𝘚𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶 / 𝘎𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘻

𝑪𝒉 : 𝟖 𝑾𝒆 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒋𝒖𝒎𝒑𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒄𝒍𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏

The week of exams passed in a blur of stress and sleepless nights. Leehan threw himself into his studies, spending every spare moment with Taesan. They met during lunch breaks, Taesan patiently explaining each concept, word by word. Leehan's friends noticed his absence but didn't push him, understanding that he needed time to focus.

Despite his efforts, Leehan hadn't slept properly in a week. The exhaustion was taking its toll, but he refused to show it. He was determined to prove himself, to make up for the rumors that had tarnished his reputation.

When the exams finally ended, the regular classes resumed. As Taesan entered the classroom, the usual whispers and teasing directed at Leehan fell silent. Taesan's presence commanded respect, and the students quickly quieted down.

Taesan glanced at Leehan, noticing the unshed tears in his eyes. He took a deep breath and addressed the class. "I want to clear up some misunderstandings," he began, his voice steady. "There have been rumors about Leehan and me. Let me make it clear that there is nothing inappropriate between us. The pictures were taken at an odd angle. Leehan fell asleep in the classroom because we were studying late into the night. As his professor, it is my duty to support my students."

He paused, letting his words sink in. "Leehan is a dedicated student, and I am proud of his efforts. There is no romantic relationship between us. I am his professor, and he is my student. That is all."

Leehan's heart sank at Taesan's words. He had hoped, even if just a little, that there might be something more between them. But Taesan's firm denial crushed that hope. He forced himself to focus on the positive—at least the rumors would stop.

The students who had been calling Leehan names and spreading rumors looked ashamed. One by one, they approached him, offering apologies. "I'm sorry, Leehan," one of them said, their voice sincere. "We shouldn't have jumped to conclusions."

Leehan nodded, accepting their apologies. It was a small relief, but it didn't erase the pain of the past week. He glanced at Taesan, who gave him a reassuring nod. Despite everything, Taesan was still there for him.

As the days passed, Leehan continued to work hard, determined to prove himself. Taesan remained a constant support, guiding him through his studies. The bond between them grew stronger, even if it wasn't the romantic connection Leehan had secretly hoped for.

The second round of exams approached, and Leehan felt more prepared than ever. He entered the exam hall with a sense of determination, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. And as he wrote, he felt a newfound confidence, knowing that he wasn't alone in his struggles.

The journey was far from over, but Leehan was ready to face it, one step at a time. And with Taesan by his side, he knew he could overcome anything.