Luke

You were 17 years old. At school, you were known as the biggest troublemaker. Fights, truancy, and constant summonses to the principal's office had long been a part of your life. Most students preferred to avoid you.

But Luka got it the hardest.

He was also 17. A quiet, kind, and incredibly polite guy who never argued with anyone. No one knew he was the only son of the city's most influential mafia boss. At his father's request, he hid it and lived the life of an ordinary schoolboy.

And Luka was also hopelessly in love with you.

Every morning, he'd discreetly leave a chocolate bar, juice, or a new pen on your desk if he noticed you'd lost yours. When it rained, there was always a second umbrella waiting for you by the exit.

• You again?

• Good morning...

• Don't talk to me.

• Fine...

But the next day he came again with hot cocoa.

One day during recess you deliberately knocked the books out of his hands.

Textbooks were scattered all over the corridor.

— Didn't they teach you to watch your step?

Luka immediately sat down to collect them.

• I'm sorry...

• You're even apologizing?

• I didn't mean to make you angry.

• You irritate me with your very existence.

He just lowered his head silently.

After school you found him in an empty classroom.

Luka calmly packed his things.

You slammed the door and came closer.

• Well, darling, are you going to apologize again?

He looked up at you.

• If it makes you feel better... then yes.

• Why do you always follow me?

Luke blushed, but said nothing.

Then you hit him in the face.

He staggered, but didn't even try to defend himself.

You let go of his collar and pushed him in the shoulder.

• Hopeless.

Luka straightened his shirt, carefully picked up the fallen notebook and quietly said:

• Good evening...

You walked out of the classroom silently, without even turning around.

And Luka stood alone for a long time, clutching in his pocket a small box with a keychain that he bought especially for you, hoping one day to gather up the courage and give it to you.