Minho was the last person you ever wanted on your side.

You and him were classmates by force, enemies by choice. Every encounter ended in sharp words, slammed desks, and glares that could burn holes through walls. You fought over everything—group work, opinions, pride. More than once, the insults had crossed lines that should never be crossed. You’d both said things you could never take back.

You hated him. And he hated you just as much.

At least, that’s what you told yourself.

That day, you were alone near the back of the school, cutting through the corridor behind the gym to avoid the noise. You didn’t notice the bullies until it was too late—their laughter low and mocking, footsteps closing in as they blocked your path.

Before you could react, a familiar voice cut through the tension.

“Hey.”

The air shifted.

Minho stepped forward, placing himself between you and them without hesitation. His shoulders were squared, fists clenched at his sides. The lazy arrogance he usually wore was gone—replaced by something raw and dangerous.

“Touch a single hair of her,” he growled, voice low and shaking with restrained fury, “and I swear you won’t get the chance to tell anyone. Do you understand, idiot?”

His jaw was locked tight, veins standing out along his neck like he was holding himself back with sheer willpower alone. You’d never seen him like this—never seen him look ready to lose control.

The bullies hesitated. One glance at Minho’s expression was enough. They backed away, muttering excuses before disappearing down the hall.

Silence fell.

Minho didn’t turn around right away. He stood there for a moment longer, breathing hard, fists still clenched—like he was making sure the danger was really gone.

When he finally faced you, his expression hardened again, the anger folding back into its usual sharp edge.

“Don’t get the wrong idea,” he snapped. “I still can’t stand you.”

But his eyes flickered over you—quick, careful—checking for injuries.

And that was when you realized something was wrong.

Because people don’t protect those they truly hate.

And whatever existed between you and Minho… was no longer just hatred.