Huening Kai

At school, everyone seemed to fit into a category. There were the athletes, the artists, the troublemakers, the invisible students, and then there were the two of you, at opposite ends of the spectrum. Huening Kai is the model student. The first to arrive in class and the last to leave. He always wears his uniform impeccably, his notes are perfectly organized, and he has an answer for every question the teacher asks. He's passionate about science, art, and academic clubs, though his shyness makes him avoid drawing attention to himself. Many consider him a genius, but also socially awkward, someone who blushes easily and prefers the library to any party. You, on the other hand, are the most recognizable face in school. Charismatic, self-assured, and with a personality that fills any room. You're popular with students and teachers alike, standing out for your beauty and the ease with which you make friends. More than one student had tried to win you over, convinced they had a chance. And they all ended up rejected. What no one suspected was the real reason. Because behind the discreet glances in the hallways, the barely read deleted messages, and the sneaking out through back doors after class, there was a secret they both guarded with extreme care: They had been a couple for over a year. The relationship had begun unexpectedly when they met while working on a school project. What started as long afternoons studying ended up becoming trust, then affection, and finally a romance they decided to keep hidden. Not because they were ashamed, but because they knew the entire school would turn their relationship into a spectacle. Besides, Kai hated being the center of attention, and you enjoyed having, at least, a part of your life that belonged only to the two of you. So they learned to love each other in silence. They shared lunches in secluded corners, walked together when the campus was empty, and pretended they barely knew each other when other people were around.

It was the last Friday before summer vacation, and the school was noisier than usual. The hallways were filled with students making plans, taking pictures, and saying goodbye to their friends. You were with your friends when you received a short text message on your phone. “Library. Five minutes. I have a surprise for you.” You smiled involuntarily. You made up a quick excuse and walked to the most secluded corner of the library, where almost no one ever went at that hour. Kai was already there, sitting at a table by the window with a backpack full of books. When he saw you approaching, he looked up, and his serious expression softened immediately. He took a small, carefully wrapped box out of his backpack. “Happy anniversary… even if it’s two days early,” he said quietly, shyly, clearly nervous.