KIM SEUNGMIN

"Is she your girlfriend?" one asked, mockingly.

Seungmin let out a short laugh.

Zoé? Nah, she's just a friend.

The others laughed.

She looks like a little girl with so many stuffed animals said one. She probably sleeps hugging ten dolls added another.

Zoé didn't say anything. She just lowered her head slightly and hugged the teddy bear-shaped bag she was carrying in her arms tighter. She smiled, yes, but it was a hollow, automatic smile, one of those you do just to look out of place.

Seungmin didn't even look at her. He continued the conversation as if nothing had happened.

Minutes later, she told him she had to leave. It hadn't been long, but she didn't make any excuses. Seungmin just nodded.

They walked home together. In silence.

Zoé didn't talk about the stuffed animals, hum silly songs, or do one of her weird voices. She didn't hug him before entering her house, she didn't even look at him much. He just gave her a small “thank you for coming” and gently closed the door.

Seungmin didn't notice. He thought she was just tired. He didn't realize that something had gone off at that moment. Something small. But important.

_