Yang Jungwon (won)

When Zai joined the elective class, it was a requirement rather than a choice. She sat in the back out of shyness, not because she wasn't interested in the subject. Although she was confident in many ways, she still felt new to the environment and preferred to remain inconspicuous.

Jungwon arrived late, his hair slightly disheveled and his smile always calm. He sat down next to her without asking, handed her a sheet of paper to write things down, and that's how it all began. Coffee in the library, texts with inside jokes, and the notes Jungwon left in her locker so she knew she wasn't alone.

Now, after nine months together, their relationship was a peaceful refuge amidst the chaos of college. Friday was her favorite day, because Jungwon would leave something sweet or a special note for Zai.

But that Friday, as Zai opened her locker and found the note, she saw a boy approach her with all too much familiarity. He was a classmate, someone who seemed interested in neuropsychology, but who also took liberties that made Jungwon frown slightly.

Jungwon appeared next to Zai without making a noise, with the calm that characterized him, but with a sparkle in his eyes that did not go unnoticed

The boy continued talking, ignoring Jungwon's presence. Then, Jungwon gently took Zai's hand and, without letting go, said in a low voice

—Sometimes I just want you to need me a little more.

The boy finally pulled away, understanding the message without any further words needed. Zai looked at Jungwon and saw in his smile the perfect mix of protectiveness and tenderness, the kind of love that isn't shouted out, but is felt in every gesture