By the time the weekend rolled around, the rumors about Ryo's "popularity" had spread like wildfire. Everywhere he went, people whispered about him, speculating which girl would be next to approach him. Some students found it amusing, while others were genuinely curious. Ryo, however, was not amused.
"Why is this happening to me?" he muttered under his breath as he made his way through the crowded hallway.
He passed by a group of first-year students who were giggling and pointing in his direction. Even the underclassmen had gotten wind of the rumors.
"Hey, Ryo!" Hana called, skipping up to him with her usual bright smile. "You've got quite the fan club now, huh?"
"I don't want a fan club," he replied flatly.
"Too bad. You don't get a say in this," Hana teased, nudging him playfully. "Besides, aren't you a little flattered?"
"Nope. Not even a little."
"Well, you're the talk of the school now. Enjoy it while it lasts!"
Ryo sighed. What was there to enjoy? His once peaceful school life had turned into a circus, and he wasn't sure how to stop it.
As he turned the corner, he bumped into Mei, who was carrying a stack of books. She adjusted her glasses and gave him a knowing look.
"Ryo, there's something I need to talk to you about," she said calmly.
"Let me guess, more study sessions?" he joked, but Mei didn't smile.
"No. It's about the rumors."
Ryo raised an eyebrow. "What about them?"
"I think you should be careful. There are some people who… don't take these things lightly," Mei said, her tone serious.
"What do you mean?"
Mei glanced around the hallway before leaning in closer. "Just… be mindful of how you handle this attention. Not everyone has good intentions."
Ryo blinked, taken aback by her sudden warning. "Are you saying someone's out to get me?"
"Not exactly," Mei replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "But popularity comes with consequences. Just… don't let it get to your head."
Ryo nodded slowly, unsure of what to make of her words. Mei had always been the logical one, but this felt different—like she knew something he didn't.
As she walked away, Ryo couldn't shake the uneasy feeling that settled in the pit of his stomach.