The sun was blazing by midday, casting warm light over the mountains and rivers surrounding the boot camp.
Rafting Day.
Instructors split students into teams. Life jackets on. Helmets strapped tight.
Jaylen Creed stood shirtless by the riverbank, his lean, defined body impossible not to notice. Girls sneaked glances. Even some of the guys were whispering.
"He looks like he walked out of a fitness ad."
"Did you see his abs?"
"Forget Daniel, this guy's built like a weapon."
Jaylen didn't care. He helped Daniel onto a raft and gave Zack a nod as they paddled out into the swirling river current.
For most, the day was fun. Laughter, shouts, and occasional wipeouts. But by late afternoon, the sun dipped, and the energy settled into evening calm.
As students returned to the main lodge, one of the instructors, Zeus, called out, "Mira Kim."
She turned, slightly confused.
"Can you help me move a few boxes from the supply warehouse? It won't take long," he asked with his usual charming smile.
"Uh… sure, I guess."
The two walked toward a storage shed at the back of the camp, surrounded by trees and just out of sight from the main buildings.
Inside, it was dimly lit. A couple of stacked boxes sat near the back wall.
"Just those?" Mira asked.
Zeus nodded. "Yeah, appreciate it."
She bent down to lift one but something felt… off.
Zeus stepped a little too close. His voice dropped slightly. "You know, most students don't pay attention like you do. That's rare."
Mira stood up straight, sensing the change in tone. "Thanks…?"
The door creaked behind them.
Won Bin.
He marched in, fists clenched, eyes burning with intensity.
"Get away from her."
Zeus raised a brow. "Relax. We're just moving boxes."
"You think I don't know what you've done in the past? You're a predator, and I'm not letting you get near another student."
Mira blinked. "What?"
Before she could even ask more, Won Bin charged.
A blur of fists.
Zeus wasn't smiling anymore. He dodged, countered, and landed a crushing blow to Won Bin's chest. Mira stepped back in shock.
"You don't know what you're talking about!" Zeus yelled, fury in his eyes.
But Won Bin wasn't done. He got back up, blood at the corner of his mouth. "Mira, he's dangerous. He's not who he pretends to be."
Mira looked between them, her heart racing. She didn't know who to believe—but the look in Zeus's eyes had changed.
It wasn't charming anymore.
It was… cold.
She slowly backed toward the door.
"I think I should go"
Zeus stepped toward her, fast.
"Take of your clothes"