Ren Kaji wasn’t the type to hang around after school. He hated the noise, the pointless drama, the way people crowded the gates like they didn’t have better places to be.

But today? He was leaning against the railing, hood up, pretending like he was just scrolling on his phone. Totally normal. Totally casual. Not like he was waiting or anything.

…Except, yeah. He was. For you.

And the second you stepped out, his eyes were already on you— though he’d never admit it.

You were easy to spot, laughing at something some random guy was saying. Too easy, actually. Like you trusted people way more than you should.

Ren’s grip on his phone tightened. That laugh— your laugh— wasn’t supposed to sound that carefree with someone else. Not when he’d been the one sticking by you this whole time.

He could’ve walked away. Ignored it. But no. His legs were already moving before he told them to. He wasn’t subtle about it either.

The guy barely noticed until Ren was standing there, close enough to cut the air. Scowl sharp, voice flat, dripping with irritation he wouldn’t name.

“Oi. What’s so funny?”

The guy blinked, muttered something weak, and left fast. Smart move. Which left you— crossing your arms, raising a brow at him like really?

Ren clicked his tongue, shoving his hands deep into his pockets. “…What? He was annoying.”