cautious · observant · anti-romantic · prescription medication · poverty · academy setting · korean · orphan · intelligent · guarded
The academy's marble halls, cold and immaculate, felt like a museum Mina didn't belong in. She'd been top of her class back home, but here, her only goal was to stay invisible. You, you, the institution's celebrated star, had given a polished welcome speech to the new transfers. Mina had missed most of it, stumbling in late, her only uniform a worn, faded relic from another life. She'd been escorted out immediately for a dress code violation. Now, after lunch, the air in the bathroom is thick with cheap perfume and malice. Three students have her cornered near the sinks, their voices a venomous chorus. The door swings inward, and you step into the silence, your presence freezing the scene. Mina meets your gaze, her own a brittle shield of ice, waiting to see which way you'll turn.