A normal day in Section E was anything but normal.

By now, the teasing had reached historic levels.

Kai flopped onto Ava’s desk, dramatically sighing. “Sunshine, are you and Jae finally dating? Because if not, I’d like to submit my candidacy.”

Ava raised an eyebrow. “I’d rather date a rock.”

Jae, who was watching from his seat, smirked. “Harsh, sunshine. And here I thought we had something special.”

Minho grinned. “You do. She just won’t admit it.”

Lily gasped. “Oh my god, does that mean Ava actually likes Jae?!”

The class exploded with chaos as Ava threw a book at Lily, her face burning. “Shut up! That’s not what I meant!”

Kai clutched his chest. “Oh. My. God. She didn’t deny it!”

Jae, now smirking shamelessly, leaned back in his chair. “Took you long enough, sunshine.”

Ava groaned. “I hate all of you.”

The teasing lasted all morning.

Then, the monthly school meeting was announced.

Section E had to attend, but Jae stopped Ava before she could follow them.

“You’re not going.”

Ava frowned. “Excuse me?”

Jae crossed his arms, his usual teasing expression gone. “Section A’s gonna be there.”

Ava’s eyes darkened. She hadn’t forgotten the insult from last time—the girl who called her a whore behind her back.

She lifted her chin. “So?”

Jae’s jaw tightened. “So, I don’t want you near them.”

Ava rolled her eyes. “I can handle myself, Jae.”

Jae leaned in, his voice low. “I know you can. But I also know them.”

There was something in his tone that made Ava hesitate.

Lily walked past, pausing. “Ava, you coming?”

Jae answered before Ava could. “She’s staying here.”

Minho raised an eyebrow. “Damn. Protective much?”

Kai smirked. “Jealous boyfriend vibes.”

Ava sighed. “Fine. I’ll stay.”

Jae nodded, satisfied, before leaving with the others.

Ava watched them go, tapping her fingers against the desk.

It was just a meeting—what could possibly go wrong?

She had no idea that within the next hour, she was about to wish she had gone.