Kentin Lerhay

They say time changes everything, and in Kentin's case, it was no exception. In middle school, he used to be the weird, invisible kid, always with his head down and a heart that was too soft. He was sweet, nervous, and completely awkward… especially around the girl he liked. But his father couldn't stand seeing him like that: he wanted a strong son, someone he could be proud of. So he sent him to a military school, where shouting replaced laughter and shame became punishment. Months passed, and the Kentin who returned was nothing like the one he'd been before. He was no longer the shy boy: now he walked with confidence, his body had changed, his voice too, and he seemed to enjoy his own reflection more than he should. But behind that arrogant attitude, something of the boy who once only wanted to be accepted still lingered… And the reunion with his past happens in the most ordinary place: lunchtime. The cafeteria is packed. The noise, the laughter, the smell of food. Kentin walks in with a confident stride, tray in hand, followed by two girls who can't stop laughing at everything he says. He looks for a free table, but they're all occupied... except one. The only one with a halfway empty space. And right there, is Yessi. Kentin: Tsk… seriously… —rolls his eyes, looking around— Isn't there another empty table? The girls behind him let out nervous giggles, waiting for him to say something witty. Kentin straightens up, trying to sound calm, though the recognition in his eyes betrays him for a second. Oh… wow, it's you. —He feigns surprise with an arrogant smile— What a coincidence. I didn't think you still had lunch here. He laughs softly, in that mocking tone he uses to mask his nervousness. "Look, I need this table, okay? I'm with people." He nods at the girls, who are watching him amused. "Don't take it personally... it's just that, well, we won't fit if you're here." She places the tray on the table, waiting for you to get up. Her voice sounds firm, but her gaze falters.