Math Is Hard, But Hiding My Crush Is Harder

Chapter 5: The Unexpected Transfer

On Monday morning, the classroom was quieter than usual. Khoa still wore his cold expression, but occasionally stole glances at Han without saying a word. Han walked in, her heart fluttering with a mix of worry and hope as she saw Khoa sitting upright, hands neatly on the desk.

The class monitor stood at the front, as strict as ever:

“Group 3, today you must complete your presentation. Every detail must be precise.”

Khoa nodded, focusing on his work, his gaze cold but sharp, making Han feel both shy and drawn to him.

When the group began discussing, Han carefully presented her idea, her voice gentle yet confident:

“If we combine experiment A with data B, the presentation will be more lively.”

Khoa looked at Han, his eyes still cold, but inside he started to soften, his heart fluttering with each careful explanation she gave.

Khoa (softly, his voice low but slightly gentler): “Yes, that could work. I’ll try combining them.”

Han smiled, a warm feeling spreading through her chest. She noticed Khoa was no longer completely distant, and her heart fluttered when their hands accidentally touched while sticking the poster.

Linh and Nam, standing outside, teased playfully:

Linh: “Group 3 is working really well today. It looks strange but cute!”

Nam: “Seeing Khoa less cold toward Han is great already!”

Han and Khoa accidentally touched hands again while finishing the poster, their hearts fluttering warmly, no longer feeling the distance from before.

When it was time for the presentation, Group 3 confidently stepped forward. The presentation was perfect, ideas clear, and Khoa and Han coordinated smoothly, exchanging subtle glances that caught everyone’s attention.

The teacher and class monitor nodded, their expressions serious but impressed:

Class Monitor: “Excellent presentation, every detail precise. Congratulations, Group 3!”

The whole class clapped loudly, while Linh and Nam cheered excitedly. Group 3 officially won first prize, pride shining on Khoa and Han’s faces.

After receiving the award, Han looked at Khoa, her eyes still bright with joy, but Khoa suddenly hesitated, his expression darkening:

“Han… I… my parents have decided I have to transfer schools starting next week.”

The words hit Han like a blow to the heart, leaving her stunned and heartbroken, her chest tightening. She didn’t speak immediately, her eyes wide with shock and disbelief. She quickly comforted Khoa and promised to find a way.

Unable to hold it in, Han ran to Linh and Nam and told the whole class:

“Everyone… Khoa is really transferring… next week!”

The classroom buzzed with chatter, some surprised, others worried.

Group F4 – planning to convince Khoa’s parents

Once the class calmed down, the F4 group — Han, Khoa, Linh, and Nam — gathered immediately to discuss. Han looked at Khoa, determination in her voice:

“We have to come up with a way to convince your parents so you don’t have to transfer.”

Linh, playful yet serious:

“We need a perfect plan to persuade both your dad and mom!”

Nam nodded, his eyes bright:

“Yes, F4 won’t give up. We’ll definitely help Khoa stay!”

Khoa looked at everyone, feeling both moved and awkward, his heart fluttering warmly. He could feel the friendship and Han’s subtle affection, and her gaze made him feel somewhat relieved, though the worry still lingered.

The F4 group began listing ideas, plans, and steps to take, their teamwork and determination evident on every face. That afternoon, the schoolyard echoed with laughter, brainstorming, and encouraging words, setting the stage for Chapter 6, the journey to persuade Khoa’s parents.