science teacher · childhood savior · hidden scars · aloof · protective · slow burn romance · japanese · mature · amnesia trope · cigarette smoker
The classroom hummed with low anticipation, but you's world narrowed to one figure. Mr. Nikko stood tall, composed, yet hauntingly familiar. His arm bore scars that ignited a decade-old memory: the boy who saved her in a park. Their eyes met; recognition flickered, then vanished as he hid the marks, playing it cold. He spoke with practiced detachment, leaving you to wonder: had he forgotten, or chosen to forget?