Archive of Our Own ^beta

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Hi!👋

Here is a brief introduction to the story "Out Of Control"

We originally wrote this story 10 years ago in our native language, and have now rewritten it in English, using the names of some of our favorite younger groups.

Our English isn't perfect, so if some parts sound a little weird, please bear with us.

Some info about our writing style:

We kinda wrote this story like a screenplay, but not too technical—so everyone can relate to it.

The time and place are written as short headings at the start of each scene, showing:

      • (Exterior or Interior) to tell if the scene is indoors or outdoors (like whether there's a roof or not).

      • (Place name, like School) where the action happens.

      • (Time, like Morning) to show when it's happening.

The feelings and actions in parentheses next to a character's name before their dialogue show what they're doing or feeling while saying their lines. Sometimes, their actions are also written in parentheses right in the middle of their dialogue.

For a character's thoughts, we use the 💭 emoji.

For moments when a character recalls a dialogue, we used the 💬 emoji.

For text messages, we use the 📱 emoji.

And to help bring the story to life, we drew two pictures for every chapter.

Important Notice Regarding Names Usage

Just so you know, this story is totally fictional and uses the names of Stray Kids, KickFlip and Xdinary Heroes members only as character names.

🛑There's no connection between the characters here and the real people in the group — all these characters are made up by the author.

🎬Think of them like actors playing parts in a drama — their personalities and stories don't match the actual members at all.

⚠️Also, in this story, three members — Han, Felix and Junhan — are portrayed as female characters, not due to any specific intention but simply because the author didn't have better alternatives for female characters. We slightly changed their names to give a more feminine feel.

So, please keep this in mind and enjoy the story as a standalone, original fanfiction.

We post a new chapter every Friday.📅

Please stay tuned for the story!🙏

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❤️🎭Some traits of the main characters:

💙🎭Some traits of the side characters:

These characters pop in and out more or less throughout the story.

📌There are also a few characters who only appear in a couple of scenes, so you're free to picture their faces however you want.😉

Shinhye – female student

Yunji – female student

Suhwan – male student

Jisoo – male student

Jaewook – male student

Ruwon – male student

History teacher – female

School nurse – male

Chapter Text

Exterior - Galaxy School - Yard - Morning

It's the day before the new semester begins. Students enter the school grounds in casual clothes, suitcases in hand. Laughter and chatter fill the air as they reunite with friends, exchanging greetings and playful jokes.

MINJE steps into the yard, his eyes scanning his surroundings carefully. Behind him, KEIJU enters. The moment Keiju spots Minje, his face lights up with excitement, and he instinctively grabs Minje's hand.

Keiju: "Long time no see!"

Minje turns toward him, startled. As soon as Keiju gets a proper look at his face, he quickly steps back.

Keiju (awkwardly): "Sorry, I mistook you for someone else."

Minje (smiling): "It happens."

Keiju scratches the back of his neck.

Keiju (muttering): "How embarrassing."

Minje: "Do you know where the dorm building is?"

Keiju: "Are you new here?"

Minje: "Yeah."

As they speak, KYEHOON passes by and overhears their conversation.

Kyehoon (gesturing to the left): "That way. Just follow that path straight ahead, and you'll reach the dorm."

Minje nods in thanks and continues on his way. Meanwhile, Keiju glances around, as if searching for something... or someone.

Kyehoon: "Looking for someone?"

Keiju (quickly): "No."

Kyehoon: "Did you have a good summer?"

Keiju (shrugging): "It was... so-so."

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Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Hallway - Morning

LINO walks down the hallway with his arm draped around CHANGBIN's neck.

Lino (worried): "Do you think we'll still have as much fun as last semester? now that we have new roommates."

Changbin (grinning): "Last semester was great. No one was around to bother us—we had the place all to ourselves."

Further down the hall, Keiju and Kyehoon are walking toward their rooms. Keiju overhears their conversation, his eyes following them as they pass. He stops in front of Room 14.

Kyehoon: "Wait... you were roommates with my brother?"

Keiju (blinking in surprise): "I didn't know. Who's your brother?"

Kyehoon: "Jungsu."

Keiju (nodding): "Oh, he's really quiet. Never bothers anyone."

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Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Morning

The room has four beds, each with its own study desk and a closet underneath it.

Lino and Changbin step inside.

Changbin (grinning mischievously): "So, what's the plan for tonight?"

Lino (unpacking his suitcase): "We just need to grab the stuff from Hyunjin, that's it... (looks around) Where are our roommates? Why isn't anyone here yet?"

Changbin hops off the bed and heads to the closet. As soon as he opens it, he freezes.

Inside, there's already a suitcase.

Changbin (Shocked): "I think they got here before us!"

Suddenly, the bathroom door swings open, and GAON walks out.

Lino (turning to him): "Hey, can you take your suitcase out of that closet?"

Gaon (pushing up his glasses, confused): "Huh? What?"

Changbin (crossing his arms): "This bed is mine; you can't sleep on it even in your dreams."

Gaon blinks, clearly unsure how to respond. He drags a suitcase out of the bathroom.

Gaon (stammering): "Th-This is m-my suitcase, th-that one isn't mine."

Lino (smirking): "Do you have a habit of taking your suitcase into the bathroom?"

Changbin (mocking): "Does it help you pee or something? Let us know, we might give it a try."

Lino bursts out laughing.

Gaon: "I was just unpacking my toothbrush and toiletries."

Lino exhales, shaking his head like he's disappointed. Then he lightly taps Changbin's arm.

Lino (calmly): "Let him be."

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Interior- Girls' Dormitory - Supervisor's Office - Morning

LIX stands in front of the PE TEACHER, who hands her a key.

PE Teacher: "Are you sure you want to stay in the attic again? It's not well-equipped, and it's not very secure."

Lix: "I don't want to share a room with others."

PE Teacher (sighing): "Alright. But if you ever want to change rooms, just let me know."

Lix (nodding): "Sure, Ms."

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Interior - Girls' Dormitory - Attic Room - Morning

The attic room is relatively larger than the others, but the low ceiling makes it feel cramped. There are two beds, a closet, and a study desk.

Lix sits on one of the beds, her phone suddenly starts ringing.

Lix (answering the call, frustrated): "I already told you—I don't want to act in a movie right now. I need to focus on my studies."

She ends the call with an exasperated sigh.

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Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Basement Stairs - Evening

HYUNJIN hands a box to Changbin and Lino. As Lino takes it, Hyunjin grabs his arm.

Hyunjin (lowering his voice): "Hey, be careful. If you get caught, that's on you. It has nothing to do with me."

Lino (rolling his eyes): "And how many times have we actually gotten caught for you to say that?"

Changbin (grinning, playfully punching Hyunjin's chest): "Do we look like the kind of guys who'd snitch on you?"

Hyunjin (releasing Lino's arm, smirking): "I know you guys are good at this... but still, just be careful."

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Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Afternoon

Changbin and Lino step into the room. Suddenly, Changbin notices someone lying on the bed—the one Changbin wants. He quickly climbs up and yanks the blanket away. His jaw drops when he sees Minje.

For a moment, they just stare at each other in surprise.

Changbin (a bit envious): "Are you even human! Why are you so damn handsome?!"

Minje (blinking in confusion): "What are you doing?"

Lino (smacking Changbin on the back): "Did you forget the bed as soon as you saw his face?"

Changbin (to Minje): "Come on! Get out of my bed."

Minje: "But when I got here, the room was empty."

Changbin (in a bossy tone): "That doesn't matter! I take what I want."

Minje (shrugging): "Do whatever you want. I'll take another bed—it doesn't really matter to me."

Minje moves to an empty bed. Changbin and Lino exchange grins before high-fiving each other.

Lino (to Minje and Gaon): "Hey, guys, up for some fun?"

Gaon: "I have to study."

Minje looks at him, surprised.

Lino (to Minje, smirking): "Don't worry, you're not late to school. This guy is already studying for next week's lessons."

Suddenly, Minje laughs out loud. Lino and Changbin burst into laughter too.

Minje (curious): "What are you planning?"

Lino pulls a bottle of soju from the box. Minje raises an eyebrow.

Gaon (pointing at the bottle): "What is this? What are you planning to do with it?"

As Gaon steps toward the door, Changbin and Lino quickly block his way.

Lino: "You can't leave this room until tomorrow morning."

Gaon's face pales. Without another word, he hesitantly sits back on his bed. Meanwhile, Changbin and Lino lounge by the snacks and start drinking.

A while later, the sound of the door opening makes them turn their heads. They spot Gaon trying to sneak out. They rush over and grab him.

Gaon (struggling): "Let me go! This is a school! You shouldn't be doing this here—I should report you to the teacher!"

Changbin (mocking): "Wow... someone's a rule-follower."

Changbin locks the door.

Lino (to Gaon): "Hand over your key."

Gaon gives him the key but sneaks his phone out of his pocket.

Changbin (sighs): "If you want to keep your phone, don't even think about doing anything stupid."

Gaon stays quiet.

Lino: "Look, we're not here to mess with you. You're the one making this difficult."

Changbin (points to the floor): "Put your phone down right here. Nobody's gonna touch it — not you, not us."

Gaon, clearly a bit nervous, carefully puts his phone on the ground.

Lino: "Good. Now you do your thing and we'll do ours, alright?"

Gaon nods in agreement.

Minje watches the scene quietly.

Lino (to Minje): "You're not planning to snitch on us, are you?"

Minje (grinning, winking): "Hey, student business is student business. Teachers don't need to know, right?"

Changbin (smirking): "We got lucky with this one."

Changbin and Lino continue drinking while playing *Chk Chk Boom* on the speaker. Minje hops off his bed and sits beside them.

Minje: "I'm a transfer student, so I don't know the teachers. Who's the strictest?"

Changbin: "The chemistry teacher. No one has been able to cheat in her class."

Lino (sighing): "Even Changbin and I have never dared to cheat."

Just as Minje is about to say something, Changbin cuts him off.

Changbin: "She's very young and pretty, her name is Junha."

Minje's face darkens slightly.

Lino (offering him a shot of soju): "Don't be sad. Here, drink this."

Minje (shaking his head): "I promised my older brother that my first drink would be with him."

Changbin (nudging Lino): "Last year, I begged for us to drink, but you refused. Did you forget he's only sixteen?!"

Lino: "Come on, you just wanted to drink so you could do something stupid. Look at him—he literally screams 'I suck at chemistry.' Honestly, I feel bad for him."

Minje bursts into laughter.

Changbin snatches the glass from Lino.

Changbin: "See? He's fine!"

He chugs the drink.

Lino (grabbing the glass back): "Hey, don't drink much. We have class tomorrow."

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Interior - School - Hallway - Morning

Lino and Changbin walk out of the teacher's office, looking disappointed. Lino grits his teeth in frustration.

Lino: "Damn it... Why didn't they accept our request? Do we really have to be in separate classes again this semester?!"

Changbin (sighing): "Don't worry, there's always a way."

Lino: "How?"

Changbin (grinning): "You could switch class with one of my classmates. I know someone in my class who's in love with a girl from yours."

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Interior - School - Classroom [1-2] - Morning

Kyehoon enters the classroom, scanning the room for an empty seat. Spotting one, he sits down next to Minje and smiles warmly.

A few rows back, near the window, Keiju stands up and walks over to them.

Keiju (with a bright smile): "Hey, good morning! Happy to see you again."

Minje (giving a sweet smile): "Me too."

Keiju (blinking in surprise): "Huh?!"

Kyehoon chuckles and casually drapes an arm around Minje's shoulder.

Kyehoon: "I think Keiju was talking to me."

Minje (giving a shy smile): "Oh, I see!"

Kyehoon: "I had a feeling we'd end up as friends from the moment I saw you in the yard."

Keiju (glancing at both of them warmly): "Hope we have a great time together and the lessons won't be hard."

He extends his fist toward them. Minje happily bumps his fist with him.

Kyehoon (placing his fist near theirs): "The years ahead will be tougher, so let's rock this semester!"

Then he bumps their fists hard.

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Interior - School - Hallway - Morning

Lino runs down the hallway excitedly. Up ahead, a group of boys walk slowly, arms slung around each other's shoulders, chatting. Lino tries to pass by but can't find a way through.

Two of the boys whisper to each other, then point at HANNIE, who is leaning against the wall, looking at her phone.

As they pass by her, one of them suddenly reaches out and touches her butt.

At that exact moment, Lino quickly shoves the boy aside and speeds past Hannie.

Startled, Hannie glances up just in time to see Lino running away. Assuming it was him who touched her, she immediately takes off after him.

In a quieter hallway, Hannie catches up, grabs Lino from behind, and slams his face against the wall.

Lino (shocked): "Hey! What are you doing?!"

Without answering, Hannie rummages through his pockets and snatches his phone. Lino tries to turn around, but she blocks him, shoves open a storage room door, and forcefully pushes him inside.

Before he can react, she slams the door shut, locks it, and wedges the mop handle against it to keep him from escaping.

Lino (banging on the door): "Open up! What the hell are you doing?!"

Hannie places Lino's phone on the floor behind the door.

Hannie: "It's your punishment, so you won't do anything dirty again (muttering) I think you're still drunk from last night."

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Interior - School - Storage room - Morning

Lino covers his mouth in shock, sniffing his breath.

Lino (muttering to himself): "It doesn't even smell! How does she know I drank last night? (pauses, thinking) Ugh, damn it, Gaon ratted us out. Maybe she's a teacher's spy... She didn't even let me see her face."

He taps his forehead in frustration.

Lino: "Ah, what do I do now?"

༻ ❁ ✿ ❀༺

To be continued

༻ ❁ ✿ ❀༺

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

🎬What you will read in the next chapter:

🤫Lino: "Relax. Let Changbin do his job. If you scream again. I might have to shush you myself."

😊Shinhye: "I like you. What do you think about going on a date with me?"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

♡ THANKS FOR READING ♡

✩ HOPE YOU ENJOY IT ✩

Chapter Text

Interior - Classroom [2-4] - Morning

As the classroom door swings open, Changbin instinctively looks up. Hannie walks in alongside the teacher.

Changbin, visibly disappointed, sighs and rests his head on the desk, thinking.

💭 Ah... he probably couldn't convince the teacher. 💭

Teacher: "This semester, we have a new student joining your class. (turns to Hannie) Introduce yourself."

As Hannie begins speaking, Changbin discreetly pulls out his phone and texts Lino.

📱 Where are you? What happened? Did you manage to switch classes? 📱

Minutes pass with no response. Changbin frowns, thinking.

💭 What is this guy doing? 💭

Restlessly, he keeps checking his phone.

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Interior - School - Hallway - Morning

In a quiet hallway, JUNGSU sits on the floor, his head resting against the wall, fast asleep.

Suddenly, a phone rings, piercing through the silence.

Jungsu (groaning): "Ugh, whose damn phone is that?"

He blinks awake, looks around, and spots a phone buzzing near the storage room door. He picks it up.

Lino (muffled, from inside the storage room): "Hello?! Is someone out there?! I'm locked in!"

Jungsu blinks, surprised. He glances at the door, then notices a mop wedged between the handle and the frame. He pulls it away and opens the door.

Lino steps out quickly. Jungsu hands him the phone without saying a word and starts to walk off.

Lino (tapping his shoulder): "Hey... thanks, man."

Jungsu simply nods and continues down the hallway.

Lino, already dialing, puts the phone to his ear.

Changbin (furious, over the phone): "Where the hell have you been?! Why didn't you answer? And why didn't you come to class?!"

Lino (sighs): "One thing at a time, man. We need to talk—in person."

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Exterior - School - Backyard - Morning

Lino leans against the wall, arms crossed. Changbin stands facing him, staring in disbelief.

Changbin: "What?!! Gaon really ratted us out?!"

Lino: "I'm not sure... We need to find that girl."

Changbin lightly taps Lino's forehead with his finger.

Changbin: "You idiot. You said you didn't see her. At least give me a clue..."

He suddenly steps closer and sniffs Lino's clothes before pausing to think.

Changbin: "If she was that close, you should've noticed something—her perfume, her height, the color and style of her hair."

Lino closes his eyes, concentrating, trying to recall the details.

Lino: "Her height (he eyes Changbin from head to toe) she was about your height. Maybe a little taller (pauses, recalling) I'm sure she had a mole on her cheek."

Changbin (raising an eyebrow): "Are you messing with me? Did you see her or not?"

Lino: "When she was closing the door, I caught a quick glimpse of her cheek through the door crack. If I'm not mistaken, she had fair skin. That's all I know."

Changbin (with a confident smirk): "No need to worry. Leave it to me."

Lino: "So, I'm keeping an eye on Gaon."

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Interior - School - Classroom [1-2] - Noon

Keiju rests his head on his desk, half-asleep.

At the desk in front of him, SHINHYE and her friend start chatting loudly—just enough for him to overhear.

Shinhye's Friend: "I have some discount coupons for the amusement park. Wanna go this afternoon?"

Shinhye: "Just the two of us? That sounds boring. I wish we had more people to join us."

Shinhye's Friend: "Yeah, but who would we even invite?"

Keiju lifts his head, flashing a mischievous grin. He casually leans forward.

Keiju: "Do you want us to come with you?!"

Shinhye smiles.

Shinhye's Friend (raising an eyebrow): "You? Are you bringing anyone?"

Keiju points at Minje and Kyehoon.

Keiju: "They're cool guys, even though I haven't hung out with them yet."

He grins widely.

Shinhye (nudging her friend, whispering): "We could make some new friends."

Kyehoon, noticing the glance in their direction, raises an eyebrow at Keiju.

Kyehoon (mouthing): "What's going on?!"

Keiju winks at him with a smile.

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Exterior - School - Yard - Noon

Changbin sits alone on a basketball in the quiet corner of the yard, his elbows resting on his knees, chin in his hands. His eyes scan the passing crowd of girls with subtle glances, trying not to make it obvious—but there's a hint of urgency in his gaze.

Another group of girls walks past, giggling. He leans forward slightly, eyes narrowing—then sighs, disappointed.

Frustrated, Changbin exhales sharply and runs a hand through his hair.

Changbin (muttering): "How the hell am I supposed to find her with just that...?"

He stands abruptly and kicks the basketball in front of him. It bounces away, hitting a wall and rolling off into the shade. He doesn't bother chasing it. Instead, he shoves his hands into his pockets and starts pacing, eyes still scanning—still hoping.

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Interior - School - Basement - Noon

A dimly lit, dusty room with a few broken chairs and tables piled in the corner. Lino sits on one of the chairs, talking on his phone.

Changbin (over the phone, frustrated): "What kind of stupid clue is that?! Everyone has moles on their face... Even you have one on your nose!"

Lino (laughing): "If you can't find her, then who will?"

Changbin (grinning): "I like that you know me so well. If there's something you want, I'll find it—no matter what. It wasn't easy, but I finally found her."

Lino: "Good job, my favorite Binnie. I'm waiting."

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Interior - School - Classroom [1-2] - Noon

Lix sits alone in the classroom, absorbed in her studies.

Suddenly, Changbin enters and stops in front of her.

Changbin: "Hey, PE Teacher needs you. She asked me to take you to her."

Lix (raising an eyebrow): "She told you personally?"

Changbin nods.

Though surprised, Lix sighs and follows him.

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Exterior - School - Yard - Noon

They reach a secluded corner behind the gym, where the noise of the school fades into distant murmurs. The sun casts sharp shadows across the pavement.

Changbin suddenly halts in his tracks.

Lix (frowning, glancing around): "So... where's Coach?"

Changbin (turning to her with a smirk, his voice low and cold): "You really thought you were smart, huh? Did you think we wouldn't recognize you?"

Lix freezes. For a moment, she tries to play it cool, but the tightness in her jaw betrays her.

Lix (exhales, eyes narrowing): "So... you figured it out."

Changbin (steps closer, sneering): "Of course I did. Who did you think you were dealing with?"

Before Lix can say another word, Changbin quickly leans in—covering her mouth with his hand to hush her. She lets out a muffled gasp, eyes going wide. He steering her toward the basement. She resists a little at first, but he keeps tugging her along, despite her resistance.

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Interior - School - Basement - Noon

Changbin leads Lix into the dimly lit basement and keeps a firm hold on her arm. The air down there feels heavy and still.

Lino (smirking): "You got her that easily? Honestly, the way I saw her, I thought you'd have to knock her out and carry her down here."

Changbin grins, but there's fear in Lix's eyes. As soon as he lets go of her mouth, she stumbles back.

Lix (voice trembling): "W-what do you want from me?"

Lino (calmly): "Search her. Make sure she's not wired—no mics, no hidden cams."

Changbin steps forward, starting to pat her down. Lix flinches, clearly uncomfortable, and pushes his hands away as she backs up.

Lix (yelling): "Don't—Let me go. STOP!"

Lino immediately steps in, pushing Changbin aside.

Lino (sternly): "She said stop! Can't you hear her?"

Changbin shrugs with a playful pout. Lix backs up further until she hits the wall. Lino steps in close, one hand braced against the wall beside her head.

Lino (lowering his voice): "Relax. Let Changbin do his job. If you scream again (he places a finger lightly over her lips) I might have to shush you myself."

Just as Lino starts to pull back, he suddenly freezes. His eyes narrow, locking onto her face. Something clicks.

He grabs her chin gently and angles her face toward the light.

Lix squeezes her eyes shut, pressing her lips together tightly.

Lino's brow furrows. He turns and pulls Changbin aside.

Lino (quietly): "I think we made a mistake."

They try to keep their voices down so Lix doesn't catch on.

Changbin (frowning): "What are you talking about?"

Lino: "The mole—it was on the left cheek. Hers is on the right."

Changbin (glaring): "Why didn't you say that earlier?!"

Lino (defensive): "I just realized it now!"

Changbin (frustrated): "Great. Just great. What are we supposed to do with her now?!"

Suddenly, Lino bursts out laughing.

Lix watches them anxiously, thinking.

💭 They're actually insane. 💭

Lino claps his hands, still laughing, and walks over to her with a big, exaggerated smile.

Lino: "SURPRISE! You got really scared, huh? It was all just a prank!"

Lix stares at him, dumbfounded.

Lino (cheerfully): "Now you've got a memorable first-day experience for this semester."

Lix (rubbing her temples): "Do you do this to everyone?!"

Changbin (deadpan): "No."

Lix (glaring): "Then why me?! Wait... so you do know who I am?"

Changbin (flashing a fake innocent smile): "Of course. How could we not?"

Lix groans in frustration.

Lix (muttering): "I really didn't want anyone at this school to know I'm an actress..."

Lino (elbows Changbin, whispering): "An actress? Do you know her? Wait—has she been in the pornos we watched?!"

Changbin rolls his eyes and smacks Lino's chest.

Changbin (wrapping an arm around Lix's shoulders): "Maybe others didn't recognize you, but don't worry—we won't tell anyone."

Lix looks at them both suspiciously.

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Interior - School - Classroom [2-4] - Noon

Hannie enters the classroom and heads to her desk.

At the same time, Lino's passing by and accidentally bumps her shoulder. He turns around to apologize, but before he can—

Hannie (glaring at him): "Psycho!"

Lino stares at her, shocked, then slumps into his seat beside Changbin.

Lino (confused): "What's with that girl?!"

Changbin: "Which girl?"

Lino: "The one by the window, first desk."

Changbin subtly glances over at Hannie, then leans toward Lino, tapping his arm lightly.

Changbin (whispering): "It's her... the spy."

Lino quickly looks toward Hannie.

Before he can react, Changbin wraps his hands around Lino's face, forcing him to look directly at him.

Changbin (serious): "Don't blow it. We need to catch her."

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Exterior - Amusement Park - Afternoon

Minje, Keiju, Shinhye, and her friend stand in line for the roller coaster. Kyehoon approaches them, handing out ice cream to everyone.

Kyehoon: "Hurry up and eat—it's almost our turn!"

Shinhye (grinning): "The first one to finish gets to choose who they sit with on the ride."

Right away, everyone starts eating quickly. Shinhye, keeping an eye on the others, notices that Minje is devouring his ice cream in just a few big bites.

With a mischievous smirk, she bumps into him on purpose, making his ice cream drop to the ground.

Everyone reacts in unison.

All: "Oh... what happened?!"

Shinhye (laughing): "Ha! You lost."

Minje stares at his fallen ice cream, clearly disappointed. Meanwhile, Shinhye quickly finishes hers.

Shinhye (cheering): "Hooray, I won!"

Kyehoon (a little annoyed): "Alright, then—who do you want to sit with?"

Shinhye scans the group before pointing at Keiju.

Keiju grins and offers a fist bump, which Shinhye happily returns.

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Exterior - Amusement Park - Roller Coaster - Afternoon

Keiju and Shinhye take the front row, while Kyehoon and Shinhye's friend sit together in the second. Minje ends up alone in the third row.

Kyehoon (turning to Minje): "Are you alright?"

Minje (smiling): "Don't worry, I'm not scared."

Shinhye (to Keiju, nervously): "I'm really scared... Can I hold your hand?"

Keiju nods and reaches out, letting Shinhye take his hand.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Classroom [2-4] - Afternoon

Class has ended, and students are filing out. Lino sits next to Hannie.

Lino: "You seem pretty close to Gaon."

Hannie clenches her jaw, thinking.

💭 Ugh... What's he saying now? I didn't want to start a fight on the first day, but it looks like he won't let me avoid it. 💭

She exhales sharply before responding, her tone calm.

Hannie: "Gaon? Who's that? I don't know him."

Lino (resting his head on his hand): "Alright... but you know me, don't you?"

Hannie meets his gaze, her expression sharp.

Hannie: "At least I know you're a psycho."

Lino takes a slow breath.

Lino: "Fine, I'm a psycho. But tell me, Ms. Psychiatrist... is locking people in storage rooms your idea of therapy?"

Hannie: "Don't you dare get close to me. You're such a jerk!"

Lino: "You're wrong about me. What makes you think I'm a jerk?"

Hannie crosses her arms.

Hannie: "Cut the act. I could report you for sexual harassment right now—I have proof."

Lino leans back slightly, his eyebrows raising in shock.

Lino: "Me? Sexual harassment??"

He lifts a hand as if to tap Hannie's shoulder but hesitates.

Lino: "Eh... you're kidding."

Hannie: "All we need to do is check the control room."

------------------------------

Exterior - Amusement Park - Afternoon

After the roller coaster ride, Minje takes a sip from his water bottle.

Kyehoon (tapping Minje's back): "Hey, can you still talk?"

Minje (coughing): "Why?"

Kyehoon: "Because all I heard up there was you screaming, and I'm honestly shocked you still have a voice! I thought you'd lost it."

Minje laughs.

Keiju (throwing his arms around their shoulders): "It's getting dark—let's play one more game. (grins mischievously) How about the haunted house?"

Kyehoon (wide-eyed): "If we do that, I swear I'll go deaf for real."

Minje: "I'm not afraid of the dark, don't worry."

Kyehoon: "Oh, really? You said the same thing before getting on the roller coaster."

Shinhye's Friend: "Oh, come on! The fun is in the fear! (grabs their hands and starts dragging them) Let's go already!"

------------------------------

Interior - School - Control Room - Evening

The security officer sits in front of a row of monitors, watching the CCTV footage.

Suddenly, the courtyard cameras start getting dirty one after another.

Frowning, he jumps up and shouts.

Security Officer: "Damn it! Who's messing with the cameras?! If I catch you, you're dead!"

He storms out of the room.

Moments later, Lino and Hannie slip inside.

Hannie quickly rewinds the footage to the moment in the hallway when a boy touched her. Both of them lean in, watching carefully.

Hannie: "See?! It's right there on camera."

Lino zooms in and slows down the footage.

Lino: "Are you sure it was me who touched you?"

Hannie squints at the screen. Upon closer inspection, she realizes the hand actually belongs to the boy standing in front of Lino.

Though embarrassment washes over her, she keeps her expression neutral.

Hannie (crossing her arms): "Well... it's your fault for running. You made me think wrongly."

Lino: "You just needed to look into my eyes. Do you really think I'd do something like that... with these kind eyes of mine?"

Hannie stares at Lino's eyes, she smiles slightly, but before she can say anything, a message from Changbin pops up on Lino's phone.

📱 Hurry up, get out of there! He's coming back! 📱

------------------------------

Interior - Amusement Park - Haunted House - Evening

Holding a flashlight, Kyehoon leads the way, the others trailing behind.

Shinhye's Friend: "Let's not go that way. It looks... suspicious."

Kyehoon: "If we listen to you, we'll get lost. Trust me, I know what I'm doing."

Just as he finishes speaking, a hand suddenly shoots out from under the bed and grabs Minje's leg.

Minje lets out a loud scream.

Kyehoon (panicking, shouting): "EVERYONE RUN! FOLLOW ME!"

Shinhye and her friend scream and bolt after Kyehoon, leaving the room.

Minje (struggling): "Damn it! It still hasn't let go of my leg!"

He bends down to pull his foot out of the grip when he suddenly realizes someone is standing next to him, holding his hand. He screams, quickly lets go of the hand, and struggles to see who it is in the dark.

Minje (gasping): "Who are you?!"

Keiju (laughing): "It's me! Whoa, did you just pee your pants?!"

Minje (stunned): "Why are you still here?!"

Keiju: "You didn't let go of my hand... Seems like when you're scared, you don't even realize what you're doing."

Minje yanks Keiju's hand as he steps forward.

Minje: "Ugh... we're falling behind. Let's go."

Keiju (resisting): "Wait—don't pull, don't pull!"

Minje (turning back, confused): "What's wrong?"

Keiju (whispering nervously): "Something's grabbing my t-shirt... from behind."

Minje (freezing): "A-again?! Mr. zombie? Ms. ghost? Whoever you are—please let us go! We need to catch up with our group!"

Keiju (tugging at his shirt): "It's NOT a person!"

Minje (stammering): "W...what is it?!"

Keiju (trying not to laugh): "It's stuck in the closet! No matter what I do, it won't come off!"

Minje pulls out his phone and turns on the flashlight.

Minje (groaning): "Ugh... that wasn't funny at all!"

He steps behind Keiju to help, but at the last second, he shines the light under his own face and makes a creepy noise.

Keiju lets out a high-pitched scream, jumps—and with a loud 'RIP!', his shirt tears free from the closet.

Keiju (punching Minje's arm): "Damn it, you scared me, you idiot!"

Minje (laughing): "Your shirt's ruined! Completely torn!"

Still chuckling, he takes off his jacket and gives it to Keiju.

Minje (grinning): "Here, wear this over it. (trying to suppress his laughter) We can't let our dignity be ruined!"

------------------------------

Exterior – School - yard - Evening

Lino and Hannie walk toward the dormitory when Changbin approaches them.

Lino (to Changbin): "Didn't he notice you messed with the cameras?"

Changbin: "No. Hannie's idea wasn't bad. It was kinda hard, but I pulled it off."

Lino (grinning, wrapping an arm around Changbin's neck): "Well done. That was a nice job."

Hannie walks a few steps ahead, but suddenly, Lino lightly taps her on the shoulder.

Lino: "By the way, why did you say I was drunk last night?"

Hannie: "Weren't you?"

Lino (crossing his arms): "No!"

Hannie (shrugging): "Then I must have been mistaken."

She turns to walk away, but Changbin suddenly steps in front of her, his tone sharper.

Changbin: "What do you mean, mistaken? Huh?!"

Hannie sniffs the air.

Hannie: "I'm guessing you drank more than him, 'cause I can still smell it on you."

Changbin (startled): "Damn... she's got a dog's nose."

Hannie smirks, gently pushes Changbin aside with a single finger, and continues walking.

Lino and Changbin stand there, watching her go.

------------------------------

Exterior - Amusement Park - Evening

Minje and Keiju step out of the haunted house.

Kyehoon (laughing): "We could hear Minje's screams from all the way out here."

Minje (chuckling): "Keiju was screaming too. Was my scream really that loud? You only heard me?"

Keiju: "Honestly? If it weren't for Minje, I don't think we would've had half as much fun."

Shinhye's Friend (grinning): "Hey, Keiju... what exactly were you doing in there? And why are you wearing Minje's jacket?"

Minje (laughing): "Don't even bring it up! Our dignity is in ruins! His shirt got completely torn!"

They all burst into laughter.

Kyehoon: "We should head back soon, or they'll lock the dorms."

He casually throws his hand over Minje's shoulder as they walk, joking and laughing about Keiju.

Keiju trails behind them, trying to catch up, but suddenly, Shinhye grabs his hand, stopping him.

She stands in front of him and takes a deep breath.

Shinhye (smiling gently): "I wanted to tell you something... you're so cute, I like you. What do you think about going on a date with me?"

Keiju bites his lip and looks down.

Keiju (hesitantly): "To be honest... I just ended a relationship. I don't think I can start something new so soon."

Disappointment flickers across Shinhye's face. She lowers her head and quietly follows the others.

Keiju sighs before continuing on his way.

༻ ❁ ✿ ❀༺ To be continued ༻❀ ✿ ❁ ༺

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

🎬What you will read in the next chapter:

😉Minje: "Then we'll ask Changbin and Lino for help... they can swipe our cards instead of us."

😎Changbin: "Lino loves shushing girls down, just in case you didn't know."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

♡ THANKS FOR READING ♡

✩ HOPE YOU ENJOY IT ✩

Chapter Text

Interior - Girls' Dormitory - Attic Room - Night

Wearing a white face mask for skincare, Hannie lies on her bed with her legs propped up against the wall and her head hanging upside down.

Just then, Lix walks in, and the moment she spots Hannie's ghostly white face and hanging hair, she lets out a scream.

Hannie quickly sits up.

Hannie: "What's wrong? Why are you scared?"

Lix (clutching her chest): "What the hell are you doing in my room?!"

Hannie: "I'm your roommate."

Lix (raising an eyebrow): "I wasn't supposed to have a roommate."

Hannie: "I know. PE Teacher told me you didn't want one, but I couldn't afford another room, so she said I could stay here... (smiling) Don't worry, I won't bother you."

Lix eyes her for a moment, then lies down on her bed.

Lix: "No problem."

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 14 - Night

Keiju enters the room. Finding it empty, he quietly sits in the corner of his bed, pulls his knees to his chest, and rests his head on them.

The silence surrounds him—until the sudden buzz of his phone breaks it.

He grabs it quickly, his heart pounding for a second, only to see it's a promotional text. Letting out a sigh, he scrolls through his messages and opens his chat with "My Best."

📱

Keiju: "I miss you so much... It's been ten months. Where are you?!" (One month ago - Read)

Keiju: "Why aren't you answering me?!" (One week ago - Unread)

Keiju: "I waited for you all last semester... I hope to see you this semester." (Five days ago - Unread)

Keiju: "Where are you?" (Today - Unread)

📱

A single tear slips down his cheek as he stares at the screen.

Without hesitation, he deletes the chat.

Keiju (murmuring): "I wish I could erase this experience from my life."

He opens his contacts and deletes "My Best" from his contacts. Then, shutting his eyes, he rests his head against his knees.

The room is silent again—until suddenly, Hyunjin throws off the blanket from the opposite bed and sits up.

Hyunjin: "Damn... what kind of shitty experience did you have?!"

Keiju (his head snaps up in surprise): "You were here?!"

Hyunjin (rolling his eyes): "What?! You wanted to cry your eyes out in peace? Wrong room, mama's boy. Go home."

Keiju (grits his teeth): "Sorry for waking you up."

He turns away, pulling the blanket over his head.

Hyunjin watches him for a moment, a look of mild disdain flickering across his face.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Classroom [2-4] - Afternoon

The classroom is buzzing with chatter as students talk amongst themselves. Suddenly, the History Teacher walks in, and the room immediately falls silent.

Without a word, the teacher strides to the window and throws it open.

History Teacher: "From now on, make sure this window is open before I come in. The air in here is suffocating."

The lesson begins, and the teacher starts lecturing about world history.

Meanwhile, Hannie, looking utterly bored, rests her head on her hand and closes her eyes.

The class continues, but a chorus of groans and sighs from the students makes Hannie blink awake.

Sitting next to her, YUNJI whispers, looking disgusted.

Yunji: "They used to tear people apart in front of him, and then he'd just sit there and eat like nothing happened! That's disgusting."

History Teacher: "And that's why he was known as Dracula. He had no mercy when it came to body parts... ears, noses, lips, even the—"

Before the teacher can finish, bloody dismembered body parts suddenly fly through the open window, landing right on her.

A wave of screams erupts in the classroom.

The History Teacher, pale and horrified, shrieks and bolts out of the room.

Changbin (standing up, cautiously peeking): "Ugh... that's disgusting."

From the back of the room, Hyunjin walks forward, casually stepping on the fake body parts.

Hyunjin (grinning): "They're all fake... I think STRAY WITCH is at it again."

A murmur spreads through the classroom as students begin whispering to one another.

Hannie (leaning toward Yunji): "What's STRAY WITCH?"

Yunji: "You don't know? Oh, right... you're new here. Strange things happen at this school."

Hannie (smirking): "Sounds like something out of a cliché horror movie."

She stands up and heads toward the back of the classroom. As she passes Lino, he suddenly grabs her hand.

Lino: "This reminds me of Z Nation, there's a finger in your hair."

Changbin (smirking): "That's not a finger."

Lino (reaching for Hannie's hair): "What are you talking about?"

Changbin (slapping Lino's hand away): "Ugh... don't touch, it's someone's... man part."

Hannie (wide-eyed): "Is he joking?!"

Lino hesitates for a moment before reluctantly smiling. Hannie pulls the body part from her hair and briefly examines it.

Hannie: "Your STRAY WITCH's work is pretty impressive."

She casually tosses it onto the floor.

Jungsu, who had been dozing at his desk, slowly wakes up.

Jungsu: "Yeah, impressive. At least this shitty class is finally over."

------------------------------

Interior - School - Cafeteria - Noon

Changbin and Lino sit at a table, eating lunch.

Suddenly, Changbin spots Minje scanning the cafeteria for an empty seat. He waves at him and motions for him to join.

Minje sits down with Keiju and Kyehoon, and they all introduce themselves.

Changbin: "So, are your friends like you, or are they... like Gaon?"

Minje (smiling): "No way, these guys are even cooler than me."

Lino: "Looks like we've got a bunch of cool guys here... except that one."

Keiju: "What's wrong with that one?"

Changbin: "Our roommate came to school just to study."

Kyehoon (laughing loudly): "Then what do you guys do at school?!"

Changbin: "We have fun."

Keiju raises his hand, and Changbin gives him a high-five.

Keiju: "If someone just buries their head in books, they haven't truly lived. Life's joy comes from experiencing different things."

As Hyunjin walks past with his tray of food, he snickers.

Hyunjin (mutters): "As long as you don't want to erase them."

Keiju looks up, startled.

Kyehoon: "What did he just say?"

Keiju (quickly shaking his head): "Nothing, he is my roommate. Just eat your food."

Lino studies Keiju for a moment.

Lino: "You're not Korean, are you?"

Changbin claps Lino on the shoulder, grinning.

Changbin: "You nailed it! It's obvious—he's from Japan."

Keiju (raise his eyebrows): "How did you know I'm from Japan?!"

Changbin (smirking): "Your cute accent... (winks) I pick up on things fast."

Kyehoon (to Minje): "You're lucky. You've got some cool roommates."

Lino: "If you ever need help with schoolwork, just let us know. We can help you."

Kyehoon (skeptical): "Wait... do you guys even study?"

Changbin: "Come on, what do you take us for?"

Lino: "Studying can be fun... sometimes."

At a nearby table behind Lino, Hannie suddenly taps his shoulder.

Hannie: "Really?! I thought you didn't even know how to read."

Changbin (frowning): "Ugh, I hate these new people who judge before knowing anything... This guy here (points to Lino) is actually one of the top students in the school."

From a few seats away, SUHWAN chimes in sarcastically.

Suhwan: "The best student? (smirks) He probably can't even cheat alone! You only changed your class because you were too scared to be in the same class as me, right?"

Hannie smirks. Lino, however, remains calm, simply looking at Suhwan.

Changbin (angrily): "He changed his class because of me! To fulfill our dream of being in the same class until we graduate."

As Keiju listens, his mind drifts back to a memory.

<<<<<<<<<<

Flashback to one year ago

Exterior - Middle school - Courtyard - Morning

The sky is pale with early light, and a soft breeze rustles the leaves above.

Keiju stands a few steps away from Ruwon, clutching the strap of his backpack tightly. His voice is low, almost uncertain.

Keiju (gently): "You're really leaving?"

Ruwon looks away, his expression unreadable for a long moment before he finally nods.

Ruwon: "I have to change schools."

A long silence follows.

Keiju (trying to keep his voice steady): "But... what about our dream?"

Ruwon lets out a faint laugh, but there's no real joy behind it.

Ruwon: "Dream?... Oh, you mean Galaxy School? (he glances at Keiju, then looks down) We'll go together... somehow."

Keiju's grip on his backpack tightens, but he doesn't say anything. He forces a smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes.

He nods at Keiju, almost like a goodbye, and turns to leave.

Keiju watches him walk away, the morning air suddenly feeling heavier.

>>>>>>>>>>

Back to present

Interior - School - Cafeteria - Noon

Keiju stares blankly at his food, lost in thought.

Minje (waving a hand in front of Keiju's face): "Hey, where are you?"

Keiju (blinking, snapping out of it): "I'm... eating lunch at school."

Minje (grinning): "Not enjoying the food?"

Keiju: "It's good."

Minje (raising an eyebrow): "Your face says otherwise."

Meanwhile, Hannie stands up from her seat, stretching.

Hannie: "Ugh... you guys talk way too much."

As she turns to leave, Changbin suddenly grabs her arm.

Changbin (grinning): "You've got a good sense of smell, sharp hearing... are you a vampire?"

Hannie leans in closer, resting her elbow on Changbin's shoulder. She locks eyes with him, then glances down at his jugular vein.

Hannie (smirking): "Then you better watch out."

------------------------------

Interior - School - Computer Lab - Morning

The Class [1-2] students enter the computer lab and take their seats at the computers.

Shinhye approaches a seat but, upon noticing Keiju next to it, hesitates before silently moving to another spot.

The students begin working on their assignments as the IT Teacher walks around, monitoring their progress and assisting those in need.

Suddenly, every monitor in the room flickers and displays a sexy anime scene.

Gasps echo across the room—some students cover their eyes, while others watch in shock... or excitement.

Seated across from each other, Minje and Keiju exchange confused glances.

Minje (bewildered): "What the hell?! What's going on?!"

A murmur spreads through the room.

Student: "Looks like the school's STRAY WITCH is real after all."

Gaon (frowning): "STRAY WITCH? What have you heard about it?"

Student: "In 11th grade history class, fake body parts were thrown in, and everyone freaked out."

Student2: "You forgot that last semester, the fountains went wild—and that was STRAY WITCH's work, too."

Gaon (scoffing): "What a nuisance..."

Meanwhile, the IT Teacher, who had been staring at the screens in disbelief, snaps out of it.

He quickly shuts off the nearby monitors and turns to the students.

IT Teacher (sternly): "Enough with the nonsense. Class is over. Everyone, leave—now."

The students file out of the lab one by one.

As they walk, Kyehoon leans toward the group with a smirk.

Kyehoon: "Still, STRAY WITCH has good taste in anime. That girl's body... wow."

Lix (unimpressed): "Are you in love with a drawing now? You'll never find a body like that in real life."

Keiju (slapping Kyehoon hard on the back): "And what exactly would you do with boobs that big?"

Minje bursts into laughter.

Keiju (grinning, lightly punching Minje's arm): "Looks like you enjoyed the show too... Come on, let's go."

------------------------------

Interior - School - Classroom [2-4] - Morning

The students are quietly solving math exercises when the classroom door suddenly opens.

The IT Teacher walks in.

IT Teacher: "Sorry to interrupt, but can I borrow Lino for a few minutes?"

Changbin (leans toward Lino, whispering): "What did you do? Did you mess something up?"

Lino: "No."

The IT Teacher gestures for Lino to follow, and he gets up to leave.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Hallway - Morning

As they walk down the hallway, Lino glances at the IT Teacher.

Lino: "Did something happen?"

IT Teacher: "How much do you know about hacking?"

Lino (hesitating): "Uh... a little."

IT Teacher: "Do you think you could fix a hacked computer?"

Lino (uncertain): "I'm not sure... I've never tried something like that before."

The IT Teacher stops walking and looks at him.

IT Teacher: "Well, I'm giving you the chance. Let's see what you can do."

Lino suddenly freezes in place.

Seeing his hesitation, the IT Teacher gently grabs his hand and gives him a reassuring look.

IT Teacher: "Don't worry. I'll be right there to help you."

------------------------------

Interior - School - Computer Lab - Morning

Lino and the IT Teacher sit at a computer, examining the screen.

The IT Teacher, looking frustrated, exhales sharply.

IT Teacher: "So... are you saying there's nothing you can do?"

Lino (shaking his head): "I'm not skilled enough for this. Sorry."

The IT Teacher sighs.

IT Teacher: "I should be the one apologizing... even—"

Lino (suddenly cutting in): "Wait... this code (leans closer to the screen) I think I've seen this before."

IT Teacher (alert): "Where? In which book?"

Lino: "Give me a second. I'll grab it from the library."

Without waiting for an answer, he hurries out of the room.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Boys' Dormitory - Changing Room - Night

With a towel wrapped around his waist, Keiju enters the changing room, but a strange feeling washes over him—like someone is watching him.

Before he can react, a figure suddenly grabs him and shoves him against a locker.

Several masked boys rifle through his bag and clothes.

Keiju (startled): "What are you looking for?"

One of the masked boys swings a baseball bat against Keiju's leg.

Masked Boy: "Shut up."

Another boy picks up Keiju's clothes, running his fingers over the fabric.

Boy 1: "His clothes are expensive... we could sell them."

Another boy grabs Keiju's phone.

Boy 2: "Forget it. We can't sell that."

Just as they're about to leave, Keiju lunges forward, grabbing the corner of one of their shirts.

His voice is quiet but desperate.

Keiju: "At least leave my clothes... I have nothing else to wear."

The boy shoves him roughly, and Keiju falls to the floor.

Without another word, the group bolts from the room.

Keiju lets out a painful sigh, slowly pushing himself up. He retrieves his phone from the locker and dials Kyehoon, but there's no answer.

Frustrated, he calls Minje instead.

A few minutes later, Minje arrives, quickly approaching him.

Minje: "Hey, are you okay?"

Keiju: "Don't worry, it's nothing. Just give me some clothes so I can get dressed."

Minje places the clothes on a chair.

Keiju reaches down to put on his pants, but the moment he bends forward, pain shoots through his back.

He winces.

Noticing his struggle, Minje quickly kneels in front of him, holding the pants open.

Minje: "Lean on me."

Keiju stares at him for a moment before patting his shoulder.

Keiju: "Get up, get up. I'll do it myself."

Minje: "That's what friends are for... for moments like this."

With Minje's help, Keiju finally gets his pants on.

Just as he reaches for his shirt, Minje's fingers lightly brush his back.

Keiju freezes.

Minje (concerned): "Your back..."

Keiju instinctively pulls away.

Minje: "Does it hurt a lot?! It's all red... we should go to the doctor."

Keiju: "I'm fine. Really."

Minje narrows his eyes, noticing the redness on Keiju's shoulder.

Minje: "Are you sure? (pauses) This could be serious. I'm not letting you ignore it."

Keiju glances at the clock.

Keiju: "The dorm doors will close in one hour. If we go to the IT teacher, I'll have to answer a thousand questions about these bruises... Forget it."

Minje crosses his arms, thinking.

Minje: "Then we'll ask Changbin and Lino for help... they can swipe our cards instead of us."

------------------------------

Interior - Dormitory - Entrance - Night

Lino and Changbin swipe their cards and enter the dorm. Hannie, walking in behind them, suddenly grabs Lino's hand.

Hannie: "How many people are you swiping in for?!"

Lino's heart skips a beat, but upon realizing it's Hannie, he exhales in relief.

Lino (places a finger on Hannie's lips): "Shhhhhh."

Changbin (crosses his arms, smirks teasingly): "Lino loves shushing girls down, just in case you didn't know."

Hannie raises an eyebrow at them, unimpressed.

Changbin: "What? Girls don't mind when Lino keeps them quiet!"

Lino (elbows Changbin in the side): "Hey! What are you even saying?!"

Hannie glances at Lino's lips, her thoughts wandering.

💭Eh... maybe it's not so bad...💭

Changbin notices her gaze and smirks.

Changbin: "What's this? You wanna try it?"

Lino laughs and looks at Changbin.

Lino (quietly): "Why are you talking on my behalf??!!!"

Hannie: "You do realize there are security cameras everywhere? You can't just do that in school. Seems like you're not as skilled as you claim."

Changbin (shoots her a sharp look): "We know what we're doing. Just don't go tell anyone what you saw tonight."

Hannie smirks and gently taps Lino's shoulder. He smiles back at her as they head toward the boys' dorm.

------------------------------

Interior - Hospital - Emergency Room - Night

Keiju lies on the hospital bed. Minje sits on the chair beside him, arms crossed, watching him closely.

Keiju (softly): "You should go. I'll come back once the scan results come out."

Minje (pouting): "What, you think I'm a part-time friend or something?"

Keiju (laughing): "Of course not. It's just... you haven't even slept because of me."

Minje: "One sleepless night won't kill me. Do you want something to eat? I can get you whatever you want."

Keiju (sighing): "Honestly? I wouldn't mind eating something decent... but eating in hospital is depressing."

Minje: "Alright then, we'll grab something tasty on the way back to the dorm. ...Wait (pauses, suddenly realizing) How are we even supposed to get in? We don't have our access cards."

Keiju (raises an eyebrow, smirking): "Genius. You really didn't think that far ahead when you made this master plan, huh?"

Minje grabs his hair, clearly panicking.

Minje: "Great. Now what? What are we supposed to do?!"

Keiju (shrugs, completely calm): "We won't go back."

Minje: "What, are we just going to wander the streets?"

Keiju: "No, I was thinking... jjimjilbang*. It's warm and open all night."

Minje stares at him in disbelief, thinking.

💭 Is this guy seriously thinking of sleeping on a hard floor in his condition?! 💭

Minje (firmly): "No way. You can't sleep there—it's crowded and uncomfortable. We're getting a hotel."

Keiju (startled): "A hotel? You know how expensive those are, right?"

Minje: "Don't worry"

Keiju (hesitates): "But..."

Minje scoots a little closer, nudging Keiju's arm gently.

Minje (smiling): "I'll cover it."

Keiju looks at him for a beat, eyes softening, before nodding quietly.

------------------------------

Interior - Girls' Dormitory - Attic - Night

Hannie, suffering from severe stomach pain, struggles to get up and go to Lix, but notices she's asleep.

------------------------------

Interior - Girls' Dormitory - Hallway - Night

Hannie clutches her stomach as she makes her way toward the stairs. Hyunjin, disguised as a girl, passes by and notices her.

Hyunjin: "Do you need something?"

Hannie, startled by the voice, ignores him and keeps walking.

Hyunjin (gently grabs her hand): "Do you need painkillers?"

Hannie hesitates, looking at him suspiciously, then shakes her head and tries to continue down the stairs.

Hyunjin steps in front of her, blocking her path.

Hyunjin: "Why go all the way downstairs for nothing? (Takes a pill from his pocket and holds it out) Here, take this."

Hannie: "How do I know that's actually a painkiller?"

Hyunjin (sighing): "You're right to be cautious."

Suddenly, he lifts her onto his back.

Hannie: "Hey! Put me down!"

Ignoring her protests, Hyunjin carries her all the way downstairs and gently sets her down on the last step. Without a word, he turns to head back up.

Hannie grabs his hand, frowning.

Hannie: "You are a... B—!!"

Hyunjin looks at her, disappointed.

Hyunjin: "Not even a few minutes have passed since I helped you, and you're already—"

As he shakes his head in frustration, suddenly he studies her face more carefully.

Hyunjin: "Wait... haven't we met somewhere before?"

༻ ❁ ✿ ❀༺ To be continued ༻❀ ✿ ❁ ༺

*A jjimjilbang is a Korean public bathhouse

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

🎬What you will read in the next chapter:

😈Changbin: "Is it really bad to have a crush on the teacher?!" 

😳Hannie: "I've got hands. I can change my clothes myself." 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

♡ THANKS FOR READING ♡

✩ HOPE YOU ENJOY IT ✩

Chapter Text

Interior - Girls' Dormitory - Hallway - Night

Hyunjin studies Hannie more carefully.

Hyunjin: "Wait... haven't we met somewhere before?"

Hannie stares at him for a moment before replying sarcastically.

Hannie: "First time I'm seeing such a pretty girl."

Without waiting for a response, she turns and heads toward the PE Teacher's office.

------------------------------

Interior - Motel Room - Night

Keiju lies back on the bed while Minje, fresh from the shower, sits beside him, running a hand through his damp hair with a frown.

Minje (grumbling): "Ugh, what kind of motel doesn't have a hairdryer?!"

Keiju (smirking): "I told you the jjimjilbang was the better idea. And don't forget—we had to pay double the price just because we're underage."

Minje (sighing): "It doesn't matter what this motel lacks — at least it has a bed."

Keiju gives a small smile, then goes quiet, staring off into the corner of the room. Minje glances at him, noticing the shift in his mood.

Minje (softly): "You get quiet sometimes... Is something bothering you?"

Keiju (caught off guard): "No... It's nothing."

Minje: "I get it. We're not close enough yet to share everything."

Keiju (playfully taps Minje's shoulder): "It's not that. Really. I've just been worried about a friend—he was supposed to come to this school, but he never showed up and I haven't heard from him. It's been on my mind."

Minje props himself up on his elbow.

Minje (concerned): "You don't have his phone number? Or his address?"

Keiju (gaze lowered): "He didn't answer my calls... and never gave me his new address."

Minje: "Do you think he's trying to cut ties with you?"

Keiju nods sadly.

Minje watches him for a moment before offering a small, warm smile, then leans over and wraps him in a gentle hug.

Minje (softly): "Hey... I'll take his place."

Keiju (winces): "Ow—careful! I'm all bruised up, remember?"

Minje pulls back instantly, then smirks.

Minje (teasing): "Oops. Well, they say if you get a new pain, you forget the old one."

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Midnight

Changbin wakes up and notices Minje's empty bed. Panic rising, he quickly goes over to Lino, shaking him awake.

Changbin (urgent whisper): "Minje hasn't come back yet... What if something happened?!"

Lino (half-asleep, eyes barely open): "Then call him."

------------------------------

Interior - Motel Room - Midnight

Keiju and Minje are fast asleep. Minje's phone, resting beside Keiju on the bed, starts ringing.

Still half-asleep, Minje blindly reaches for it, but instead, his hand accidentally brushes across Keiju's chest.

Keiju, who was already stirring, suddenly tenses. Holding his breath, he swallows hard, feeling the warmth of Minje's touch.

Just then, the phone stops ringing.

Minje slowly opens his eyes and, realizing Keiju is awake.

Minje (sleepy voice): "Ah... Did I wake you?"

Keiju gives a faint smile but says nothing.

Minje grabs the phone, sees the missed call, and dials Changbin back. He sits on the edge of the bed, speaking in a low, hushed tone. Keiju watches him quietly, deep in thought.

💭Is this... that feeling?💭

Keiju closes his eyes briefly and shakes his head as if to chase the thought away.

Minje ends the call and sets the phone down. Without a word, Keiju shifts and wraps his arms around Minje's shoulders from behind.

Keiju (softly): "What did he say?"

Minje turns his head slightly, looking at Keiju.

Minje: "Nothing much. He'll bring our cards here tomorrow morning."

Keiju stays quiet for a moment, his gaze lingering on Minje's profile. Then, his expression firm as he thinks.

💭No... this isn't the feeling.💭

------------------------------

Interior - School - Classroom [2-4] - Morning

The PE Teacher hands out a list of sports to the students.

PE Teacher: "Check off the sport you want to participate in today... but only pick one."

Changbin's eyes land on swimming, and a mischievous grin spreads across his face. He quickly ticks it off.

Seeing Lino still scanning the list, he nudges him.

Changbin: "Pick swimming."

Lino: "You know...I can't swim"

Before Lino can react, Changbin smirks and ticks it off for him.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Swimming Pool - Morning

All the students, now in their swimsuits, gather by the pool. Changbin leans against the wall.

Just then, Lino exits the locker room and walks toward him. A few girls spot Lino and immediately approach him, chatting and giggling. Lino listens with a charming smile.

Changbin, standing slightly behind them, steps forward and taps one of the girls on the shoulder.

Changbin: "Did you hear the latest joke?"

Girl: "We didn't come to Lino oppa to hear jokes."

Changbin (gritting his teeth): "Then why are you here?! You've been telling jokes this whole time!"

Girl: "Were you eavesdropping?!"

Lino chuckles, wrapping an arm around Changbin's shoulders.

Lino: "Changbin's just... very observant. That's why he's my best buddy."

At that moment, the PE Teacher enters, and all the boys freeze.

Sport Coach: "I'm glad to see you're all so excited for swimming class. Your eyes are shining... But don't get your hopes up—boys and girls will swim separately."

Students (groaning): "Awww."

Later, during swim practice, Changbin leans toward Lino.

Changbin: "Is it really bad to have a crush on the teacher?!"

Lino (smirking): "Your heart can do what it wants. But your hands? Not so much."

Changbin sighs dramatically—until a sudden idea flashes across his face.

Changbin (grinning): "Well, let's see if they can."

Just as he's about to fake drowning, he sees the PE Teacher suddenly dive into the water—but not for him. Instead, she swims toward O.DE, who is genuinely struggling to stay afloat. She swiftly wraps an arm around his waist and pulls him out of the water.

As O.de catches his breath, he gives her a mischievous smile and winks.

Students (in unison): "Wooooow."

PE Teacher rolls her eyes, gives O.de a gentle flick on the forehead.

Lino, wrapping an arm around Changbin's shoulders, grins.

Lino: "You were a bit late. Next time, don't overthink it... just do it."

------------------------------

Exterior - School - Courtyard - Morning

Kyehoon, Keiju, and Minje sit on chairs in the courtyard.

Keiju (to Minje): "So, which club are you joining?"

Minje: "Do we really have to choose one?!"

Kyehoon: "Yep. Everyone has to join a club. The good news? Teachers don't supervise our activities."

Keiju: "Yeah, the club leader submits the reports."

Minje scans the club options on the form, then places his hand over basketball.

Minje: "Fine... I guess I'll pick basketball."

Kyehoon: "We're switching to the theater club. It sounds fun."

Keiju (nodding): "Join us. It's way more fun when we're together."

Minje glances between them, hesitates, then gives a casual shrug.

Minje: "Alright, I'm in."

Kyehoon (grinning): "Heh... Changing your mind already?"

Minje (smirking): "Well, at least this way, I won't be bored."

------------------------------

Exterior - School - Courtyard - Noon

Hannie sits on a bench, staring down at her club selection form. She ticks Karate Club, but after a moment of thought, she crosses it out and selects Robotics Club instead.

Just then, she overhears two boys making inappropriate comments about a girl's body. Hannie sighs, frustration evident on her face.

Feeling awkward, the girl looks down and keeps walking, but one of the boys trips her, and she falls to the ground.

Meanwhile, Lino walks past the girl, then stops beside her. Casually, he offers his hand.

Lino: "Do you need help?"

The girl, surprised but grateful, takes his hand and smiles.

Girl: "Thanks."

Lino: "No problem."

Lino smiles back before walking away.

Hannie watches from a distance, a small, amused smile tugging at her lips. But just then, the club selection sheet slips from her fingers and flutters to the ground.

Hyunjin, walking past, picks it up. He notices the crossed-out Karate Club and raises an eyebrow.

He looks at Hannie with quiet curiosity as he hands the paper back to her without a word.

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Hallway - Night

Changbin and Lino walk up the stairs, their voices low as they talk.

Lino: "What happened to that girl you mistook for Hannie? Is she okay? Did she buy the whole 'it was a surprise' story?"

Changbin (shrugging): "I don't know... I haven't seen her since."

Lino (pinching Changbin's butt): "Idiot! What if she tells a teacher?!"

Changbin (groaning): "Ugh... Fine, I'll figure it out tomorrow."

As they reach the top of the stairs, Changbin suddenly freezes. He spots Suhwan and JISOO walking down the hall with their hands on Gaon's shoulders, whispering something in his ear. Alarmed, Changbin grabs Lino and pulls him behind the wall, pressing him against it as he peeks around the corner.

Lino (whispering): "What are you doing? What's going on?"

He follows Changbin's gaze and sees the three boys.

Lino (lowering his voice): "What's going on with them and Gaon?"

Just then, Keiju comes up the stairs. As he turns the corner and sees how close Changbin and Lino are—Changbin with his finger pressed to Lino's lips—he pauses.

Changbin (whispering): "Shhh... What if they see us?!"

Keiju raises a brow, and quietly backs down the stairs with a faint, amused smile.

Meanwhile, Changbin watches as Jisoo hands Gaon a notebook, and then they exchange a few more words before heading to their separate rooms.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Theater Hall - Noon

The theater club students are scattered around the hall.

Changbin (lying on the stage, sighing): "So, why aren't our new members here yet?"

O.de: "Let's punish them for being late."

Just then, Kyehoon, Minje, and Keiju enter, carrying boxes of drinks. O.de frowns, about to say something, when Kyehoon holds out a selection of drinks.

Kyehoon: "Senior, which one would you like?"

Changbin (playfully smacking Kyehoon's back): "I like it! You really know how to treat your seniors."

O.de smirks and takes a drink.

Minje (noticing Changbin): "Hyung, you're in this club too?! Where's Lino-hyung?"

Changbin: "It's just me here."

Keiju (placing a hand on Changbin's shoulder): "It's good that you're here too."

Changbin: "Yeah, we'll have so much fun together."

Minje (placing his hand on Changbin's other shoulder, smiling): "Of course."

Suddenly, O.de's loud voice catches Changbin's attention.

O.de: "Hey, why are you so late? The whole team has been waiting for you..."

Changbin looks over and sees Lix standing in front of O.de.

Lix: "Sorry, I was with the chemistry teacher."

O.de: "You'll be mopping the hall for the rest of the month."

Lix lets out a sigh.

Changbin (stepping forward): "It's the first day—don't be so harsh. How can you talk like that to such a pretty girl?"

Lix (staring at Changbin): "You?! ... I should've known I'd run into you here. You played your role well the other day. Where's your friend?"

Changbin: "You won't find him here."

Lix: "His acting wasn't bad."

O.de (raising an eyebrow): "What are you talking about?"

Lix: "A surprise for the first day."

O.de shrugs and then looks at Changbin with mock disappointment.

O.de: "I don't know anything about that. (Sighs) You didn't let me do my job."

O.de walks away.

Changbin (turning back to Lix): "Are you still upset about what happened the other day?"

Lix: "It was a scary experience, but I've forgiven you."

Changbin pouts and mutters under his breath, just low enough that Lix can't hear.

Changbin: "We didn't even do anything to you."

------------------------------

Interior - School - Workshop - Noon

Jungsu sits slouched in a chair, his head resting against the wall, fast asleep.

Hannie looks around the room in confusion, thinking.

💭I don't know anything about robots... What am I doing here?! Ugh...💭

She sighs and takes a seat on one of the chairs. Suddenly, Lino pops out from under the table, making Hannie jump and let out a short scream.

Jungsu (waking up with a scowl): "Are you crazy?!"

He groans and shuts his eyes again.

Lino (looking at Hannie): "Why'd you scream?"

Hannie (flustered): "What were you doing under the table?!"

Lino: "Connecting the power cable."

Hannie lowers her head in embarrassment.

Lino: "How much experience do you have with robotics?"

Hannie: "I came here to gain some experience."

Lino smirks, thinking.

💭Just say you don't have any—why beat around the bush?💭

He gestures toward some pre-built robots.

Lino: "Those are from previous years."

Hannie walks over to inspect them. As she leans in, her skirt catches on one of the robots, nearly knocking it over. Before Lino can react, she swiftly prevents it from falling just in time.

Lino (impressed): "Wow, your reflexes are fast. That day—"

Hannie (cutting him off): "I haven't had lunch. Have you eaten? Aren't you hungry?"

Lino: "You realize you're suggesting to the team leader that we slack off, right?"

Hannie: "What's the big deal? If our leader is kind, he'll definitely agree."

Lino nods and starts walking toward the door.

Hannie: "What about him? (She points to Jungsu) Aren't you going to wake him up?"

Lino: "Nah, he always sleeps. Just leave him."

------------------------------

Exterior - School - Courtyard - Noon

Hannie and Lino sit on a bench next to a building, eating sandwiches.

Lino: "By the way, why didn't you finish all three years of high school at the same school?"

Hannie pauses mid-bite and glances at him silently.

Lino (smiling): "Why did you transfer?"

Hannie (forcing a smile): "Because I moved... I used to live in Incheon."

Lino: "Ah, I see."

Hannie: "What? Did you think I got kicked out for fighting or something?"

Lino (laughing): "Honestly? Based on how we first met, I almost thought you were gonna hit me."

Hannie falls silent again. Lino gives her a playful punch on the shoulder.

Lino: "Relax, I was joking."

Hannie laughs along. Just then, a girl from a window above them suddenly pours a bottle of water over Lino's head.

Lino flinches, startled, but he immediately looks at Hannie and sees that her shoulder is also wet.

Lino: "Oh no, your clothes got wet."

Hannie looks down—her shoulder is damp, but Lino is completely soaked. She turns toward the window, ready to shout, but freezes when she sees the girl glaring down at Lino.

Hannie (eyeing Lino suspiciously): "What's going on? Did she do this because you shushed her?"

Lino (pouting): "Why would you think that? Everyone would love for me to shush them with my lips. Clearly, I didn't, so here we are. Forget it... (grabs Hannie's hand) Let's go change."

Hannie (pulling her hand away): "Why should I go with you? I've got hands. I can change my clothes myself."

She starts to walk off.

Lino (stepping in front of her with a grin): "Why are you thinking so perverted? I never said I wanted to change your clothes."

Hannie: "Ugh... Crazy."

She storms off, and Lino calls after her loudly.

Lino: "Whenever you lose an argument, you just call me crazy and storm off!"

Hearing that, Hannie clenches her fist and stomps her foot on the ground in frustration.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Theater Hall - Noon

The students are sitting in a circle, discussing the Halloween play.

O.de: "Everyone, bring a story. We'll work on the best one. For now, we're doing acting tests to see your talent."

Lix: "I don't want to act... Can I work backstage instead?"

O.de nods in approval.

Changbin (whispers to Lix): "You have acting experience, so why don't you want to act?"

Lix: "No reason. Just because."

The acting tests begin. Minje bounces his leg nervously.

Keiju (placing a hand on Minje's knee): "What are you so worried about?"

Minje: "I'm not good at acting... What if they kick me out of the team?"

Keiju: "Don't worry. If they don't cast you, they'll give you a job backstage."

Minje (taking a deep breath): "Yeah... You're right."

Changbin (stepping forward): "I know you guys just joined for fun, so don't bother trying to act for me."

Minje and Keiju exchange confused looks. Changbin leans in.

Changbin (in a low voice): "Because I came here for the same reason."

The three of them burst into laughter.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Hallway - Noon

Hannie walks toward her class when she spots the girl who poured water on Lino, standing with a group of friends. She pretends to read the bulletin board while eavesdropping.

Girl 1: "See? I told you he's so calm and kind... He'd never yell at anyone. I won—now pay me back."

Girl 2: "Even after getting soaked, he still cared about the person next to him."

Girl 3: "Ugh, I really want him to be my boyfriend! How do I win his heart?!"

Hannie thinks to herself.

💭They were betting on making Lino mad?! I thought they were getting revenge on him!💭

A soft smile spreads across her face.

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Night

Changbin and Lino are alone in their dorm room.

Changbin, lying on his bed, plugs a USB into his laptop and plays a video. He watches the screen excitedly, but his expression suddenly drops.

Changbin (disappointed): "Damn it... This is boy-boy!"

Just as he tries to close the video, his laptop freezes.

Changbin (helpless, looking at Lino): "My laptop's frozen. Can you fix it?"

Lino sits on the bed next to him. The moment his eyes land on the frozen screen, which is stuck on a scene from boy-boy porn, he crosses his arms and smirks.

Lino (teasing): "I didn't know you were into this kind of stuff."

Changbin (defensive): "Hey! Hyunjin said this one was really good! I didn't know it was this kind of video!"

Lino: "Hyunjin? Guess he meant something by it... maybe he has a thing for you."

Without even realizing it, a scene pops into Changbin's head.

💭 Cut to — Changbin's imagination

Hyunjin and Changbin are in a dreamy place with pink clouds floating around them, eating ice cream.

Hyunjin takes a bite, and a bit of ice cream ends up around his lips.

Hyunjin (to Changbin, in a cute tone): "Clean it for me."

Changbin glances at Hyunjin's lips and starts leaning in, about to kiss him.

Cut back to present

Changbin (snaps out of it): "Woooow."

As Lino works on fixing the laptop, the door suddenly swings open, and Minje walks in.

༻ ❁ ✿ ❀༺ To be continued ༻❀ ✿ ❁ ༺

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

🎬What you will read in the next chapter:

😏Lino: "Damn it, looks like that video is affecting you."

🤨Hannie: "Why are you following me around—trying to freak me out or something?"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

♡ THANKS FOR READING ♡

✩ HOPE YOU ENJOY IT ✩

Chapter Text

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Night

As Lino works on fixing the laptop, the door suddenly swings open, and Minje walks in.

At that exact moment, the laptop unfreezes, and the video starts playing.

Minje glances at the screen, briefly surprised, but casually greets them as he walks toward his bed.

Changbin, panicking, quickly slams the laptop shut.

Lino (jumping off the bed): "Good day?"

Minje: "Mhm..."

Changbin: "You... didn't see what we were watching, did you?"

Minje: "Was I supposed to?"

Lino (nudging Changbin's leg): "We weren't watching anything!"

Minje starts changing his shirt, hesitating as he lifts it slightly. A sudden memory flashes in his mind—Changbin's words from their first meeting.

💬 "Are you even human?! Why are you so damn handsome?!" 💬

Trying to shake off the thought, Minje shakes his head and takes off his shirt.

Lino (whispering as he pulls Changbin closer): "Why were you talking nonsense? What if he gets the wrong idea about us?"

Changbin (gives Lino a playful peck on the cheek): "Let him think whatever he wants."

Lino (lightly smacking the back of Changbin's head): "Damn it, looks like that video is affecting you."

Hearing this, Minje unintentionally glances at them.

Changbin and Lino awkwardly flash him fake smiles, and all three pretend to be busy with something else.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Classroom [2-4] - Morning

Hannie walks up to Lino's desk and places a thick robotics book in front of him.

Hannie: "Seriously? What is this giant fancy book?"

Lino: "Do you even like robots?"

Hannie: "Well... Do you have something easier?!"

Lino (sighing as he puts the book in his bag): "The easier option is me. I'll explain everything in the workshop later."

Hannie: "Wow... did you know you're really kind?"

Lino smiles. As Changbin passes by Hannie, he leans in close.

Changbin (whispering): "Everyone knows that... Took you long enough to realize it."

Hannie (pushing Changbin away): "Ugh! Stop whispering in my ear, it gives me goosebumps!"

Meanwhile, Hyunjin watches Hannie closely, thinking.

💭Where have I seen her before?💭

When he closes his eyes, a picture of Hannie flashes in his mind. His eyes narrow, and a mischievous, crooked smile forms on his lips as he continues observing her carefully.

------------------------------

Exterior - School - Yard - Afternoon

Changbin is walking toward the dormitory when he spots Lix a few steps ahead. He jogs up and taps her on the shoulder.

Changbin (shouts teasingly): "BOO!"

Lix jumps slightly in surprise.

Lix (glaring at Changbin): "Ugh...!! Damn it!"

Changbin (laughing): "You stay in the dorms too?"

Lix: "Yeah, I do."

Changbin: "Which room?"

Lix pauses for a moment, then answers.

Lix: "The attic."

Changbin (surprised): "The attic?! Seriously? Why?"

Lix (shrugging): "Just because."

Changbin (raising an eyebrow): "Every time I ask you something, you just say 'just because, just because.' You're acting suspicious!"

Lix (crossing her arms): "You're the one being suspicious. Don't you think you ask too many questions?"

She turns and walks away.

Changbin (calling after her, loudly): "Hey! Mysterious people keep my mind busy! What else am I supposed to do?!"

Lix glances back briefly, shaking her head with a smirk before disappearing around the corner.

Changbin (mutters): "I'll find out what you're hiding!"

------------------------------

Interior - School - Workshop - Afternoon

Lino holds up the book he lent to Hannie, pointing to a lipstick stain on one of the pages.

Lino: "Why did you put your lipstick on my book? You could've just put it on me instead."

Hannie (smiling): "I didn't do it on purpose! I fell asleep with my face on the book."

Jungsu, resting his head on the desk, lifts his head and smirks.

Jungsu: "Why are you making excuses? If you wanted to confess your love, you should've just said it. Lino loves his books more than his own life."

Hannie stares at him in shock as Jungsu casually leaves the workshop. Lino sits next to her, noticing her expression.

Lino: "He exaggerated a little. I'm not that obsessed with my books."

Hannie breathes a sigh of relief.

Lino (tilting his head): "Did you really join this workshop just for me?"

Hannie meets Lino's gentle gaze. After a few moments, she snaps back to reality, fiddling with the items on the table.

Hannie: "I didn't come here for you, but... I think I'll stay because of you."

Lino: "Wait... are you falling for me?"

Hannie (grinning): "Don't get too excited. What I mean is, if you weren't here to teach me robotics, I wouldn't have stayed. They would've kicked me out of the team."

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 14 - Night

Keiju is changing clothes when O.de notices bruises on his body.

O.de (smirking): "Looks like our roommate is one of the school gangsters."

Keiju (shocked): "Are you talking about me?!"

O.de: "Unless you think I was talking about Jungsu."

Jungsu, lying in his bed, watches them silently.

Keiju (quickly, to Jungsu): "Me, Minje, and Kyehoon aren't into that kind of stuff! These bruises are just from falling down."

Jungsu turns his back.

Keiju (louder): "I swear it's true!"

Jungsu (softly): "Why should I care what Kyehoon does?"

Just then, Keiju's phone buzzes with a message from Minje.

📱Come to our room, we're waiting for you.📱

Keiju quickly finishes dressing and leaves the room.

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Night

Changbin, Lino, Minje, Kyehoon, and Keiju sit together, watching a horror movie.

Kyehoon: "Where's your roommate?"

Lino: "He's in the library until late, so feel free."

Keiju (nervously): "The movie hasn't even started and I already know I won't sleep tonight!"

The group bursts into laughter.

Minje: "Wow, someone's more scared than me! Come sleep with us. You too, Kyehoon—stay over tonight."

Kyehoon: "I'm not scared! But... I wouldn't mind staying with you guys."

Right at the most intense part of the movie, the doorbell suddenly rings.

Changbin (startled): "Who could that be?!"

Lino (quickly): "Get the books!"

They scramble to grab their books and notebooks, pretending to study.

Changbin opens the door to find their IT teacher standing there.

IT Teacher (sternly): "The room next door complained about the noise. What are you all doing in here?"

Lino (calmly): "I'm helping them with their studies."

IT Teacher (proudly): "Good job... You should all appreciate Lino. You won't find a better friend than him."

They all nod in agreement as the IT teacher leaves.

Changbin (hugs Lino dramatically): "What would I do without you?!"

He plants a kiss on Lino's cheek. Minje and Keiju look at them in surprise.

Kyehoon (suddenly hugging Keiju and Minje): "Ugh... I'm jealous! Why are they doing that?!"

After finishing the movie, they set up their beds on the floor. Changbin shares his blanket with Lino, while Keiju and Kyehoon are given another.

Kyehoon (to Keiju): "I can't stand sharing blankets. You can share with Minje."

Changbin and Lino (shaking their heads): "Tsk, tsk..."

Lino (smirking): "Are you gonna say the same thing to your wife?"

Kyehoon: "Oh, by the time that happens, I'll have figured it out."

Minje hands a corner of his blanket to Keiju, then turns his back and closes his eyes.

Keiju lies down beside him, then glances mischievously at Minje's neck. He leans forward and blows on it.

Minje, ticklish, yanks the blanket toward himself angrily.

Minje: "Ugh... I don't want to share a blanket with you."

Keiju (grabbing a corner of the blanket, pleading): "I swear I won't do it again!"

Minje smiles and they share the blanket peacefully.

Keiju, still spooked from the movie, keeps glancing around nervously.

Keiju (whispers): "Hey... Are you sure you locked the door?"

Minje (yawning): "Yeah, man, no one's here... Just go to sleep."

Meanwhile, Changbin and Lino, lying next to each other, are fighting over the blanket.

Lino tries to pull more of it, but Changbin won't let go.

Changbin (grumbling): "Stop pulling! I'm cold too!"

Lino (muttering): "Well, if you're freezing, just move closer!"

Changbin, who is actually shivering, instinctively shifts a little closer to Lino.

Just then, a strong gust of wind makes a tree branch scrape against the window, producing an eerie sound. Keiju, already on edge, shudders in fear and instinctively turns his gaze toward Changbin and Lino, who are now huddled together under the same blanket!

His eyes widen as he stares at them in shock.

Minje, still awake, notices Keiju's intense gaze on the two and, wanting to distract him, nudges his side playfully.

Keiju flinches and jumps slightly in surprise. Minje, unable to hold it in anymore, buries his face into his pillow to muffle his laughter.

Keiju lightly punches Minje's arm.

Keiju (whispers): "I almost had a heart attack!"

Minje (smirking, whispering back): "That's payback for blowing on my neck earlier."

------------------------------

Interior - School - Makeup Room - Afternoon

The theater team is preparing for the Halloween show. Lix hurriedly finishes applying makeup to the actors and is about to leave when Changbin grabs her hand.

Changbin: "Hey, what's this? You left their makeup unfinished!... Where are you going?!"

Lix (panicked): "I have something really important to do. I have to go... (pleading) Can you finish the rest for me?"

Changbin: "No way! I need to focus on my own work."

Lix: "Please, just this once! I'm dealing with a serious problem today."

Changbin (sighing): "Is it really that serious?"

Lix nods.

Changbin (reluctantly): "Fine, go."

Lix rushes out, and Changbin starts doing the makeup for the lead actor.

Keiju: "I think it's time to take out my curlers."

Changbin: "I can't right now—I'm working on the lead actor. Minje, take out Keiju's curlers."

Minje begins undoing the curlers, and Keiju stares at himself in the mirror, stunned.

Minje (running his hands through Keiju's hair): "I think it's a bit... no, way too curly!"

Keiju (horrified): "What am I supposed to do with this hair now?!"

Minje (messes up Keiju's hair, laughing): "It suits you. No worries, you're only on stage for a minute."

Keiju watches Minje's smiling face in the mirror, momentarily distracted.

Suddenly, Changbin smacks Minje's butt.

Changbin (teasing): "Where did you get that beautiful smile from?!"

Minje lets out a shriek.

Keiju (covering his ears): "Why are you screaming?! You're deafening me."

Just then, O.de opens the door.

O.de: "Theater team, we're on in five minutes!"

------------------------------

Interior - School - Hallway - Afternoon

The SCHOOL NURSE exits the infirmary.

A student dressed as the Hulk, wearing a full costume and mask, approaches while clutching his stomach.

Hulk (groaning): "Ah... My stomach really hurts."

School Nurse (concerned): "What's wrong? Come inside—I'll examine you."

Hulk: "It's nothing, I just can't see well with this mask. Can you take me to the restroom?"

------------------------------

Interior - School - Men's Restroom - Afternoon

The school nurse, still holding Hulk's hand, leads him inside.

Suddenly, Hulk kicks the nurse's foot, causing him to stumble and fall.

Hulk (angrily): "How do you expect to treat students' pain if you can't even walk properly?!"

School Nurse (shocked and upset): "Who are you?! Why are you acting like this?!"

Hulk: "Just hand over all your money, or else..."

Before Hulk can continue, a devilish laugh echoes from one of the stalls.

The last stall door creaks open, and Changbin emerges, fully dressed as the Joker from Batman, his creepy laughter continuing.

He walks forward and smirks.

Changbin (mockingly): "Why so serious?"

Hulk (frowning): "What are you talking about?"

Changbin steps closer, holding a knife near Hulk's lips.

Changbin (grinning darkly): "Do you know what happens if I press this? First, your mask will rip... (he touches his own lips) ...then you'll look just like me."

Hulk gulps, shoves Changbin aside, and bolts out of the restroom.

The school nurse, still shocked, stares at Changbin.

School Nurse (nervously): "What was that, kid?! Why do you have a knife?! (reaches out, wary) Give it to me. Now."

Changbin grins mischievously.

Changbin: "Nurse, don't you know what happens if I press this?"

He presses the blade against his own hand—and with a click, it retracts.

Changbin (laughing): "See? It's a fake. A Halloween prop. Fun, right?"

He presses it against his head repeatedly, amused.

The school nurse cringes and grabs Changbin's hand, pulling the knife away.

School Nurse (disgusted): "Ugh... stop doing that!"

------------------------------

Interior - School - Hall - Afternoon

Hannie, dressed as a vampire, walks down the hallway stairs when she suddenly slips. Just as she's about to fall, someone catches her from behind.

Startled, she turns around—only to come face-to-face with a Ghostface mask. Letting out a high-pitched scream, she immediately draws attention from the surrounding students.

Ghostface Mask (amused): "Why are you screaming?"

Hannie (breathless): "Why are you wearing that mask?!"

Ghostface Mask (chuckles): "Oh, I forgot... (reaches for the mask but hesitates) I can't show my face to you."

Hannie (rolling her eyes): "How childish."

Ghostface Mask (leaning close to her ear): "Didn't you recognize me from my voice?"

Hannie: "Does it matter who you are?"

The Ghostface Mask nods toward their intertwined hands.

Ghostface Mask: "Doesn't it matter whose hand you're holding?"

Hannie (smirking): "Not really... because in a heartbeat, my hand won't be in yours."

With that, she pulls her hand away and walks down the stairs.

At the bottom, Minje, wearing a long coat, horns, a red tail, and carrying a spear, transforms into a devil, glancing around.

Changbin (approaching him): "Where's Keiju?"

Minje points at a headless figure standing nearby.

Changbin (grimacing): "That's Keiju?! Ugh!"

Keiju, holding his head in his hands, turns around.

Keiju: "Were you talking about me?"

Changbin: "Can you put your head back on your neck? It's disgusting."

Minje (giving Changbin a look): "Your lips are more disgusting."

Changbin narrows his eyes, steps closer, and places a knife beside Minje's lips.

Changbin: "Do you want to know how my lips got like this? I was watching a comedy film with Lino, but it wasn't funny at all. Lino, disappointed, asked, 'Why aren't you laughing?' I couldn't bear his disappointment, so I did this to myself with a knife—so I could always laugh next to him."

He bursts into laughter, but Minje just stares at him, unimpressed.

Changbin (frowning): "Why aren't you laughing? Was my joke that bad?"

Minje nods.

Changbin flicks Minje's forehead and walks away.

Keiju: "By the way, where's Kyehoon?! Have you seen him?"

Minje: "He's probably one of those masked people—maybe he's planning to prank us."

Hannie waves at Lix, who is wearing an Elsa costume. However, Lix, too busy fixing her costume in the mirror, doesn't notice. Hannie shrugs.

Changbin suddenly stands next to her and pretends to stab a knife into her chest.

Hannie, shocked, pushes his hand away.

Hannie: "Are you crazy?!"

Changbin (pouting): "Ah, I forgot—it should've been a wooden stake, Ms. Vampire."

Hannie (rolling her eyes): "Next time, make sure you know who you're joking with."

Changbin (grinning): "Oh, so scary!"

Hannie: "What is Lino's costume? Where is he?"

Changbin gestures behind Hannie.

As she turns to look, he quickly stabs the fake knife into her heart from behind.

Hannie lets out a tired sigh and looks at Changbin in disappointment.

Changbin (smug grin): "Ah, I forgot again—it should've been a wooden one."

Hannie shakes her head in regret.

Changbin (pouting): "Why doesn't anyone laugh at my jokes?!"

Ghostface Mask (standing nearby): "That was hilarious. Ha ha ha ha ha ha!"

Hannie furrows her brows, thinking.

💭Why does he show up everywhere I go? Is he following me?💭

Just then, the PE Teacher, dressed as an angel, steps onto the stage and announces.

PE Teacher: "Now it's time for the game! The group that passes the candy to the last member the fastest wins. Groups that want to participate, step forward!"

Changbin grabs Minje and Keiju's hands and pulls them toward the Ghostface Mask.

Changbin (to Ghostface Mask): "Lino... Kyehoon isn't here. We should play as four."

Lino: "No problem... we've got this."

The PE Teacher blows the whistle, and the game begins.

The first participants rush toward the table, each grabbing a key. But Changbin, instead of following the rules, runs straight to a locked chest, pulls out safety pins from his pocket, and unlocks it within seconds.

He grabs the candy and sprints toward Keiju, immediately wrapping him up in bandages.

Keiju: "How did you unlock the chest so fast?!"

Changbin winks and continues wrapping, accidentally covering Keiju's head.

Keiju (shouting): "Be careful! Don't block my vision!"

Changbin (laughing): "I can't help it—you should've kept your head on your neck!"

Keiju (playfully frowning): "Don't make fun of my costume!"

Meanwhile, other teams are still struggling to find the right key.

Once Keiju is fully wrapped like a mummy, he runs toward Minje, but because his legs are bound, he keeps stumbling.

Finally reaching Minje, they must jump rope ten times together.

But since Keiju is completely bandaged up, he can't coordinate well, and the rope keeps hitting his legs. Both of them start laughing, but they keep trying.

With every jump, some of Keiju's bandages come loose and slip under Minje's feet, causing them to trip and fall, laughing uncontrollably.

Changbin (watching anxiously): "Hey, stop laughing! They're catching up!"

Keiju (grinning): "Come try it yourself and see how hard this is with no proper arms or legs!"

Minje helps Keiju up.

Minje: "Lean on me to get in sync."

Keiju leans in, feeling slightly awkward but focuses on the game.

Lino (waiting behind them, shouting): "Eight, nine... just one more! Hurry up!"

They finally complete the jumps, and Minje hands the candy to Lino.

Lino reaches into the box in front of him but finds nothing.

Lino (panicked): "Ugh... what's this?! There's nothing here!"

The crowd cheers him on, urging him to guess what's inside.

As the rival team nears victory, Lino, frustrated, discreetly pulls out a tiny camera from his sleeve and checks the monitor inside his mask.

But the image cuts off.

The rival group keeps making incorrect guesses.

Lino, disappointed by the camera, tries to fix the cable and thinks.

💭Ugh... the wire must've disconnected when I grabbed Hannie on the stairs!💭

Just as the image returns, he quickly scans the inside of the box—then suddenly screams and yanks his hand out.

Keiju: "What happened?! What was it?!"

Lino (shuddering): "A cockroach!"

PE Teacher (cheering): "And the winners are... Group 4!"

As the team hugs in celebration, Hannie stares at Lino's Ghostface mask, thinking.

💭So it was you... I knew it!💭

Lix (approaches Hannie with a smile): "Wow... your costume is amazing."

Hannie smiles.

Lix: "I didn't have much time to prepare. How do I look?"

Hannie: "Your costume is nice, you look beautiful!"

Meanwhile, Hannie has a feeling that Ghostface is still watching her. She thinks.

💭This is suspicious...💭

Hannie changes direction, but the Ghostface mask continues to follow her. Curiously, she bites her lip and walks up the stairs.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Hallway - Afternoon

Hannie enters an empty hallway and hides behind a wall. The Ghostface mask, still following her, walks past without noticing.

Suddenly, Hannie grabs his hand from behind the wall and pulls him toward herself, pinning him against it.

The Ghostface mask lets out a small gasp.

Hannie (sighs): "Do you even know what you're doing?"

The Ghostface mask remains silent.

Hannie: "Are you interested in me? Why are you following me around—trying to freak me out or something? (furrows her brows) Aren't you afraid to mess with a vampire?! I'm serious, I really am one."

And with that, she bites the Ghostface mask's neck.

༻ ❁ ✿ ❀༺

To be continued

༻ ❁ ✿ ❀༺

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

🎬What you will read in the next chapter:

😊Keiju: "Hey, devil! Trying to seduce me?!"

🫠Lino: "These kind eyes can turn wild sometimes."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

♡ THANKS FOR READING ♡

✩ HOPE YOU ENJOY IT ✩

Chapter Text

Interior - School - Hallway - Afternoon

Suddenly, Hannie bites the Ghostface mask's neck.

Ghostface mask (pushing Hannie back, yelling): "Hey, what are you doing?!"

The person in the Ghostface mask takes it off. Hannie gasps in surprise when she sees Hyunjin's face.

Hannie (instinctively stepping back): "You?!"

Hyunjin (smirking, muttering under his breath): "Who did you expect? Lino?!"

Hannie: "Why are you dressed like this? Why were you following me?"

Hyunjin (flustered): "Me?! I wasn't following you. I was heading back to the dorm when you..."

Hannie (interrupting): "So, you and Lino are both wearing Ghostface costumes?!"

Hyunjin (nodding, rubbing his neck): "Hey... you're really getting into character. But your teeth aren't that sharp. Was that a love bite or revenge?!"

At that moment, they hear students screaming in the hallway. Hyunjin and Hannie turn their heads in shock, watching students run toward the exit.

Hannie: "What's going on?!"

------------------------------

Interior - School - Hall - Afternoon

Students are rushing out of the hall. Minje and Keiju watch in horror as a group of zombies enters.

Changbin: "What the fuck!!"

He turns to his side and realizes Lino has disappeared. Suddenly, he hears Lino's voice shouting.

Lino: "Changbin, why are you standing there? Run!"

Changbin looks in the direction of the voice and sees Hannie holding Lino's hand, pulling him along. Changbin and Keiju run in the opposite direction. Just then, a zombie slowly approaches Minje. Shaking in fear, Minje steps backward, trips over something, and falls to the ground—with the zombie landing on top of him.

Minje screams, raising his fist to punch the zombie, but the 'zombie' suddenly speaks.

Zombie: "Hey... hey... wait. I'm not a zombie. I'm alive!"

Minje stares in shock.

Keiju (pushing the zombie off Minje): "Are you okay?! (He steps toward the zombie) Did it bite you?!"

Keiju lifts his foot, ready to kick the zombie.

Minje: "Don't! Don't! He's human."

Keiju freezes.

Zombie: "I didn't mean to scare him; I just tripped on him."

Keiju: "Ugh... should've expected some pranks like this during Halloween."

He extends a hand to help Minje up. Minje grabs it, pulling Keiju toward him with a mischievous grin. Keiju loses his balance and falls onto the ground next to Minje.

Keiju (gently punching Minje's arm): "Do you even know what pain feels like?!"

Minje winks and starts getting up.

Keiju (grabbing Minje's costume tail): "Hey, devil! Trying to seduce me?!"

Keiju tugs the tail, causing Minje to fall again. They both burst out laughing.

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 14 - Afternoon

Jungsu is lying on his bed, reading a comic book, when he hears a noise. He ignores it at first, but when it continues, he lazily gets up and opens the door. Suddenly, zombie-costumed Kyehoon charges at him. Jungsu stumbles backward but quickly grabs Kyehoon's hands.

Jungsu: "Hey, Kyehoon, what's wrong with you?!"

Kyehoon struggles, pretending to bite.

Jungsu (concerned, shaking him): "Hey, hey, Kyehoon... what happened?!"

Suddenly, Kyehoon smirks and bursts out laughing. Jungsu furrows his brows, annoyed, and lets go of Kyehoon's hands.

Jungsu: "Motherfucker"

Kyehoon (chuckling, taking a deep breath): "Are you cursing me, or yourself?"

Jungsu (kicking Kyehoon's butt): "Get lost."

Kyehoon (grinning): "I didn't know it was you. If I had, I wouldn't have come in the first place... (as he walks out the door) But if I hadn't, I'd have regretted it. I didn't know scaring you was this fun."

Jungsu shakes his head in regret and lies back down.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Hallway - Afternoon

Hannie and Lino run hand in hand, a zombie chasing them.

Lino (breathless, surprised): "Where are you taking me?"

Hannie (frustrated): "Can't you see the chaos? We need to survive somehow."

They dash into the nearest room and slam the door shut. The zombie notices the key hanging from the lock, grins maliciously, and turns it—locking them inside.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Makeup Room - Afternoon

Hannie (hearing the door lock): "Why did he lock the door?"

Zombie (muffled, from behind the door): "You thought I wanted to eat you? I'm not a zombie! Hahahaha."

Hannie looks at Lino in shock. Lino groans and smacks his forehead in frustration.

Hannie (sighing): "We really got fooled."

Lino (storming toward the door): "Open the door right now!"

Zombie (mockingly): "Sorry! It's STRAY WITCH's order... Hahahaha."

Lino clenches his jaw and bangs his fist on the door.

Hannie (raising an eyebrow): "Are you mad now?"

Lino (taking off his Ghostface mask, forcing a smile): "Don't worry. I'll just text the others to come help us."

Lino pulls out his phone and texts Changbin.

📱I'm stuck in the makeup room. Come help.📱

A moment later, Changbin replies.

📱Hahaha, don't dig a hole for someone else before you dig one for yourself.📱

Lino frowns.

Hannie (crossing her arms): "This school really has a reckless STRAY WITCH!"

Lino gives her a fake smile and resumes texting.

------------------------------

Exterior - Dormitory - Yard - Night

Minje and Keiju are deep in conversation as they walk when, suddenly, Changbin sprints toward them and stops right in front of them.

Changbin (catching his breath): "Didn't Lino text you?"

Keiju: "Yeah, he did... He's stuck in the makeup room and needs help."

Changbin (throwing his arms around their shoulders, grinning): "No, no, no... We can't bother him. Let's just head back to the dorm."

------------------------------

Interior - School - Makeup Room - Night

Hannie sits on a chair, examining herself in the mirror.

A message from Minje pops up on Lino's phone.

📱Sorry... Changbin won't let us come.📱

Lino sighs and replies.

📱It's okay.📱

Lino (at Hannie): "The teacher didn't answer his phone either. Looks like we're staying here tonight. Don't worry, someone will eventually open the door."

Hannie: "I'm so tired... I'm about to fall asleep."

Lino (glances at the clothing rack): "Put one of those coats on so you don't catch a cold... (He gets up) Want me to bring it to you?"

He picks up a furry coat and hands it to Hannie before sitting beside her.

Hannie (raising an eyebrow): "Did you actually take the big furry coat for yourself?"

Lino (casually): "Well, it's going to get colder."

As soon as he says that, the lights suddenly go out.

Hannie (frustrated): "You jerk! You knew this would happen! I thought you were nicer than this!"

She snatches the fur coat from Lino, but realizes it's actually thinner than the other coat.

Lino (softly): "Alright, you can take it too."

Hannie (bites her lip, hesitating): "Ugh... no need to make sacrifices for me. I'm basically a vampire."

She tosses the fur back at Lino.

Lino (laughing): "If you're such a cool vampire, why don't you just break the door down?"

Hannie: "I'm more skilled in mind control."

Lino smirks. Hannie suddenly brings her face close to Lino's and stares into his eyes.

Hannie (serious): "Don't talk. Turn around. And don't look back."

Lino obeys. But as Hannie grabs a pair of pants from the rack and starts changing, he catches a glimpse of her in the mirror. He debates whether to speak but remembers what she told him. He smiles, unable to look away, even though it's very dark and he can't see Hannie clearly.

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Night

Minje, Keiju, and Changbin are sprawled out on separate beds.

Keiju (thoughtfully): "Don't you think it's unfair we left Lino alone?"

Changbin (laughing): "We didn't leave him. He was the one who ditched us and ran off, leaving us to deal with all those zombies."

Minje: "I texted Kyehoon, he said he's on his way."

Keiju: "Where has that guy been all this time?"

Suddenly, there's a knock at the door. Minje jumps up and opens it, only to come face to face with Kyehoon. Startled, he lets out a short scream.

Kyehoon (bursting into laughter): "Hey, relax! It's me, Kyehoon."

Keiju and Changbin: "Why do you look like this?!"

Kyehoon (collapsing onto a chair): "It was STRAY WITCH's order!"

Minje: "STRAY WITCH?!"

Kyehoon: "Yesterday, I got a text from an unknown number telling me to show up at the meeting today or face the consequences. So, I had no choice but to go. Turns out, a lot of other students were there too."

Keiju (narrowing his eyes): "So you were one of the zombies in the hall? Traitor."

Kyehoon (shaking his head): "No, it seems STRAY WITCH was watching us during the meeting. They knew exactly who didn't show up and sent me to find one of them. I had to scare him... and, of course it was Jungsu. All I got in return was some swearing."

Changbin: "Who did this makeup on you?"

Kyehoon: "Lix... she's seriously talented, huh?!"

Changbin: "Wow... really impressive. If I were you, I wouldn't want to wipe this makeup off my face."

Kyehoon (groaning, rubbing his face): "Ugh... damn, I'm sick of looking at myself."

------------------------------

Interior - School - Makeup Room - Night

Hannie, now dressed in pants, exhales and turns to Lino.

Hannie: "Alright, you can turn around now."

Lino turns his head. Hannie sits next to him, and a few moments of silence pass.

Hannie (trying to lighten the mood): "Ugh... do you think we'll be stuck here until morning?"

Lino stays quiet.

Hannie: "At least say something."

Lino: "You told me not to!"

Hannie (blinking in disbelief): "Wait... is that why you've been silent this whole time?!"

Lino: "Yeah... that's why I couldn't tell you that I saw you changing in the mirror."

Hannie's eyes widen. She smacks Lino's chest with her palm.

Hannie: "You jerk! I trusted you."

Lino (curious): "Why did you trust me that much?"

Hannie (quietly, a hint of sadness in her voice): "Because you're kind... I didn't expect this from you."

Lino (chuckling): "These kind eyes can turn wild sometimes."

Hannie (smirking): "Just admit it—you were peeping! And now you're saying all this just to make things awkward."

Lino: "You should be saying that to yourself. I mean, you're alone in a room with a guy and suddenly decide to change your clothes."

Hannie (defensive): "So what's wrong with that?!"

Lino (staring at her, amused): "Nothing!!! It just made my heart beat faster."

Hannie (narrowing her eyes): "Are you trying to tempt me now?!"

Lino leans his face closer to Hannie's.

Lino: "You know, even when I watch something spicy, my heart doesn't race this much!"

Hannie rolls her eyes and pushes his face away with a finger.

Hannie: "Stop it!"

Lino exhales deeply, then turns back to her.

Lino: "Stop what?! If you'd let me, I was just about to start (He grabs her hands) What do you think of me?"

Hannie stares at Lino in silence, as if searching for an answer. Just as she's about to say something, the door suddenly swings open.

A flashlight beam sweeps across the room.

Changbin (stunned): "Wait... you weren't alone?!!!!"

Lino: "Don't you think you're a little late?"

Changbin: "I thought you were by yourself. Otherwise, I would've come sooner."

Hannie: "No... actually, you came a bit too early. Could you give us a moment?"

Changbin pouts, gives Lino a meaningful look, then steps back out of the room.

Hannie (looking into Lino's eyes): "If Changbin hadn't come just now, you..."

She trails off, hesitating.

Lino (watching her intently): "What do you want to know?!"

Hannie looking at him doubtfully for a moment.

Hannie (softly): "Nothing."

Without another word, she walks out of the room.

Lino watches her for a moment, then smirks and follows after her.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Hallway - Night

Changbin notices Lino's smirk and raises an eyebrow mischievously.

Changbin (grinning): "Hey, what were you two up to?!"

Lino (shaking his head, sighing): "You idiot. Do you really think anything could happen at school—especially at a time like this? And then, right on cue, someone barges in."

Changbin drapes an arm around Lino's shoulders and lowers his voice.

Changbin (teasingly): "But... you always figure things out so fast."

Lino (smirking): "Well, I didn't know you'd be coming."

Changbin (laughing): "Looks like you were busy!"

He suddenly sprints ahead, and Lino chases after him. As Changbin reaches Hannie, he slows down, flashing a playful wink.

Changbin: "Next time, I'll come later."

Hannie frowns, lifting her leg as if to kick Changbin, but before she can, his eyes widen in shock.

Changbin: "Oh... your pants are torn."

Hannie's face turns red as she quickly lowers her leg.

Hannie (flustered): "Do you wear torn pants in your plays?!"

Without waiting for a response, she spins around and rushes toward the makeup room. As she passes Lino, he watches her go with amusement.

Lino: "Go ahead... but take my heart with you, I think I left it in there."

Hannie ignores him and disappears into the room.

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 14 - Midnight

Keiju sits on his bed, scrolling through Halloween photos on the school website. As he comes across a picture of himself and Minje jumping rope, a smile spreads across his face.

Just then, his phone buzzes.

Minje: 📱Are you sleeping?📱

Keiju quickly types back:📱No.📱

------------------------------

Exterior - Boys' Dormitory - Rooftop - Midnight

Keiju and Minje sit on chairs, gazing up at the starry sky.

Keiju (glancing at Minje): "So, you knew I wouldn't be able to sleep?"

Minje (smirking slightly): "You said last time that horror movies keep you up at night... I also remember that after we went to the haunted house, you were completely knocked out in class the next day. I was the one who got scared more, so why couldn't you sleep?"

Keiju (hesitant, staring at the sky): "Well... after that, whenever I'm alone, I start thinking—what if the world really falls apart? What if everyone turns against me? What if I lose my best friends in that moment? How would I go on? That's why I get anxious... and I just can't sleep."

Minje reaches over and takes Keiju's hand gently.

Minje (softly): "Why are you worrying about things like that? Right now, everything's fine, and we're having fun. Don't overthink it."

Keiju looks down at their hands. He curls his fingers around Minje's hand, holding it softly.

Keiju (murmuring): "In moments like this... when someone's with me, I feel safe. It sucks that I don't room with my friends."

Minje chuckles, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze.

Minje: "Come on, let's go sleep in our room. Nobody can find out."

------------------------------

Interior - Girls' Dormitory - Attic - Midnight

Hannie lies in bed, tossing and turning restlessly. Just as she finally closes her eyes, Lino's words echo in her mind.

💬 "Stop what?! If you'd let me, I was just about to start... What do you think of me?" 💬

Her eyes snap open.

Hannie (muttering to herself): "What did he mean by 'start'? What was he trying to say?! Ugh... that perverted guy! I need to remember—I didn't come here for this kind of nonsense!"

She yanks the blanket over her head, but within seconds, she pulls it away again, frustrated.

Hannie: "Where did your dignity go, girl?! Why were you about to give in so easily? Ugh... idiot, idiot."

Angrily, she buries herself under the blanket again.

Just then, an image flashes in her mind—Changbin's shocked expression when he noticed her torn pants. A wave of embarrassment washes over her. She groans, bangs her forehead against the pillow, and grits her teeth.

Hannie: "Damn it... did both of them see my underwear?!"

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Midnight

Minje and Keiju quietly slip into the room, moving toward Minje's bed. Keiju climbs onto the bed to grab a pillow and blanket, but just as he does, a voice breaks the silence.

Gaon (half-asleep, mumbling): "Why are you making so much noise?"

Keiju freezes, then quickly lies down to avoid being seen.

Gaon (sitting up, groggy): "Go to your bed quietly! We have class tomorrow."

Minje (climbing into bed): "Okay."

Minje lies down beside Keiju.

Keiju (whispering): "Once he falls asleep, I'll leave."

Minje nods in agreement. Gaon, glances at the clock, then gets up and starts studying at his desk.

Minje (holding back a laugh): "I had no idea he was planning to study here tonight... looks like he's staying."

Keiju smiles. Minje shifts closer, wraps an arm around him, and whispers softly in his ear.

Minje: "Forget your worries and just sleep."

Keiju blinks, momentarily confused. As he watches Minje, whose eyes are now closed, he feels his heartbeat quicken. The faster it pounds, the more he finds himself staring at Minje. He takes a deep breath, willing himself to relax, but no matter how hard he tries, he can't seem to close his eyes.

Suddenly, Minje's eyes flutter open in surprise.

Minje: "Why are you still awake?"

Keiju: "It's barely been two minutes—how do you expect me to fall asleep already?"

Minje (glancing at the clock): "It's been twenty minutes... are you still overthinking things?"

Keiju looks away, embarrassed. Thinking.

💭Right... what am I even thinking about?💭

Without another word, he pulls the blanket over Minje's face.

Keiju: "Now, I'll sleep."

Keiju finally shuts his eyes.

Minje pulls the blanket off his face, smiling at Keiju, but when he notices the lingering sadness in Keiju's expression, his smile fades.

༻ ❁ ✿ ❀༺

To be continued

༻ ❁ ✿ ❀༺

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

🎬What you will read in the next chapter:

☺️Minje: "Wait... have we been holding hands this whole time? I didn't even notice. Sorry."

😤Changbin: "Which idiot dared to touch my Lino?!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

♡ THANKS FOR READING ♡

✩ HOPE YOU ENJOY IT ✩

Chapter Text

Interior - School - Class [2-4] - Noon

Lino places his book on the desk, partially covering his face as he steals glances at Hannie, who is engrossed in a comic book.

He frowns, thinking to himself.

💭 Why is she ignoring me? ... After everything I said to her last night, I thought I would have caught her attention. Has she even thought about me? 💭

Suddenly, Changbin slaps him on the back.

Changbin: "Stop making a fool of yourself."

Lino: "How can I tell if she's thinking about me or not?"

Changbin: "She is."

Lino (half-smiling): "Oh, really? Is it written on her forehead or something?"

Changbin: "You can tell by her eyes. She avoids looking at you, which means you've never left her mind. And don't forget—last night, in that life-or-death moment, she came to save you."

Lino rests a hand on Changbin's shoulder.

Lino: "I trust you."

With renewed confidence, Lino walks over to Hannie and takes a seat beside her.

Lino: "Are you going home this weekend?"

Hannie (still focused on her book): "Why does that matter to you?"

Lino: "Come with me to the movies."

Hannie: "I don't like movies."

Lino glances at the book in her hands.

Lino: "Then let's go to the bookstore."

Hannie: "I already have tons of books I haven't read."

Lino (smiling): "Then let's go to the park and read together."

Hannie: "In this cold weather?!"

Lino: "Fine, let's go to karaoke."

Hannie: "Too noisy."

Lino (sighs): "Are these excuses because you don't want to hang out with me, or do you actually hate all these ideas?"

Hannie finally puts her book down on the table and glares at him.

Hannie: "Yeah, they're all excuses—because of what you said to me last night. (rests her head on her hand) Did you think I'd be so available after that?"

Lino: "I'm sorry if I upset you, but—"

Before he can finish, the teacher enters the classroom, and everyone quickly takes their seats.

Lino (leaning closer, whispering): "Let's talk later."

------------------------------

Interior - Bus - Afternoon

Keiju leans his head against the window, staring out as the scenery blurs past, lost in thought.

<<<<<<<<<<

Flashback to this morning

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Morning

Keiju slowly opens his eyes, only to find Minje asleep, resting his head gently on Keiju's shoulder.

A soft smile tugs at Keiju's lips. He shifts slightly, trying not to wake him—but when he begins to move, Minje stirs.

Panicking, Keiju immediately shuts his eyes and pretends to still be asleep.

>>>>>>>>>>

Back to present

Interior - Bus - Afternoon

Keiju shakes his head, frustrated, mentally kicking himself.

💭 Why did I pretend to be asleep? I didn't even do anything wrong! 💭

A vivid image flashes in his mind—him watching Minje a little too closely, his gaze lingering too long.

His face flushes with embarrassment.

With a sigh, he knocks his forehead gently against the glass.

------------------------------

Exterior - School - Rooftop - Afternoon

Lino leans quietly against the edge of the rooftop, his eyes scanning the horizon.

Moments later, Hannie steps out.

Hannie (arms crossed): "So... tell me, how are you gonna try to fool me this time?"

Lino (his smile fading as he looks at her): "Looks like you're really upset about what I said (sighs) I didn't mean it that way... I thought we were friends. I was just teasing you."

Hannie (with a bitter laugh): "Do you flirt with all your friends?"

Lino (smiling softly): "Well... if that friend is someone I'd like to go on a date with, yeah."

Hannie stares at him in disbelief, thinking.

💭 A date??!! This is worse than I expected. I wish I never came here. 💭

Lino takes a small step forward.

Lino: "So? What do you think? Huh?"

Hannie: "This friend doesn't want to date you."

Lino (surprised): "Really?!"

She turns to leave, but Lino gently catches her wrist.

Lino (softly): "Wait... Are we still okay? Still friends?"

Hannie: "Yeah... as long as you don't ruin it yourself."

She slips her hand from his and walks away, leaving Lino standing there, watching her go.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Basement - Afternoon

Changbin sits on a table, while Lino lies down with his head resting on Changbin's lap.

Lino (hopelessly): "Then why did she reject me?!"

Changbin: "Ugh... girls can be spoiled sometimes. She's just playing hard to get."

Lino: "She didn't sound like she was playing at all."

Changbin (messing up Lino's hair): "I haven't seen you like this in ages!"

Lino: "You make it sound like something's wrong with me."

Changbin: "It's just that... when you care about a girl, you act differently."

Lino: "Well, I'm not changing anytime soon. (sits up) Come on, let's go outside."

------------------------------

Exterior - School - Yard - Afternoon

Arm in arm, Changbin and Lino head toward the school's front gate.

Suddenly, a faint sound of crying reaches their ears.

They stop.

Then, they hear it again—Gaon, crying.

Alarmed, they rush toward the sound and find Suhwan and Jisoo tearing Gaon's notebooks and papers apart.

Gaon's hands and feet are tied up with ropes.

Gaon (sobbing, pleading): "Please stop... I shared all my notes with you."

Changbin's expression darkens. His fists clench as he grinds his teeth.

Changbin (furious, whispering): "Those bastards... They're doing the same thing to Gaon that they did to you."

But before he can step forward, Lino quickly grabs his arm.

Lino (urgently): "Let's go before they see us. We need to leave—now."

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Evening

Lino and Changbin enter the room and find Gaon sitting at his desk, focused on his books.

They walk over to him.

Lino: "Staying at school for the weekend again?"

Gaon (without looking up): "I need to study... please don't bother me."

Lino's gaze drifts to the torn papers on Gaon's desk, his expression darkening.

Changbin, sensing Lino's frustration, grabs his hand and pulls him toward couch.

Changbin: "There's nothing we can do now. Never mind, let's just do our thing."

Lino: "I feel bad for him."

Changbin angrily stomps his foot on the floor as he moves toward his bed.

The thudding sound startles Gaon, making him jump in his seat every time.

Lino (glaring at Changbin): "Can't you see? (gestures toward Gaon) He's already not feeling great. Be considerate."

Changbin huffs and turns away childishly.

Lino sighs, closing his eyes.

Just then, Hannie's face appears in his mind.

💭 Ugh... now that she's rejected me, am I thinking about her even more?! Crazy. 💭

He smirks at the thought.

Hearing the quiet chuckle, Changbin turns around and eyes him suspiciously.

------------------------------

Interior - Choi's House - Living Room - Evening

Minje's parents are watching TV.

Minje (lying on the couch): "So when is hyung arriving?!"

Minje's Mom: "He couldn't get time off this week."

Minje (sitting up abruptly): "Ugh... why didn't he tell me? I would've just stayed at dorm."

His dad gently taps the back of his head.

Minje's Dad: "So you didn't come home to see us, huh? Only came for him?"

Minje (laughing): "Well, you guys are always glued to the TV... and there's no one to talk to."

With that, he stands up and heads to his room.

------------------------------

Interior - Choi's House - Minje's Room - Evening

Minje plops onto his bed, grabs his phone, and dials Keiju.

Keiju answers, but there's a lot of background noise.

Minje: "Did I call at a bad time?"

Keiju (from the phone): "No, what's wrong?"

Minje: "Nothing... go back to the party."

Keiju: "You wouldn't call unless something was up. Just tell me already."

Minje pauses for a moment.

Keiju: "Are you bored? Do you want to go out?"

Minje: "Heh... how did you know?!"

Keiju: "I'm tired too. It's way too loud here."

------------------------------

Exterior - Street - Evening

Keiju and Minje stroll down the street, window-shopping as they pass various stores.

As they approach an intersection, Keiju steps forward, about to cross.

Minje grabs his hand suddenly.

Minje: "Wait! The light's still red!"

Keiju chuckles, glancing down at their linked hands.

When the light finally turns green, they cross together, still holding hands.

Keiju loosens his grip, but Minje doesn't let go.

A faint unease creeps into Keiju, his heartbeat picking up.

Noticing Keiju staring at their hands, Minje finally realizes.

Minje: "Wait... have we been holding hands this whole time? I didn't even notice. Sorry."

He lets go immediately.

Keiju (grinning, teasing): "What's the big deal? Afraid of what people will think?"

Minje laughs, and Keiju's heart pounds louder.

He stares at Minje's face, mesmerized.

Minje: "What's wrong?"

Keiju snaps out of it, quickly points to a photo booth behind Minje.

Keiju: "Let's take pictures."

Minje (excitedly): "Sounds fun!"

------------------------------

Interior - Photo Booth - Evening

Minje and Keiju try on various plush doll headbands and take a bunch of funny pictures.

Minje suddenly steps out wearing a colorful hoodie, curly neon green wig, and a red clown nose.

Keiju, watching him, accidentally blurts out his thoughts.

Keiju (muttering in Japanese): "How is he still so handsome, even like this?!"

His eyes widen in horror, and he slaps a hand over his mouth.

But Minje simply smiles.

Since he knows a little Japanese, he understands—but chooses to pretend otherwise.

Instead, he picks up a cat ears headband, places it on Keiju's head, pinches his cheek with a grin.

Minje (in English): "My adorable kitten!"

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 7 - Evening

Kyehoon's phone vibrates with a notification from the school website.

He opens it and sees a post by STRAY WITCH, exposing a student being bullied.

Curious, he plays the video and sees Suhwan and Jisoo tearing up a student's books and notes.

Kyehoon instantly recognizes him, even though Gaon's face is blurred.

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Hallway - Evening

Kyehoon steps out of his room, heading upstairs until he notices something unusual.

JUNHA, the chemistry teacher, is climbing the stairs while talking on the phone.

Junha (on the phone): "Which room are you in?"

Kyehoon stops in his tracks, eyes narrowing.

He quietly follows.

As Junha reaches the third floor, she starts checking room numbers, seemingly searching for someone.

Kyehoon, nervously biting his nails, keeps watching from a distance. He thinks.

💭 Is she going to see Jungsu?💭

But instead of stopping, Junha heads up to the fourth floor.

Kyehoon lets out a breath of relief until he sees Junha enter Room 19.

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Afternoon

The doorbell rings.

Changbin opens the door, and Kyehoon bursts in, his voice urgent.

Kyehoon: "Did you see it?! Did you see them harassing Gaon?! It was him, right?!"

Lino (nodding): "Yeah... it was him."

Kyehoon: "What's going to happen to those guys now?!"

Changbin: "Whatever it is, they deserve it. This is what they do—bullying hardworking students."

Kyehoon (skeptical): "Really?!"

Changbin: "They did the same thing to Lino last year too."

<<<<<<<<<<

Flashback to one and half years ago

Interior - School - Classroom - Noon

The classroom is empty, except for Lino, who sits alone, reading a book.

Suddenly, Suhwan and Jisoo enter.

Before Lino can react, they grab his collar and shove him against the wall.

Lino (frowning): "Why are you doing this?"

Suhwan: "Shut up."

Jisoo notices a book on Lino's desk, picks it up, and scoffs.

Jisoo: "This is a comic."

Without hesitation, he tears it apart.

Suhwan, still holding Lino tightly, turns to Jisoo.

Suhwan: "Why'd you tear that? Find his textbooks instead."

Jisoo flips through a textbook, his eyebrows raising in surprise.

Jisoo: "Look at this... he's never even opened his book."

Suhwan taps Lino's forehead with his finger.

Suhwan: "What's this? Trying to act like a genius? Just tell us where your notes are—quickly."

Lino (chuckles): "Look around. Find them yourself."

Suhwan's expression darkens. He punches Lino in the face.

At that moment, Changbin storms into the classroom, his voice sharp.

Changbin: "Which idiot dared to touch my Lino?!"

Suhwan (annoyed): "What are you doing here?! Get out, now."

Changbin ignores him and walks forward.

Jisoo tries to block his way, but Changbin grabs his arm and twists it.

Suhwan lets go of Lino and shoves Changbin, but Changbin retaliates by grabbing Suhwan's collar.

Changbin (furious): "You want to destroy his notes? It's all in his brain. And if you even think about messing with it, just remember before you destroy his brain, you'll lose yours."

With that, Changbin headbutts Suhwan.

Suhwan staggers back, clutching his forehead.

Scowling, he pulls Jisoo up and drags him away.

Changbin (still glaring): "Don't come near Lino again. Got it?"

>>>>>>>>>>

Back to present

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Afternoon

Kyehoon (raising his hand): "Nice."

Changbin (grinning, high-fives him): "Yeah, that's me."

Kyehoon: "But this year, the STRAY WITCH beat them at their own game. It's over for them."

Lino: "Didn't know STRAY WITCH was into doing good deeds."

Kyehoon: "So far, I've only seen good things from STRAY WITCH."

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Hallway - Afternoon

The IT teacher and Junha exit Room 19, both looking frustrated.

IT Teacher (grumbling): "I don't know what to do with these guys anymore!"

Junha: "The disciplinary committee will decide. I don't have time for this. Just give me my USB, I need to edit the exam questions."

The IT teacher pats his pockets, then freezes.

IT Teacher: "Ah... I think I left it in my room."

Junha (groaning): "Ugh... You dragged me all the way here for nothing?!"

------------------------------

Interior - Girls' Dormitory - Hallway - Night

Once again, Hyunjin strides down the hallway—dressed as a girl.

He knocks on a door.

A girl opens it, and without hesitation, Hyunjin quickly steps inside.

------------------------------

Interior - Girls' Dormitory - Room 13 - Night

Girl (sadly): "Tonight is the last time... don't come here anymore."

Hyunjin's smile fades.

Hyunjin: "Why?! You don't need me anymore? Found someone else?"

Girl: "No, it's not like that. I just want to stop."

Hyunjin (smirking): "Well, that's even better... then I won't give it to you today. It's for your own good."

He turns to leave, but before he can step away—

Girl (grabbing his hand): "Wait... please, just one more time."

Hyunjin looks at her, his expression softening with sympathy.

He sighs, pulls out a cigarette, and hands it over.

Girl: "That's it?!"

Hyunjin: "Didn't you say this was the last time? Then this should be enough."

Hyunjin exhales deeply, then leaves the room without another word.

------------------------------

Interior - Girls' Dormitory - Room 20 - Night

Yunji yawns, preparing to lie down, when suddenly—

The doorbell rings.

She opens the door, and Hyunjin pushes past her, stepping inside.

Yunji (studying him carefully): "Who are you?"

Hyunjin (quickly covering her mouth): "Shh... don't say a word, or we'll both get expelled."

Yunji stares at him, wide-eyed.

Just then, a girl sits up from her bed.

Girl: "You're here? You brought it, right?"

Hyunjin (irritated): "Why didn't you open the door yourself? (pulls a bottle of soju from his bag) Here. Take it."

Girl: "Why are you so upset? Stay and drink with me—I won't let you have a bad night."

Hyunjin's eyes darken. His anger intensifies.

Hyunjin: "You've got me wrong! As soon as the teacher walks by, I'm leaving."

He tosses several packs of condoms onto the bed.

The girl looks at them in shock.

Hyunjin (mockingly): "With that attitude, you'll need them. (turns to Yunji) What? You got something to say?"

Yunji lowers her head and shakes her head quickly.

------------------------------

Interior - School - Teachers' Room - Morning

Gaon's father (furious): "Is this a jungle where anyone can hurt my son?!"

IT Teacher (calmly): "Don't worry, the disciplinary committee will make sure they face consequences."

Gaon's father: "They should be expelled."

IT Teacher: "For cases like this, temporary expulsion is the standard punishment."

Gaon's father (outraged): "Unacceptable! I won't let my son stay in a school with those kinds of students. If they stay, I'm pulling Gaon out."

IT Teacher: "Mr. Kwak, Just hang in there with us for a few more days. Gaon is one of our best students... we don't want to lose him so easily."

Gaon's father (sarcastically): "Glad you know that, but you still allow this to happen."

IT Teacher: "It's not my call. If it were up to me, they would've been kicked out of the dormitory last night."

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Bathroom - Morning

Changbin dries his hands, about to open the door, when he hears voices from the room.

Gaon's father: "If they stay at this school, they'll hurt you again."

Gaon: "No... give them a chance. Please, Dad."

Gaon's father: "They need to be expelled to understand what they've done. Don't be so naive."

Gaon: "But... they only tore my books..."

Gaon's father: "Because they knew how much they meant to you."

------------------------------

Interior - Boys' Dormitory - Room 18 - Morning

Changbin steps out of the bathroom.

Changbin: "Sorry, I wasn't trying to eavesdrop, but I heard... (bows respectfully to Gaon's father, then looks at Gaon) Did you know that emotional abuse is just as serious as physical abuse?"

Gaon stares at him, confused.

Changbin: "If they'd hit you, the pain would go away. But they destroyed something that mattered to you, right in front of you. You might not feel it now, but trust me—you'll regret not standing up to them when you see them do it again to someone else."

Gaon's father (to Changbin): "Are you Gaon's classmate?"

Changbin: "No, I'm just his roommate. But I know Suhwan and Jisoo well. Last year, they bullied my friend, and we didn't report it. Seeing this now... we regret it."

Gaon's father (to Gaon): "I'm glad your roommate has your back."

Gaon looks at Changbin in surprise.

Changbin grins at him.

Gaon's father (to Changbin): "I'll send you a big slaughtered lamb as thanks. Give me your address."

He says goodbye and leaves.

As soon as the door closes, Changbin leans toward Gaon.

Changbin: "Does your dad own a restaurant?"

Gaon: "No... he owns a slaughterhouse."

Changbin shudders and forces a nervous smile.

------------------------------

Exterior - School - Yard - Noon

Lix sits by the small pond, scrolling through the school's website on her phone.

Suddenly, a post catches her eye.

Title: "The Identity of the School's STRAY WITCH Revealed."

Her eyes widen.

She quickly looks around, nervous.

With trembling fingers, she clicks the link—

Her jaw drops.

༻ ❁ ✿ ❀༺

To be continued

༻ ❁ ✿ ❀༺

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

🎬What you will read in the next chapter:

🪄Hannie: "If I had magic powers too, I'd be grinning just like you!"

💓Minje: "Love isn't a crime."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

♡ THANKS FOR READING ♡

✩ HOPE YOU ENJOY IT ✩