Math Is Hard, But Hiding My Crush Is Harder

Chapter 4: The Unexpected Friday Morning

Sunlight gently streamed through the kitchen window, illuminating tiny floating dust particles. The atmosphere seemed peaceful, yet inside Khoa’s house, tension quietly simmered. Khoa sat at the breakfast table, chopsticks in hand, picking up each grain of rice quietly, but his mind was far from the meal.

In his head, thoughts of the group-3 project, presentation ideas, and even moments close to Han kept running through, making his heart beat rapidly. He tried to chew, but each bite felt slower, and the rhythm of his heartbeat echoed clearly in his ears.

Khoa’s father entered, his face serious, voice calm but firm:

“Khoa, your parents have decided that you will transfer to another school starting next week.”

Khoa froze, chopsticks falling lightly into the bowl, the clinking sound ringing clearly. A mix of shock, anger, and worry surged through him. His eyes flickered red, and his chest tightened painfully.

Khoa’s mother continued, her voice tense:

“Your father is busy with work; the new school will be more convenient, with better teachers. You’ll become even better there.”

They spoke in turns, their voices rising, making Khoa feel both confused and pressured, angry yet helpless. He wanted to argue, but words stuck in his throat. In Khoa’s heart, worries about Han, the group project, and friends intertwined with his anger, making his chest feel tangled.

Khoa set down his chopsticks, gazing out the window, his expression clearly showing anger and worry, a stark contrast to the calm morning. He knew everything was about to change, and he no longer had the same freedom to decide.

At School – Khoa cold toward Han

Khoa arrived at school, trying to hide his worry, but inside he felt both sad and angry, becoming distant in response to Nam’s casual inquiry.

Nam: “Khoa, why do you seem… distant today?”

Khoa (coldly): “I’m busy with the group project. It’s fine.”

Group work – tension mixed with humor

The group-3 project began. The class monitor remained strict, checking every detail. Khoa focused on his work, his gaze cold, speaking little to Han.

Han tried to remind and suggest ideas, but Khoa responded briefly and quietly, leaving her both confused and worried.

Linh and Nam stood outside, teasing playfully:

Linh: “Group 3 looks so tense today. I bet Khoa is mad at Han.”

Nam: “Maybe, but it’s kind of interesting, isn’t it?”

Han felt a little sad, heart fluttering with worry, yet still tried to stay close to the group, helping Khoa whenever she could.

Ending – gentle encouragement

After class, Khoa stood in the hallway, sunlight streaming through the roof, the breeze ruffling his hair, his eyes distant as if hiding something. Han approached, standing beside him, and said softly:

“Are you okay today? Whatever happens, I still want to be by your side, to help whenever you need…”

Khoa glanced at her, his voice still cold but slightly softer:

“I… I’m fine, thanks.”

Han realized Khoa was still angry, but his eyes held a hint of warmth. She gave a small smile, her heart fluttering with hope. This tense yet tender moment opened the path for Chapter 5, where Han and Khoa would begin to resolve their emotions and grow closer.