Chapter Text
Being an exchange student had its advantages.
Knowing a new place and living there for a certain time was one of them
Making more friends was another of them.
Living with new people and learning customs was one more.
But Donghyuk was not feeling so well.
Not when his mother had cried in silence one night before
Or when his "friends" suddenly stopped sending messages
And the teachers kept saying it was the best thing for him and his future.
Because he didn't want to be an accountant or an engineer as his mother expected, his dream was to become the best dancer in Korea and get on stage.Yet here he was, boarding a plane in silence in the direction of his terrible future.He tried to distract his mind from the view outside the window, but he was nervous to think about moving away.
-You need something?
A girl in airline uniform approached him and smiled
-mmm ... no, thanks
Donghyuk smiled back but she didn't move
-Try to sleep, it makes you feel less dizzy. Is this your first trip? It's normal for you to feel anxious.
Donghyuk bowed and closed his eyes following the advice of the girl.
When he opened his eyes he felt less heavy and sighed.
The announcement through the loudspeakers informed his arrival in Atlanta where he would be picked up by someone to be transferred to school.A young man waited for him outside the airport, his dark hair falling over his forehead in his brown eyes.
-Hello, Donghyuk. I'm the chemistry teacher. My name is Danny
Donghyuk bowed and the hand that was dragging the suitcase began to sweat.
-Follow me, I will show you the rooms and the school before dinner time ...
Danny was no more interesting than the teachers Donghyuk had before, he talked about his subject matter as if it were the most wonderful thing in the world and although Chemistry was never Donghyuk's favorite class, he could still have a rational conversation about it.
-You're lucky, since classes will start in two days. That is going to help you feel more comfortable in school when you are surrounded by other kids. Also, you can always come to the science department and talk to me if you feel sad.
Donghyuk nodded gratefully looking around as they got out of the car.It was a big school just like the brochures announced. Each building was the department of a subject and right at the center was the cafeteria and some rest areas.
-In that way is the science area and the chemistry floor is the third. Just behind is the conservatory of natural sciences and botany. It is a quiet and good place to read, not many people pass by there
After a tour, they arrived at the rooms occupied by only a few students who lived far from the school.
-You will have your own room so feel free. I put some books that you will occupy during your life here and also some that I have read before. I hope you like them.
Donghyuk grimaced like a smile and then felt embarrassed to bow.
-Thank you, Professor ... mmm Danny?
Danny smiled and put a hand on Donghyuk's shoulder
-While we are, it can be just Danny. In class call me Professor Stern
Donghyuk nodded uncomfortably
-In agreement
-Now, you should rest a little, you can go down to dinner in the cafeteria. I can prepare something for you if you're hungry
Although Donghyuk was not an expert, he was beginning to think that this teacher was a bit strange.
-Thanks, but I think for now I'll sleep a bit ... You know, the flight was exhausting.
Danny nodded and shook Donghyuk's short hair
-Well, then, we'll see each other tomorrow in the cafeteria for breakfast. Some students stayed here during vacations so you can start making friends. Rest star boyAnd Donghyuk's stomach churned.
-T-thanks ...
Of all the things that Donghyuk hated in the world, number one was that stupid nickname he received from the professors and by which his number of friends was gradually reduced.
He couldn't sleep while thinking how hard it would be from now on, his life was destined to fail.