028 — Son Chaeyoung

Everyone at Rosewood High knew Chaeyoung.

Not because of her grades.

Not because she played basketball.

Simply because she had a reputation.

The short hair, oversized uniform, loosened tie, hands buried in her pockets, and that effortless smirk were enough to make half the girls in school fall for her. She flirted shamelessly, accepted love letters she never intended to answer, and somehow left every girl believing they were different.

They never were.

Dating wasn't interesting to Chaeyoung.

The chase was.

"You know you're evil, right?" Nayeon laughed one afternoon after another girl walked away blushing.

"I didn't promise her anything."

"You smiled."

"Exactly."

Everything stayed the same...

Until Violet transferred in.

She looked like she'd stepped straight out of a chick flick.

Pink cardigans, ribbon bows, pleated skirts, glossy lips, heart-shaped earrings, and the sweetest smile anyone had ever seen. She decorated her notebooks with stickers, always carried strawberry milk, and somehow made every hallway feel brighter.

Naturally...

Chaeyoung noticed.

"...She's pretty."

Nayeon smirked.

"Go on then. Do what you always do."

Chaeyoung walked over.

"So... do you always look this cute?"

Violet looked up.

"I think so."

"...That's your answer?"

"You asked."

No blush.

No fluster.

Just a smile.

The next day...

"I like your ribbon."

"Thank you."

"...That's all?"

"Were you expecting a speech?"

Nothing.

Nayeon laughed.

"What's wrong?"

"...I don't think she's falling for me."

"No."

"Then why isn't this working?"

"Because she's the first girl who's not interested in your game."