In Chapter 1, we are introduced to Asher Park, a popular model in South Korea, who struggles with maintaining a facade of a perfect life while hiding his true self, particularly his feelings for a boy named Jaeoon Cai. Asher feels suffocated by his dysfunctional family, with an abusive father and a mother who is a prostitute. He grapples with societal expectations and the pressures of being a role model, all while secretly loving Jaeoon.
Asher shares a close friendship with Jasper, a nerdy but endearing classmate who knows about Asher's complicated feelings. Despite his rebellious nature, Asher excels academically while navigating high school dynamics. The chapter ends with the announcement of partner projects in class, causing Asher to feel anxious about who he will be paired with, given the mixed dynamics of his classmates.