Chapter 1
You know how in romance dramas or anime, when the new transfer student shows up, he instantly sits beside the female lead at the back of the class, they share a book, and suddenly they're in their own little world?
Yeah… that was never me.
I was already sitting at the back, but Jack was placed in the middle row. From where I sat, I could only see his profile — calm, quiet, unreadable. Still, I couldn't help glancing up now and then, waiting for lunch break to see what would happen next. I've already accepted it: I'm not the main character in my own story.
As expected, the classroom didn't stay peaceful for long.
By lunchtime, every girl was crowded around him, giggling and asking questions. I ate alone, like usual, watching the chaos unfold.
Then Jack stood up, pulled his hoodie over his head, and said flatly, "Move."
That's it. One word.
He walked right past them without a second glance.
You'd think the girls would complain, "Ugh, how rude!" but instead they practically melted.
"Did you see his intense look?"
"The way he carries himself, so cool!"
I just shook my head and poked at my lunch. Some people don't even need to try.I just rolled my eyes and went back to my rice. I'd seen enough dramas to know that 'mysterious' usually means 'trouble.
Weeks pass by, as you already know, I'm the "reliable student" in my class, the one teachers can count on and classmates go to when they need help. You know business as usual. So, one afternoon after class, I was helping one of my teachers prepare for tomorrow's lessons.
Some people might call it lonely, but I don't think so. There's something peaceful about being alone in a place that's usually full of noise.
As the sun began to set, golden light filled the classroom. The noise of students faded, replaced by the soft rustle of the curtains swaying in the breeze. It felt like the whole school had exhaled, leaving behind a calm only I could enjoy.
When I finally finished sorting the papers, I stepped into the quiet hallway, and that's when I saw him.
Jack.
He was standing at the end of the corridor, talking to someone. His voice was low but tense. Curious (and maybe a little nosy), I hid behind the corner wall.
"Why are you here of all places?" he said sharply. "Can't you see this isn't happening?"
A girl's voice answered softly, trembling but determined. "I'm sorry, Jae."
Jae?
Wait, Jae? Who shortens Jack to Jae just to make it sound cute and close? Just wondering, you know.
"I tried, but I don't care anymore," the girl continued. "I just don't want to care. At least while we're in this school… can't we still try? Together?"
She stepped closer, reaching out to touch his face. Her long black hair shimmered under the corridor lights, and her voice cracked as she said, "Please, Jae."
But Jack gently pushed her hand down. "Can you please leave me alone? Do I need to make myself clearer?"
The girl's eyes filled with tears. "I don't want to hear those awful, empty words again. Just… think about what I said."
Then she turned and ran off.
Jack stood there for a moment, sighing. "Are you serious, now, Faye?"
My heart was pounding. I had just witnessed a scene straight out of one of my dramas, and I was the accidental audience!
Then it hit me. Spying is not good for me; I need to get out without making any sound.
I turned to sneak away as quietly as possible when his voice suddenly echoed down the hall.
"I know you're there. Come out. I can still see your shadow."
My heart nearly stopped.
Was he talking to me?
I froze. Then, in the most cowardly yet survival-driven move ever, I bolted in the opposite direction. Luckily, I was on the upper floor, and he was below the stairs, so I ran down the other side that led to the teachers' office and escaped out the back door.
I didn't stop running until I reached home.
That evening, as I collapsed on my bed, catching my breath, I realized something terrifying.
My necklace was gone.
The necklace I never take off.
Panic hit me like a wave.
Is this how I get caught? Like the total amateur I am?