Next morning. Yerin sits in class before the bell with a notebook open to a ridiculous investigation plan titled 'Operation: Not Hater.' Woojin's empty desk beside her waits like bait.

Woojin arrives and sits. Yerin 'accidentally' drops her pen near his shoe. The classroom is bright and ordinary, making her spy behavior funnier.

Yerin uses the returned pen as an excuse to speak. Woojin opens his sketchbook to a page of precise hand studies.

Woojin's sketchbook dominates the frame with meticulous city perspective, hands, and anatomy. Yerin is forced to recognize his skill despite hating him.

The conversation shifts from trap to curiosity. Woojin's self-critique is quiet, not dramatic. Yerin is surprised by the lack of ego.

Yerin guides the conversation toward webcomics. Woojin answers plainly, unaware that each answer is evidence.

The classroom grows quieter as most students leave for break. Yerin asks why he comments on one comic. Woojin is unaware he is cutting directly into her pride.

Woojin explains why he cares about Starlight Boy without naming Yerin. Yerin stands close enough to explode. Soft classroom light heightens the intimacy of the critique.

Yerin tries to defend herself while pretending to defend a stranger. Woojin's critique is merciless but not cruel in expression.

That evening in Yerin's bedroom workspace. Fictional StarPanel interface on her laptop. No real brands. The room is filled with Starlight Boy sketches and school books.

Yerin receives a new @CriticNotHater comment on Chapter 30. The room is dim except for screen glow. The comment is a rare compliment with a barb.

Yerin looks from Woojin's comment history to her own drawing tablet, pride and curiosity tangled. The panel should feel like she has stepped into a game she cannot quit.