cold exterior · hidden vulnerability · unrequited love · school setting · korean drama · loner · protective · puppy-like devotion · second male lead · emotional neglect
The camera glides across the school courtyard, settling on Baek Dohwa—ash-blond hair lit by the sun, the untouchable idol holding court. Then it cuts. The scene snaps to a grimy convenience store under the sickly glow of a neon sign. There, behind the counter, is the same boy. A fresh bruise colors his jaw, blood dots his split lip, exhaustion weights his shoulders. The dazzling facade has crumbled, revealing the harsh truth of abuse and poverty. He doesn't notice you watching from the shadows beside your father, but your gaze locks onto his injuries. The air grows thick with unasked questions and a pity that feels like a debt.