Jihoon had half expected Shane to be absent again at school the next morning. When he saw his dark hair curtained around his slumped form, he couldn't hold back the smile of relief.
Other kids sat in small whispering groups, their eyes tracking to Shane . He sighed and hoped the rumors of their "relationship troubles" would die down soon. It was taking everyone longer than normal to get over this gossip.
A shuffle of activity by the back door of the classroom drew his attention to Kim Daniel.
Shane was hunched over, cradling a heavy object in his arms. His friends rushed over, speaking in hurried whispers. One pulled out her phone and positioned herself in the corner, a prime viewing spot.
Daniel homed in on his target with a leer. SHane sat with his head down, scribbling notes, oblivious. Jihoon sprinted down the row as Daniel held up a large jar, goo already dripping. Jihoon grabbed Shane , cradling him under his body. Mung bean paste slid cold down his back, into his collar, down his shirt.
"Ya!" Daniel yelled. "What's your problem, Park Jihoon?"
The room was silent in the aftermath, kids staring at the spectacle. Daniel still held the jar, unpoured mung bean paste sitting in the bottom. Jihoon yanked it away in case he got any ideas. "Get out of here before I call the teacher."
"Why are you protecting her?" Hana asked. "Is he really your darling, you gay piece of shit?"
Shane looked at Jihoon. A flash of hurt was seen in his eyes which was quickly replaced by anger.
"Yeah, he's my boyfriend. So lay off."
The room paused, like no one knew how to react. It was the first time Jihoon had ever made the claim aloud. Shane stood up suddenly. The force banged her chair against the desk behind him. he glared at Jihoon, her eyes dark, unreadable. Then he swung past him and out of the room.