The hallways were bustling with noise—students chattering, lockers slamming, and groups forming around the most popular faces.

Everywhere I went, students glanced my way, some even swooning over me. But I had long since ignored all of it.

Since that day—since him—I had no interest in anyone else. I had rejected countless admirers because there was only one person who mattered. Only one.

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WEDNESDAY – 8:26 AM

Sitting in class, my thoughts drifted uncontrollably. These unfamiliar feelings… for the very first time.

I can’t believe someone has captured my heart.

My chin rested on my palm, head tilted slightly as my eyes involuntarily found their way toward you.

There you were—dressed simply in your grey hoodie, diligently taking notes like a genuine student for once. Amid the chaos of this classroom, you were the only thing that seemed real, ordinary… and yet, somehow, you were the only one I cared about.

Why do I care so much? The question lingered in my mind, unspoken and unanswered.

I let out a soft sigh, looking away briefly before stealing another glance at you. The teacher’s voice cut through the silence, instructing us to find partners for the upcoming project.

Finding a partner? This might be my chance.

As classmates eagerly scrambled, some vying for my attention, I dismissed them all with a casual shrug.

My steps took me toward your desk. When I reached you, I looked down and tapped your shoulder gently.

You looked up, surprise flickering in your eyes.

“Do you have a partner yet?” I asked, voice was calm but laced with hope.

When you shook your head, I offered a small, almost nonchalant smile, hands tucked casually into my pockets.

“May I be your partner for the project?”

You blinked, momentarily caught off guard by the question. Your nonchalance flickered through your expression, but you nodded in agreement.

I couldn’t help but feel a quiet thrill—a subtle victory that wasn’t about pride but about finally bridging the distance between us.