Heartstrings

Chapter 1: New Beginnings

It was the day everyone had been waiting for. The excitement was palpable as students rushed into the classroom, eager to see the new kid. Whispers and gossip filled the air, each rumor painting Changbin as the perfect student—handsome, athletic, charismatic. I couldn't help but get caught up in the buzz, hoping to see for myself if the rumors were true.

I was also waiting in anticipation for the new transfer to come. There was much gossip between students about the new kid. "Hopefully I can become good friends with him" I thought. As thoughts whirled in my head, the excruciating moment that many had looked forward to came.

Minutes ticked by, each one adding to the anticipation. As the bell rang, signaling the start of class, the door opened, and Changbin walked in. His confident stride and easygoing smile immediately captivated everyone's attention. I couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy mixed with admiration as I watched him effortlessly command the room. How could the new kid walk in without jittery legs or an anxious face? How could he walk in so calmly? And most importantly, how could he gain the attention of 40 people so easily?

I couldn't shake off the resentment brewing within me. Being one of the popular kids in school, I wondered how could this newcomer steal the spotlight so easily in a faze of anger and curiosity. I clenched my fists, my knuckles turning white with frustration as I watched Chaeryeong's gaze linger on Changbin's figure. It was infuriating. 

Chaeryeong, who sat beside me, seemed equally intrigued. Her eyes followed Changbin's every move with a curious gleam. I tried to shake off the feeling of unease creeping up within me, but it was hard to ignore the magnetic pull Changbin seemed to exert on everyone around him. Just then, a gnawing thought started to surface. What if this new kid takes away Chaeryeong? Chaeryeong was my love, my heart, my soul, though I was too apprehensive to admit it to her.

As the days passed, Changbin's popularity soared. He was friendly, talented, and quickly became the center of attention. Despite my attempts to befriend him, I couldn't help but feel a growing distance between us. It was as if an invisible barrier stood between us, preventing any genuine connection. Chaeryeong often talked about him, her eyes lighting up whenever his name was mentioned. Each time, my heart ached a little more.

As the day went on, Changbin continued to impress everyone. In gym class, he showed off his athleticism, easily making the basketball team. At lunch, he was surrounded by a group of students eager to befriend him. Despite my attempts to join in, I couldn't help but feel overshadowed by his charisma.

By the end of the day, it was clear that Changbin had made a lasting impression. Even the teachers seemed to be won over by his charm. As I walked home, I couldn't shake the feeling of inadequacy that had settled over me. How could I compete with someone like Changbin? And more importantly, how could I prevent him from taking away the one person who mattered most to me?