Love in the Halls [Lee Donghyuck]

Chapter 34: Je-rk!

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The morning light filtered through the blinds, casting a golden glow across Narae's bedroom. She stretched, reluctant to leave the comfort of her bed, but the promise of a new day called to her. Today felt different—lighter, somehow. It wasn't that the lingering shadows of her confrontation with Haechan had entirely disappeared, but her time with Renjun had given her a renewed sense of calm. Maybe she couldn't fix everything overnight, but she could try to face each day one at a time.

After a quick breakfast, Narae headed out, the crisp air biting at her cheeks. She pulled her jacket tighter, slipping into the rhythm of her footsteps as she walked to school. It was still early, and the streets were mostly empty, save for a few cars and the occasional jogger. The peace of the morning was almost soothing.

As she rounded the corner near the school's entrance, a familiar voice called out, startling her. "Narae! Wait up!"

She turned to see Jeno jogging toward her, his smile as bright as ever. He had a kind of effortless charm that made him easy to be around, his presence always radiating warmth and friendliness. Narae felt herself relax at the sight of him.

"Good morning," she greeted, smiling back.

Jeno fell into step beside her, his backpack slung over one shoulder. "Morning! You're here early. I was hoping to catch you before class started."

"Why?" Narae asked, curiosity piqued.

"I thought we could walk together," Jeno said casually, as if it were the most natural thing in the world. "I don't see you around much these days, so I figured I'd make the most of it. Plus, Mark's been wanting to get to know you better."

Narae raised an eyebrow. "Mark? As in Mark Lee?"

"Yup," Jeno confirmed, nodding enthusiastically. "He said you seemed cool, but you've always been so quiet around us. I told him you're just shy, but that you're actually really fun to be around once you open up."

Narae felt a faint heat creeping up her cheeks. It wasn't often that she got compliments, especially from someone like Mark, who seemed to have it all together. "I'm not shy," she muttered, more to herself than to Jeno. "I just don't know what to say sometimes."

Jeno chuckled. "That's okay. We all have our moments. But you should come hang out with us today. Mark will be at lunch with me, and it'll be fun, I promise."

Narae hesitated for a moment. The idea of sitting with Jeno and Mark at lunch sounded both terrifying and intriguing. She'd seen them around—always surrounded by friends, laughter, and conversations that seemed to flow effortlessly. It was a different world from the one she usually inhabited, quiet and solitary. But maybe that was exactly what she needed—a change, a chance to step out of her shell.

"Okay," she agreed finally. "I'll join you."

Jeno grinned. "Great! It'll be like old times, only better."

As they walked through the school gates, Narae felt a strange sense of anticipation bubbling inside her. Maybe today wouldn't be so bad after all.

By the time lunch rolled around, Narae's nerves had kicked in full force. She stood at the edge of the cafeteria, tray in hand, scanning the sea of students for Jeno. The noise was overwhelming, a chaotic blend of chatter, laughter, and the clatter of dishes. She spotted Jeno waving from a table near the center, where Mark was already seated, talking animatedly with a couple of other students.

Taking a deep breath, Narae made her way over, weaving through the crowded tables. As she approached, Jeno moved over to make space for her, patting the empty spot beside him.