After class, the hallway buzzed with students rushing to their next destination. Zyran, still fuming from his exchange with Kai, tried to slip past the throng when he felt a light tap on his shoulder.
Hey!" It was Yuu, Kai's sister, her bright smile a stark contrast to Zyran's frustration. "You okay? I saw you two in class."
Zyran sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, just the usual. He thinks he can get away with being a jerk."
"Don't take it personally," Yuu replied, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "He acts tough, but deep down, he's just a spoiled kid trying to prove something."
Zyran raised an eyebrow. "You really think that?"
"Definitely," Yuu said, her voice softening. "But you should stand up for yourself. You have more strength than you realize."
Just then, Kai appeared, rolling his eyes at the sight of them talking. "What's this? A pity party for the loser?" he mocked, but there was a hint of uncertainty in his tone.
Yuu shot him a disapproving look. "Kai, come on. Just because you're having a bad day doesn't mean you can take it out on Zyran."
Kai folded his arms, the bravado slipping slightly. "I'm not-"
"Then why are you acting like this?" Zyran interjected, surprising even himself. "I'm not your punching bag, Kai."
For a moment, there was silence. Kai's expression faltered, and Zyran saw a flicker of vulnerability behind the arrogance.
Yuu stepped between them, a determined look on her face. "How about we all grab lunch together? It could help clear the air."
Zyran hesitated, glancing at Kai, who seemed equally unsure. "Really? You think that's a good idea?"
"Absolutely!" Yuu insisted, her enthusiasm infectious. "Who knows? You might even discover you have more in common than you think."
Kai shrugged, a reluctant smirk forming. "Fine, whatever. Just don't expect me to be nice."
Zyran rolled his eyes but couldn't help a small smile. "Guess I'll take what I can get."
As they made their way to the cafeteria, Zyran felt a strange mix of anticipation and dread. Maybe this lunch wouldn't be as terrible as he thought.
The cafeteria buzzed with noise, the scent of pizza and fries wafting through the air. As they settled at a table, an awkward silence enveloped them. Zyran picked at his food, stealing glances at Kai, who seemed uncharacteristically pensive.
Yuu, sensing the tension, broke the silence. "So, how's everyone's day been so far? Any exciting plans for the weekend?"
Zyran shrugged, grateful for the distraction. "Just the usual stuff. Probably working on my assignments. You?"
"I might drag Kai out for some fun," she said, elbowing him playfully. "He could use a break from being a grouch."
"Yeah, right," Kai replied, a hint of annoyance in his voice. "Fun isn't really my thing."
Zyran replied, So being a jerk is your thing
Shut up," Kai shot back, but there was a slight chuckle in his tone, hinting that he wasn't completely unaffected by Zyran's banter.
Yuu leaned in, her eyes sparkling with mischief
Okay, how about we play a game? Each of us shares something about ourselves that no one else knows. It could be interesting!"
Zyran hesitated, unsure if he wanted to open up, but Yuu's enthusiasm was contagious. "Fine. I'll go first. I used to be really into drawing when I was younger. I wanted to be an artist but... life happened."
"That's cool," Yuu said, genuinely interested. "I bet you're really good!"
Zyran shrugged, feeling a little embarrassed. "I haven't drawn in years."
Your turn, Kai," Yuu prompted, grinning. "Something juicy!"
Kai rolled his eyes but played along. "I once got kicked out of a fancy dinner my parents took me to because I wouldn't stop making fun of the food."
Yuu roll her eyes,l told you to stop l didn't even
get to eat my food because of youZyran couldn't help but laugh, surprised by the revelation. "Really? That's actually kind of funny."
Whatever," Kai mumbled, but he couldn't hide a slight smile.Just then, the bell rang, echoing through the cafeteria and breaking the moment.
"Guess that's our cue," Yuu said, glancing at her watch. "We should probably head to class before we get in trouble."
Kai pushed his tray away, standing up. "Yeah, let's go. I have no intention of getting detention because of you two."
(Hope you like it so far:)
YOU ARE READING
Rich Heart,poor souls
Genç KurguIn a world where wealth defines status, Kai and Zyran have been rivals since childhood. Spoiled and privileged, Kai has always bullied Zyran for his poverty, deepening their mutual hatred. As they navigate the complexities of high school life, Zyran...