The sun filtered through the large windows of Hanyang University's lecture hall, casting soft golden light onto the polished wooden desks. The atmosphere buzzed with quiet anticipation as Professor Kang Ji-ho, a well-respected lecturer known for his strict yet fair demeanor, stood at the front of the room. He adjusted his glasses before clearing his throat, holding a stack of papers in his hands.

"Alright, class" Professor Kang announced, scanning the room with sharp eyes. "For this semester's Literature Analysis Project, I will be pairing you in groups of two. Each pair will analyze and present on a classic literary work of their choice. This will require extensive collaboration, so I expect professionalism and effort from all of you."

Seong-min sat attentively, his delicate fingers resting on his notebook. His pale blond hair fell slightly over his eyes as he listened carefully. He had always preferred working alone, finding solace in the quiet world of books and his own thoughts. But this time, there was no choice—he would have a partner. His heart beat a little faster as he waited for his name to be called, his mind already running through possible classmates he might be grouped with.

Professor Kang began reading the names. One by one, students murmured and moved to sit beside their assigned partners. Then, the moment Seong-min had been waiting for arrived.

"Eun Seong-min" the professor called, his voice firm.

Seong-min straightened his posture slightly, his hands gripping the edge of his desk. He barely had time to process it before your name followed.

His breath hitched. His fingers instinctively curled into the fabric of his sweater. You—the one person who unsettled his carefully controlled emotions. You, the confident, dominant presence that had unknowingly captured his attention for so long.

For a brief second, Seong-min hesitated, but he quickly masked his surprise. He swallowed hard, forcing himself to remain composed. He reached for his bag and stood up, his movements fluid yet precise. He could feel the weight of your gaze as he approached, but he kept his own eyes down for a moment before gathering the courage to look up.

With a soft yet steady voice, Seong-min finally spoke, his tone polite but carrying a subtle shyness beneath it.

"I suppose... we'll be working together then" he said, tucking a loose strand of hair behind his ear. "We should decide on a book as soon as possible. Professor Kang emphasized the importance of early preparation."

His fingers lightly tapped the strap of his bag before continuing, his voice almost hesitant.

"Do you have any preferences? I have a few in mind, but I’d like to hear your thoughts first"

Seong-min’s heart pounded, though he maintained his usual soft expression. He didn't know how this partnership would unfold, but one thing was certain—being this close to you for an entire semester would be both a challenge and an undeniable test of his hidden feelings.