Curious Hearts

Chapter 1

The distant rumble of thunder echoed in the cloudy sky as Ain stepped out of the taxi. Her heart raced as she stood at the gates of her new high school in Busan. Transferring schools was never easy and starting fresh in a completely new city only made it harder.

The school courtyard buzzed with activity ad students gathered in groups, laughing and chatting with the ease of familiarity. Ain missing her old friends in Seoul.

Ain finally found her classroom. She paused at the door and stepped inside. The teacher, middle-aged man with a warm smile, noticed her and introduced her to the class.

"Everyone, this is Ain. Our new transfer student. Please make her feel welcome."

Ain quickly bowed and offered a small, nervous smile before scanning the room for a seat. As she moved to the back of the classroom, her gaze locked with a boy sitting by the window. His eyes were sharp, his expression calm and unreadable. Unlike the other students, he didn't whisper or stare openly; instead, he simply observed her with an intensity that made her slightly uncomfortable.

Finding an empty desk near the back, Ain sat down and unpacked her things, trying to focus on the lesson. But, her eyes drifted back to the boy by the window. He was focused on the teacher's lecture, barely blinking as he absorbed the information.

"Who is he?"

Ain wondered, intrigued by the aura of mystery surrounding him.

During lunchtime, as Ain explored the school's bustling cafeteria, she spotted the same boy sitting alone at a table, reading a book while quietly eating his lunch. Ain was curious, but something about his closed-off presence made her hesitate to approach him.

After lunch, the teacher announced that they would be assigning a student to help Ain get familiar with the school.

"Jay, could you show Ain around after classes today?"

Jay gave a small nod before returning to his notes.

As the final bell rang and students began packing up, Jay walked over to Ain's desk.

"Let's go."

Ain followed him out of the classroom, and trying to start a conversation.

"Thank you for showing me around the school."

"No problem."

Jay led Ain through the school, pointing out important locations like the library, the science labs, and the gymnasium.

As they passed by the art room, Ain noticed Jay glance at the display of student paintings with a flicker of interest. It was the first time she'd seen him show a hint of emotion other than formality.

"Do you like art?" Ain asked.

Jay blinked, as if caught off guard by the question.

"Not really."

Their tour ended back at the classroom.

"That's everything you need to know for now. If you need anything else, ask me or the teacher."

"Thank you."