Whispers Of The Unseen

Chapter 36 - Haerin's POV: Push Me To My Limit

Third period arrived, a new phase of our plan put into motion. I adjusted my glasses with a sense of purpose, gliding into the classroom with a determination that belied my racing heart. My gaze was deliberately averted, scanning the room in calculated motions. The choice of where to sit weighed on my mind—too forward or too distant, each option carried implications. A quick glance toward Minji confirmed her unwavering attention, adding to the intensity of the moment.

I settled into the front row, the decision made in the heat of the moment. Hesitation was a luxury I couldn't afford now. As the class began, my focus was on maintaining the facade we had orchestrated. Attendance was a breeze, and her voice droned on as she launched into the lesson. Geometry—a subject that usually faded into the background as my mind wandered—suddenly commanded my attention.

I stared at my notebook, pen in hand, and allowed myself a moment of hesitation. A quick, rhythmic tap of my pencil against my head was my silent plea for luck. And as the lesson unfolded, the words Minji spoke seemed clearer than ever before. I noted them down, my notes more coherent than my usual scribbles.

A small smile tugged at the corners of my lips. This wasn't just about appeasing Minji's scrutiny—it was about proving to myself that I could embrace discipline and focus. It was a novel experience, being genuinely engaged in the lesson. No longer a mere spectator, I felt a new level of accomplishment.

The bell rang, signaling the end of the period. I rose with purpose, slipping my notebook into my bag. I resisted the urge to linger, to catch her eye or seek her approval. Instead, I made my way out, blending into the flow of students transitioning between classes. The bell's chime was a reminder of the task that lay ahead—dealing with Claire, fulfilling my part in this intricate dance we were engaged in.

As I glided down the increasingly crowded hallway, my destination was clear—a secluded corner where my lunch table awaited. Danielle was in line, and I hastily consumed my meal, the urgency of the situation pushing me forward. As Danielle approached, a greeting escaped her lips, to which I responded with a smile as I grabbed her milk. The unspoken understanding between us led her to produce an extra chocolate milk, an unspoken offering she knew I'd accept.

We ate side by side in companionable silence, but it wasn't long before Danielle's gaze shifted over my shoulder. I braced myself, knowing what was coming next. The voice of Alex disrupted my thoughts as she joined us, her presence causing me to tense involuntarily. Dressed in a black and white striped shirt paired with baggy trousers, her wolf-cut hair adding to her distinctive style, Alex settled into her seat. A casual "hey" was exchanged between her and Danielle, though I purposefully ignored her.

I concentrated on savoring the last drops of milk in my carton, aiming to create a buffer between me and the inevitable encounter with Claire. The conversations of Danielle and Alex continued to unfold beside me, the rapport between them apparent in their laughter and easy camaraderie. The weight of Claire's impending presence hung in the air, and with a sigh, I finally spoke up.

"I have to go," I announced, feeling Danielle's brow furrow in response. She seemed to question my abrupt departure but ultimately allowed me to leave. With a deliberate motion, I discarded my empty milk carton in the trash, exiting the bustling cafeteria with a determined stride. The time had come to confront the challenge that lay ahead—dealing with Claire and executing our plan.

Leaving the clamor of the cafeteria behind, I found myself navigating the school's corridors once more. My steps were purposeful, my mind focused on the task at hand. The challenge wasn't just about Claire, but also about asserting my own strength and control. As I approached the designated spot, my heart quickened, but I suppressed any sign of nervousness.