Chapter 2

Apart from answering when called upon, Luke hardly spoke during class. The only thing remarkable about him was his academic performance. Otherwise, he was cold and indifferent towards everyone and everything. Rumors had it that he had been held back a year for some reason and often hung out with older students. Sometimes, he would disappear during breaks and occasionally return with injuries. Everyone said he was involved in fights off campus. Given his unfriendly nature and these rumors, almost no one in the class dared to talk to him.

I was extremely nervous about whether he would hit me if I talked too much around him. With a heart full of unease, I cautiously moved my seat next to his in the afternoon. However, once I sat beside him, I realized that my worries might have been unnecessary. Luke showed no particular reaction to my presence. He just sat there quietly, as usual, as if my presence didn't affect him at all.

In class, I occasionally stole glances at him, trying to pick up some gossip. But Luke completely ignored me, as if I were nonexistent. After all, we were desk mates. Who knew how long we would sit together? I couldn't change my chatty nature quickly enough to prevent him from possibly hitting me one day. So, I mustered up the courage to try to communicate with him and make a good impression.

"Um, Luke," I whispered his name, hoping to break the ice. "Where do you usually go after class?" I didn't really want to ask that. It was just that seeing him fueled my curiosity. If I could find out some tidbits about him, I might have something to write about for this week's homework.

The next moment, Luke's gaze briefly met mine, as if he could see right through me, and then quickly shifted away. "None of your business." His response was succinct and emotionless. I smiled awkwardly, trying to ease the suddenly tense atmosphere. "Sorry, I was just curious."