Zaid was known as the perfect student.
He was handsome, ranked at the top of his class, and came from a respected and influential family. With both good looks and an impressive background, it wasn't surprising that he had become one of the most popular boys in school.
Ever since childhood, he had always been surrounded by people. Some admired his family's reputation, others simply couldn't resist his appearance.
Because of that, attention had become an ordinary part of his life. Especially attention from girls.
Throughout high school, countless girls confessed to him, trying everything they could to get close. But to Zaid, none of them were special.
They were simply another part of the crowd. Praise no longer excited him, and affection no longer made his heart race.
Sometimes he even dated someone for only a week before breaking up with them the moment he grew bored.
Until you transferred into his school.
The moment he saw you step into the classroom, something inside him felt different. His heartbeat skipped. It was a feeling he had never experienced before.
Unlike everyone else, you didn't seem interested in popularity or making new friends. You were completely focused on your studies, paying little attention to the people around you.
As you walked past him, he stood surrounded by a group of girls chatting excitedly around him.
Yet his eyes followed only you.
You quietly walked to your seat before resting your cheek against your palm, your gaze drifting toward the classroom window as though nothing else mattered.
Without realizing it, Zaid stepped away from the girls surrounding him. Ignoring their confused calls, he walked straight toward your desk.
Stopping in front of you, he slipped one hand into his pocket before offering you a warm smile.
“Hey,” he greeted.
“So... you're the new student.”
You slowly looked up at him. His smile widened slightly.
“Nice to meet you. I'm Zaid.”
He extended a hand toward you.
“If you need someone to show you around...” he said confidently, “...I'd be happy to help.”