Blind Hearts Unveiled|ZB1

9: Valentine's Day

The campus was buzzing with excitement as Valentine's Day had finally arrived. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation, and students were eagerly looking forward to the blind dates event that was scheduled for the day. The school was adorned with heart-shaped decorations, and a cheerful energy seemed to permeate the air.

Matthew walked briskly through the school entrance, a cup of steaming americano in hand. His excitement was evident as he thought about the gesture he was about to make. Today was not just Valentine's Day; it was also an opportunity to show his appreciation to Jiwoong, who had been helping him with his studies.

As he entered the school building, he couldn't help but feel a mix of nerves and anticipation. He knew he wanted to express his gratitude, but he also hoped his small gesture would be well-received. Matthew made his way to Jiwoong's classroom, his heart pounding a bit faster with each step.

Upon reaching the classroom, he took a deep breath and knocked gently on the door. Jiwoong looked up from his desk, surprised by the early morning visit. Matthew's smile was a mix of nervousness and genuine warmth as he held out the cup of americano.

"Good morning, Jiwoong-sunbaenim," Matthew greeted, his voice a bit softer than usual. "I wanted to give this to you as a thank you for helping me with the extra lessons. And, well, it's also Valentine's Day, so I thought it'd be a nice gesture."

Matthew's heart raced as he stood there, the warmth of the moment still lingering between them.

Jiwoong's smile seemed to hold a touch of something more, and as their eyes met, Matthew couldn't help but feel a sense of connection that went beyond their student-teacher dynamic.

Jiwoong took another sip of the americano, his gaze thoughtful. "Thank you, Matthew. That's really thoughtful of you."

A shy smile tugged at the corners of Matthew's lips. "I'm glad you like it. I wanted to show my appreciation for your help. It means a lot to me."

As the bell rang, signaling the start of the school day, Matthew felt a hint of disappointment that their conversation might be cut short. However, Jiwoong's next words caught him off guard.

"Matthew, do you have any plans after school?" Jiwoong asked, his tone casual but his eyes betraying a certain curiosity.

Matthew blinked, momentarily confused. He had assumed that Jiwoong might want to arrange another lesson, which he didn't exactly look forward to on a holiday. But something in Jiwoong's demeanor suggested a different intent.

"Uh, not really," Matthew replied, his heart rate increasing slightly as he wondered where this was leading.

Jiwoong's lips quirked up into a small smile. "Well, there's something I wanted to check out at the local art gallery. It's a new exhibition that just opened. I thought it might be interesting. Would you like to join me?"

Matthew's eyes widened in surprise. This was unexpected, to say the least. "Oh, um, the art gallery? That sounds... great." He mentally kicked himself for his awkwardness, wondering if he sounded too eager.

Jiwoong's smile grew warmer, and he seemed to sense Matthew's uncertainty. "It's okay if you're busy or not interested. I just thought it could be a fun way to spend the afternoon."

"No, no! I mean, I'd love to go," Matthew quickly replied, his cheeks flushing with a mix of embarrassment and excitement. "I appreciate the invitation."

Jiwoong's gaze held a twinkle of amusement. "Good. Let's meet outside the school gates after classes are over."

Matthew nodded eagerly. "Sounds like a plan."