Soul in the System: Chanjin

A Rising Star

The following days at school were a whirlwind for Chan. Word spread quickly about his skills on the football field, and as his reputation grew, so did the attention from his peers. Students he had never spoken to were greeting him in the hallways, teachers watched him with curious approval, and his teammates had begun treating him like one of their own. Everywhere he went, whispers followed—Who is he? Where did he come from? Is he really dating Hyunjin?

If Chan felt overwhelmed, he didn't show it. He observed each interaction with calm composure, mirroring the confidence he'd seen in Hyunjin. The mystery surrounding him seemed to intrigue people even more, and Hyunjin's "boyfriend" label provided him with both protection and a unique status that most new students would never experience.

Hyunjin, of course, seemed to enjoy every second of it. He played up their "relationship" with effortless charm, holding Chan's hand in the hallways, throwing casual arms around his shoulders, and making flirty comments whenever anyone else looked their way. For Hyunjin, it was all a performance—an amusing way to keep their classmates guessing and solidify his own popularity. For Chan, it was an exercise in adaptability, a test of how well he could fit into the role he had been assigned.

One afternoon, after classes had ended, Chan found himself lingering near the lockers, waiting for Hyunjin to grab his things. Felix, Jisung, Jeongin, and Seungmin—the other members of the cheer squad—gathered around them, chatting and laughing. With each day that passed, Chan felt more comfortable around them, their easygoing camaraderie drawing him in like a warm fire on a cold night.

Felix grinned, leaning against the lockers as he looked between Chan and Hyunjin. "You two really have the whole school talking, you know that? People are dying to know if you're the real deal."

Hyunjin smirked, his hand casually resting on Chan's shoulder. "Let them wonder. It's way more fun that way."

Jisung snickered, nudging Jeongin. "I think they're perfect together. The brooding mystery guy and the school's resident diva—couldn't write a better romance."

Jeongin blushed, grinning as he looked at Chan. "I think it's cute. You guys really do seem to get along."

Hyunjin raised an eyebrow, casting Chan a sly glance. "See? Even my friends are buying it. You're doing pretty well for a 'new guy,' Chan."

Chan tilted his head, studying the expressions of his friends. It was strange, feeling so much attention focused on him, and yet, he found himself enjoying it. There was something reassuring about the way they looked at him, as if he were a part of something larger than himself. These people had accepted him, welcomed him into their group, and in turn, he felt the faint stirrings of loyalty, of friendship.

"Thank you," Chan said, his voice soft but sincere. "I... enjoy being with all of you."

Felix let out a laugh, throwing an arm around Chan's shoulders. "Ah, you're too sweet, Chan. We'll make a real heartthrob out of you yet."

As they talked, Chan noticed a few other students nearby, glancing at him and whispering amongst themselves. He registered the stares, some curious, others tinged with envy or intrigue. It was a new experience, being the center of attention, and though he felt no particular need to prove himself, he understood the value of maintaining his reputation.

Soon after, Coach Lee spotted them and strode over, his authoritative presence commanding immediate attention. He gave Chan an approving nod, his expression full of pride. "Nice work this week, Chan. You're shaping up to be one of our best players. You'll be starting in the game on Friday."

The group erupted in cheers, with Jisung and Jeongin exchanging excited looks, and Seungmin giving Chan a friendly pat on the back.

"Woo! Go, Chan!" Felix said, beaming. "The football team's new star, and he's ours!"