That afternoon, the cafeteria hummed louder than usual. Not because of an event, but because of a rumor weaving through every table.
"New transfer," Blake announced as he dropped his tray beside Minho. "From overseas. Switched colleges mid-semester. Bold move, huh?"
Seojin, who usually tuned out Blake's chatter, caught the words. His gaze flickered briefly, sharp even when his expression stayed unreadable.
Across the room, Sofia leaned closer to Emma.
"A transfer this late?" Emma whispered. "That must be so hard. Everyone already has their groups."
Sofia smirked knowingly. "Or maybe it'll be interesting. New blood always stirs the pot."
Ishitha listened silently, her fork pausing mid-air. She didn't add to the chatter, but the thought lingered anyway. To walk into a place where friendships were already formed, where rhythms had already been set… that must feel like stepping into someone else's story halfway through.
For some reason, she found herself curious. Just a little.
Then, just as quickly, she pushed it away.
But across the room, Kim Seojin's eyes lingered on her again, sharp and restless, as though her indifference only deepened his need to look.
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