The alarm rang at 6:30 sharp.
Xiao Yushen opened his eyes instantly.
No snoozing. No dragging.
Another day.
He stared at the ceiling for a few seconds, already sorting through the day—lectures, notes to revise, faces he might see, feelings he should ignore.
He sat up.
The room was perfectly arranged. Desk aligned. Books stacked neatly. Uniform ironed the night before.
He liked control.
Control meant fewer surprises.
In the bathroom, cool water splashed against his face. He lifted his head and met his reflection.
Calm.
Unreadable.
Good.
Keep it that way.
Downstairs, breakfast was quiet. He scrolled through his phone—class group chats overflowing with memes and noise.
Muted.
People talk too much for no reason.
He stepped outside, bag slung over one shoulder. The morning air was crisp. Students passed by in clusters, laughter echoing too brightly for this hour.
He walked alone.
As the campus gates came into view, his steps slowed slightly.
