Read the mysterious classmate sitting next to you :: Episode 2 – Behind the Window

The afternoon math class dragged on endlessly. Numbers filled the blackboard, but An’s focus kept drifting to the boy beside her. Minh sat with his usual indifference—one earbud in, eyes half-closed, gaze fixed on the window as if the lesson didn’t matter. Does he ever listen? An wondered, tapping her pencil nervously. Suddenly, Minh turned his head. His sharp eyes met hers. “What are you staring at?” His voice was low, almost cold. An’s face burned. “I—I wasn’t… It’s nothing.” She quickly looked down at her notebook, heart racing. --- When the bell rang, students rushed out. An hesitated, then gathered her courage. “Um… Minh, aren’t you going to do the homework? If you don’t understand, I could help.” For a moment, Minh froze. He slowly removed his earbud, staring at her. “…No need.” His reply was short, clipped. An’s chest tightened. Of course… what was I expecting? But just as she turned away, his voice came again, quieter this time. “…Thanks.” It was only one word, but it lit something warm inside her. --- Later that day, gray clouds gathered over the city. As classes ended, rain poured down suddenly, drenching the schoolyard. An stood by the gate, fumbling with her umbrella. That’s when she noticed Minh, standing alone under the eaves, shoulders already wet. “You don’t have an umbrella?” she asked. He shook his head. Hesitating only a moment, An lifted hers toward him. “Then… let’s share?” Minh blinked, as if surprised. For the first time, his expression softened, ever so slightly. “…Alright.” They stepped out together, close under the small umbrella. The rain drummed steadily around them, but An could hear nothing except the quickened beat of her own heart. When she dared to glance up, she found Minh watching her quietly. His eyes weren’t cold at all—they were… sad. What are you hiding, Minh? An thought, her chest tightening. And in that silence, she realized she wanted to know everything about the boy who always looked away.