Seongjii slowed his steps as the school gates came into view.
For the first time in years, his back was straight, his shoulders relaxed, his breathing steady.
This is it… my new self.
A faint warmth still lingered beneath his skin—subtle, controlled, alive.
Near the entrance, familiar voices echoed.
"Yo—Seongjii?" Minho froze mid-sentence. "Is that really you?"
Satoshi's eyes widened. "No way… you look completely different!"
Hyunwoo tilted his head, a faint smirk forming. "Hmm. Not bad at all."
Seongjii smiled lightly. Before he could respond, he bent down and lifted a heavy backpack lying near the steps, swinging it over his shoulder with effortless ease.
Feels… amazing.
A soft chuckle echoed near his ear.
"Careful, mortal," Jennie whispered, floating just out of sight. "Don't reveal all your strength so soon."
As they walked further in, Seongjii spotted Zoe Kim ahead.
Next… Zoe.
She turned, her steps slowing as her gaze landed on him. Her eyes widened—just slightly—before a blush crept onto her cheeks.
"Seongjii…" she said softly. "Wow… you look… amazing."
His heart skipped.
She noticed me…
"Ohhh," Jennie teased. "First taste of attention. Enjoy it."
Laughter faded nearby.
The bullies.
They stood frozen, eyes darting over him like they were seeing a stranger.
"Wait… that's Seongjii?"
"He looks… stronger."
"Confident…"
The hallway shifted, memories flooding back—
Hands shoving him into lockers.
Mocking laughter during lunch.
Sneers as he struggled with deliveries.
All those years… I endured it silently.
Seongjii met their gaze, calm and unshaken.
Not anymore.
I will never bow to anyone. This is my life… and I will live it my way.
Jennie hovered beside him, amused.
"Already sounding like a protagonist. But trust me… the real fun hasn't started."
A crack in the floor caught his foot. He stumbled—just slightly—before regaining balance.
Jennie burst out laughing. "Not perfect yet, mortal!"
Seongjii exhaled, smiling despite himself. Still… progress counts.
His friends exchanged looks.
"He really changed," Minho muttered.
"Yeah," Satoshi grinned. "Upgraded version."
Zoe watched quietly, eyes lingering on him longer this time.
As Seongjii stepped into the classroom, every conversation died down.
Friends smiling.
Bullies stunned.
Zoe watching closely.
And beside him—unseen—Jennie floated with a knowing grin.
Seongjii lifted his gaze, confidence steady.
Time… to show them the new me.
To be continued…