Long ago, it rained steadily from morning. Living in the countryside, there were no nearby schools, so the nearest one took a 40-minute bus ride. For some reason, I felt unwell that day. Perhaps it was some kind of rain-related illness? It was always like that on rainy days. Fearing the rain might delay the bus, I left the house ten minutes early, holding an umbrella.
“One old man.”
It was the seat I always sat in, the second row from the back, by the window.
Familiar people in familiar places. It wasn't hard to run into the same people: the high school girls in their uniforms, the men on their way to work, etc.
But that day, a boy wearing the same school uniform was sitting in my seat. Maybe it was because he was new.
At this time of day, the bus had a designated seat for everyone. But this kid didn't seem to know that.
“ … ”
“..Hey, what’s going on?”
A high school boy who was sitting there spoke to me. Feeling unnecessarily offended, I waved my hand and sat down in the seat in front of him.
I clearly remember that boy's appearance, with his wet hair and slightly unkempt school uniform.
A few dozen minutes passed, and I left the stuffy bus and headed toward school. Of course, that girl was with me.
We should just go our separate ways, but I don't know why it's so awkward.
“Do you go to this school?”
I hated the silence so much that I just blurted out a question.
It's like asking something I already know, did I just say it for nothing?
But the boy answered with a smile.
“Yes. What is your name?”
".. Yoo Hye-rim."
“Oh, I’m Choi Beom-gyu. I’m a second-year student!”
" ..yes. "
Thinking back now, I think he must have thought I was strange, too. With my long, loose hair and bangs that covered my eyes, I must have looked quite gloomy. Plus, I was a quiet person, so back then, I wasn't the type of person who could maintain a close relationship with anyone.
“What class?”
"Class 6, Grade 2."
"Uh... I'm in class 5, but we're the same age anyway, so don't talk!"
Contrary to my first impression an hour ago, he was quite friendly and lively.
His name was Choi Beom-gyu... It was a strange name, like something out of a boy's comic. Before he knew it, the boy's hair was dry, and red sunlight was shining down on his head.
..was that your first meeting?
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It's been a while.. I made a post to write when I have a light thought : )