Soonyoung was the first to know that Mingyu was going to be joining the table for lunch, naturally because the three, Jinhyun, Soonyoung, and Mingyu, were all seatmates in math. Soonyoung actually began talking more to Mingyu in the class, now that Mingyu could help both Jinhyun and Soonyoung with certain mathematical concepts. But Soonyoung was already clicking with the tall boy. Well, it was Soonyoung; he had this warm aura that you couldn’t help but feel comfortable with him.

            When math class ended, the three of them headed to the cafeteria. Unintentionally, the couple managed to make Soonyoung look like a third wheel when Mingyu instantly clasped Jinhyun’s hand as they walked. Soonyoung made a ‘pfft’ sound but it was all in good fun.

“Great, so you’re the type of boyfriend that can’t keep their hands off their lover, huh?”

“That’s not true,” Mingyu humorously replied to Soonyoung’s banter, though he still held Jinhyun’s hand.

“Oh that’s right, Soonyoung, y’know Mingyu was worried if everyone would like him,” Jinhyun brought up, causing Mingyu to become anxious all of a sudden. Soonyoung merely chuckled in response.

“Isn’t that natural though, wanting to be accepted by your lover’s closest friends?” Soonyoung asked quite lovingly to Jinhyun, who snorted but hesitated before replying with something that could be taken the wrong way.

“Yeah, I guess,” Jinhyun replied thoughtfully.

“But hey, you got my approval, Mingyu. Let’s see, you’re smart, funny I guess, and definitely not lacking in the looks department. I guess I have to see how humorous you can be but you’re good all across the board for me,” Soonyoung explained, earning a smile from Mingyu.

“What do you mean, ‘definitely not lacking in the looks department,’ Hoshroom? Are you hitting on my boyfriend?” Jinhyun flared, which in turn made Mingyu laugh and Soonyoung yell out a decisive no. Mingyu made sure to thank Soonyoung anyway, but Jinhyun was already a bit riled up.

“You gotta watch out Mingyu,” Soonyoung started. “Jinhyun’s a jealous type. He’ll be protective of you ‘till the very end.” At his words, Mingyu smirked.

“I like that, at least I’ll know I’m being appreciated,” Mingyu replied, which made Jinhyun feel a bit more at ease. It was true; he couldn’t help but feel jealous at little things because he was so inclined for love. He didn’t want to lose someone precious to him to someone else. With Mingyu’s assurance, he felt a bit better about the situation and just let it blow over. Right now, he had something bigger to worry about…

            They entered the cafeteria, got their lunches and found their table. Everyone was there except Seungkwan and Wonwoo. Upon seeing someone different for a change at their table, everyone ogled Mingyu, who still stood despite Soonyoung and Jinhyun taking their seats. Immediately, Mingyu bowed his head, introducing himself.

“Hello, my name is Kim Mingyu, nice to meet you. I’ve heard a lot about you all from Jinhyun. Please look after me well and support our relationship!” Jinhyun was surprised, it seemed like Mingyu had this scripted beforehand or something.

“Hi Mingyu, we have a class together but we haven’t been formally introduced. My name is Hong Jisoo, and the eldest of our group of friends. You seem like quite the gentleman, I think I’ll like you.” Jisoo began, which made Jinhyun snort. The two exchanged another round of head bowing.

“Wow, you got called a gentleman by the gentleman himself, you should be proud.” Soonyoung couldn’t help adding in a comment. Next was Minghao.

“Hi, I’m Xu Minghao from China. You can just call me Minghao. Jinhyun-hyung told me that you’re younger than him, but older than me. So that makes you my hyung too. Nice to meet you!” The Chinese boy greeted warmly. Mingyu was almost in disbelief by how nice these friends were.

“Why don’t you have a seat now, Mingyu?” Jisoo offered, gesturing to the empty spot next to Jinhyun. Mingyu nodded briskly and finally sat, earning laughter from them. The table eased into light conversation all around until they heard a loud voice holler from behind.

“Sorry we’re laaaaaaaate!”

            It was