Love in the Halls [Lee Donghyuck]

Chapter 77: More Than Just a Game

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The afternoon sun filtered through the windows of the art classroom, casting a warm glow over the desks and easels. Narae stood at her station, her hands stained with splashes of paint as she discussed her latest piece with Renjun. His attention was focused on the vibrant colors she'd used, nodding in appreciation.

"That's a bold choice for the background," Renjun remarked, admiring the mix of deep blues and fiery reds. "It really makes the subject pop."

Narae smiled, her cheeks flushed from a combination of the room's warmth and the compliment. "Thanks. I wasn't sure if it would work, but I guess it's turning out okay."

Renjun tilted his head thoughtfully. "You should be more confident. Your work is always impressive."

As the bell rang, signaling the end of art class, Narae's movements became a flurry of activity. Her fingers fumbled with the clasps of her art supplies, the usual calm she maintained now replaced by a surge of anticipation. She stole a quick glance at the clock, her stomach fluttering with nerves that felt like electric sparks. She was about to meet Haechan, and despite it being a casual hangout, the excitement coursing through her made it feel like a much bigger event.

Outside the classroom, she paused momentarily, leaning against the cool wall with a sigh. She inhaled deeply, trying to steady her racing heart. The hallway around her buzzed with the usual after-school energy—students chattering animatedly, friends sharing inside jokes, and the occasional burst of laughter. Yet, amid the hustle and bustle, Narae felt isolated in her own whirlwind of emotions, her attention focused solely on one thing: waiting for Haechan.

Finally, Haechan appeared at the end of the hallway. As soon as she spotted him, her heart did its familiar skip, and a rush of warmth spread through her. He was walking toward her with his trademark grin, his eyes bright and curious, and every step he took seemed to make her anxiety turn into a fluttering eagerness. His presence had a magnetic effect, making her pulse quicken and her nerves tingle with anticipation.

When he finally reached her, his eyes met hers with a glimmer of playfulness, and she felt a wave of warmth spread through her. The mundane hallways, the chatter of students, and the distractions of school seemed to blur into the background, leaving only the immediate reality of Haechan standing before her. "Hey, Narae!" he greeted, his tone cheerful. "You look like you've been waiting here forever."

Narae shrugged, trying to play it cool. "Feels like I've been. I'm hungry."

Haechan chuckled, his eyes widening with a hint of surprise. "Really? My bad then. "I seriously didn't think you'd text me so late at night just to hang out though. I thought you were more of a night owl studying or something."

Narae's cheeks heat up slightly. "Well, I was up late studying. The idea just kind of popped into my head."

Haechan raised an eyebrow, a slight grin spreading across his face. "Really? Well, I'm glad you did."

Narae sighed, trying to deflect his teasing. "Yeah, yeah. Let's just go before you decide to say something stupid."

They walked together, their footsteps echoing softly in the hallway. The conversation flowed easily as they made their way to the arcade, their chatter blending with the hum of the school's after-hours activity.

When they arrived at the little restaurant near the arcade, they found a cozy corner booth. Narae slid into her seat, looking around at the colorful decorations and the inviting ambiance. The menu was filled with options, but she let Haechan take the lead in ordering. He was familiar with the place and seemed to know exactly what was good.