Villain kids

16

The bell rings, signaling the end of class. Students stand, chatting and stretching, then drift off in every direction - most of them heading toward the field for the big basketball game.

Donghyuck walks out last, unhurried. He had time before meeting with Mark, and after that, the rest of the afternoon was his.

But what catches him off guard is the boy waiting just outside the classroom.

Mark looks... nervous. Restless. Fidgeting with his sleeves like they might unravel some ancient prophecy if he pulls too hard.

Hyuck: "Hello, your majesty."
(He smirks, but it's mild. A little teasing. A little confused.)

Mark: "Hi, Donghyuck. I'm sorry, but I'm kind of in a rush. Please - follow me."

Without waiting, Mark starts walking fast, leading him down unfamiliar halls. The pace is brisk. Determined. Almost like he's hiding something behind every step.

They reach a tall wooden door - regal and old. Mark pulls out a sleek card, scans it over a glowing rune on the wall, and the door swings open on its own with a quiet hum of magic.

Mark gestures him inside.

The doors shut behind them automatically, and Donghyuck's jaw drops slightly.

He snaps it shut again, adjusting his posture.

Hyuck: "So... what is it you wanted to talk about?"

Mark gives a small nod, motioning for him to sit. Donghyuck stays standing.

Mark: "Well... I wanted to ask you something. It might sound weird. And I also want to tell you a few more things - about the island. The school."

Hyuck: "Go on."

Mark: "My coronation is in eight days. That's also the deadline for deciding if you and the others can stay here... I've been trying to keep an eye on all four of you, but I barely have time lately. I wanted to ask... would you come with me tomorrow? Just a short trip, to show you around.
I'd invite the others, but I only have room for two on my scooter. And I've got something else planned for them later.
I just... wanted you to be the first.
I know you're having a harder time than the others."

Donghyuck blinks.

Did Mark rehearse this? That was a speech.

He stays quiet a beat too long, and Mark chuckles nervously.

Mark: "Did I make you uncomfortable? I'm sorry, that wasn't my intention."

Hyuck: "Uh... no. Well... maybe a little."
(He laughs softly, brushing back his hair.)
"But I guess... it wouldn't hurt, right?"

His cheeks are warm. Stupid, stupid cheeks.

Mark: "I'll find you after the game, okay? Just wait for me at the entrance."

Hyuck: "What entrance?"

Mark: (grinning) "The field entrance? You are coming to the game, right?"

The question hangs.

Mark: "Donghyuck?"

The sound of his name brings him back.

Hyuck: "Ah... actually, I was thinking of staying in. I kind of wanted some alone time - relax in my room, maybe..."

Mark's face shifts - subtle, but there's no mistaking the drop in his expression.

Mark: "Oh... I see. Well, I really have to go now."
(He walks to the door, opens it, then pauses and waits for Donghyuck.)

They walk back in silence.

At the main hall, Mark slows to say goodbye - but before he can speak, Donghyuck interrupts.

Hyuck: "How about you show me the way to the field... and we can talk more about tomorrow's trip?"

He smiles. Just a little. Soft. Uncharacteristically gentle.

Mark's ears definitely turn pink.

Mark: (trying not to beam) "C'mon. This way."