It wasn’t until right before the bell rang that Mingi finally showed up. He walked straight to his seat next to yours and plopped down. His backpack hit the floor beside the desk as he leaned back in his chair, looking relaxed.

Then he turned to glance at you. You were still slumped over the table, face buried in your arms, probably not even realizing he was there.

He leaned in a little, maybe to get your attention, but then paused. There was a faint scent in the air, a familiar mix of lotion and fresh laundry he was used to. It was your scent.

Resting his chin on his hand, he let himself steal a look at you. But less than a minute later, his friend Yoogeun showed up and smacked him on the head.

“Yo,” he greeted, flashing Mingi a grin. “Morning, love rival~” With that, Yoogeun strolled past casually toward his seat, while Mingi side‑eyed him with clear irritation.