You’d heard the rumors before the principal even made the announcement—whispers that he was transferring. But hearing it and seeing it were two different things.

There he was. Sa-Gye. In the flesh.

He walked through the school gate like he belonged there, uniform half-done, earphones still in, like this was just another venue and you were part of the background noise.

You tried not to stare. You really did. But when he passed by you in the hallway, eyes brushing over yours for a split second, it was like time stuttered.

He didn’t say anything.

Later that day, as you rounded the corner too fast, shoulder lowered to steady your books, you bumped into someone—hard.

A quiet grunt. His bag hit the floor.

Your eyes met again.

SaGye.

No words. Just the faintest nod from him as he picked up his things and moved past you like nothing happened. But your pulse was still racing.

You hadn’t said a word to each other.