.

    "I got back my Economics test paper last week, and I did terrible. I fucking flopped such an easy paper," Hyun shared, his voice laced with disappointment. "I told my friends I felt sad ''cause of that, and you know what they told me?"

    Min shook his head, anticipating the insensitivity that followed.

    "They told me to stop whining ''cause I have good looks. Apparently, I have everything in life," Hyun''s voice held a bitter tone. "Just because they say I look good doesn''t mean I don''t want to do well in school, and those fuckers don''t get that. I don''t even know why I hang out with those fools."

    Min''s empathy deepened, understanding the frustration of being misunderstood and reduced to positive or negative superficial qualities.

    "Have you tried meeting with a teacher or getting a tutor?" Min suggested, hoping to offer a practical solution.

    "I did, but I''m way too dumb to be helped," Hyun confessed, his voice colored with self-doubt. "Also, I can''t, for the life of me, focus during extra classes even when I wanna."

    Min''s concern grew, realizing that there were deeper issues affecting Hyun''s academic struggles.

    "What do you mean you''re not able to focus?" Min inquired gently, wanting to grasp the full extent of Hyun''s challenges.

    Hyun sighed, burdened by his personal troubles. He mustered the courage to open up further.

    "I have a lot of issues," Hyun admitted, vulnerability seeping into his voice. "A lot of the girls treat me like I''m some object. I''ve dated many girls, and while my relationships started off well, they were ruined because they didn''t see me as a person. I was just this pretty thing who had to cater to their stupid needs and pleasure them whenever they wanted. My last breakup was a nightmare. I dated this girl named Hwayoung, and I wanted to break up with her because she was using me. She blackmailed me and threatened to leak pics of me if I left her. It''s a miracle she didn''t."

    Min''s eyes widened with shock. The weight of Hyun''s experiences sank deep into his heart, realizing the extent of the emotional turbulence his crush had endured. He knew then that Hyun''s facade of stability had concealed a multitude of hardships.

    "I''m so sorry, Hyun," Min murmured softly, his voice filled with empathy. "That''s incredibly unfair and hurtful. No one deserves to be treated that way."

    Silence hung in the air as Min contemplated his next words, wanting to provide comfort to Hyun in this moment of vulnerability.

    "H-have you tried talking to a l-loved one like your mom?" Min asked, his voice filled with care. The concept of dating and romance was so foreign to him that it took a while for him to fully grasp the depth of Hyun''s relationship problems.

    "Well, my mother''s dead, and my father is always busy with work," Hyun replied with a lack of emotion in his voice.

    Min''s expression turned sorrowful, and he responded in an overly apologetic manner, his words stumbling over his own uncertainty. It seemed as though his entire being was consumed by a deep sense of remorse.

    "I''m so-sorry. I did not know that!" Min stuttered, his voice trembling. It was as if his soul bid farewell to his body, overwhelmed by the load of his unintentional ignorance.

    "Nah, it''s okay, bro. I know you didn''t mean any harm," Hyun reassured, his hand gently patting Min''s shoulder as he offered a faint smile.

    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

    Min took a moment to gather his thoughts before continuing the conversation, wanting to provide guidance for Hyun.

    "Have you tried meeting with the school counselors?" Min inquired, hopeful that they might offer some assistance.

    "I almost met one of them, but I decided not to," Hyun confessed, his tone tinged with regret.

    "Why?" Min asked, genuinely curious about Hyun''s reservations.

    "Because of my fucking friends! They say therapy is for sissies. Instead, they tell me to wreak havoc and bully others to make myself feel better, but I can''t do that," Hyun admitted, frustration evident in his voice. "Hell, I don''t even know why I call them friends. They ridicule a lot of the stuff I do. I wanna leave them, but I''m scared I''ll be lonely."

    Min''s eyes filled with deep understanding as he listened intently, ready to offer his perspective.

    "Hey, being alone and doing what you want to do is way better than being forced to fit in," Min stated, his voice filled with conviction.

    "I know, but it''s easier said than done," Hyun sighed, his doubts lingering.

    "What do your friends tell you when you do something they don''t like?" Min inquired, wanting to explore the dynamics of Hyun''s friendship and the impact it had on his well-being.

    "They tease me a lot and call me names. Sometimes they threaten to expose me if I wanna hang out with somebody who''s not part of the gang. It doesn''t help that I''m a sensitive bitch," Hyun admitted, his voice stained with vulnerability.

    "They''re just jealous of you. And, no, you''re not sensitive," Min said firmly, his words carrying a tone of reassurance.

    "Thanks. That means a lot," Hyun responded, a subtle smile gracing his lips as he awkwardly nodded his head.

    "Aren''t you participating in the music festival?" Min asked, attempting to shift the conversation to a more positive topic.

    "I am, but I wanna withdraw. I just don''t have the energy. Gonna blame it on some fake arm injury," Hyun confessed, his fatigue evident.

    "That''s good. You need to take a break," Min encouraged, understanding the importance of self-care.

    "Yeah, I seriously need some good rest, but I''m miles behind everyone, so I can''t afford to do that," Hyun lamented, his voice dyed with frustration.

    "What do you mean?" Min inquired, truly curious about Hyun''s perspective.

    "Everyone''s seventeen years old. I''m eighteen. I had to take a year off after I messed up my leg during a soccer game. Since I''m behind everyone, I feel out of place and lacking," Hyun explained, his insecurities seeping through his words.

    "If it makes you feel any better, I''m behind everybody too. I studied abroad for a few years, and when I came back, I had to study the same grade again for some reason," Min revealed, offering a glimpse of his own struggles.

    "Well, that makes two of us. Let''s do our best," Hyun responded, a half-alive spirit shining in his eyes.

    "Yup!" Min exclaimed, a sense of camaraderie forming between them.

    "So, you use this place to chill too, huh?" Hyun remarked, noticing their shared retreat.

    "All the time," Min confirmed, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

    "Interesting. I just found this spot last week. Not gonna lie, Aki has told me quite a bit about his conversations with you, and you seem like a fun guy. I lowkey wanted to join you guys that day, but those idiots dragged me to watch the girls play basketball for all the wrong reasons," Hyun shared, a mix of frustration and longing in his voice.

    "Ugh, they''re horrible. I hope you''ll be able to join us one day," Min expressed with genuineness for Hyun''s well-being.

    Hyun slowly seemed to be getting better. His trembling had subsided, and his words flowed more smoothly. He sat with his back somewhat straight, displaying some confidence, and his breathing became more natural. While his eyes still welled up with tears from time to time, there was a hint of resilience in his gaze. The warmth blanketing his body grew stronger, overshadowing the chill that had gripped him during the peak of his breakdown. Hyun seemed to be on a path toward healing.

    "Oh, you''re still tearing up. Let me help you," Min offered, tearing a page from his notepad and using it as a make-do tissue. With gentle movements, he leaned in and carefully wiped away the tears from Hyun''s eyes and cheeks. As Min''s hand came close to Hyun''s face, both boys felt a fleeting moment of intensity. Min''s heart butterflied, his mind filled with both nerves and a strange sense of exhilaration. Hyun, on the other hand, noticed the notepad and pencil in Min''s hand.

    "Thanks, Min. Also, I''m sorry for ruining your drawing session. I can leave if you want," Hyun said, apology etched on his face.

    "No, no. Please stay. You don''t need to apologize," Min told him, offering a warm smile.

    "What do you draw? I bet your notepad is filled with cool sketches," Hyun asked, curious to know more about Min''s artistic side.

    "Nothing really. Just birds and stuff like that. This notepad is a new one, so it''s empty," Min replied, downplaying his talent. He believed that sharing his drawings might change the atmosphere, preferring to focus on Hyun instead.

    "I guess it''s time for me to leave. I''ll tell a teacher to take my name off the list and take a quick nap somewhere. I don''t think I''ll come to school tomorrow. I badly need some rest," Hyun decided, expressing his need for a break.

    "I hope you rest well and come back feeling better. If you ever wanna talk about your struggles, I''m always free," Min offered, his support unwavering.

    Hyun''s signature smile finally emerged, lighting up his face.

    "Thank you so much," Hyun expressed his gratitude before surprising Min by leaning forward and embracing him in a heartfelt hug. After a moment, Hyun released the embrace and stood up.

    "I''m feeling much better, thanks to you. I''ll see you on Friday!" Hyun declared with gratitude in his voice as he stretched his arms. He waved goodbye and walked away, leaving Min in a daze.

    "Bye! I hope to see you soon!" Min called out, his voice cracking embarrassingly. He prayed Hyun hadn''t heard him.

    As minutes passed, Min still felt the lingering effects of the unexpected hug. His legs vibrated uncontrollably, making it impossible for him to draw. He placed his notepad and pencil on the ground, laying his body on the bench, absorbing all that had transpired. Wide-eyed and lost in thought, he appeared like a slender log resting on the bench, drifting into a state of daydreaming.

    Meanwhile, Hyun, on his way to one of the classrooms to withdraw from the music festival, felt revitalized after pouring his heart out. He likened himself to a shaken bottle of soda pop, and by opening up and expressing his emotions, he had relieved the built-up pressure. While his situation had seemed dire just fifteen minutes ago, his spirits were now more lifted, and a glimmer of hope emerged, despite the underlying layer of dread and sadness.

    Hyun, having completed the process of withdrawing from the music festival, made his way through the playground to reach his classroom. Along the way, he noticed a group of first-graders energetically playing and interacting with one another. The boisterous screams of the children might have been off-putting to some, but Hyun had a soft spot for kids. Intrigued, he decided to postpone his nap and observe their playful antics.

    Among the children, Hyun''s attention was captured by a little girl with pigtails and bright-colored hairpins. She was fully engrossed in building "sandcastles" using her hands since she lacked a bucket and spade. Despite her messy appearance, with mud on her face, knees, and clothes, she remained determined to create the best sandcastle she could with the resources available to her.

    On the other side of the sandbox, a tiny boy in a comparatively cleaner uniform was diligently preparing candy-shaped objects by wetting sand and rolling it into mud spheres. He then placed the mud spheres onto twigs, resembling lollipops. Once finished, he approached the girl with his makeshift treats.

    "Look, I made some lollipops. Take one!" the boy eagerly offered.

    "Can''t you see I''m busy? Also, those are not lollipops," the girl replied, fully focused on her sandcastles.

    "Just pretend these are lollipops. Please," the boy persisted, hopeful for the girl''s acceptance.

    "Fine. Thank you for the lollipop!" the girl responded dismissively, not even glancing at the proffered treats.

    "You didn''t even take it!" the boy protested.

    "I DON''T CARE!" the girl snapped, her words triggering a sudden burst of rage from the seemingly kind-hearted boy. In a fit of anger, he flung his lollipops away and began ruthlessly stomping on the girl''s sandcastles.

    "What''s wrong with you?! Why did you do that?!" the girl exclaimed, clearly hurt and confused.

    "I didn''t do it. Aliens did it!" the boy retorted, attempting to shift the blame.

    "What? Manu, my father told me that aliens are not real," the girl countered.

    "I think they''re real, Ishi. Why do you and your father think they''re not real?" the boy questioned.

    "Um...I haven''t seen aliens with my own eyes, so I don''t think they exist," Ishi explained her rationale.

    "Have you ever seen your brain with your own eyes?" Manu challenged her.

    "No. Why?" Ishi asked, intrigued by the unexpected question.

    "Then I don''t think it exists," Manu asserted confidently.

    "COME BACK HERE, YOU LOSER!" Ishi exclaimed, her anger now reaching the level of an enraged bison. She charged at Manu, who narrowly evaded her, initiating a chase filled with laughter from the boy and sheer anger from the girl. Hyun was tempted to stay and witness how the situation would unfold, but the sound of the school bell ringing reminded him of his impending tasks. Reluctantly, he left the playground behind and made his way toward his classroom to pack his bag.

 Chapter 4: The Innocent Suffer

    Min''s mornings were typically riddled with anxiety, each step on campus accompanied by an avalanche of negative thoughts.

    "Is Mr. Glenn staring at me? Did I fail the exam?"

    "Do I look alright? Is my hair a mess?"

    "Did I forget to do my homework? Is today also going to be a bust?"

    However, on that particular Thursday morning, something had changed. While the transformation may have gone unnoticed by the casual observer, there was a subtle shift in Min''s demeanor. His resting face, once a blend of gloom and worry, now exhibited a touch of solemnity and only a hint of worry. His gaze no longer held the same wide-eyed apprehension, and his eyebrows were less furrowed. To most people, the alteration would seem insignificant, perhaps even laughable, but for Min, it was progress. He felt a flicker of motivation, a spark he hadn''t experienced before.

    Min attributed this newfound drive to his encounter with Hyun the previous day. The mere thought of meeting his crush had prevented him from getting a good night''s rest, as his heart overflowed with delight. Yet, there was another factor that pushed Min out of bed and into the day¡ªa sense of satisfaction derived from helping someone in pain. The knowledge that he had provided comfort to Hyun, and the sight of a pure smile and heartfelt gratitude, uplifted Min''s spirits. It shattered his belief that he was insignificant and showcased his capacity to make a positive impact on another person''s life. It was an argument against his notion that he would be better off gone. With this newly discovered purpose, Min experienced a small wave of happiness¡ªa slight genuine joy for life that he hadn''t felt in the past two years.

    As Min strolled down the school hallway, he embraced a more positive outlook. The once tedious journey to the classroom became pleasant, even enjoyable. Anxiety still lingered, but it no longer occupied the forefront of his mind.

    That day, in anticipation of the upcoming music festival, most teachers had canceled their usual lessons. Students eagerly requested extra practice time, and luckily, most teachers were accommodating. However, one individual staunchly opposed the decision¡ªthe sadistic Mrs. Choi. Known aptly as "Mrs. Psycho" among the students, she was the type of teacher who would conduct classes even during an EF5 tornado. Despite being far ahead in the syllabus, she insisted on teaching irrelevant topics and burdened her students with endless projects. Rumor had it that she despised children, a peculiar disposition for someone in her profession, but not all that surprising considering her sadistic tendencies.

    Mrs. Choi left an indelible mark wherever she went. Just a week prior, as she hurried across the basketball court, she slipped on a puddle and crashed to the concrete with a resounding thud. Some students rushed to her aid, while others struggled to suppress their laughter.

    "Are you okay, Mrs. Choi? Let me take you to the nurse," Naeun offered, her voice laced with feigned concern, secretly hoping for a serious mishap that would leave the woman from the prehistoric era with a broken hip.

    Mrs. Choi waved her hand dismissively, treating the students as if they were stray dogs she wanted to shoo away. "No, no!" she retorted sharply. "I''m fine! I know you guys poured water here to make me fall, but I''m strong, unlike you kids who cry over the silliest of matters." With an eye roll, she swiftly sprinted toward the classroom, displaying a speed that could rival even the most accomplished Olympian runners.

    Unfortunately for Min, his first period that day was English, taught by none other than Mrs. Choi herself. However, he found some peace in the fact that English didn''t require the same level of mental exertion as the sciences, so he was somewhat okay with it. As he approached the classroom door, a familiar voice called out from the distance.

    "Min! There''s no class today!" Akio''s voice rang out, accompanied by his hurried footsteps.

    "Really?!" Min''s face lit up with surprise and relief.

    Akio reached Min, his excitement evident. "Yeah, bro. It''s a miracle! Someone must''ve spiked Mrs. Choi''s tea. But hold on, we''re not entirely off the hook."

    "What do you mean?" Min inquired, curious about the catch.

    "Class is canceled, but we have to endure the seventh graders'' stage a stupid play," Akio explained with a sigh.

    "Nooooo. I don''t wanna watch it," Min groaned, expressing his disdain.

    Akio nudged Min playfully. "Come on, it''s still better than dissecting Shakespeare stories."

    Min reluctantly nodded in agreement, realizing the play might indeed be a preferable alternative. Akio slung his arm around Min''s shoulders, and together they set off to endure the upcoming spectacle.

    While most of Min''s classmates obediently followed the teacher''s instructions and proceeded to their assigned destination, another part of the school bustled with the mischievous energy of Hyun''s gang. The group comprised Ron, Kai, Denis, Hyungjun, Seungyun, and Hyun. The group''s origins remained somewhat murky, but it was widely believed that Hyungjun and Seungyun held the mantle of the founding fathers. Ron, ever drawn to trouble, naturally gravitated towards the duo, while Hyun, Denis, and Kai were convinced to join their ranks as friends. Denis and Kai assimilated well within the group, forging stronger bonds, but Hyun, the face of the gang, felt a growing sense of detachment. Whenever possible, he distanced himself from their antics. It seemed that Hyun had become entangled in an interminable contract, bound by the gang''s need for his popularity and ability to attract girls.

    As the boys loitered around the corridor, Seungyun proposed a plan to vandalize their own classroom, aiming to secure a day or two of absolute freedom. The mere thought of a damaged classroom entailed canceled classes and an ensuing investigation to identify the culprits. Without a second thought, the others blindly followed their esteemed leader''s suggestion.

    Within moments, they barged into the room, resembling a horde of rabid monkeys unleashed upon their surroundings. Kai tore the wall clock from its position, launching it forcefully toward the ground, reducing it to a pile of dust. Seungyun, towering above the rest, climbed onto a table and extended his arm toward the ceiling fan. Gripping one of its blades with all his might, he exerted ample force to bend it downward.

    Amidst Seungyun''s endeavor, Hyungjun playfully chimed in, "Should I turn on the fan?"

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    Across the room, Ron snatched several colored permanent markers and proceeded to inscribe an ocean of foul words on the board, targeting the teachers with snarky remarks and outright insults. He adorned his masterpiece with a suggestive drawing, adding to the audacity of his actions. Meanwhile, Hyungjun toppled a nearby dustbin, sending paper bits, pencil shavings, and remnants of leftover food scattering across the floor. Seizing the opportunity, he transformed the bin into an impromptu soccer ball, further littering the room with trash.

    Denis, known for his princely demeanor, also joined in the chaos. First, he unzipped several students'' bags, purposefully disarranging their belongings and pilfering their snacks. In the process, he tore a few textbooks as well. Next, he retrieved his bottle and strategically sprayed fruit juice on the wall, creating stains resembling the appearance of urine.

    The gang reveled in the havoc they had unleashed, taking a moment to bask in the glory of their destruction. Then, with much insanity in their eyes, they madly dashed out of the classroom, arms raised triumphantly in the air.

    About an hour later, the seventh graders'' play came to an end, and Min and Akio made their way toward the badminton court, eager to engage in a quick game. However, their plans were abruptly interrupted by Ms. Emily, who was on the lookout for them.

    "What are you both doing here? The principal wants to meet your class in her office right away," Ms. Emily informed them, her tone urgent.

    With confusion displayed on their faces, Min and Akio exchanged puzzled glances. Akio questioned, "Why? What''s going on?"

    "Apparently, someone has vandalized your classroom. I don''t have all the details, but you need to go to the principal''s office immediately," Ms. Emily ordered, her expression tired at this point.

    With a mix of trepidation and curiosity, Min and Akio hastened their steps toward the principal''s office. Upon entering, they found their classmates assembled, a range of emotions displayed across their faces¡ªsome looked terrified, others appeared nonchalant, while most wore expressions of bewilderment, questioning why they had been summoned.

    The principal, donning round, oversized spectacles, adorned with heavy gold jewelry, and emanating an air of stern authority, entered the room and took her seat. She scrutinized each student with an intense gaze, her eyes reflecting a blend of anger and disappointment. In a chesty, monotonous tone, she addressed the gathered students.

    "One of the teachers informed me that your classroom has been left in an unusable state¡ªdustbins on the ground, bags strewn about, shattered glass from the clock, damaged fan blades, and inappropriate drawings on the board. It seems your juniors show more maturity and responsibility than you," the principal declared, her voice heavy with harshness.

    Akio whispered to Min with unadulterated disbelief, "What on earth has happened?"

    "Instead of punishing the perpetrators right now, we want the guilty to come forward and admit their faults," the principal announced sternly, her eyes piercing through the room.

    "Didn''t they install CCTV cameras?" Min murmured under his breath, trying to make sense of the situation.

    Akio, his frustration simmering, whispered aggressively to Min, "I mean, who else could''ve done it? It''s obviously those idiots."

    "Akio! Do you not see that someone''s talking?!" the principal snapped, her voice filled with irritation.

    Akio quickly apologized, his voice brimmed with remorse, "I''m sorry."

    The principal continued, addressing the students with a sense of purpose, "Look, I''m sure no one will come forward, so here''s what I''ll do. I''ve decided that I won''t solely take action against the vandals. Why? It''s because I want to emphasize the importance of collective responsibility. You are a class, a family, a unit. If one of you is responsible, all of you are. It''s that simple. That''s how life is, students."

    Min couldn''t help but think, "Is she insane?" as he stared at the woman with a mix of hopelessness and disbelief.

    "To make things easier, I''m going to assign responsibilities to each one of you," the principal continued, her tone assertive. "I need someone to collect money from everyone for a brand new clock, I need someone to unbend the fan blades, someone to erase the whiteboard, and so on. You get my point. I''ll call you one by one, starting from Naeun. Each one of you should tell me what you''re going to be responsible for. We need to do it quickly because I don''t have much time," she ordered, displaying a wickedness that resembled a villain from a superhero movie.

    "Naeun, what are you going to do?" the principal inquired.

    "I''ll erase the board," Naeun replied, her voice full of unconcern.

    "Ron, how do you plan to help?" the principal continued.

    "I''ll help with the fan, I guess," Ron reluctantly responded.

    The principal turned her attention to Anna, demanding, "Anna?"

    Gritting her teeth, Anna answered, "I''ll arrange the bags."

    Anna was seething with anger. She resented cleaning up a mess she didn''t create, but in front of the principal, she felt powerless and chose the least demanding task to avoid further confrontation.

    Finally, the principal called upon Min, asking, "What about you?"

    "I''ll help arrange the bags too," Min responded.

    "What? Anna can do that by herself. Can you not collect the money or something?" the principal retorted rudely, causing Min''s heart to sink. Akio felt the urge to unleash a sucker punch on the woman.

    After everyone was assigned their tasks, the group dispersed. Unsurprisingly, the innocent students focused on restoring the class, working tirelessly to undo the damage caused. Meanwhile, the culprits remained elusive, hidden away while everyone else labored. The teachers were aware of their guilt yet chose to turn a blind eye. They simply wanted the mess cleaned up without delay, possessing the power to punish the boys but opting not to do so.

    Meanwhile, Min reverted to his former self, his demeanor colored with depression as he diligently wiped off the permanent ink from the board using rubbing alcohol. While a few dissatisfied voices lingered, Min was taken aback to witness that most students defended the gang and tried to justify their actions, even when there was no justification to be found. It became clear that many students desired to align themselves with the "cool kids." Adding to Min''s misery, a legion of grey clouds enveloped the sky, releasing a substantial downpour. Seeing him immersed in the depressing atmosphere, Mr. Glenn suddenly appeared before Min.

    Approaching Min with a soft tone, Mr. Glenn whispered, "Psst! I know you didn''t do anything wrong. I managed to get permission from your class teacher for a one-on-one session, and she''s okay with it. Come with me. Let''s go to the next room."

    While Min may not have held a particular fondness for math, he didn''t despise it either. Though he often found himself disengaged in class, he would diligently work on various math problems at home or with Mr. Glenn whenever the opportunity arose. Though perhaps an unhealthy pursuit, Min yearned for good grades as it provided a semblance of self-worth that was otherwise rare. Furthermore, Mr. Glenn, a kind-hearted man, greatly admired Min''s work ethic and understood the burdens he carried. Wanting to offer support and bolster Min''s confidence, he extended a helping hand.

    Mr. Glenn led Min to the adjoining room, instructing him to keep a low profile and rest while he attended to some test papers.

    "Thank you so much," Min expressed, his voice a blend of despondency and gratitude.

    "Anything for you, my man!" Mr. Glenn cheerfully replied.

    Just as Min was about to close his eyes and succumb to drowsiness, he caught sight of a familiar figure entering the room.

    "Hi, Mr. Glenn! Rad shirt you got there!" the visitor greeted with enthusiasm.

    "Thanks, man!" the teacher responded, sporting an immense smile.

    "Um, Hyun?! I thought you weren''t coming today?" Min inquired, surprised by the unexpected presence.

    "Yeah, but I decided to take just a half-day off ''cause I hate staying at home," Hyun explained, diverting his attention toward the teacher. "Mr. Glenn, may I steal Min for a while?"

    "Sure! You can take him. Min, make sure you and Hyun go to a place like the terrace or library where there aren''t many teachers around right now," Mr. Glenn granted permission.

    "Thanks! We''ll be careful," Min expressed his thanks as he stood up and followed Hyun, hopeful for a change of scenery and a momentary respite from the troubles that plagued his mind.

 Chapter 5: Revengeful Design

    "Let''s go to the terrace. It''s cloudy, and there''s a cool breeze up there," Hyun suggested, his voice filled with a hint of excitement.

    "Sure!" Min exclaimed, his hand gently resting on Hyun''s shoulder as he asked with true concern, "I hope you''re doing better."

    "I''m as energetic as ever. I slept very well!" Hyun replied, his words masking the truth.

    In reality, Hyun had spent a sleepless night, consumed by a swirl of emotions. The encounter with Min the previous day had stirred something deep within him, leaving him feeling both elated and restless. Throughout the night, he found himself tightly hugging his pillow, unable to find solace or calmness.

    Initially, Hyun attributed these overwhelming emotions to the genuine kindness he had received from Min after days of enduring hardship. However, the peculiar sensation didn''t diminish as the night wore on. Instead, it continued to grow, intensifying with each passing moment.

    In truth, Hyun''s feelings for Min multiplied exponentially whenever he conjured up an image of him in his mind. He couldn''t help but dwell on how Min could have easily turned away, avoiding involvement with someone he barely knew. Yet, Min chose to sit beside him, attentively listening to his worries without judgment and with a sincere desire to assist. The depth of Min''s empathy touched Hyun. It touched him profoundly.

    The memory of Min delicately placing his arm on Hyun''s shoulder lingered in his thoughts, a gentle gesture that held immense significance. Hyun found himself unable to shake off the image of Min, who, despite his own shyness, tried his best to provide guidance and reassurance. The image of Min tearing a page from his expensive notepad to wipe away Hyun''s tears played on a loop in his mind. The price sticker that was still visible on the notepad''s back served as a reminder of Min''s selflessness. Above all, Hyun couldn''t stop reflecting on how Min treated him as a normal human being ¡ª a rarity in his life that left a memorable impression.

    Those very thoughts continued to swarm Hyun''s mind as he ascended the stairs alongside Min. When they reached the top, narrowly evading Mrs. Choi, Hyun hastily slammed the door shut behind them.

    "Min! Look what I got you!" Hyun exclaimed, his voice filled with childlike excitement. He extended both arms, revealing a collection of chocolates and a set of art pens in his open palms.

    "Hyun, why did you get me these?" Min questioned, a mix of surprise and hesitation in his voice.

    "You know why. Take it!" Hyun insisted, his tone carrying a hint of aggression, as he grabbed Min''s hand and deposited the gifts into his grasp.

    "No, I can''t. I don''t deserve it!" Min protested, his self-doubt evident.

    "Please take it... for me," Hyun pleaded, his eyes reflecting a pleading expression.

    Reluctantly, Min accepted the gifts. "These pens are really nice. Also, I love chocolate, so thanks!" he expressed with an awkward giggle.

    "His laugh is adorable. He has such a cute nose," Hyun thought, captivated by Min''s charm.

    "I wish I could hug him like that day, but won''t he find me weird?" Hyun questioned himself, battling conflicting emotions.

    "Why do I feel like this? He''s a boy," he pondered.

    "But... there''s nothing wrong with loving a boy, right?"

    "Anyway, Min, did something happen? The moment I stepped into school, I noticed something was off. Mr. Glenn told us to watch out for the teachers too. Why?" Hyun inquired, his curiosity piqued.

    Min proceeded to recount the events of the day in great detail, his voice gradually diminishing and occasionally faltering as he reached the part about the incident with the principal. Meanwhile, with each passing minute, Hyun''s anger grew hotter and more intense.

    It became evident to Hyun that the culprits responsible for the vandalism were none other than his "friends." Naturally, he felt a gush of fury towards them. His blood began to boil and bubble even more when he learned about the principal''s disrespectful treatment of Min and how she forced him to clean up the mess created by the troublemakers.

    "What the fuck is wrong with those baboons?! Don''t those brain-dead idiots have anything better to do? And who does the principal think she is? She made a big deal last year when they installed hundreds of cameras, but what''s the point if no one uses them? You don''t need a camera to know who''s guilty, but still... And she made you clean the board? For what? She''s utterly useless," Hyun vented, the revelation fueling a blazing flame within him.

    Min nodded vigorously in agreement, his own frustration palpable.

    "You know what? I''ve had enough. You did what THEY were supposed to do. It''s time to teach them a lesson," Hyun declared, his determination unwavering.

    Min was taken aback. "No, no, no. It''s already over. Let''s forget about it," he pleaded, a tremor in his voice.

    "And let them escape again? Then they''ll never learn. The stupid principal will excuse them again with some made-up reason. Like, what the hell was the reason she gave today? Collective responsibility my ass," Hyun retorted, his resolve unyielding.

    "Please, you''ll get into more trouble if you''re caught. Don''t do this for me," Min implored.

    "Fine. Think of it this way. I''m going to take revenge for the pain they put ME through. Let''s forget about today, yeah?" Hyun proposed, attempting to sway Min''s opinion.

    Stolen story; please report.

    "Well, if you put it that way..." Min hesitated, contemplating the potential consequences.

    "Well, okay! I already have a few ideas," Hyun revealed with a mischievous grin.

    "Already?" Min exclaimed, surprised by Hyun''s preparedness.

    "Yup! I''ve been waiting for this day since forever," Hyun confessed, excitement brimming within him.

    "Woah," Min muttered, impressed and intrigued by Hyun''s determination.

    "I''m pretty sure everyone''s rehearsing for their performances. Let''s go downstairs. Quick!" Hyun urged, eager to set their plan in motion.

    As Hyun opened the terrace door, he turned to Min and asked, "Can I hold your hand? I''ll let go whenever someone sees us."

    "Wha- Why?" Min stammered, very taken aback and flustered by the unexpected request.

    "We need to stick together. I''m afraid of what those guys might do to you. They''re unpredictable. They could ambush us," Hyun explained.

    "Okay," Min acquiesced, a mixture of embarrassment and anticipation hueing his voice. Despite his initial surprise, he found himself secretly thrilled by the idea.

    As the duo dashed down the stairs, Hyun''s mind filled with a rough outline of the plan, but he still needed to figure out the execution. Upon reaching the ground floor, Hyun scanned the surroundings, maintaining a firm grip on Min''s hand. A few meters ahead, he spotted two familiar faces engaged in an animated argument ¨C the same first-graders he had witnessed fighting the previous day. Manu and Ishi were once again embroiled in a fiery dispute.

    "Manu, you ruined the game!" Ishi shouted frustratedly.

    "No, I didn''t, Ishi! The bus was supposed to crash and fall off the bridge!" Manu defended himself, brandishing two toy vehicles in his tiny hands.

    "No, the bus was supposed to cross the bridge safely!" Ishi countered, pointing her finger directly at Manu''s nose.

    Hyun decided to interrupt their argument. "Hello!" he greeted, adopting an unusually high-pitched voice. "I have a gift for you kids, but you need to do us a favor in return." He presented them with the chocolates he had brought along.

    "My father told me not to take gifts from strangers," Ishi grumbled, crossing her arms.

    "Well, my father didn''t," Manu chimed in eagerly, snatching the chocolates from Hyun''s hand.

    "Fine, fine. Manu, don''t forget that sharing is caring," Ishi reminded her companion. She then turned her attention to Hyun and Min. "Okay, tall man and shy boy. What do you want us to do?"

    The four of them huddled together, their heads close as Hyun unveiled his meticulously crafted plan. He instructed Ishi and Manu to fill a bucket with water and transport it to the topmost floor of the school building. Meanwhile, Hyun would lure the culprits outside, setting the stage for a surprise drenching from above. Excitement scented the air as Hyun described each step. The young children eagerly embraced the mischief ahead, their anticipation growing by the second. Min was overwhelmed by the audacious scheme and on the verge of fainting.

    "What happens if they find out?" Min asked anxiously, concern drawn on his face.

    "We''ll find a way," Hyun reassured him, although his response lacked conviction. Still, Min found comfort in Hyun''s presence and trusted him to handle any potential complications.

    "Remember, dump all the water when you see a tall boy who looks like a giraffe. Don''t panic if he''s with a few other guys. Got it?" Hyun instructed, seeking confirmation from the children.

    The quartet then split up, with the kids scurrying off to fetch a bucket from the restroom while Hyun and Min sought cover behind a false ashoka tree. Hyun retrieved his phone from his pocket and began composing a lengthy text message, raising Min''s curiosity.

    "Why are you typing Anna''s name repeatedly?" Min asked, raising an eyebrow.

    "She''s Seungyun''s ex," Hyun replied naughtily.

    "Anna dated Seungyun? Seungyun of all people?" Min''s surprise was obvious.

    "I know, right? I was surprised when I found out. They had a messy breakup."

    "Oh."

    "Yeah, they had a major fight. I''m not entirely sure what happened, but Anna initiated the split. After the breakup, Seungyun couldn''t even watch that one princess movie without losing his temper."

    "Wait... You''re going to send him the text right now?"

    "Not exactly. First, we need to make sure those two are in the right spot. Let''s go and check."

    Hyun held Min''s hand tightly as they cautiously stepped out into the open. The two boys looked up, their gazes narrowing as they spotted the kids carrying the brimming bucket while climbing the staircase toward the terrace. However, their progress was interrupted by the unexpected appearance of Ron, who emerged from the restroom, yawning.

    "Shit, let''s hide," Hyun whispered urgently.

    Swiftly, Hyun and Min slipped into an empty classroom nearby, where they had a decent view of the upper portion of the building.

    "Why are you two carrying that heavy bucket?" Ron questioned suspiciously, eyeing the children.

    "Um, um... It''s for the plants on the rooftop!" Manu replied, fear apparent in his voice as he glanced at the muscular Ron.

    "Cute," Ron remarked in an ugly tone, conveniently forgetting that there were no plants on the terrace. He then dashed down the stairs, passing by the classroom where Hyun and Min were hiding. Fortunately, he didn''t notice their presence and proceeded toward the soccer field.

    After a minute or so, the kids reached their destination. Unfortunately, their view was obstructed by a wall, preventing them from seeing what was happening down below.

    "Climb onto me!" Ishi demanded.

    "You want us both to go the hospital?" Manu retorted.

    Another argument seemed imminent, but Ishi''s eyes fell upon a nearby stool just in time. She exerted all her energy to drag it over, and with the help of the stool, both children managed to reach a height where they could clearly see the entire area below.

    "What''s taking them so long?" Hyun wondered aloud.

    "Look, it''s Ishi and Manu! They''re waving at us!" Min exclaimed, shaking Hyun''s arm with excitement.

    The kids were exactly where they were supposed to be. Hyun retrieved his phone once more, a mischievous smirk playing on his lips as he tapped the send button.

    On the other side of the school, Seungyun, Hyungjun, and Denis were engrossed in the computer lab. They had locked the door and set up a gaming session, with multiple screens displaying games and questionable videos. Just as Seungyun was about to defeat Hyungjun in a virtual battle, his phone''s notification bell chimed, grabbing his attention. He glanced at the screen and opened the message.

    Denis tapped Seungyun on the shoulder. "What''s wrong, bro?"

    Seungyun remained silent, his eyes locked on the message.

    "You didn''t finish me off. Something bothering you, dude?" Hyungjun inquired, oblivious to the impending storm.

    Words couldn''t describe the intensity of Seungyun''s emotions as he read the text message. He was consumed by a terrifying rage, an anger that surpassed all expectations. Clenching his phone tightly in one hand, he furiously toyed with the computer mouse using the other. His eyes burned with a deep crimson red, and he fought the urge to smash the monitor and unleash his wrath upon his comrades. Seungyun''s eyes scanned each word of the repetitive message, absorbing all the anger associated with the name he saw before him. Finally, he reached the last line, which taunted him further with a string of happy emojis, and Seungyun teetered on the brink of combustion. Coincidentally, Hyungjun chose that moment to speak up.

    "Why did someone send you Anna''s name a million times?"

    Without hesitation, Seungyun threw a powerful punch at Hyungjun''s stomach, causing him to crumple to the cold floor, writhing in intense pain. Denis wore a surprised expression, observing the sudden outburst of violence.

    "What are you staring at? Come with me, losers!" Seungyun bellowed, his voice filled with uncontrollable fury.

    Following his order, Denis swiftly rose from his seat, while Hyungjun struggled to stand, his hands trembling and his stomach throbbing. The trio tailed behind Seungyun, who was now a vessel overflowing with indomitable rage.

 Chapter 6: A Love Ignited in Chaos

    Seungyun stormed towards the flagpole, as instructed by the mysterious text, with immense fury, his speed rivaling the velocity with which Mrs. Choi historically fell to the ground. A fearful Denis and a weakened Hyungjun struggled to keep up, trailing behind him. As soon as Seungyun reached his destination, he frantically scanned the area surrounding the flagpole, his eyes ablaze with rage.

    "Where the fuck is he?! I''m going to crush that fucker''s face when I find him," Seungyun growled, spewing saliva as he clenched his fist tightly.

    Powered by anger, Seungyun paced back and forth, his head down, his mind consumed by vicious thoughts. He aggressively patted his thighs and kicked at pebbles scattered on the ground. Meanwhile, Denis checked on Hyungjun, who was doubled over in pain.

    "Are you okay, bro?" Denis asked worriedly, gently shaking his friend''s shoulders.

    "No," Hyungjun weakly replied, collapsing to the ground, one hand clutching his stomach, a solitary tear rolling down his cheek.

    "Seungyun, we need to help Hyungjun. He''s in a lot of pain," Denis pleaded with the leader.

    Seungyun''s pacing came to a halt. He turned his head slowly, coldly staring at Denis while taking heavy breaths. "That bitch can wait. We need to deal with the person who brought me here," he spoke tonelessly, his eyes widening. "And stop acting like a girl, Hyungjun," Seungyun ordered callously.

    "Don''t you care about your friend?! YOUR FRIEND?!" Denis''s voice erupted, a tone no one expected from him. "He''s supposed to be the co-leader, but you treat him like garbage!" Denis shouted, straining his voice.

    An argument erupted between the boys, tensions escalating as they prepared to engage in a brawl. Unbeknownst to them, Hyun cautiously lifted his head and peered through the nearby classroom window.

    "They''re there, but why haven''t the kids acted yet?" he pondered aloud.

    Meanwhile, on the terrace, the children had grown impatient waiting for their intended victims to arrive. Since it was their first time on the rooftop, they decided to venture off the stool and explore the unfamiliar surroundings. Excitedly, they separated, each heading in a different direction to explore the vast emptiness before them.

    "Wow, this place is so wide and empty!" Manu exclaimed, marveling at the open area.

    "Who cares about that? Look at these colorful props for the music festival," Ishi replied, her attention captivated by the vibrant decorations.

    Soon, the children''s sightseeing adventure was abruptly interrupted by a cacophony of voices coming from below.

    "I think it''s them," Ishi whispered to Manu, her eyes wide with eagerness and a hint of mischievousness.

    Quickly, they dashed back to their designated spot, climbed up the stool, and peered downward. From their vantage point, they could clearly see a towering figure, bouncing about in a boxing stance. Beside him stood a defensive boy, his arm extended forward in a protective gesture, shielding a boy who lay flat on the ground behind him.

    Without hesitation, Manu grasped the rim of the bucket tightly, ready to pour its contents. However, no matter how hard he tried, he couldn''t get it to tilt over. Ishi, determined to assist, used her tiny hands to push the bucket from the base, providing the extra force needed.

    As the children struggled with their task above, down below, the principal stormed onto the scene, having heard the commotion from her nearby office. With rapid, heavy footsteps, she marched over to the boys and began berating them furiously.

    "What on earth do you fools think you''re doing here? One of you is sprawled on the ground like a flounder, another is playing traffic policeman, and the third is acting like some kind of UFC fighter. Is this a street market or a school?" she roared, her voice echoing with authority.

    Min spotted the children on the rooftop, unaware of the chaos unfolding below. "They''re doing it!" he whispered in anticipation and a touch of anxiety, shaking Hyun''s arm excitedly. Meanwhile, high above, Ishi and Manu summoned their last reserves of energy and finally managed to pour the water out. The liquid rushed down, landing directly on the principal''s head, drenching her completely and splashing the boys standing beside her.

    Seungyun, startled by the sudden shower, instinctively looked up and noticed the heads of the two naughty children.

    "Hey, you two!" he cried out, pointing his finger in their direction. Reacting swiftly, the children took cover, crouching down and inadvertently releasing the bucket from their clasp. The bucket plummeted downward, crashing onto the principal''s head with a reverberant thud. Min and Hyun, from their viewpoint, bore witness to this glorious scene playing out.

    The impact was loud, followed by the principal''s piercing shriek, which echoed throughout the school. Her expression conveyed a mixture of shock, outrage, and humiliation.

    Hyun erupted into fits of laughter, unable to contain his glee. He sat on the floor, kicking his legs up and slapping his palms on the ground in uncontrollable amusement. "The plan worked even better than we expected!" he exclaimed happily. On the other hand, Min''s initial shock quickly transformed into a hearty chuckle as he recalled the principal''s unfair treatment of him. He regained his composure, shushing Hyun to prevent further attention.

    The principal''s reaction to the unexpected dousing was beyond words. Her screams, reminiscent of a banshee''s wail, attracted the entire school. Startled teachers poured out of their classrooms, while curious students peeped through windows, eager to witness the unexpected spectacle like inmates eager to witness a prison fight. In front of her captivated audience, the soaked principal fell to the floor, repeatedly touching her head and inspecting her palms for any traces of blood. Once assured of her physical well-being, she rose to her feet, bursting with an intimidating aura as she unleashed a torrent of verbal abuse at the three boys. Hyungjun was barely conscious, Denis on the verge of tears, and Seungyun seething with unbridled rage, capable of demolishing a concrete wall with his bare fists.

    As the woman put the boys on blast, the startled children hurried down the stairs, oblivious to the fact that they were unwittingly becoming part of the extravaganza. Hyun''s eyes darted quickly, capturing the scene before him.

    "Look! You have to believe me! Those kids right there dropped the bucket on your head. Hurry! They''re getting away!" Seungyun cried out, his voice filled with desperate urgency as he pointed directly at them.

    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

    "Who do you think you are, shifting the blame? I know you orchestrated this prank with your friends!" the principal screeched, erupting like a fearsome volcano. "I know Denis was responsible for throwing the bucket!" Her accusation left Denis speechless, his mind reeling from everything. The impact of the bucket clearly did a number on the principal''s brain.

    "But Denis was right here! How can you forget? You saw him!" pleaded Seungyun."Do you take me for a fool? Bring me a witness if you''re so sure!" the principal challenged."Hyungjun, come on, man. You saw it too! Denis was with us the whole time, right?" Seungyun implored, hoping for Hyungjun''s support.

    Struggling to remain conscious, Hyungjun mustered all his strength, but ultimately succumbed, his body giving in to the exhaustion. Teachers and students rushed forward to help him, while Ron and Kai, having just finished soccer practice, joined the bewildered onlookers, their gazes fixed on the scene of utter chaos, attempting to piece together the chain of events that led to such pandemonium.

    Meanwhile, in the empty classroom, Hyun scratched his head in confusion, trying to piece together the unfolding scene in the midst of the crowd. Min, eager to catch a better glimpse, repeatedly rose from his seat, only to be pushed down by Hyun, who was worried about drawing attention.

    "I think Hyungjun passed out. I''m not entirely sure," Hyun muttered, his head swiveling in all directions, attempting to gather more information.

    "Wait, what?"

    "Poor guy. Seungyun always took out his frustrations on him. This might be the end of their friendship or master-slave relationship. Whatever it is."

    Their conversation was interrupted by the sudden entrance of Ishi and Manu, bursting into the room with a mix of pride and panic. Though they wore victorious smiles, guilt lurked in their eyes, as their bucket-dropping escapade had failed to hit its intended target.

    "We did it!" they exclaimed, a proud yet conflicted air surrounding them. At first glance, their joy was apparent, but there was an underlying sense of remorse for their missed mark.

    "Thank you so much! You both were awesome!" Hyun brightly proclaimed, ruffling their hair as if they were playful puppies. He then produced a few more treats from his pocket, placing them in the eager hands of Ishi and Manu. "You did great. Now, go back to your classroom and forget today ever happened," Hyun instructed, shooing them away with a wave of his hands. Ishi and Manu quickly forgot their "misstep" and left, content with their pockets overflowing with tasty treats.

    "The principal had it coming. How could she treat you like that? She''s also done far worse in the past. Honestly, I don''t really care about those boys," Hyun then blurted out.

    "But didn''t you plan this for your own sake, not mine?" Min questioned.

    "Yeah, yeah, of course!" Hyun replied awkwardly, his lips contorting into a slightly unnatural shape.

    "It''s fine, I understand. I feel so much better now than I did a few hours ago, all thanks to you. You''ve truly made my day," Min said earnestly, his eyes gleaming and twinkling like distant stars in the emptiness of space.

    "Don''t mention it," Hyun replied with a warm smile. Min nodded repeatedly, unsure of how to respond to Hyun''s words. Hyun rubbed the back of his neck, feeling the intensity of their connection once again, the same funny feeling that had taken hold of him the day before.

    Out of nowhere, Min sneezed. Hyun drew the courage to look directly at Min''s face and ask if he was okay. Min mentioned that he had a minor dust allergy. The classroom they found themselves in hadn''t been used since the school''s inception. Broken chairs and tables were scattered about, lending it a spooky atmosphere, while cobwebs and a thick layer of dust adorned the chipped ivory-colored walls.

    "Hey, there''s some dust in your hair," Hyun said, leaning forward with his hands and knees on the floor. Carefully, he used his right hand to delicately remove the trapped dust from Min''s bangs. Min blushed slightly, embarrassed by his disheveled hair. "Don''t worry, I''ll tidy it up," Hyun reassured him, gently holding each strand between his index finger and thumb, smoothing them down with a gentle motion.

    And just like their first encounter behind the garden, their faces were once again mere inches apart. A shy smile stretched across Hyun''s face, while a blush instantly painted Min''s cheeks. Time seemed to freeze, suspended in a precious moment.

    Hyun gazed at Min, consumed by an overwhelming desire. He yearned to act upon the swirling thoughts that had kept him awake all night. Min''s full, reddish-pink lips, so tantalizingly close, tempted him further, but a voice within urged him to hold back, to restrain his feelings. So, the two of them awkwardly locked eyes, the weight of their unspoken emotions filling the silence that settled around them, occasionally disrupted by the distant clamor outside.

    Hyun struggled to maintain the intense gaze. He contemplated yielding to that voice, relinquishing his hopes, until he caught sight of Min''s expression. Min''s gentle eyes sparkled with a soft glow, captivating Hyun''s attention. He was mesmerized to discover that Min''s eyes were not merely a dark shade of brown, as he had initially perceived. They were bewitchingly pitch-black. Hyun''s gaze then drifted to Min''s rosy cheeks, a clear indication that his own feelings were not unrequited. Slowly, he ran his fingers through Min''s luscious, smooth hair, ensuring that every strand was in place. He offered a timid smile and instinctively held onto Min''s hand.

    All the anxiety that had built up within Min dissipated the moment Hyun''s touch met his skin. Surprisingly, Min felt calm and at ease. He responded to Hyun''s shy smile with an affectionate one, silently assuring him that there was no cause for worry. His crush, his beacon of light, seemed hesitant to progress further. It was as if an invisible spirit had draped itself over Hyun''s shoulders, whispering cautionary words into his ears, deterring him from embracing his emotions.

    Min, too, began to doubt himself, slowly lowering his head. But then, a golden-yellow beam of sunlight pierced through the window, casting a radiant glow upon Hyun''s face, illuminating every contour. The rays that would typically drain Min''s energy somehow enhanced Hyun''s allure, making him even more captivating. Although Hyun''s gaze lacked confidence, his chestnut-brown eyes were sharp and piercing. His thin, light pink lips stood out against his beautiful complexion. Min could wait no longer.

    With a tender caress of Hyun''s cheek, Min nodded, granting permission. Hyun inched closer, closing his eyes.

    Their lips met.

    At first, Hyun was unsure of what to feel. Confusion mingled with the pleasure of their position¡ªback pressed against the wall, Min enveloping him. But as the kiss deepened, confusion dissolved into pure bliss. Hyun surrendered himself to the moment, losing himself in the sensation. Min''s palm rested gently on Hyun''s cheek as their lips melded together. With each passing second, Min''s heart pounded in his chest, an uncharted rhythm. His indecisive eyes fluttered, torn between wanting to fully open and see the enamored boy before him, or to keep them closed, immersing himself in the kiss''s essence.

    Hyun''s head spun, intoxicated by the intensity. He allowed Min to take hold of his hands and guide them to his hips. Closer they moved, their emotions soaring, their heartbeats thundering. In the heat of the moment, Min pushed Hyun to the floor, unleashing a passion, unlike anything he had experienced with previous partners. Hyun reciprocated by gently brushing his tongue against Min''s upper lip. Powerful jolts of pleasure ran through Hyun''s body and eased his heart, causing him to emit a warmth that melted away any self-doubt.

    Min and Hyun''s desire burned fiercely, neither willing to halt the electric exchange. Beads of sweat adorned their brows, evidence of the intense passion they shared. Min, needing a moment to catch his breath, pulled back slightly, gasping for air as he composed himself after the fervent display of affection. In the blink of an eye, Hyun''s mischievous smile emerged, his teeth lightly grazing his lower lip, a subtle invitation for more. Without hesitation, he pressed forward, his approach more assertive this time. Min, now more relaxed, yielded to Hyun''s advances, allowing himself to be pushed against the wall harder. A contented moan escaped his lips as he stretched his legs, his flushed face begging for further indulgence. Seizing the opportunity, Hyun positioned himself on Min''s lap, their bodies entwined, and embarked on a kiss even more passionate than before. Not known to Hyun, tears escaped Min''s eyes, a testament to the overwhelming emotions that flooded his being. Min, fully embracing the moment, surrendered to Hyun''s desires, reveling in the unraveling ecstasy.

    In that blissful instant, Hyun felt liberated. The kiss proved cathartic, a gateway to a realm where time ceased to exist. And deep down, he wished to stay within that enchanting embrace forever.

 Chapter 6: Straight

    Unfortunately, Hyun and Min couldn¡¯t stay in the moment forever.

    As Hyun and Min were lost in their passionate moment, their tranquility was shattered by the sound of approaching footsteps. Reacting swiftly, Hyun pushed Min away, inadvertently hitting him on the forehead with his gold-plated ring. Min winced in pain, cradling his forehead with both hands.

    With their hearts approaching high speed, they overheard voices outside the classroom, signaling the need to hide. Acting on instinct, Min scrambled under a nearby table, seeking refuge in its dusty shadows. Meanwhile, Hyun¡¯s mind raced with thoughts of defending Min, his fists clenched as he prepared to unleash his years of martial arts training on anyone who threatened them. The tension in the room was palpable as they braced themselves for what lay ahead.

    A moment later, the door swung open, and two figures entered¡ªManu and Ishi. Manu appeared sheepish, his hands fidgeting behind his back, while Ishi exuded an air of determination, standing by his side like a protective guardian. Sensing their presence, Hyun and Min let their guards down, but still held their breath, unsure of their intentions.

    Ishi leaned in, whispering encouragingly to Manu, urging him to ask the burning question as she showed a teacherly look. Timidly, Manu began, stumbling over his words as he addressed Hyun, his voice laced with both regret and innocence.

    ¡°So, um, the chocolates you gave me...¡± Manu paused, his eyes darting nervously. ¡°Ah, um, are you okay, tall man?¡±

    Hyun¡¯s anxiety melted away as he realized the nature of Manu¡¯s inquiry. He let out a sigh of relief, a grin tugging at the corners of his lips. With a gentle nod, he reassured Manu that everything was fine, granting him permission to continue.

    Emerging from his hiding spot, Min cautiously crawled out, bidding farewell to his temporary friend, the wall gecko, who had offered some companionship in the darkness. A mixture of relief and warmth surged through him as he observed the interaction between Hyun and Manu.

    Manu, his voice now oozing innocence, explained that he had shared the chocolates with his friends, leaving him empty-handed. At that moment, Hyun couldn¡¯t resist the charm of Manu¡¯s plea, his heart swelling with affection. He couldn¡¯t help but express his fondness by playfully squeezing Manu¡¯s cheeks, promising to shower him and Ishi with an abundance of candy the following day.

    Aware of the precariousness of their situation, Hyun swiftly sent Manu and Ishi on their way, ensuring their departure would attract minimal attention. With the interruption momentarily diffused, Hyun and Min were left with a blend of emotions¡ªrelief for evading discovery and a touch of sweetness brought by the kids¡¯ innocent request for more sweets.

    In that brief encounter, the unexpected intrusion had become a catalyst for tenderness, strengthening the bond between Hyun and Min, and leaving them longing for a time when they could once again indulge in their shared secret.

    An awkward silence soon fell over the boys.

    Hyun broke the silence with a rhetorical question, expressing his frustration. ¡°How long do we have to stay in here? I mean, we could go out and act normal, but what if those idiots figure us out? Maybe I¡¯m giving them too much credit, but... I don¡¯t know. Even if they don¡¯t catch us, I don¡¯t want to stay in this suffocating atmosphere. It¡¯s draining.¡±

    Min offered a solution, suggesting they escape to his nearby house, just a few blocks away from the school. Hyun squinted his eyes, perplexed by the unexpected suggestion.

    ¡°Wait, what?¡±

    Min maintained a serious expression as he clarified, ¡°My house is close by. We can get away from all of this. They won¡¯t even notice.¡±

    A cheeky smile took over Hyun¡¯s lips as he teased, ¡°Min¡¯s being a bad boy, huh?¡±

    ¡°You know, this is quite unusual for you,¡± Hyun remarked, his voice breathy. ¡°But I like it.¡±

    Min¡¯s heart slowly ascended, his cheeks warming with a flush. As they contemplated the plan, one major concern lingered in Hyun¡¯s mind.

    ¡°What about the guard? He won¡¯t just let us stroll out, you know.¡±

    ¡°That guy is probably taking his afternoon nap,¡± Min assured, his grip tightening as he grasped Hyun¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Are you sure? If we get caught, it¡¯s game over for both of us,¡± Hyun cautioned, his voice filled with both trust and worry.

    The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    Min¡¯s firm squeeze conveyed his determination as he pleaded, ¡°Trust me. Please.¡±

    Hyun¡¯s voice softened with each word as he reassured, ¡°I trust you. I trust you, alright.¡± Leaning in, he gently kissed Min¡¯s forehead, his finger lingering on the spot where the ring had accidentally caused pain.

    ¡°Does it still hurt?¡± Hyun asked, his touch delicate and caring.

    Min smiled, the pain momentarily forgotten. ¡°I forgot about it until you mentioned it.¡±

    Hyun¡¯s hand caressed Min¡¯s cheek, his gaze fixed on his eyes, savoring the connection between them. With a shared understanding, they set their escape plan into motion.

    Hyun peered through the window, observing the crowd that showed no signs of dispersing. A new argument had erupted, providing a welcomed distraction. Their path to freedom involved navigating a mostly linear route from the abandoned classroom to a nearby gate. The task seemed simple enough, but any suspicion from Kai, Ron, or a curious onlooker could jeopardize their escape.

    Escaping had always been a skill Hyun had honed over the years, having ditched countless classes in the past. However, the consequences back then were trivial compared to the risks they faced now. With Min¡¯s suggestion and Hyun¡¯s experience, the roles shifted, and Hyun took the lead.

    Carefully, Hyun stepped one foot out of the room, scanning the surroundings for any potential threats. The corridor lay deserted except for a janitor cleaning up a pitiful puddle of vomit in the far corner. Up ahead, the commotion of the crowd echoed through the open ground.

    Satisfied with his quick assessment, Hyun returned to Min, assuring him that there was little cause for concern. They simply had to blend in as naturally as possible during the initial part of their journey.

    In what Hyun uniquely called the ¡°first course,¡± they needed to exit the room and turn left. Suppressing his instinct to hold Min¡¯s hand, Hyun gestured for Min to follow behind at a distance that wouldn¡¯t arouse suspicion. Their connection had to be disguised to avoid raising eyebrows. With his senses heightened, Hyun led the way, keeping a vigilant watch as they embarked on the riskiest leg of their escape, walking alongside a sea of people not too far away.

    Emerging from the filthy dark into the open, the lovers experienced a stark contrast in their demeanor. Hyun¡¯s face showed no trace of fear as his acting chops took over. He strolled casually, wearing a subtle smile while maintaining a neutral expression overall. A warm, humid breeze caressed his face, and the breaking sunlight bathed his entire body. His eyes sparkled with vitality and exuberance.

    In contrast, a dark cloud seemed to hover over Min¡¯s head. His wide eyes held a look of terror, as if he had just witnessed a gruesome murder. Unlike Hyun, Min¡¯s gaze lacked the same zest for life.

    The two lovers proceeded along the straight path at a steady pace, careful not to attract undue attention. Min struggled to resist the urge to look at the chaotic scene surrounding them, but he managed to keep his head still. The air reverberated with thunderous barks and roars, as if a crowd had gathered to witness a brutal cage fight between aggressive animals.

    After what felt like an eternity, the ceiling above them opened up, revealing the sky. They passed by several classrooms, stopping at one to retrieve their bags, before continuing towards the gate that marked the second leg of their journey. As they approached, they shed their disguises, quickening their pace toward their destination. This gate, primarily used by teachers and leading to a staff-only parking compound, was their exit point. Despite the main gate being closer and having a pathetic watchman, they decided against taking the risk due to the hubbub beside it. Some students even speculated that the guard stationed there was dead, and the principal hadn¡¯t found a replacement yet. Whispers circulated about a ¡°funky odor¡± emanating from the guard¡¯s room during the sweltering heat.

    Hand in hand, the two boys arrived at the gate, their steps muffled as they drew nearer. Apart from a focused janitor, a drowsy guard different from the man at the main gate, and themselves, no other humans were present.

    Hyun remarked, ¡°Looks like this guard is dead too.¡±

    Min innocently asked, ¡°So... do we jump over the gate?¡±

    Hyun chuckled and playfully tousled Min¡¯s hair, replying, ¡°Ah, you cutie. We can just walk right through. He won¡¯t even notice.¡±

    Just as they were about to taste freedom, a loud, hoarse voice called out from behind.

    ¡°Hey! Min and Hyun! Where are you guys going?!¡±

    Startled, Min climbed over the gate, while Hyun swiftly kicked it open and sprinted at full speed.

    ¡°Come on! Run!¡±

    Despite his previous leg injury, Hyun dashed forward like a cheetah chasing after its prey. The parking lot, relatively empty, allowed them to run without much hindrance. At first, Min struggled to keep up, but adrenaline flowed through his veins, propelling him forward until he matched Hyun¡¯s speed.

    Breathlessly, Min asked, ¡°Who was that?! I hope we didn¡¯t get caught.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t know. I really don¡¯t. But if things take a turn for the worse, we¡¯ll find a way!¡± Hyun assured him.

    Suddenly, a loud bang echoed behind them, followed by cries of distress. The voice sounded familiar, rough, and boisterous. Min brushed off the thought, focusing on the present moment.

    Unbeknownst to them, their pursuer was indeed Akio. Spotting the two boys from a distance, he called out to them, intending to ask about their peculiar companionship and movement. As they dashed away in response, Akio gave chase, only to slip on the liquid that the janitor had been cleaning and emit a cry, not due to the pain but the putrid stench that now clung to him.

    Finally, the two lovers reached the street, and an electrifying current streamed through Hyun¡¯s entire being. Though the surroundings appeared dull and lifeless, with silent homes, scattered trash, thin vegetation, and a slumbering cat, Hyun radiated an unmatched liveliness. This vibrant energy grew as he stepped on dried leaves that crackled beneath his feet, releasing packets of positive energy into the air. Glancing behind, he noticed Min, adorably excited, struggling to carry his hefty bag. Despite running aimlessly, Hyun couldn¡¯t contain his laughter and overwhelming happiness. Min, too, shyly joined in the giggles as he caught up with Hyun. Driven by sheer exhilaration, Hyun thrust his hands toward the sky and propelled himself forward with unbounded enthusiasm.