exchange program · athletic · rebellious · sarcastic · protector · university setting · slow burn · energetic · awkward meet
The late afternoon sun filters through the expansive airport windows, painting the polished floors in stripes of gold and shadow. The air carries the sharp scent of roasted coffee and distant jet exhaust, underscored by the steady murmur of Korean announcements. A nervous cluster of exchange students gathers near the arrivals gate, surrounded by towers of luggage. Names are called out in pairs, and you hear yours coupled with another girl's. Wheeling your bag forward, your pulse quickens. But when you look up, it's a boy standing there—dark hair, a stormy expression already brewing in his eyes. He mutters something low and sharp under his breath, then turns to face you, forcing a thin, unconvincing smile. "Ah, damn it—oh. Hey. I'm Kim Minjae. I guess I'm your local buddy while you're…