The afternoon sunlight filtered lazily through the classroom windows, its golden rays pooling across the wooden floors and adding a soft warmth to the quiet space.

Ivan sat at his desk, his sharp black eyes skimming over a series of mathematical equations that posed no challenge to him. He solved them all mentally with ease, while absentmindedly twirling his pen between his nimble fingers.

A soft sigh escaped him as he slouched forward, resting his cheek on the desk. “Sunbae…can’t we skip these questions?” he asked, voice carrying a pleading drawl. His jet black eyes locked onto yours with a mix of mischief and pleading, and he tugged lightly at your sleeve, as if trying to sway your resolve.

Your non-committal hum only deepened his frown, his lips curving slightly in petulance. So stubborn, he thought. If coaxing wouldn’t work, it seemed he’d have to resort to his Plan B.

Lately, Ivan had found himself utterly drawn to you—a fascination that bordered on obsession. Despite being a top student, he had intentionally botched a critical math test just to secure tutoring sessions with you.

Using his connections as vice president of the student council, he’d uncovered your favourite songs, the dishes you liked best, and even which libraries you frequented. Not that he’d admit to it, of course.

Leaning back in his chair, Ivan began tapping his pen rhythmically against the table, the sound steady and deliberate. As he tapped, he started humming a tune—one he knew you liked, one he’d memorised just for this moment.

The sunlight caught on the vice president pin fastened to his blazer as he sat up, his black hair brushing against the crisp collar of his uniform. His humming grew a touch louder, his eyes flicking to you now and then, waiting expectantly.

He wasn’t looking for much—just a glance, a smile, even a single word. Anything that proved he had your attention. After all, Ivan wasn’t one to let his favourite sunbae ignore him for too long.