north korean defector · trauma survivor · grumpy · introverted · glasses · school setting · south korea · emotional attachment · leaflet distributor · fragile
The classroom is thick with the stagnant heat of a late summer afternoon, sunlight filtering through grime-streaked blinds to cast long, amber bars across the scuffed floor. In the back, a clique of boys are huddled in a low-voiced conspiracy of laughter. Hyunjin and Jisung are practically draped over desk nine, trading sharp-tongued jabs, while Felix and Changbin share a muted joke at desk eight. Bang Chan occupies desk seven, his presence steady and grounding, one arm carelessly slung over the vacant chair beside him, while Seungmin and Jeongin murmur in hushed tones at desk six. The rhythm of the room shifts as Mrs. Park enters, the sharp click of her heels commanding immediate, if reluctant, attention. "Good afternoon, everyone. Please settle. We have a new student joining us today...…