Reputation

Chapter 5 - Jealous Yoon?

The next day, Hokuto and I had our time to spend together at school as part of the exchange program. I decided to give him a little campus tour while we talked to get to know each other better.

"So, is this your first time in Korea?" I asked curiously as we strolled along the school grounds.

"No, actually, I've been to Korea a few times before. I even have some friends here," Hokuto replied casually, his demeanor cool and composed.

"That's cool! What brings you back this time?" I inquired, genuinely interested in his experiences.

Hokuto smiled. "I wanted to experience more of Korean culture and improve my language skills. Plus, the exchange program seemed like a great opportunity."

As we walked, we discussed our favorite places in Korea, exchanged stories about our hobbies, and shared laughs over funny anecdotes. It felt natural and easy to talk to Hokuto, and I enjoyed his company more with each passing minute.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the field, Jeonghan and Joshua, along with their exchange partners Sakura and Ren, noticed Hokuto and Ara walking together.

Joshua nudged Jeonghan playfully. "Jealous Yoon?" he teased, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Jeonghan scoffed, pretending nonchalance. "What? No way, dude."

"Yeah, yeah, we saw the way you look at Ara before," Joshua persisted with a grin.

Jeonghan rolled his eyes, trying to play it cool. "Nah, you're imagining things, man."

Joshua chuckled knowingly, enjoying his friend's denial. "Sure, whatever you say, Yoon."

Back on our stroll, Hokuto and I continued chatting animatedly, oblivious to the playful banter happening behind us. The sun was warm, the campus bustling with students, and with Hokuto by my side, I felt a sense of excitement and possibility about the days ahead.

As we rounded the corner, I couldn't help but steal a glance back at Jeonghan and Joshua, catching them in a lighthearted argument.

Deciding to bridge the gap between my friends and Hokuto, I walked up to where Jeonghan and Joshua stood with Sakura and Ren. I could feel Hokuto's presence beside me, and I was eager to introduce him to my friends.

"Hey guys!" I greeted cheerfully as we reached them. "This is Hokuto Yoshida, my exchange partner from Matsuri High in Japan."

Jeonghan and Joshua exchanged glances before Jeonghan extended his hand to Hokuto. There was a brief, almost imperceptible pause as their hands met, a flicker of something passing between them before they released their grips.

"Nice to meet you, Hokuto," Jeonghan said with a polite smile, though his eyes held a hint of curiosity.

Hokuto nodded politely. "Likewise. It's good to meet Ara's friends."

"Nice to meet you, Hokuto," Joshua said with a friendly smile, trying to ease any lingering awkwardness.

Sakura greeted Hokuto with a friendly wave, and Ren nodded in acknowledgment.

After the introductions, we exchanged a few more pleasantries before Hokuto and I resumed our campus tour.

As we walked away, I glanced back at Jeonghan and Joshua, noticing the lingering curiosity in Jeonghan's eyes. It was clear something about Hokuto had caught his attention, though I couldn't quite decipher what it was.

Hokuto and I continued our tour, exploring different parts of the campus and sharing more about our lives back home.

The next few days at Haneul Academy were filled with activities designed to help us bond as friends and exchange partners. As Hokuto and I spent more time together, I noticed his personality becoming increasingly flirtatious.

One day, we found ourselves in the library, deep in discussion about our report. Hokuto's chair was positioned close to mine, and I couldn't help but notice his hands resting casually across the back of my chair as we talked.

"So, what do you think about incorporating traditional Korean fashion into our presentation?" Hokuto asked, his voice low and focused.

I considered his suggestion, impressed by his thoughtful approach to the project. "That could be really interesting. We could explore the historical significance and modern interpretations."

Hokuto nodded, his eyes bright with enthusiasm. "Exactly! It would add a unique cultural perspective."

As we brainstormed ideas, I stole a glance at Hokuto, noticing the way his eyes lit up when he spoke about his passions. "You seem really passionate about fashion and culture," I remarked.

He grinned, a playful glint in his eyes. "Guilty as charged. And you seem to have a knack for blending creativity with practicality."

I chuckled, feeling a warmth spread through me at his compliment. "Thanks. It helps when you grow up with a academic rival who's always challenging you."

Hokuto leaned closer, his voice lowering slightly. "Speaking of challenges, I have a feeling this project won't be the only thing keeping us busy."

His words sent a flutter through my stomach, and I couldn't help but smile. "Are you suggesting there's more to look forward to?"

Before Hokuto could reply, Joshua, Scoups and Jeonghan approached our table, breaking the moment with their usual banter. "Mind if we join you guys?" Joshua asked with a grin.

"Sure, pull up a chair," I replied, grateful for the interruption.

Jeonghan, however, seemed unusually quiet as he sat down, his gaze flickering between Hokuto and me. I sensed a hint of tension in the air, though I couldn't quite place its source.

Joshua leaned in, his tone teasing. "So, Ara, getting cozy with Hokuto here?"

I rolled my eyes, playfully swatting at him. "We're just discussing our project."

Joshua chuckled. "Right, just business talk, I'm sure."

Scoups remained quiet, his gaze lingering on Hokuto for a moment before he spoke. "How's the project coming along?"

Hokuto nodded, acknowledging Scoups. "We're making good progress. Ara has some great ideas."

Scoups nodded, his expression serious but approving. "That's good to hear."

As we continued our discussion, the library buzzed with activity around us, students engrossed in their studies and projects. Despite the teasing and the watchful eyes of my friends, I felt a sense of pride in our partnership with Hokuto and looked forward to seeing how our collaboration would unfold.