The rain hammered down on Elysian Arts Academy like it had a personal grudge against dry socks. Nat cursed under his breath, clutching his sketchbook tight against his chest as he dashed across the courtyard. Water splashed up his pant legs, soaking his pristine uniform. Why today? he thought, his mind already replaying the half finished landscape painting waiting in the studio.
"Watch the puddles, nat" Tan said flatly from under his umbrella, his voice as steady as ever. Tan was the sculpture guy built like a statue himself, all sharp angles and zero nonsense. Beside him, Pai fiddled with his camera strap, peering through the lens at the downpour like it was some artistic phenomenon. "Rain's good for photos" Pai murmured, ever the quiet observer.
They finally ducked into the Visual Arts hall, shaking off like wet dogs. Nat exhaled, running a hand through his damp hair. "That storm's biblical"
Across the courtyard, in the Performing Arts wing, Chai was mid spin during dance practice when his foot hit a sneaky puddle. Whoosh arms flailing, he tumbled forward like a human pinwheel, crashing right into a solid chest. Paintbrushes and sketchbook flew Chai grabbed wildly to steady himself.
"Oops! Holy rain gods, sorry, handsome stranger!" Chai blurted, flashing a grin that could light up a blackout. His messy hair stuck to his forehead, uniform tie askew, but his eyes sparkled with zero regret. Behind him, Krit doubled over laughing from the theater corner, while Pong sprayed fake rain from a water bottle, howling, Director's cut epic wipeout.
Nat steadied himself, face heating up despite the chill. He knelt to grab his scattered brushes, shooting Chai a glare that could curdle milk. "Watch where you're going. Some if us have deadlines."
Chai crouched too, handing over a soggy sketchbook with a wink. "I'm Chai Chayakorn Wiriyakorn, dance major extraordinaire. You got a name, or should i call you 'Mystery Muse'?" His voice was all bubbly energy, like he'd just won the lottery instead of causing a collision.
"Nat Natthaphong Srisuk. Painting department" Nat muttered, snatching the book. Up close, Chai smelled like citrus shampoo and fresh rain annoyingly distracting. "Just be careful. Not everyone's got your chaos immunity"
Chai laughed, a sound like rolling thunder mixed with sunshine. "Chaos is my superpower! See you around, nat" He bounced back to his friends, who were already reenacting the crash with exaggerated flair.
Nat watched him go, sketchbook heavy in his hands. Tan raised an eyebrow. "Trouble" Pai just snapped a discreet photo. Outside, the rain whispered secrets, as if the universe was already plotting their next messy meeting.