After graduation, Alex and Ken went on vacation with their families. The break was short—only one month—since their new classes at Victor Academy would begin early. The early admission gave them a chance not only to settle in but also to evaluate themselves and, if needed, change their majors.
When vacation ended, they both arrived at the academy dorms. Each student usually had to share a room with someone else, but because they were early admits, they got single rooms. Ken's room was right next to Alex's, so even though they had their own space, it felt like nothing had changed.
That first night, they unpacked quietly in their separate rooms. Ken finished first and walked over to Alex's with some drinks, but found him already fast asleep. Smiling faintly, Ken didn't disturb him and just went back to his own room, where he soon drifted off as well.
The next morning, Ken was woken by a familiar noise. Blinking sleepily, he saw Alex in his room, rummaging through his shelf.
"What's up, man? Why are you going through my stuff?" Ken asked, sitting up.
"Bro, I forgot to bring snacks, and I'm starving," Alex said, eyes darting around like a curious puppy.
"Snacks are in my bag," Ken muttered, heading to brush his teeth.
"You're a saviour, man!" Alex grinned, slipping out with the food.
Ken just shook his head, watching him leave with that half-annoyed, half-fond look—like a mother indulging her childish son.
After freshening up, Ken went to Alex's room and found him already dressed and ready. Together, they headed toward campus. Luckily, the academy was close to the dorms, so it was just a short walk.
"Hey!" a voice called from behind, making them stop at the hallway entrance. They turned to see a young man approaching.
"You two must be the newly admitted students," he said.
"Yes," they replied in unison.
"I'm Professor Robin Shawn. I teach English," he introduced himself with a friendly smile. "I'll get someone to show you around the campus."
Alex and Ken exchanged a glance—they were both surprised by how young he looked. The professor caught their expressions and chuckled. "I liked teaching since high school, so I studied hard and finished early to become a professor."
He waved over a student nearby. "This is Jina, your senior. She'll give you a tour." Turning back to the boys, he added, "And Jina, these are…"
"I'm Alex, and this is Ken," Alex quickly introduced.
"What's your major?" the professor asked, tilting his head with a smile.
"Computer science," Ken replied.
"Both of you?" Professor Shawn raised an eyebrow.
"Yes," they answered together.
"Well, then I've lost two handsome boys to another department," the professor joked lightly.
They all laughed.
"Alright, I won't hold you back any longer. First, see what Victor Academy has to offer. I'll be seeing you around," he said, giving them a quick wink before walking off.
As the professor left, Jina stood there, still processing how she suddenly became their guide.
"So, I'll give you guys a tour as Mr. Robin said," she sighed.
"Did we bother you that much?" Alex asked. Ken stepped on his foot. "Ahh—"
Jina laughed at the gesture. "Well, he asked me, and since I'm in his class, I can't say no. So, how much you bother me doesn't really count." She chuckled, and Alex grinned.
"Well, come along. I'll take you to the cafeteria first—it's the most important place," Jina said with a smile and walked ahead.
The two followed her. When they reached the cafeteria, Ken immediately headed to buy snacks without wasting a second. Jina turned to point out where the food counters were, but only saw Alex standing there smiling. When she glanced back, Ken was already at the counter buying half the stock.
"I doubt how you guys even became early admits," Jina rolled her eyes and waited. Alex stood beside her like an obedient kid.
Ken returned with a handful of snacks. Jina raised an eyebrow, and Ken misread her look. Thinking she wanted some, he offered her a packet, which made her chuckle. She waved it off.
"I don't think you two are the right age to be in college," Jina said, giving them a doubtful look.
"Well, I'm younger than I look," Ken said proudly. "I skipped 2nd and 3rd grade because of… brilliance." He smiled.
Jina looked at him, then turned to Alex.
"I'm not younger. I'm eighteen," Alex said quickly, almost too defensive, which made Jina laugh.
"Well, I'll give you a quick tour of the CS department and the library. The rest you can explore yourselves—I've got class in half an hour," Jina said. She showed them around, then left.
Later, while sitting together, Alex frowned at Ken's pile of snacks.
Alex: "Why did you buy this many snacks when you already have a ton in your room?"
Ken: "Well, I bought these for you." He pushed the packet against Alex's chest.
Alex blinked. "Wait—so it annoys you that I touch your snacks that much?"
Ken: "Man, why would I do that? These are your favorites. What I have in my dorm isn't even on your list." He muttered, "Why am I even explaining this…" and started walking away.
Alex stared after him, confused. Why's he being so soft now? He never just gives me stuff. What's going on with him? Is he planning something?
He sighed, jogged up to Ken, and clapped his shoulder. "Thanks, man."
Ken gave a small nod, and the two of them headed back to class together.