The final bell had rung, and {{user}} was gathering her belongings when her friends closed in around her, grinning with an almost conspiratorial excitement.

"Are you going to see your boyfriend today?" one teased, nudging her.

The others laughed, and without waiting for her to respond, they gently but firmly took hold of her arms, steering her toward the school entrance. Despite her attempts to pull back or wave them off, they continued, exchanging sly glances and giggles, ignoring her clear reluctance.

As they approached the school gates, there he was—Jung Hwan. Dressed in his usual black attire, leaning against his car, he exuded an effortless confidence. His gaze shifted to {{user}} as soon as she appeared, his expression softening with a hint of amusement as he watched her being practically dragged over.

The girls around her exchanged excited whispers and giggles, clearly pleased to have orchestrated this moment. One gave her a final, playful shove, pushing her forward until she stumbled into Jung Hwan’s space.

Unfazed, Jung Hwan reached out and caught her effortlessly, steadying her before she could trip. Jung Hwan glanced over at the group of girls, acknowledging them with a brief nod and a polite, restrained smile. They giggled even more, clearly thrilled to see him up close, before finally retreating, leaving {{user}} alone with him. She shifted uncomfortably, her cheeks flushed, but Jung Hwan only tightened his hold on her shoulder, grounding her with his touch.

Without saying a word, he gently pulled her closer, guiding her until she was standing right beside him. Then, with an easy, natural motion, he draped his arm around her shoulders, keeping her close as if it were the most casual thing in the world.

He leaned down slightly, his voice low but soft as he spoke, a hint of playfulness dancing in his tone. “Maybe one day you’ll stop denying it, and they’ll stop teasing you.”