Taeyong: “Mark, I know what you’re thinking.”
Mark: “That guy had to hear something…”
Taeyong: “It’s destiny, Mark. He’s young, ridiculously good-looking, funny, charming, and that voice—God, that voice—you’d be out of your mind not to hire him.”

Mark leaned back in his chair, running a thumb over his jaw. “That’s not it… I remember him. Back then… his grades were terrible.”

Taeyong: “And now he’s graduating university with straight A’s every year. People change, Mark. You can’t chain someone to their past. If you don’t give him a call, I will.”

Mark gave him a flat look. “Fine. I’ll call him after classes. Happy?”
Taeyong: “Delighted.” He smiled, then his expression softened. “By the way… me and Jaehyun are doing better than ever. We’ve been taking walks every Monday and Thursday—talking, clearing our heads. Never thought something so simple could fix so much… but it did.”

Mark’s lips tugged into a small smile. “That’s good to hear. I wouldn’t want my assistant going through a divorce and quitting. I honestly don’t know what I’d do without you.”
Taeyong: “Well, you’ve got Jeno. He’s trustworthy—you’ve known him the longest, and you don’t exactly hold back on telling him everything about the school.”
Mark narrowed his eyes. “Are you trying to get him to take your job?”
Taeyong: “And miss this paycheck? Please.”

They laughed, shaking off the heaviness, and returned to their work.

The office chime rang. Mark hit the button to unlock the door, smiling as his best friend Jeno walked in… with his husband right behind him.

Jeno: “So… did you get a new teacher?”
Mark: “A pretty good one. I was going to call him after class.”
Jaemin: “Is he good?”
Mark: “His voice…” Mark trailed off, searching for the right word. Unique. Soft. It clings to you in the best way. “…It’s beautiful.”
Jaemin: “I meant his teaching plans.”

Jeno and Jaemin exchanged a glance, silently agreeing Mark was already a little too impressed.

Mark: “Oh. Well… he’s got a solid technique. I remember him from high school—yeah, his grades were bad back then, but whatever method he’s using now clearly works. I think he’s perfect for the job.”
Jeno: “Alright, then. Don’t forget Teacher’s Night is Friday. The main guest can’t be missing.”
Mark: “Right. Thanks for the reminder. The new music teacher should come too… maybe it’ll help him settle in.”
Jaemin: “Or maybe we’ll… approach him first.”

---

Later, Mark’s voice carried through the intercom again:

"Attention all students and teachers. We have found the perfect new music teacher, and he will arrive in two days. I’d like the choir to perform one song, and the dance team to prepare a routine. Teachers will also perform and may choose a few students to join them. Please welcome our newcomer warmly and treat him well so he can return the favor. That will be all. Thank you."

Students began huddling, planning their performances. The teachers left them to it, heading for the meeting office.

Mark: “I want duets… or more. You can pull in some middle school teachers too, but don’t go overboard. And limit how many students you bring in.”
Jeno: “You should perform too. The principal greeting the new hire—it’s a good look.”
Mark: “I was thinking about it… but I don’t know what to sing.”
Taeyong: “I’ve got an idea.”

---

The phone rang. Once. Twice. Three times.

??: “Lee Donghyuck speaking, how may I help you?”

The sound of his voice made Mark’s chest tighten. Softer than he remembered, but still carrying that same warmth.

Mark: “Uh… hello, Donghyuck. Lee Minhyung calling. I wanted to let you know you’ve got the job. Could you start in two days?”
Hyuck: “Yes! Thank you so much! Uh… what do I need to bring?”
Mark: “Just tell me your favorite colors, your favorite aesthetic, and if you have any allergies.”
Hyuck: “Uh… blue, green, and yellow. Aesthetic? I don’t really know what you call it… I like cozy, playful stuff. Kind of like kids’ room designs, very comfortable. And no allergies. But… why do you need to know that?”
Mark: “Don’t worry, Donghyuck. You’ll see when you arrive. I’ll send you an email with all the important information.”
Hyuck: “Okay, sir. Thank you again—I’m really grateful.”
Mark: “No problem. Have a nice day.”
Hyuck: “You too. Goodbye.”

The call ended.

Mark set the phone down slowly. His pulse was still a little too fast. Of all the people… it had to be him.

I miss him.