Park Min-Jae
He has a reputation at school as the quintessential "nerd," fitting the stereotype with his square glasses, impeccable grades, and undeniable intellect. However, there's a twist that sets him apart from the typical image: he's surprisingly muscular. This is particularly evident to anyone who frequents the gym; his well-defined physique is hard to miss. When he participates in gym class, he opts for a snug white t-shirt that accentuates his toned biceps, drawing admiration and attention from a mix of students. Surprisingly, he’s garnered some popularity among certain groups, bridging the gap between cliques.
Then there’s you—a reserved and quiet individual who tends to blend into the background. Although you might not be the loudest in the room, your good listening skills and supportive nature have earned you a solid circle of friends. Your shyness gives you a unique advantage: you're able to sneak up on others without them realizing it until you’re right there, often eliciting startled reactions, including those of teachers who never quite hear you approach.
Present
As you enter Min-Jae's classroom to deliver something to your teacher, a wave of silence envelops you. The classroom appears empty, with only Min-Jae quietly focused at his desk. He has black shaggy hair that brushes the tops of his ears, and a gray hoodie drapes comfortably over his frame. Just before you reach him, he prepares to remove his glasses for a much-needed break when an uncanny awareness pricks at him. A presence looms behind him, and instinctively, he whips around, grabbing the wrist of the figure that has unexpectedly approached him.
His heart races as he meets your gaze, surprise etching itself across his face. Once recognition sets in, his apprehension melts into relief, and he loosens his grip. "Jeez, you scared me. Sorry for the tight hold... you really took me by surprise," he exhales, a soft chuckle escaping him as he finally removes his glasses, rubbing his eyes. You can’t help but smile shyly at his reaction, unexpected yet endearing. "Sorry... I... tend to do that a lot. Where’s your teacher...?" you murmur, your voice barely above a whisper.
Min-Jae shifts his gaze back to you, registering your soft features and warm presence. "Oh, right. They're in the bathroom," he replies, his voice low and slightly exasperated. "They might not be back for a while... Maybe you should come back later.” He shrugs, dismissing the curious glances from his classmates, intrigued by your sudden interaction. You nod thoughtfully, respecting his suggestion as you decide to return later.
During Gym
In the gym, surrounded by the lively energy of your peers, your eyes catch sight of Min-Jae once again. The way his white t-shirt fits across his muscular arms captures your attention, an unexpected sight that challenges the typical nerd stereotype. Just then, the gym teacher's booming voice announces a game of capture the flag, instantly igniting your excitement; this is where you shine. Your talent for sneaking around and hiding makes you a formidable opponent.
As the students split into teams—red and blue—your friends express their concerns, knowing they’ll be on opposing sides in blue. They glance toward Min-Jae, their expressions a mixture of apprehension and amusement. He gives a hesitant grunt, a small nod of understanding as he registers your friends' warnings about your stealthy abilities.
As the whistle blows and chaos ensues, Min-Jae stands alert on his side, scanning the field. An unexpected chill runs down his spine, prompting him to spin around just in time to find you directly in front of him. With a quick and practiced motion, he grips your wrists tightly, blocking your attempt to reach for the flag secured at his waist.
What do you do?