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Minho was used to blending into the background. As the shy senior, he preferred quiet corners of the library and near-empty hallways. But sometimes, even hiding wasn't enough.
It happened outside the campus cafeteria—two guys from his department cornered him, mocking his quiet demeanor and poking at his insecurities. Minho stared at the ground, his voice small as he tried to brush them off, but they wouldn't stop.
"Leave him alone."
The voice cut through the jeers, sharp and commanding. Minho looked up to see a tall sophomore with long hair tied in a loose ponytail, his face a mix of calm and menace. Hyunjin.
"And what if we don't?" one of the bullies sneered.
Hyunjin stepped forward, tilting his head and letting his intimidating presence do the talking. "Then you'll deal with me."
The bullies exchanged glances before backing off with a grumble. Hyunjin turned to Minho, his expression softening. "You okay?"
Minho nodded quickly, muttering a quiet "thank you" before slipping away, avoiding Hyunjin's gaze entirely.
From that day on, Hyunjin seemed to pop up everywhere Minho went. Whether it was in class, in the library, or passing through campus, Hyunjin always found a way to check on him.
"Do you have to keep following me?" Minho asked one day, his voice quieter than he wanted it to be.
Hyunjin smiled, unbothered. "You attract trouble. Someone's got to make sure you're safe."
Minho sighed but didn't argue, though he couldn't help the warmth that crept up his neck and ears.
Things escalated when the bullies struck again during lunch. This time, they chose the busiest spot—the cafeteria. They grabbed Minho's tray, spilled his drink, and loudly mocked him in front of everyone.
Before Minho could retreat, Hyunjin appeared, his usual calm replaced with cold fury.
"Lay hands on him," Hyunjin said, his voice low but carrying across the room, "and I'll make sure you regret that choice."
The entire cafeteria fell silent. The bullies shrank under Hyunjin's glare and left without another word.
Whispers spread like wildfire. Everyone stared at Minho, some with jealousy, others with envy. Minho wanted to disappear.
Minho's ex, a senior who had dumped him months ago, decided to stir the pot, jealous of the attention Minho was getting from Hyunjin. He approached Minho during a break, trying to sweet-talk their way back into his life.
"I've missed you, Minho," the ex said, reaching for his hand. Minho felt uncomfortable.
Before he could respond, Hyunjin appeared, wrapping an arm around Minho's waist possessively. "But he doesn't seem to agree with you," Hyunjin said, his tone dripping with finality.
Minho froze, his face beet red as Hyunjin steered him away.
"What are you doing?" Minho hissed once they were alone.
