Uncovering Layers

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The next day at school, Chan was greeted with warm smiles and energetic waves as he approached his group of friends. Han, Changbin, and Seungmin had quickly become his closest allies in this new environment, and their friendship was growing stronger with each passing day. Despite the challenges he faced at home and the confusing dynamic with Felix, Chan found solace in these friendships. They were a reminder that, even in a foreign place, he wasn't alone.

"Chan!" Han called out, waving him over to the lunch table they had claimed. "You've got to try this—Changbin's mom made these kimchi pancakes, and they're insane!"

Chan smiled, feeling a warmth in his chest as he joined them. "You always have the best food," he said, accepting the offered pancake. "I think my mom's going to get jealous."

"Nah, just bring her over to our place," Changbin joked, grinning. "She can learn from the master herself."

As they ate, the conversation flowed easily, jumping from school gossip to favorite music. Chan felt at ease with them, the weight of his home life and the strange texts fading away as they laughed and joked together.

"Hey, Chan," Han said, leaning in closer, "why don't you come over to my place this weekend? We can hang out, maybe watch a movie or something."

Chan's eyes lit up at the invitation. "That sounds great! I'd love to."

"Awesome," Han said, clapping him on the back. "It's a plan then. We'll order some pizza, maybe invite a few others. It'll be fun."

"Count me in," Changbin added, popping a piece of pancake into his mouth. "I'm always down for a movie night."

Seungmin nodded in agreement, his usual calm demeanor masking the excitement in his eyes. "I'll bring the snacks."

Chan felt a surge of gratitude toward his friends. They had no idea what he was going through at home, but their kindness and camaraderie were like a lifeline, helping him keep his head above water.

During the break between classes, Chan decided to head to the gym to pick up his sports schedule. As he made his way through the bustling hallways, he couldn't help but think about the unknown messages that had been plaguing him. They were a constant reminder that someone was watching him, but he was determined not to let fear control his life.

The gym was a large, well-equipped space, with various areas dedicated to different sports and activities. As Chan approached the main office to collect his schedule, the sound of rhythmic thuds and sharp exhalations caught his attention. Curious, he turned toward the source of the noise.

There, in the center of the gym's sparring area, was Felix. He was dressed in a black taekwondo uniform, his movements precise and powerful as he executed a series of complex kicks and strikes. Chan's eyes widened in awe as he watched Felix glide across the mat with an almost effortless grace, each movement calculated and controlled. His black belt was a clear indicator of his skill level, but seeing Felix in action was something else entirely.

Felix's focus was intense, his eyes locked on an invisible opponent as he unleashed a flurry of kicks, each one faster and more powerful than the last. His body moved with a fluidity that spoke of years of training, and there was a certain elegance to his technique that made it impossible to look away.

Chan stood frozen in place, completely mesmerized by Felix's performance. The Felix he saw now was so different from the aloof, guarded boy he had come to know. Here, in the gym, Felix was in his element, confident and in control.

"Impressive, isn't it?" a voice said from beside him.

Chan jumped slightly, snapping out of his trance to find Hyunjin standing next to him. Hyunjin's eyes were twinkling with amusement as he watched Chan's reaction.

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