INK AND SHADOWS [???]

The morning started like any other. Hara walked to school, her books clutched tightly against her chest, the soft hum of the city surrounding her.

She paused when she heard the familiar roar of a motorcycle engine.

Her heart skipped a beat—it was Jay.

Memories of the night they had ridden through the city, talked at the Han River Bridge, and shared that small kiss flooded her mind.

She found herself smiling involuntarily, only to shake her head quickly.

"Stupid," she muttered to herself.

"There's no way I'd ever ride that bike again. Not like this."

By lunchtime, Hara decided to head to the old gym, a place where she could usually find some peace.

As she opened the creaky door, the faint smell of cigarette smoke hit her.

Jay was there, leaning against the wall, a cigarette between his fingers.

He looked up, his eyes narrowing slightly.

Hara hesitated but then stepped inside.

"Why are you always here? Smoking, of all things?"

Jay took a drag and exhaled lazily. "It's a habit."

She frowned. "You should quit. It's not good for you."

He raised an eyebrow. "What's it to you?"

She crossed her arms. "I'm just saying."

Jay smirked, gesturing for her to stay back.

"If you're going to lecture me, at least don't stand so close. I don't want the smell sticking to you."

Hara surprised him by walking closer instead. "I don't mind. I know how to get rid of the smell."

She reached into her bag and pulled out a neatly packed lunch.

"Here, eat."

Jay blinked, taken aback. "What?"

"Just try it," she insisted, holding the box out to him.

He reluctantly took a bite and paused, his eyes widening.

"This... this is good. You made this?"

Hara nodded, a small smile forming on her lips.

"I cook sometimes."

They sat in silence for a while, eating together.

Eventually, Hara spoke up.

"I'll be busy after school. I have some... commitments. But don't forget, we still need to study."

Jay leaned back, his expression unreadable.

"Where are you going after school?"

"Arts club," she said simply.

He tilted his head. "Meet me at the study café near the school instead."

Hara frowned. "The library works fine."

Jay shrugged. "I don't like the library. Study café or nothing."

She sighed but eventually agreed. "Fine. But you better not be late."

_

After school, Hara hurried to the art room.

She pulled out her brushes and paints, immersing herself in her work.

Her usually soft demeanor disappeared as she focused on her canvas, her strokes confident and bold.

Jay, wandering the corridors aimlessly, happened to glance through the window.