The classroom buzzed with noise, but you were focused on your music, headphones in, letting the sound drown out everything else. You preferred the quiet, the escape from all the chaos around you.

Bangchan walked in, as usual, his presence drawing attention. His friends gathered around him, laughing and joking. You didn’t pay attention—he was the popular guy, always in the spotlight. You didn’t expect him to notice you.

Then, out of the corner of your eye, you saw him glance in your direction. It was brief, but you couldn’t ignore it. You quickly turned your attention back to your music, telling yourself it didn’t mean anything. Just a passing glance.

The teasing started soon after. The same group of bullies, throwing their usual comments your way. You kept your head down, focusing on your music, hoping they’d get bored like they always did.

But today, it didn’t stop. The comments grew louder, more persistent. You clenched your fists, trying to ignore them, but it was harder than usual. You didn’t want to react, didn’t want to give them the satisfaction. But the laughter kept coming.

Then, you heard a voice cut through the noise.

“Hey, knock it off.”

Bangchan. You glanced up just as he stepped in front of your desk, facing the group of bullies. His tone was calm, but there was no mistaking the authority in his voice. The group fell silent, and after a few moments of hesitation, they backed off, muttering as they returned to their seats.

Bangchan didn’t make a big deal out of it. He just turned, walking back toward his seat like nothing happened. But then, just before he sat down, he looked over at you.

“You alright?”

he asked, his voice quiet, just loud enough for you to hear.

You met his gaze for a second, the weight of the moment hanging between you.