"SNAP OUT OF IT JEON JUNGKOOK! IT'S THE LAST DAY. WAKE UP!" said Jungkook while snapping his own face in front of the toilet's mirror. After washing his face, he returned to his table then drank the remaining drips of espresso in his cup. He took his pencil and with the remaining energy he had, he was focusing his mind on the problem written on the white paper in front of him.

Chaeyoung just arrived and as soon as she sat down, she put an eco-bag in front of Jungkook, blocking his sight to his practice sheet. Jungkook looked at her confusedly and she gestured him to looked at the bag. He obeyed and opened the bag. There were thermos, herbal medicine, eye masks, and face masks in there. Confused with those things, Jungkook lifted his head and looked at Chaeyoung who as usual showed her sweet smile. Without being asked, Chaeyoung explained why she gave it to him. The thermos contained ginger lemon tea which good for his immune, the herbal medicine for toxification because he had been consuming lots of caffeine, the eye mask was for his panda's eyes, and the last one for his skin. He was lacking sleep and it was bad for his skin. Jungkook a bit confused at the random gift but nodded and thanked her for it.

After a short interruption, Jungkook back to work on his practice test again. This exam really saves the best for the last. His most hated subject, Chemistry was put on the last day.

It's his third cup for today. Just like what Chaeyoung said, he consumed too much caffeine. He only slept for 3 to 5 hours a day. Thanks to the caffeine, he was able to stay focused and concentrate. Now, the accumulation of sleepiness seems to peak up. Added by how much he despised chemistry, he really wanted to raise the white flag.

Jungkook leaned on the chair, took his cup, and sipping it only to realize there was nothing on it. He put down the empty cup then looking at the weird word on the practice test. He was smirking as he suddenly felt amazed by himself. How could he manage to study so hard in the past week? Where was the spirit from a week ago? He looked at the paper in disgust and when he trying to read the first sentence of the question his stomach was acting up. It feels like the food and beverages were climbing up his throat. Afraid he will vomiting, he closed his eyes and flipped the paper so he won't see it again.

Slowly Jungkook opened his eyes and stared at the blank paper in front of him. Thought about it again, if it's not for her encouragement, positivity, and sweet yet poisonous persuasion, he already gave up since the first day. Silently, Jungkook took a glance at the girl who sat in front of him. His eyes were fixated on her hands which busy working on her own practice test. His eyes then moved up to her face. Her concentration was amazing. No matter how noisy the café was, she still able to work on it without getting distracted. His eyes then stopped at her eyes, he didn't realize it before, but there was also a very dark circle under her eyes.

Suddenly, Jungkook felt embarrassed because he was thinking about giving up. He thought he was having a hard time and couldn't do it anymore. But, he realized, compared to him, this girl was having a double amount of a hard time. She should study for her own exam but also prepare the material for him. She risking her life by fulfilling his request. As far as he remembered, she never gets dethroned from the first place crown. What if this time, her rank would drop?

"What's wrong? Is there something you don't understand?" Chaeyoung's question snapped Jungkook back from his deep thought. He was a bit flustered because she caught him staring at her. He impulsively nodded to hide his embarrassment.

Chaeyoung stood up, moved, and sat next to Jungkook. With a clear and firm voice, she started to explain the theory to Jungkook. It's useless. No matter how simple her explanation was, Jungkook couldn't process any more information. He stared blankly at the paper and nodded as Chaeyoung was talking.

"I am sorry," out of sudden, she apologized. It made Jungkook a bit awake. He was asking what was the apology for.

"I am very sorry I can't deliver the material well. You must be having a hard time understanding my complicated explanation," she was disappointed in herself because she couldn't teach him well.

Jungkook moved his eyes away. Truthfully speaking, it's not her fault. It's just he is really tired and sick of this. He needed a break but he just couldn't give in like that. It's a dilemma. He didn't want to tell her the truth because he didn't want to look like a loser. But, seeing how she blame herself made him feel guilty.

"It's not that. I just…," Jungkook finally decided to tell the truth. It's no use to pretend to study if he felt like throwing up only by reading the question. It's only wasting both of their time.

"Huft… I just tired. I feel sick and don't want to continue to study again," said Jungkook while closing his book and flip the paper upside down so he won't see the questions.

No reaction. She then stood up and back to her seat. Jungkook observing her face wondered what kind of threat or more precisely, encouragement, that she would say to trigger his fighting spirit. The last few days, she never gives up and always had a way to make him concentrate again. Just like someone who was waiting for his surprise gift, Jungkook was expectedly waiting for what kind of action she would do to cope with this crisis.

"It can't be helped. You are exhausted and I can't force you to study. It will be useless. So, let's stop it here. Now, pack your belonging, we won't be studying," said Chaeyoung while putting her books, papers, and stationary into her bag.

It was indeed surprising. What she did was beyond imagination that made Jungkook brain couldn't believe what he heard and seen. Why did she say it? Did she finally give in just like him? Is it the end?

It's surprising but also disappointing. He didn't expect she would give in too. Although he didn't want to study, he still wanted to fight till the end. Wasn't she the one who told him to not chicken out? Then why she was the one who gives up first. Well, if he put on her shoes, it's understandable if she wanted to give up on him.

Just like Chaeyoung, Jungkook also packed his belonging and followed her to the cashier, and left the café. As usual, even though the sun was still up, Jungkook had to walk her home as the commitment he made to his friends and her brother. On their way to the bus stop, Jungkook was staring blankly at the space and let his instinct lead his body to keep walking.

They said, if your brain can't remember, then your body will. That's what happened to him when he felt it took longer than usual to reach the bus stop. His brain finally functioned again after that weird feeling. He looked around and realized they were already walked so far from the café but not at the bus stop. Now, they were in the Han River park.

"Why are we here?" asked Jungkook to Chaeyoung when she abruptly stopped walking.

"To run," said Chaeyoung.

"What? Run? Here? Why?" Jungkook tried to confirm what his ears hear.

"I did some research about yourself before we start this intensive study, and I found out you release your stress through running. I know it very well this past week is very hard for you. The fatigue had been piled up and finally its reach its peak. So, now, let's run. Here, give me your backpack, I will hold it while you are running," she reached out her hands, asking for his backpack.

Jungkook who heard it was speechless. He didn't know she prepared for this intensive training very well. Not only the material but also the trivial things like this. He indeed loved to run whenever he faced a problem, but this time he didn't even think about running because he was very tired. Not only physically but also emotionally. He hesitated whether he still had the energy to run but he felt bad when he saw the enthusiasm in her eyes.

"Fine. Here, take care of my bag," Jungkook decided to follow her suggestion and gave his bag to her. She smiled then said she will wait at the convenience store. There was no time limit, he could spend his time as much as he likes. Jungkook nodded and tried to warm his body up.

At first, Jungkook was only doing speed walking. He wasn't sure whether he could do it but he thought at least he could give it a try. Slowly his speed was increasing. Now, he forgot about all of his fatigues and exam and just running and enjoyed the view. He felt so refreshed and it seems like all his worries were gone in every step he took.

The weather slowly got colder. Not only because the sun was gone, but also because he slowly loses energy. He looked at his watch and he already jogging around for 30 minutes. His instinct told him it's time for him to stop. He then jogs back to the convenience store where she waits.

From the outside, he could saw her still working on her practice test. She was indeed so amazing. No matter where and when she could concentrate fully like that. Unlike her, his concentration span wasn't that long, that's why she kept telling him to take a break every 15 minutes. Now, he even took 30 minutes break but he wasn't sure whether he could gain his concentration back again after spending all his energy running.

Jungkook pushed the store's door and automatically greeted by the clerk. It's so warm inside. Although his body was warm due to exercise, his hands which easily got cold need extra attention. He walked around the shelf and took two hot packs. Lucky for him, he still managed to buy it before they ran out of it. After he paid for his hot packs, he came and sat next to Chaeyoung. She took her earphone down and after seeing how Jungkook's eyes were sparkling again, she smiled and said they should go back to that café.

Once they were out of the store, Chaeyoung suddenly told Jungkook to wait because she had to buy something. It's not taken long for her to came back. Jungkook saw her hands wondering what she bought. He saw her holding a hot pack with both of her hands.

The strong wind from the river and the cold weather was clearly felt by their body. Now, he could even see his breath was getting thicker. This cold weather reminded him of that time when they were in Daegu. It's not really that cold but she was freezing. Compared to him, she seems to have lower resistance to cold weather.

"Here, take it," Jungkook decided to give his hot pack to her.

"What about you?" Chaeyoung hesitantly looking at that hot pack.

"I have it," said Jungkook cooly.

"Really? Then show me," Chaeyoung didn't want to take his hot packs because it was so freezing cold.

Jungkook took out another hot pack from his left pocket and showed both of them to her. Chaeyoung looked at it but still hesitated. The fact he bought two was enough to prove he was feeling cold because he was out for so long.

"You've been out for a long time. You better use it. I don't want you to get sick," she worried Jungkook would catch the flu.

"I am fine. Here, just take it. I don't want to get scolded by your brothers if you get sick," Jungkook insisted to give it to her.

"Oh come on. When it comes to this, there is no such a thing as a gentleman. We are both humans. Judging from the condition, you are the one who needs it the most. Besides, if you get sick, me too, will get scolded by your friends and your parents," suddenly her competitiveness awaken. She refused to take it from him.

"Don't be so stubborn. Your resistance to cold is weaker than me," Jungkook forcefully put the hot pack in her hand then walked ahead leaving her behind.

Jungkook suddenly stopped as he felt his arm was being pulled. He turned around and looked at her confusedly. Just like what he did before, she forcefully put back the hot pack to his hand.

"No thanks. I don't want to use it. Anyway, it's yours, to begin with. Don't be stubborn. Your condition right now is worse than mine," she looked a bit pissed.

Jungkook took a deep breath. He didn't expect she was so stubborn. Although he could understand why she did that. She might feel guilty if he falls sick. She was the one who told him to run in this weather. But at the same time, his pride as a man not allowed him to use it. That's why he tried to find a way to make her give up.

"Then, just use it together," Those words just come out from his mouth spontaneously. He was surprised a second later after he realized he said it out loud.

Originally he just thinking about a way to make her accept it without any objection. He remembered last time she didn't want her friends to found out they were together. At that time she tried so hard to hide. He believed she rather accepting that hot pack rather than walking together hand in hand with him.

"Fine," she replied to his challenge right away. She knew he tried to make her give up and use the hot pack. Unfortunately, Jungkook didn't know about this side of her. She wasn't the type who gives up on his student. Once she took a student, she always determined to give her best to make them successful. And for her, health was playing a big part in her studying plan. It's an essential element and there was no way she would let him fall sick.

Surprised at her unexpected answer made him wavering. He set the trap but he was the one who was trapped. But taking his words back wasn't his style. He had no option but to reached his hand out with the hot pack on it. Chaeyoung smirked and grabbed his hand. He could see the cockiness in that smirk and it made him embarrassed. He hated to admit it but this time, she won.

Walking through the cold winter evening made them naturally stood closer to each other to remain warm. Since they were near the river, the wind was exceptionally strong. Although he held the hot pack the back of his hand was slowly getting numb due to the cold wind. The wind kept caressing his hand and he couldn't hold the coldness anymore. Instinctively he put his hand into his padded jacket and felt so relieved as soon as he felt the warmness slowly covered his hand.

As his skin could function well again due to the warmness, he realized that it's not only his hand he put on his pocket no wonder it felt so tight compared to his right pocket. Now, not only his hand which get warmer but also his face. His heart pumping the blood to his body at a fast speed that made it thumps so hard.

Unlike Jungkook who was feeling nervous, Chaeyoung remained calm. She was a bit surprised at first but later she was happy because she made the right choice. Jungkook might feel really cold so he unconsciously put his hand on his jacket. She was glad she didn't give in and let him use the hot pack.

The long cold journey finally ended as they arrived at the café. Jungkook got so happy not only because he finally got into a warmer place but also because he finally could calm his heart down. They were still holding hands until they about to sit down on their seat. Jungkook took their hands out of the pocket, and when they let off of each other hands, the hot pack fall.

"Ouch!!," they were screaming in pain while rubbing their forehead. Their heads were bumping into each other when they were trying to take the hot pack on the floor.

"Here," grandpa who was the owner of the café help them pick it.

Jungkook thanked him and took both the hot pack and the menu book that he handed. Grandpa then left and said to call him once they were ready to order. Both of them smiled and thanked him once again.

Although they both were regular here, they still thinking so hard to choose what they want to eat. They already eat almost all of the menu because they kept coming here for more than a week. Strangely they didn't felt bored coming here, instead, they become more comfortable as if they were in their home. The owner was so kind, the food was great and the atmosphere was so warm and cozy. More importantly, this café was relatively quiet. Their customer most likely came alone, work on their laptop, read the book or simply just enjoy the food and a cup of coffee. It's noisy sometimes especially if there was a large group of people, but it was so rare. From all of that, what Chaeyoung love the most on this café was their playlist. The couple had a similar taste in music with her and it added the plus point.

"Lucky I'm in love with my best friend, lucky to have been where I have been~~," Chaeyoung was humming on the song that played on the café while reading the menu book.

"Lucky to be coming home again," grandpa who was hearing Chaeyoung's humming joined in and singing the next lyrics.

Both Jungkook and Chaeyoung were a bit surprised and saw Grandpa was smiling. Grandpa then said he really loves this song. Chaeyoung also said it was one of her favorite songs. She memorized the lyrics and often played the song with the guitar. Finding another fan, grandpa became so excited and started to tell the reason he loves this song. It was because it was similar to his love story. Grandma was his best friend and they ended up being husband and wife.

"Oh, I'm sorry for being so excited about my story. So, what would you like to order?" Grandpa was feeling shy after he realized he became so excited about telling his story to this young customer. Jungkook and Chaeyoung said it's okay because they loved hearing this romantic love story. After writing down their menu, Grandpa left them and back to the counter.

A full stomach combined with an exhausted body creates a wonderful thing called sleepiness. Jungkook forcefully opened his eyes and shook his head to chase the sleepiness away. It's working but only temporary. Knew he won't be able to stay awake without any help from caffeine, Jungkook looked around tried to find the waitress to order another cup of espresso.

"Just sleep. I will wake you up 30 minutes later. Don't worry it's still early. We still have enough time to study," He was about to raise his hand to ordered espresso but luckily Chaeyoung stopped him.

He looked at her with a suspicious look. She acted differently today. Somehow, she wasn't as strict as before. But, for now, he didn't want to think about it as he couldn't open his eyes anymore. He accepted her suggestion, folded his arms on the table, and put his head on it.

Someone shook his shoulder and Jungkook began to open his eyes. He was immediately looking at his watch and he already slept for one hour! He looked at Chaeyoung suspiciously but she smiled and said he slept so soundly and she didn't have the heart to wake him up. She was right, he felt like it was the best sleep he ever had in the past week. The effect also lingers for too long. It's so hard for him to keep awake. He stared at the paper while his mind was wandering around.

"Here, drink it," Chaeyoung poured the ginger tea she gave him to the cup.

The spiciness from ginger slowly brought back his consciousness. In no time he already drank all the cup and poured another cup. This beverage was unexpectedly had a great effect. It's warming his body and it clear his mind. After took a few minutes recovering from his fatigue, he was ready to go back into his studying mode.

It's weird. All his sickness suddenly cured. He no longer felt want to vomit when Chaeyoung handed him the chemistry practice test. It seems like his mind was being clear again. Although he still not gotten his strength fully back, he clicked his pencil and began to work on it.

As expected no matter how clear his mind was, chemistry still the hardest subject to learn. Chaeyoung returned his answer sheet and it was still decorated with lots of red inks. He looked at it desperately and put it down on the table.

"Today is the last day, so… Hang in there. I know it's hard but, just do your best till the end. It's better to go all out now than repeat it again. You can do it! Fighting!" seeing Jungkook's desperate face made Chaeyoung felt bad. She should cheer him up before he lost hope and ended up giving up.

Jungkook's ears were gotten red when he heard it. He nodded and began to work on the practice again. Now, he was in the fully concentrated mode. He was reading his previous answer and tried to find what he did wrong.

"Still not figuring it out?" Chaeyoung asked him suddenly and it made him flustered. He was so focused and not realized she was already sitting next to him. Not only that, he felt their distance seems too close to each other. His heart was thumping so hard again, but thanks to that his brain were working even better. As if the mistake he made was magically emitting a light he easily pointed it out and proudly showed her what he got wrong. She looked at him and smiled. Seeing her smile made him nervous and quickly looked away awkwardly.

Happy Jungkook was able to work on it, Chaeyoung was going back to her seat and continued studying. Jungkook also continued on the problem but sadly, this question was too hard for him to solve. He had to ask her again and it made her moved next to him again. It happened several times and made Jungkook felt sorry for her.

"You can stay here," Jungkook said shyly when she finished explaining how to solve the problem.

"I mean you can sit here. It's a hassle to move back and forth to your seat," Jungkook immediately added an adverb to his sentence. Chaeyoung nodded then took her book and papers from her original seat.

Another hour had passed and for the countless time, Jungkookk received his graded paper.

"Good job," Chaeyoung was complimenting Jungkook as she returned the answer sheet. Finally, Jungkook saw the monochrome color in it. It's embarrassing but he couldn't hold his smile. Looking at this made him so proud. Satisfied looking at his sheet, he put it down and slipping it between his textbook. Nothing can compare to the joy of hard work that is paid off.

The energy he lost seems to come back and now he was ready to face another problem. He took his pencil and another blank paper, excitedly waiting for Chaeyoung to give out another question. Instead of getting a new sheet, he saw Chaeyoung cleared her table and pack her belonging.

"Are we done?" he asked curiously while seeing his watch.

She nodded to reply to his question.

He saw his watch. There was one hour left before her curfew. It's not like her. Usually, she never ended the lesson before she explains all the questions. Seeing from the practice they have done so far, there were two more types of questions left.

"But… there are still two more questions left," Jungkook spoke up his mind that even made him surprised.

Chaeyoung couldn't hold her smile seeing Jungkook being disappointed. She by saying she was proud Jungkook really eager to learn it. Jungkook got shy by her tease. She then said it's because those two were difficult.

"It's better for you to master the questions you have higher chances to get right rather than wasting your time on something with less probability. Just guess the answer. Even if you got it wrong, it won't affect your grade. At least, you still can achieve the standard. Moreover, you better have enough rest tonight. It's useless if you stayed up late to study but can't focus on the real exam. The amount of sleep is affecting your concentration," seeing how he slept earlier made her realized good rest was more important for him right now so she decided to end the lesson.

"I say it's difficult, but I didn't say you can't do it. I think about expanding your opportunity. Leaving the difficult one is one of the strategies to get a good grade too. Since it's a multiple-choice which all the questions have the same point, and there were only two or three questions with that type so… Well… If you want to learn about it I can teach you," she felt a bit guilty for breaking his spirit but, as a tutor, she should give a better solution.

What she said was right. He was really exhausted and need more rest. Now he understood why she let him sleep and exercise. Because his body couldn't stand it. Besides, he trusted her suggestion. She might be more experienced with this situation. Just like that, he obediently followed her suggestions and get ready to go home.

Chaeyoung said Jin will pick her up tonight so she would wait in the café until he arrived. Jungkook said he will wait with her. He was afraid he would get scolded by him. While they were waiting, they headed to the cashier to pay their bill. After finished their transaction, Grandpa gave them two boxes of cake. They looked confusedly at each other and then tell him they didn't order it. Grandpa laughed and said it was a gift from his wife. Could read their confused reaction, grandma come and join their conversation. She said she give it to them to cheer them up. She had been observing those two and felt so touched by their hard work.

"Seeing you two reminds us of when we were young. So, we really love it when you two come here again and getting along so well," Grandpa also added another reason behind that gift.

"Honestly, I and my husband really love it when we see you two again after a year. We thought you two already broke up because you haven't come here anymore. But seeing you two come back here while holding hands made us glad that you two are still together," said Grandma.

"Ah, that's we…," Jungkook who was being shy because they saw them holding hands tried to clear up the misunderstanding.

"We are so grateful that we can make you happy. Thank you so much for letting us study in this café. Don't worry we will come here as often as we can since it's a special place for us. Ah, and also thank you for the gift. We really appreciate it. We promise we will work hard on our exam," Chaeyoung cut Jungkook's word because she didn't want to make the couple to feeling down.

Since Jin almost arrived, they decided to wait outside the café. Once they were outside, Jungkook asked her why she lied. She said she wasn't lying. She didn't say anything about their relationship. She just relaying her gratitude. It was the wisest thing because she didn't want to broke their heart nor made them embarrassed for making false assumptions.

The red car stopped in front of them. The window rolled down showing Jin's handsome face. Chaeyoung told Jungkook to get in but he refused.

"Hurry get in! Do you know why I am here? Chaeyoung asked me to pick her up so that I can give you a ride home. She said you look so tired,"

"OPPA!!!"

"See she got mad because I tell you the truth. Now, hurry to get in!"

Jungkook who heard it suddenly got blushed. He wondered how many times he had his face turned so red because of her. Jin was honking and it surprised him. It's not good to make him angry so Jungkook hurriedly opened the back seat door and get into the car.

After eating his second dinner, Jungkook heading to his room opened his book, and get ready to review what he just learned. It's only 15 minutes since he began to study but his eyes couldn't stay open anymore. He decided to sleep and woke up at 2 AM to continued studying. He rolled his chair near his bed and threw his body into it. Before he fell asleep, he took his phone to set the alarm. After he set it, he about to put it on the desk but took it back as he saw an incoming message.

"Tomorrow is the last day. Good luck!"

Jungkook smiled when he read it and without he realized. He was typing his reply when another message came again.

"Don't set your alarm at 2AM. Just set it on 6.30 so you won't be late for school,"

"If you can't sleep, put on the mask and drink the herbal medicine I gave you. I can guarantee you can sleep right away,"

Just like the text said, he turned off the alarm he set before then sat on his bed. His eyes were scanning around and walked to his desk, opened his bag, and took out the mask. He scoffed thinking it was ridiculous but he still applied the mask on his face, then heading to his bed again.

"Yes Ma'am!

 "You too. Good luck with your exam tomorrow,"

After he sent it, his eyes strangely getting so heavy and he was falling into dreamland.

***

"ding dong ding dong ding dong ding dong…"

The school bell was ringing and the teacher told the last row student to pass their answer sheet to their friends who sat in the front row. After all the answer was collected, some of them quickly stood up and did a little stretching, some of them were putting their head on the table, the other quickly left the class because they didn't want to hear some smart and curious student discussing the exam.

Jungkook who fall into the last category immediately left the class. It's the final day of the exam but he couldn't slack off since he had another mock test on his cram school to determine his class in the upcoming semester.

The first and second test was over. Finally, it's break time. As soon as the bell was ringing, Jungkook took out his phone to check on his messenger. There was no notification from Chaeyoung. It's strange. He opened the application to ensure she didn't send him one. When he read the last message, he remembered yesterday was their last day. Well, it's normal. They never eat together before the intensive training.

Jungkook put the phone down inside his pocket and decided to head to the sandwich restaurant. In the door, he almost bumped into Bona. They exchange greeting without further conversation. Since the day Bona met him and Chaeyoung, and also since the gossip was spreading, Bona no longer had an interest in him.

The break time almost over and after he finished the last bite of the sandwich, he was heading back to his cram school. On his way, he saw Chaeyoung was walking together with her friends. Their eyes met but she only waved at him and going inside the building. That's right, it's not like they were a close friend anyway. And what she did was the thing a normal friend was supposed to do.

The happiest time was coming as the teacher told the student to collect their answer sheet. Out of habit, once again the first thing Jungkook do when the class was over was checking his phone. But this time, before he the screen, he put it back in his pocket again. Jungkook got out of the class and walking past the lobby. His eyes automatically turned to the bulletin board but then turned his head away. Feeling embarrassed by his own actions, he quickly walked to the bus stop.

Jungkook arrived at the intersection. He turned left and heading to the bus stop. From afar, he could see a familiar face and it made him smiling unconsciously. He walked closer to the bus stop but he suddenly stopped. That man again. He was sitting next to Chaeyoung. Jungkook quickly put on a mask and his hoodie to hide his appearance. Quietly he got closer and when he was within enough distance, he took out his phone, opened the camera, set the video, and put it on the front pocket of his jacket.

A few days ago, he consulted about this case with Namjoon. Namjoon said to catch the perpetrator he should collect the evidence. It's better if it was in the video form because it catches the perpetrator right in action.

While his phone was recording, his eyes were observing that guy. It's unclear from his sight but he could know that guy was making Chaeyoung a bit uncomfortable. It showed with her action. It's not her bus that came but she stood up and blend with the crowd. Since the object was moving, Jungkook also moved closer to adjusted the camera angle. Unlike Chaeyoung, that man wasn't moving. He kept sitting on the bench. But it didn't last long. Without making a strange move, he was standing up and take a place near Chaeyoung. It's not too close, he was maintaining their distance.

It seems like another school had finished because suddenly a bunch of students was coming and it made the bus stop became denser. The man took this advantage and he was slowly getting more and more closer to her. Jungkook didn't take his eyes off of him. A few seconds later, he saw Chaeyoung was moving a bit. She might felt uncomfortable. From afar, Jungkook saw a bus was coming and people who about to ride it started to move and made a queue. It made their position changed again. Strangely, that man still standing next to her and even get closer!

Jungkook held his breath as he witnessed it. He about to jump out to that man but still holding on because the evidence not strong enough. Now, Chaeyoung moved a bit far. Strangely that guy also moved closer to her although there was enough space.

"Oops, sorry," Jungkook apologized as he pushed that man and it made him almost fell down. He then slipped in between that man and Chaeyoung. He couldn't hold it any longer. Seeing how that man act made him want to punch him. Damn with the evidence, how can he let that disgusting man touched her! Although it's for the evidence, he couldn't sacrifice her!

"How's your exam?" Jungkook neglected that man annoyed face and started to talk to Chaeyoung. He wanted to show the man that he was her friend. Namjoon said the perpetrator tended to back off if they saw the victim wasn't alone, especially if she was accompanied by a man.

Chaeyoung looked at him with a suspicious glare and it made him quickly put down his mask. Her gaze became soft after she recognized him. Before she answered his question, the bus was coming and Jungkook told her to ride it on. Jungkook eyes were on Chaeyoung, but secretly he still put on his radar on that man. Luckily that man didn't get on the same bus. When his attention was back into Chaeyoung, the driver was almost close to the bus door. Thanks to his agility as a soccer player, he managed to get into the bus before the door was completely closed.

The bus was crowded that made it difficult for Jungkook to move and get close to where Chaeyoung was. She was standing in the middle part of the bus while Jungkook was near the door. Not only that, she seems not aware Jungkook was on the same bus as her because she was busy staring at her smartphone even until they reached their destination.

"CHAEYOUNG! PARK CHAEYOUNG!" Jungkook called her when they got off. It feels like a déjà vu to Jungkook. He couldn't count how many times this similar thing happened when they called her but she couldn't hear him due to the earphone that blocked her hearing. He had no choice but to chase her.

"Oh, why are you here?" Chaeyoung seems surprised when she saw Jungkook after he tapped her shoulder.

"What else? To walk you home," Jungkook answered casually.

Chaeyoung nodded. Actually, Jungkook had no obligation to do it since their intensive training was over. Seeing how he still walked her home made her feel guilty. Seokjin must be the reason that he still doing it. She remembered how many times Jungkook bring Seokjin's name in their conversation regarding this matter.

"Next time, you don't have to walk me home. Don't worry, I will talk to Jin Oppa so that you won't get scolded," Chaeyoung finally decided to stop this routine.

It's weird. Jungkook didn't know why he suddenly had this weird feeling when he heard what she said. It's a mixed feeling. At first, he felt a bit offended because it sounds like she wanted to end everything as soon as their intensive training had ended. It sounds like she didn't want to have any connection with him. But then, he got a bit disappointed because it seems like she didn't appreciate his good intention. Next, he felt embarrassed. She was right, on their agreement, he was obliged to walk her home after their study session end. Now, it's ended and he didn't have to do it anymore. Besides, their level of closeness wasn't the same as her and Taehyung where they didn't have to feel uneasy when he walked her home.

"It's okay. Our lesson ends yesterday but, officially the agreement says it ended on the last day of the exam,"

"Oh, it makes sense. So, if it says so, then, today is the last day,"

"Yeah. Well… Since it's our last day then, I should tell you about it,"

"Telling me what?"

"Your earphone. Don't use your earphone when you are alone. Our ears are the first sense that can sense danger so blocking your hearing is very dangerous. I know you are scared of ghosts so you tend to use earphone to make it less scary, but it's more dangerous,"

What he said was so on point. She thanked him for this advice and promise him she would do what he told her. Jungkook also said it's okay to put on her earphone but don't turn on the music. Because it will be useful in a dangerous situation. She can make a call without being so obvious. Chaeyoung was so amazed at how well-informed Jungkook was. Well, it's understandable though. She might be one of the reasons why he knew about this prevention act.

Now, they arrived at the playground. Just like the café, this playground was full of memories. Both good and bad. Not only that, whenever she passed through this playground with him, it always reminded her of something. She stopped for a moment in front of the playground and said what she almost forgot to tell him. She said since it's their last day, she wanted to apologize for making him worked so hard.

"It might be our last day but, if you still having difficulty regarding your study, you can ask me anytime,"

"Sure. Thanks. Since it's our last day so… I'd like to thank you for your help and your hard work,"

Jungkook reached out his hand and Chaeyoung stared at it.

"Pfft…," Chaeyoung suddenly let out the sound of someone who was holding their laugh. Jungkook was staring at her in confusion.

"Don't you think it's funny? We started this because they think we are dating. And now, we ended this like a couple who is about to break up," said Chaeyoung then shook Jungkook's hand.

"It's been a good time, the time we spent together. Thank you. I hope you are doing well," Jungkook who also found this situation was fun playing along with her joke.

"Hahaha… Yeah, you too," Chaeyoung thought it was hilarious the fact that Jungkook who always kept his cool now responding to her silly joke.

They were giggling and smiling then continued to walk to her home. When they arrived, Chaeyoung said goodbye to Jungkook and asked him to informed her when the exam result was out. If he failed on one of his exams, she was still responsible to help him on the remedial. Jungkook nodded and promise her.

She waved at him and walked towards her apartment building. Jungkook stared at her back and as her back was slowly get farther, his anxiety grew bigger. He was breathing fast and stomping his foot. There was something he wanted to tell her but he hesitated. Now, she was about to push the glass door to entered the building, and right at that time, his unconscious mind took over his brain.

"Park Chaeyoung!" Jungkook called her before it's too late. Lucky for him, Chaeyoung hear it so she turned around and looking at him. The moment she turned her back, Jungkook's rational mind was coming back and he forgot what to do. She was waiting for him but his tongue couldn't move. Jungkook's act made Chaeyoung wondered what he wanted to say to her. It must be something private so he couldn't just shout it out loud. That was why she climbed down the stairs and walked towards him.

"I am sorry. It's been a tough week for you too yet you still spent your time to help me," from all the words he created in his brain, he only able to utter that short sentences.

Earlier, when they say their goodbye in front of the apartment building, he was finally able to saw her face clearly. The place where they were standing was brighter. It made him could see how tired she was which was shown through her face. At first, he didn't want to apologize to her due to his pride, but as he realized it was their last day, so it would be less embarrassing.

Chaeyoung didn't know why he suddenly acted so different tonight. From being friendly at the bus stop, playing along with her joke, and now apologize to her. Although she was curious, she actually really happy because it means he already opened up his heart to her. There was still a long way to go for their relationship to return to normal but his actions showed that they can make up faster than she expected.

"Geez… I think the reason you call me because you don't want to break up and beg me to start again," she was joking again to lift up the mood.

"Sorry for breaking your expectation," Jungkook breathed in relief because she successfully turned the atmosphere. Honestly, it was a bit cringy for him to say something melancholy like that.

"It's okay. I'm cool with it. Anyway, it might be our last day but it doesn't mean we won't see each other ever again. I don't want the thing to become awkward, so can we still be friends?" this role-playing thing was so fun and it made Chaeyoung glad she could break the thin wall between them.

Chaeyoung was a smooth talker. Jungkook wonder how many times she was in this kind of situation that made her able to say it casually as if she already memorized every line, she was about to say.

"Sure. Let's be friends," once again Jungkook reached his hand out and Chaeyoung shook it. After that, she said goodbye for the second time and went inside the building.

Finally, it's really ending. Now, he can say goodbye to the hell week full of study, caffeine, reminder messages, and limited sleeping time. It's time for him to regain his freedom and enjoyment. Throughout his way to his home, Jungkook couldn't stop thinking and planning what he will do once he got home.

If he can choose one of the best places in the world, then without a doubt he would choose his bed. After having a warm bath and delicious dinner, Jungkook went straight to his room, play some games on his PC then went straight to bed. He put on the thick and warm blanket above his body and closed his eyes. Before he completely fell asleep, he opened his eyes, took his hand out of the blanket to reach his phone that he put on the desk next to his bed. After he checked it, he put it back again and went back to his sleeping position. He closed his eyes but a few seconds later, he opened them again. Now, he was staring at the ceiling and wondering.

What's this? I am supposed to be happily celebrating this freedom but why it feels so empty?

***

"I like you…," said Jaehyun unconsciously. In seconds he realized what he said and it made his face gotten all red.

"your hair," he quickly added the next sentence to avoid any misunderstanding.

"You even look prettier with that hair. I know inner beauty can't be seen but I can see it. So… Emmm…, it's weird. He used to give compliments to her without feeling shy but this time he could feel his entire body was burning.

"Hahaha… Yeah, yeah I understand you have 7th sense so can see something other people can't see. Anyway, thank you. Since you like it, then as fan service, I won't tie my hair except when I feel the need to tie it," just like Jaehyun, Chaeyoung also gotten so shy unlike usual but somehow managed to make it sounds natural.

The racing heartbeat made Jaehyun felt more nervous and awkward. His eyes avoided her and started to looking left and right out of awkwardness. The same thing applied to Chaeyoung. She bit her lips; her eyes were wandering around and her fingers were playing with the fabric inside her jacket pocket. They can sense they were feeling awkward so they decided to stand in silence like that for a while. The nervousness was suffocating but they didn't hate it.

The cold night wind caressing Jaehyun's face and made him shiver. He suddenly worried about Chaeyoung because he kept him out on this cold. Secretly he was staring at her face and realized how red her face had turned.

"It's cold. Hurry go inside, you'll catch a cold," Jaehyun opened the conversation and it made their eyes met each other again.

"You too. Hurry go back home or you'll freeze," as soon as their eyes met, Chaeyoung's face was burning again.

"Okay. Bye. See you…," afraid he will stutter, Jaehyun just said a few words and end this awkward situation as soon as possible.

"Yeah, see you. Be careful on your way home," said Chaeyoung while waving at him.

"CHAEYOUNGA PARK CHAEYOUNG ARE YOU OKAY??!!" someone called Chaeyoung and it surprised her. It's Umji.

"Oh, I am okay," Chaeyoung finally back to her consciousness.

Umji looked panicked because Chaeyoung didn't say a word when she was speaking with her. Chaeyoung put the back of her hand to her cheek to feel the temperature. It sure was hot and her face got so red.

"Thank God you are okay. I think you are sick because your face is all red. I asked you but you didn't respond. I keep talking but you just staring blankly at the mirror and smiling. I am so scared, I thought you are being possessed," Chaeyoung was glad because she was back at the right timing. If it's late, Umji might be announcing to the entire school that Chaeyoung got possessed.

Before they left the toilet, Chaeyoung was brushing her hair for the last time. She looked at her reflection in the mirror and smiling. Her face had turned red again and it made her embarrassed. It was because whenever she looked at the mirror and put attention to her hair, she always remembered that night and she always blushing.

"PARK CHAEYOUNG!" Umji yelled at her again and it made her surprised.

"Don't you know it's dangerous to blank spacing at school especially in the toilet," said Umji while quickly dragging Chaeyoung out of the toilet and heading to the field where they will take their yearbook picture.

After they were quitting the school building, Umji told her about the ghost story. There was an urban legend about the ghost who haunted this school. Legend said this girl died while waiting for her boyfriend who never come because he died in the war.

"This girl is so pretty but no one ever sees her real face. Some of the students here that admitted to ever saw this ghost said they saw her in the form of their classmate.  She especially likes to disguise herself as one of the prettiest students at school. Not only the students from our school, but students from another school also admitted they saw her, and some of them even being followed. But, all of them were male students. They said she like to showed herself to the boys who come here because she mistook them as her boyfriend. That's why the rumor said if the boys wanted to come to our school, they shouldn't be alone. They should bring their female friends or lovers," Umji ended her story and checking on Chaeyoung's reaction.

Chaeyoung looked so pale and somehow, she looked like she was about to cry. Seeing her reaction made Umji remembered that Chaeyoung was scared of ghosts. It would be a disaster if she burst out crying.

"But, don't worry. The legend said if you meet a ghost in the school, it means you will be successful," Umji felt sorry and tried to fix her mistake.

"YOU TWO! HURRY!" Chaeyoung and Umji immediately looking at the source of the voice. It's Jihyo, their class president who was waiting for them across the field.

"I know ghost is scary, but I think, Park Jihyo is scarier. Let's run!" thanks to Jihyo, Chaeyoung quickly forget about those ghost stories because she was more afraid of her class president.

***

The exam finally ended and now it comes the time when the students were so energetic and spirited when they came to school. It's a school festival. Since there were students who need to take the remedial test, the festival was held after lunch. There were two types of festival, art, and sport. But the students prefer to have a sports festival because it was less troublesome. Although it was held almost every semester, they didn't get bored because the sport they played was always different.

As soon as the remedial test was over, the students changed their uniforms to their gym clothes. The festival will be held for three days. This year, the motto of the festival was "everyone can enjoy" so instead of competing in a real sport, the organizer, which was the student council turned it into a sports game. It didn't require a special skill and talent so everyone can enjoy it. The council also add more rules, every single person should participate at least in one game.

Although this festival was so highly anticipated by mostly all of the students, some students enjoyed to gathered in the classroom, canteen, or another common space instead of coming to the field and cheer for their friend. That's why to facilitate it and to catch their attention to watch the game, the media club worked together with the student council and the teachers to installing a projector, pc, and speaker in that place, except for the library because some students need to study for their remedial test. To made all the students had an access to the game, they even use the live stream platform. So, not only they showed it through the screen they installed, but students can enjoy it through their own device.

"Alright guys, we are back again with me, Full sun, the MC of this semester's sports festival. Now, I am the finalist of the A group from the bowling competition. Hello Jaehyun Sunbae. That's such an amazing performance!" Haechan who was assigned as the MC of the live broadcast was interviewing every finalist. Bowling was the last individual game before they proceed to the team game. The student made their own bowling game field in their school using simple equipment. They also didn't apply the rule, so everyone can use any style to play the game as long as they could knock down the pin. That's what made this game was interesting.

 "So, for the final question, who would you like to have as your opponent at the final?" Haechan asked Jaehyun while giving the microphone to him. The media club made lots of effort so that it looked like a professional competition.

"Jeon Jungkook. I heard he is advancing to the semifinal. Truthfully, I never once win against him, so for the first and the last time, I want to beat him."

"Woah, Jungkook you get the declaration of war," said Taehyung after he swallowed the last bite of his bread. Taehyung and Jungkook were in their school's canteen, eating their early afternoon snack while watching the live broadcast.

Jungkook scoffed and said Jaehyun was exaggerating. How come he never wins against him. It's an obvious lie. Taehyung's face was changing and suddenly he became serious. He said what Jaehyun said was true. Jaehyun told this story to him. What he means by never win against Jungkook was at the time when those two were in the same situation and condition where they had the same chance to win. One of the examples of the situation Jaehyun meant was when they were having a penalty game. Jaehyun was a talented goalkeeper, but in every match, Jungkook always strikes a goal.

"If it's about academic ranking, surely Jaehyun is having lots of advantages. So, he won't count it," Taehyung was teasing Jungkook and it made Jungkook playfully showing an annoyed face.

Finished his snack, Jungkook and Taehyung joined their classmate who already waiting on the field. The bowling venue took place on the running track. They hand-made it with makeshift equipment. After several games, Jungkook proceeded to the final round. The battle of Jaehyun and Jungkook surely caught a lot of attention. Not only because it was the final round, but also because those two were quite popular among the students.

Before they start the game, those two finalists were interviewed by the MC, Haechan, and Namjoon. After the interview, the MCs got back to their desk to comment about the games.

"So, Namjoon, what do you think about this game? Who do you think will win this?" Haechan asked his co-host.

"I watched all of their games, and those two sunbaes have amazing skills. It's hard to predict who will win. Jaehyun sunbae so eager to beat Jungkook sunbae, it will be his advantage. The spirit and ambition to win can wake up your hidden skill. But it can be a disadvantage too because he can be pressured to win. It's risky because it can distract his concentration. If that happens, then, Jungkook sunbae who has nothing to lose will be in more advantage," Namjoon then continued commenting about their technic.

"Woah… Really, it's not a wrong choice to choose you as the commentator. You sound so professional. So, from your observation, who do you think will win?" Haechan praised Namjoon's commenting skill and as always, asking about the conclusion. Who most likely to win based on the fact and data?

"In my opinion, I think Jaehyun sunbae will win this battle," it's a hard choice but Namjoon couldn't escape but to answer.

"Wooo… That's interesting. Anyway, guys let me tell you something interesting, Namjoon's prediction is 100% true. Throughout the festival, I wrote down his prediction, and all of them was right! Now, let's see, whether he can maintain this record. So, let's watch the game!" said Haechan and finally the game officially began.

The game surely getting so interesting. Just like the scene from an anime show, Jungkook who was left behind at first slowly catch Jaehyun's score, and now when there was only one last game left, their score was a tie. Not only everyone who watch them live, the students who watch the live broadcast also getting so curious and watched it through the screen.

There was one pin left for Jungkook and two pins left for Jaehyun. Namjoon said it was quite difficult for Jaehyun to knock down the 4-6 split. In the field, Jaehyun was getting ready for his position while holding the ball. He took a deep breath and concentrating on knocking down the pins.

"So… Let's see whether Namjoon's record on having 100% accuracy will be broke," Haechan who decided not to take a side was nervous about this game too.

"WOAAAAAAAH!!!" the entire audiences were screaming when Jaehyun successfully knocking down all the pin. He smiled brightly and with a smirk looking at Jungkook. Jungkook scoffed and gave him a high five. Now, it's Jungkook's turn.

Jungkook never thinks about this sport seriously before. It's the only event when he enjoyed playing with his friends without thinking about the result. Strangely, after he got the war declaration from Jaehyun, his competitiveness was burning. Basically, he was a competitive person and even a little trigger can wake up the monster. He concentrated and after throwing the ball, it's smoothly knocking the last standing pin.

Since it's a tie, they should do the last game. To make it more interesting, they didn't use all the pins. They set it for only the 1, 4, 6 pins. The game was so interesting that made the MCs couldn't stand still on their desk. Haechan came over to the finalist and do another interview to loosen up the tension. Known as a mischievous and creative person, Haechan suddenly got an idea to entertain the audience.

"Jaehyun sunbae and Jungkook sunbae, you two unexpectedly so good at playing bowling. It's cheating, isn't it? How can you two both good at soccer and bowling? We are so curious. Who is the coach that makes you two so good at this? Now, how about you call your coach to had them cheer you up?" out of nowhere, Haechan suddenly made a challenge.

Jungkook said he had no coach. He just used to play bowling with his uncle. Namjoon then said to call his uncle. Jungkook laughed but for the sake of entertainment, he did it anyway. His uncle was so funny and it made all the audience laughed. Now, it's Jaehyun's turn to call his coach.

"Hello?" As soon as the girl's voice was heard through the speaker's phone, the audience was giving a huge reaction. Some of the audiences were carefully focusing on the voice as they were seeming to know her.

"Coach, I become a finalist in my school bowling competition. The MC said he was curious how can I be so good at bowling. Can you tell us the tips and tricks?" Jaehyun came straight to point.

"There is nothing like that. You all not Jung Jaehyun so don't even dream about it. It's the thing only him can do," the girl was speaking in an annoying voice and since most of the audience agreed with her in some way, they were laughing at it.

"Coach, hey, I'm being serious," Jaehyun was getting embarrassed at her unexpected response.

"Dear Jaehyun's dearest friends, trust me it's true. It's annoying but what I said is true. He only played it once and compete with me yet he suddenly became so good at it. I am the one who taught him but he is better than me. Anyway, who is your opponent?"

"It's Jeon Jungkook,"

"Okay. Mr. Jeon Jungkook, I cheer for you. Please beat him up!" Jaehyun's coach might be sarcastic but she used a funny tone so that the audience was laughing at her joke.

Haechan who especially like this kind of person, and most importantly since he knew about the identity of the coach, gestured to Jaehyun to talked to her. Jaehyun nodded and handed his phone to Haechan.

"Auntie, do you have a final message for your beloved nephew?" Haechan was happy to be able to by calling her, auntie.

"I know he is annoyingly perfect, but actually he does work hard to achieve it. He played bowling for 5 hours non-stop only to beat me, so, no wonder he seems to have mastered it now. Please give my dearest nephew lots of love! JUNG JAEHYUN FIGHTING!" Haechan was satisfied and gave the phone back to Jaehyun.

"Ah, and also. Jeon Jungkook, Fighting!!" said the girl before she ended the phone call.

Jungkook who stood next to Jaehyun suddenly blushed when he heard it. Jaehyun's coach's voice was too familiar. The voice that he kept hearing every day for the last weeks. He wondered whether it was her, but Haechan said she was Jaehyun's auntie. Besides, Jaehyun and Chaeyoung might know each other just like Dokyeom or Taehyung but probably not as close as them since Jaehyun wasn't part of the study club. Despite all that, the biggest issue he had on his mind right now was why he got flustered when he heard that voice?

Got distracted by his own thought, Jungkook didn't see Jaehyun already threw the ball and he successfully knocked down all the pins. It made Jungkook a bit panic and quickly went to his position. With lots of effort, Jungkook tried to get back his concentration. He stood in the lane, got ready to throw the ball when his mind got distracted again after he heard someone cheering for him. It reminds him of Jaehyun's coach voice again.

The crowd was cheering and Jungkook just saw the pins which standing still in a daze. He lost. He couldn't believe that voice win over him. He was a bit disappointed but it didn't last long when he saw Jaehyun was smiling happily. He came over to Jaehyun, gave him a high five and a big hug. They were then standing in the field to receive their prize.

"Congratulations to Jaehyun sunbae. He finally able to fulfill his last wish. Winning over Jungkook sunbae for the first and last time. Not only that, I would like to congratulate Namjoon who was able to maintain his record for 100% accuracy on predicting the game result," said Haechan after shook both the finalists' hands and also his co-host's hand.

"Thank you MC Haechan. So, everyone, now we will move to another game. Let's go!!" said Namjoon to end this game session.

As the MCs and the crowd slowly leaving the venue and moved to another game venue, Jaehyun dragged Jungkook to go to the canteen to buy some drinks. On their way, Jaehyun was asking Jungkook whether he was losing in purpose. Jungkook was looking at Jaehyun in shock and said it wasn't. It's just he suddenly felt burdened and it pressuring him. That's why he lost his concentration. Hearing it made Jaehyun felt so relieved and happy. It made Jungkook curious why Jaehyun said he never win against him while in reality, it was Jungkook who thought he would never overcome him.

Jaehyun said before he met Jungkook, he was into basketball. The first meeting was when they were at the camping site. It happened in the 6th grade of elementary school. Jaehyun and Eunwoo were playing and saw a bunch of boys was playing soccer. They decided to join and at that time Jungkook was his opponent. Since it just a kid play, they were playing without any specific position. Jungkook was playing so well and scored all the goals for his team while Jaehyun couldn't even score one goal. Jaehyun was so competitive and hate to lose. Back from the camping, he told his Mom he wanted to join a soccer club where later he met Jungkook and become best friends.

"You know my original position was striker, right?" asked Jaehyun while reminiscing about their past.

"Yeah. You are pretty good so that it was so shocking when you suddenly become a goal-keeper," Jungkook was thinking about their old days and giggling.

"It's all thanks to Eunwoo. I hate you at first because no matter how hard I try, you always slightly better than me. I don't want to friends with you, but because Eunwoo always tagged me along with him, I started to play with you. As we keep on playing together, my hate towards you slowly vanished. You are such a funny and cool friend and unconsciously I started to like you. But, whenever we did the sparing and evaluation, my hate towards you keep growing. I consulted this with my Dad and he said, it's not good to hate on my friend just because of my desire to win.

"If you remember, I took one week off from practice. I did that to think about my Dad's words. He was right, it only exhausted me for hating on my friend. So, I decided to change my position. If I can't win against you with the same skill, then I should find another skill. That's why I choose goalkeeper. It requires completely different skills yet I still can compete with you. It's a win-win solution.

"To tell you the truth, up till now, I still feel inferior whenever I should face head-to-head against you. Hehe… Now I finally win, I can get my confidence back," Jaehyun couldn't hide his smile and it made Jungkook felt soft for him.

All of this time, he always thought Jaehyun was a friend who had everything. He didn't know he had this side of him. It's an honor for him to be considered as someone who he looked up to, but at the same time, he felt bad because he caused him to suffer.

"Stop it, you make me embarrassed. Since you are finally got your first win, should you treat me to something delicious?" Jungkook didn't want to talk about this matter for long so he changed the topic.

"Sure, everything you want to eat," said Jaehyun while putting his arm around Jungkook's shoulder.

***

It's less than two weeks left before the musical. This Saturday, they would hold the full rehearsal so all the crews, actors, and actresses will present. Not only people who were involved in this musical production, but Jisoo also invited some guests to evaluate the show. The rehearsal will be held after lunch but most of the crew should come earlier because they had to prepare for the stage and equipment.

One hour before the appointment time, some of the crews were already gathered. The purpose of it was to plan a surprise birthday party for Chaeyoung and Jaehyun. Their birthday just three days apart. Chaeyoung's birthday was two days ago while Jaehyun was tomorrow. They chose this day because it was in the middle. So, it will be fair enough for both of them.

"Seokjin Oppa is here!" Lisa told Jisoo through a message on the surprise party team's group chat.

After reading the news, Jisoo quickly sent a message to another group chat where Chaeyoung and Jaehyun were also joined. She announced to that group to gather on the stage for a short meeting at 10.

A door was knocked and Lisa, Jin, and Jimin entered the waiting room where Jisoo, Jennie, Joshua, Haechan, Jinyoung, and Jihoon was already waiting. As the members were already complete, Jisoo started to directing each one of them on how to do their roles at the surprise birthday party.

The plan was, Jisoo sent the invitation of the meeting to the group chat so that Jaehyun and Chaeyoung would wait on the stage. The others will wait in the back of the stage until they got a signal from Jin who was in charge to read the situation on the stage. Lisa and Jisoo in charge of the cake, Jennie and Jinyoung in confetti, Jihoon on the lighting, Haechan in documenting, and lastly Joshua and Jimin in charge of the guitar and tambourine to play the birthday song. After everyone understood their role, they quickly went to the back of the stage.

"Where is everyone?" asked Chaeyoung who just come and saw there was only Jaehyun who was sitting on the edge of the stage.

"They are not here yet," Jaehyun replied while looking around to make sure he gave the right answer.

It's a bit weird because they don't usually late for the meeting. But she didn't think about it too much because she thought they must be busy preparing for the rehearsal and might be a bit late. She was actually right. Her friends weren't late, they were just hiding in the back of the stage but she didn't know.

When Chaeyoung and Jaehyun were having a conversation, each one of the surprise team was getting on their own position. Jin was hiding behind the curtain and peeking on the stage, behind him, it's Joshua, Jimin, and Haechan. Lisa, Jisoo, Jennie, Jinyoung were a bit far from the curtain and lastly, Jihoon was getting ready near the lamp switch.

"Chaeng! Chaeng! Have you seen the announcement?" Jaehyun asked while hitting her shoulder excitedly.

"What announcement?" Chaeyoung shoved off Jaehyun's hand and rubbed her shoulder. She leaned her head to Jaehyun's phone, curious about the announcement.

"My Dad just told me the interview result is out now! Hurry check your email!" Jaehyun looked at Chaeyoung then his eyes moved to her phone, telling her to check it.

Not only Chaeyoung and Jaehyun who were curious, the others who were hiding behind the stage silently focusing their ears to listen to their conversation. The stage was so quiet and it made them could hear Chaeyoung and Jaehyun's conversation clearly.

"Oh. My. God. What should I do?" said Chaeyoung with a sad and unenergetic voice after looking at her phone.

Chaeyoung reaction made all the people in that room was nervous and worried. With a racing heart, Jaehyun was looking at her in the eyes while the others were maximizing their hearing.

"My phone is dead. I can't check my e-mail," said Chaeyoung while grinning innocently.

"WHA… hmph… hmph," Jin about to screamed because of Chaeyoung's annoying response but luckily Joshua's great instinct quickly smothering his mouth. Jimin, Jinyoung, and Haechan who were standing behind Jin almost dropped their hearts because of Jin's action. They then took their turn to pinch or hit Jin because he almost failing their surprise. Not only those three who stood behind Jin, the other who stood a bit far behind also got surprised because of his carelessness.

On the stage, Jaehyun was lending his phone so that Chaeyoung could check her email. Jin thought it was the perfect timing for them to go out. Once Chaeyoung read the result, they should go out and congratulate her. After Joshua putting his hand off of Jin's mouth, Jin raised his hand to give the signal and Jisoo quickly lit the candle.

"Jaehyuna…," Chaeyoung called Jaehyun after she read the email.

That one word from Chaeyoung made all the people in that room was holding their breath. They were so nervous to hear about the result. Instead of continuing her sentence, Chaeyoung took a quiet long pause while looking at Jaehyun with teary eyes.

"I… I pass the interview!!" her worried expression changed into a happy expression as soon as she said it.

"WHAT??? REALLY???? DAEBAK!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!" Jaehyun couldn't believe what he heard at first but then after his brain successfully processing the information from his ears, he jumped off of the stage out of joy.

"YOU MADE IT! YOU FREAKING MADE IT PARK CHANGIE!!" Jaehyun's sparkling eyes were looking up at Chaeyoung who still sat at the edge of the stage. Chaeyoung was wiping her tears and it made Jaehyun got so touched. He knew how much she worked for this scholarship and it made him wanted to comfort and congratulate her. He opened his arms widely to give her a big congratulations hug. Chaeyoung seeing it and cry even harder. Jaehyun scoffed then moved his hands to gesture her to come down from the stage. She obediently did that and as soon as she got down, Jaehyun gave her a big warm hug.

On the back of the stage, as soon as Chaeyoung said the result, they were screaming in silence. Jisoo, Lisa, and Jennie especially wanted to run out to the stage but they hold it. Instead, they were calling the front line with a whisper to ask them whether they should go out now or not. Jimin and Haechan waved their hands as a gesture to said it's not the time yet. Jennie who was become impatient couldn't understand why they said it's not the right timing, came closer to the curtain and found Joshua was busy smothering Jin's mouth. Not only that, Haechan and Jimin also helped him to held Jin's body so that he won't show up on the stage. Jin's hilarious reaction made Jennie curious so she was peeking out too. Now, she understands why he reacting like that. He must be about to explode both because of happiness and anger seeing his sister got hugged by a man.

The candle which already lit almost melting and it made Jisoo looking at Joshua asking about the timing. Joshua shook his head because he didn't want to disturb those two people on the stage. They were still hugging and it made Joshua felt bad to disturb them. Jin tapped Joshua's hand and nodding his head signaling he won't do anything stupid. Joshua obeyed him and released his hand.

"EHEM HEM," Jin intentionally cleared his throat as soon as Joshua removed his hand. Jin who was burnt in anger seeing Jaehyun hugging his little sister had the heart to deceived Joshua and ruined their surprise party.

Hearing that cleared-throat voice made Jaehyun and Chaeyoung quickly released their hug. They were then looking at the back of the stage trying to found out who was the owner of the voice.

"Can we show up now?" Jin finally showed himself up from behind the curtain and it made Jaehyun and Chaeyoung, especially Jaehyun got so surprised. Suddenly he felt like a criminal because he got caught hugging Jin's little sister. Chaeyoung also turned all red. Although she didn't do something wrong just like Jaehyun, she felt like she just committed a serious crime.

The lamp suddenly turned off. Jihoon who already give up on this surprise party because Jin ruined it took a decision to process what they planned now before it's going too late. Gladly Jaehyun and Chaeyoung still didn't realize it. After Joshua and Jimin opened the party by singing a birthday song, Jihoon the lamp again. One by one the other members showed up and they sing a birthday song. In the middle of the crowd, Jisoo was holding a cake with a candle.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHAEYOUNG JAEHYUN, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!" as soon as the song ends, Jisoo and Jinyoung pulled the confetti.

Jisoo reached out the cake to Jaehyun and Chaeyoung and they both blew the candle together. After the candle was blown out, they were clapping and congratulate them. After cutting the cake, they all were sitting on the stage to enjoy the cake. Chaeyoung and Jaehyun thanked all their friends for the surprise. They weren't expected they will throw a party for them. Joshua then apologized because they decided to merged the party instead of holding one for each of them. Chaeyoung didn't mind because their birthday only 3 days apart.

While they were eating, one by one was handing their gift to the birthday boy and girl. Jaehyun got three gifts and it made Chaeyoung pretended to be jealous and asking why he got more gifts. The others were laughing after seeing the difference between the stacked gift for Chaeyoung and Jaehyun. Birthday gift, valentine gift, and coming of age gift. Jaehyun got it all in one day.

"That's why I love you guys so much. Thank you so much Jin Hyung, Joshua Hyung, Jinyoung Hyung, Jisoo Noona, Jennie Noona, Lisa, Haechan, and Jimin. Seriously, you don't have to give me so much gift," Jaehyun sincerely being grateful to them.

"That's all? What about me?" Chaeyoung felt a bit hurt because her name wasn't mentioned.

"You? Do you give me a gift?" Jaehyun was confirming Chaeyoung question with a mocking face.

"I have it. But your birthday and valentine's day is tomorrow, so I don't bring it with me," Chaeyoung got a bit pissed because Jaehyun only thanked them not as a friend but because of their gift.

"You give Lisa the coming-of-age gift but you don't bring mine," what Jaehyun said pierced through Chaeyoung's heart. She felt guilty because she totally forgot about that gift. She brought Lisa's gift because today she planned to meet up with her schoolmates after the rehearsal and handed them their gifts.

"Here, we go again," said Jimin and the rest of them naturally ignored their little bickering and busy talking with the person next to them. They didn't pay attention because they were so used to it.

"Okay, okay, I admitted it. I am sorry. Then, I will give you your gift now. Here, is your gift," Chaeyoung admitted for her loss and decided to end this never-ending bickering.

"What are you talking about?" Jaehyun scrunching his forehead because he didn't understand what Chaeyoung mean.

"I, myself is the gift," Chaeyoung answered innocently.

The room that was noisy before suddenly become quiet when Chaeyoung said that. The eyes then focused on them. It made Chaeyoung felt pressured. The pressure got heavier when she saw Jin was standing up and walking towards her.

"AAAKKK!!!" Chaeyoung screamed in pain when Jin tweaked her ears.

"THIS KID. WATCH WHAT YOU SAY. HOW COME YOU SAID IT TO A MAN," Jin's face become all red because of anger.

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN??" Chaeyoung got annoyed at Jin's action. She was totally clueless why he got so mad.

Before Jin exploded in anger, Jisoo quickly intervene and separated those two. She told him to hold his anger and listen to her explanation first. She believed, what she meant wasn't the thing that he was thinking. Jin gave up and let Chaeyoung explained herself. She said the coming-of-age gifts were perfume, kiss, or rose. Since her name was Rose, so she used a pun. What she meant by that was to give Jaehyun a coupon that he can use, whether to become his assistant for a day or treat his meal, just like what they used to do.

"You should be grateful the one who hears it is a nice man like Jaehyun. Although he got all red when he heard it," Jin didn't blame his innocent sister but still, as a brother, he felt it was inappropriate for her to say it. He felt a bit pissed at Jaehyun's reaction but he couldn't blame him. It's indeed surprising. Everyone's eyes then turned into Jaehyun and it made him turned all red again. Seeing his shy expression and awkwardly acted made them all laughing.

***

The rehearsal finally over. The directors and the guests will have a meeting to talk about the performances. After receiving the feedbacks, the directors will continue to discuss it and usually, they took so long to reached an agreement. That was why they ended the rehearsal for today but asking them to come again tomorrow to practicing the part that changed.

"Jaehyun is here," said Lisa while pointing at the door using her eyes. Chaeyoung turned her head and as soon as he saw Jaehyun in the hallway, she stood up and said goodbye to Lisa. Lisa waved at Jaehyun and quickly heading to the meeting room where the others directors were already waiting.

"Am I interrupting something?" asked Jaehyun.

"Not at all. Have you finished discussing with the other actors?" Chaeyoung and Jaehyun were walking out of the hallway to the exit. He said their discussion already finished and now most of them were heading back home. As gratitude for celebrating their birthday, they would like to treat the surprise team. But, since most of them were attending the meeting, they both need to wait till the meeting ends. To kill those time, they both heading to the convenience store in front of the theater building to discuss Jaehyun's performance.

The convenience store in front of this theater building was special. There were several corners, the kitchen corners, the café corner, and the seating corner. What made it special was because it didn't look like a convenience store at all. It was more similar to a café with no menu and self-service only. Most of the crews of the musical loved to hang out in here because it was so cozy. When Jaehyun and Chaeyoung entered the place, they naturally heading to their favorite place. After buying some snacks and beverages those two were focused on the video of the rehearsal.

One hour had passed and Chaeyoung already finished her evaluation. There was no meaningful correction regarding his singing because he doing it perfectly just like what they were practicing. It made Chaeyoung so proud and gave Jaehyun lots of compliments. Since they finished with their agenda, Chaeyoung took her phone and asked Lisa whether the meeting had ended. The first meeting was finished but they need to wait a couple hours again because the directors' meeting just started. Chaeyoung told Jaehyun didn't mind waiting till it's finished, but the others might feel bad and said it's okay to reschedule it. Since the majority said so, Chaeyoung and Jaehyun had no choice but to follow them.

"It's a waste if we just go home like this. I am kind of hungry, want to cook some ramen?" the cold weather made Jaehyun crave warm ramen soup. It's a brilliant idea and without objection, Chaeyoung agreed to it. They both then stood up, heading to the noodle section and busy choosing what ramen they wanted to eat.

"Anyway, what are you talking about with Lisa earlier?" Jaehyun asked Chaeyoung while they were staring at the noodle rack, thinking hard about what to choose from this large variety of noodles.

"Why are you curious?" Chaeyoung asked him back then took a hot and spicy flavored ramen.

"It might sound funny but I feel a bit offended. You two suddenly stop talking as soon as you saw me. I felt like you were talking behind my back," Jaehyun knew it was ridiculous but it was what he truly felt. Actually, it's not just that one time. Jaehyun often felt "left out" when he saw his two best friends were talking seriously without him and when he was present, they quickly changed the topic. All this time, he coped with it by thinking, they were thinking about the time when he hasn't met them. But, sometimes, he got so jealous because even if he didn't know, at least they should tell him the general idea about the topic.

"I am so sorry. I don't know we offend you. It's not like we are hiding something from you. It's just, something that, hmm… Something that might be so awkward if you are there. It seems like talking about girls' thing," Chaeyoung who was a bit surprised with Jaehyun's confession felt a bit guilty. She didn't expect Jaehyun who always seems cool and looked like he didn't really care about trivial things was actually jealous by being left out from the chat.

Jaehyun nodded when he heard the reason. Surely, he won't be able to argue since the reason was solid. Rather, he felt a bit embarrassed because he suddenly being so sensitive over some little thing like this. Maybe, the stress and nervousness because of the musical date was the main cause of his sensitivity.

Finished choosing the noodles and the additional ingredients they need to enrich the taste of their instant ramen, they heading to the cashier to pay it. After that, they bring it all to the kitchen corner to cook it. When they were busy preparing the noodles, Chaeyoung still thinking about what Jaehyun said earlier. She knew how he felt by being left out and it really . And the fact that Jaehyun brought this matter up means he was being uncomfortable and she had to resolve this before it's getting too late.

"Jaehyuna,"

"Eung?"

Jaehyun knew whenever she says his name with that intonation, she had something on her mind and hesitate whether she should tell him or not.

"Next time, we will conclude you in that most likely to-get-awkward conversation. But, before that, are you sure you want to hear it?" said Chaeyoung while pouring down the water to boil the noodle.

"I can't decide because I don't know what kind of topic it is. Why don't you try me by telling an example?" Jaehyun answered her challenge confidently.

When waiting for the water to boil, they were sitting on the chairs in front of the window. After they sat down, Chaeyoung told him about her conversation with Lisa. Earlier at the birthday party, Jin was scolding her because she said she will give herself as a present. She had no idea why he got so angry that's why she asked Lisa to explain it. She didn't want to ask Jaehyun because Jin was bringing up Jaehyun's name when he scolded her.

"Like what my Oppa said, I should be grateful because you are a kind and nice man. Lisa told me what I said to you earlier could lead to misunderstanding. When a woman says that thing to a man it can be interpreted as… Emm… the woman gives permission… to… you know… they… can sleep together," Chaeyoung said the last words in the lower volume because she was getting embarrassed. She felt like she just said something vulgar.

Those two girls were right. He wasn't supposed to hear this kind of conversation because it was indeed making the situation getting so awkward. Now, he could feel his ears were burning and his face was pinkish. Although they both were legally adult now, still talking about something like that still feel like taboo. I know why she felt uncomfortable talking about it with him.

"See, your face become so red. So, do you want to continue hearing another story?" Chaeyoung found it cute when he saw Jaehyun was getting awkward and blushing. Even for someone as cool as Jaehyun, deep inside he was still a cute innocent boy.

To neutralize the situation, Chaeyoung quickly changed the topic. She apologized for not bringing Jaehyun's birthday gift because she planned to buy it tomorrow. As for his coming-of-age gift, she admitted she totally forget about it. She only brought Lisa's gift because she was going to meet her friends later and handing out the gifts to her friends and Lisa. Jaehyun scoffed and said he was just joking about not receiving any gifts from her. Chaeyoung looked at him with a sneer and it made Jaehyun admitted he was actually a bit upset.

Now she understood why he was feeling left out. The gift and the secret talk were enough reasons for him to be like that. To make up for her mistake, she suddenly took out two pieces of paper, write something on them, folding them, and it turned into a paper rose origami. After that, she put out a bottle of perfume from her bag then asked Jaehyun for his hand. Her weird actions made Jaehyun stared at her in confusion. He didn't understand why she suddenly became like that.

"Oh, come on, give me your hand!" Chaeyoung was whining and it made Jaehyun reached his hand out suspiciously.

Chaeyoung smiled then put the paper rose in his hand then sprayed the perfume on his wrist.

"What are you doing?" Jaehyun was so clueless at her actions.

"Giving your coming-of-age gift," she smiled and looked so proud at her creation.

"So, you give Lisa a perfume and a rose," Jaehyun was smiling at the paper rose he hold in his hands and the smell of perfume on his wrist. These cute yet funny gifts should be documented that's why he took his phone, ready to take a picture. When he was ready on touching the camera button, his body suddenly stopped moving, his heart was racing and his respiration system was stopped working.

"And a kiss," although she was embarrassed till death, she still managed to sound natural so he won't found out she was nervous. When she heard Jaehyun bringing up Lisa's name, it made her guilt come again. She already promised herself she would treat both Lisa and Jaehyun equally which means she should give the same thing for both of them.

"Hey, the water is boiling," said Chaeyoung while quickly went over to the stove then quickly putting the ramen powder on it. The tongue can lie but not her face that's why she felt grateful to the boiling water because it saved her.

"Ah really… If she does and says something like that again, I don't guarantee to want to stay as just a friend,"

***

"You two saw it too, right?"

"Seeing what?"

"Don't play dumb. You two were there too. I saw both of you were frozen but when you met my eyes you two quickly pretending to look at the shelf,"

What Mingyu said was making Haechan and Namjoon looked at each other in hesitation. Through their eyes, they were discussing whether they should tell the truth or not.

Today, Mingyu and Namjoon were getting invited to watch the musical rehearsal to give their opinion on it. Mingyu got an invitation from Jisoo while Namjoon got it from Chaeyoung. Both of them were chosen because Jisoo knew Mingyu loved musicals while Chaeyoung thought Namjoon was her only friend who can tell his opinion bluntly. After the meeting ended, Haechan invited both of them to the hot place around the theater, which was the café-like-convenience-store.

The must-eat food when coming to the big convenience store was ramyeon. Haechan who was hungry although he just eating his lunch not long ago persuading Mingyu who was popular for the best ramyeon maker on their soccer team to cook ramyeon for him and Namjoon. Namjoon who rarely whining about something couldn't let this chance slip. He was curious about Mingyu Ramyeon but sadly he never has a chance to taste it despite he was training together with him.

Weak for his juniors, Mingyu agreed to their request. Mingyu straightly went to the noodles corner, took three packages of ramyeon. Before he took the additional ingredients, he decided to check on the kitchen corner to considering which ingredients would be feasible to cook. Arrived at the kitchen corner, he saw two familiar friends who sat by the window. Mingyu smiled and came closer to them, but then he stopped and freeze as he saw the girl was giving a peck on the cheek to the boy. Mingyu stopped breathing for seconds after witnessing that scene. He reflexively turned around, trying to run away so that they won't saw him. When he turned around, he saw Haechan and Namjoon stood there too and was looking in the same direction as he was earlier. In a second, both of them since to regain their consciousness, and when their eyes met each other, those two immediately looked away and pretending to look at the stuff.

"You must be in Jungkook's team. Seeing how surprised you were when you saw them," said Haechan, ignoring Mingyu's question.

Hearing Haechan's statement surprised Mingyu. He wondered how could Haechan knew about it. His eyes then moved to Namjoon who surprisingly not looked surprised as if he also already knew about it. He thought so hard how can Haechan and Namjoon knew about Jungkook-Chaeyoung's but he couldn't recall any memory. Feeling frustrated, Mingyu directly asked them, and unexpectedly they answered straightforwardly.

For Haechan, he accidentally saw Chaeyoung and Jungkook together at the café last summer. Jungkook got out of the café looked furious while Chaeyoung was staying at the café and looked so depressed. He also found Chaeyoung's notebook but the name on the book was Jeon Jungkook. It's just a baseless guess but his gut was telling him there was something between them. Just like Haechan, Namjoon also knew it through the same book. Jungkook left it in the club room and Namjoon saw it. He wondered how could Jungkook had Chaeyoung's notebook. To dig some information, he purposely teased Chaeyoung. She didn't give a direct answer but from what she said and a bit of guessing, he took the conclusion that there was something between them.

"Don't tell me. The reason you wanted to lift that the dating ban was because of them?" as the source of Chaekook was known, now, it's time to digging some information about Chaeyoung-Jaehyun's relationship status.

"Sadly no. I have a different reason, but I should admit those three inspired me to ask for that request. I said it as a joke at first, I don't think Jungkook sunbae will make it happen," Haechan answered honestly.

"Then, are those two really dating?" Mingyu once again went right to the point because he was dying in curiosity.

"Why should a female friend give a kiss to her male friend?" Haechan gave an ambiguous answer.

"She might just give a coming-of-age gift," Namjoon replied to Haechan casually and it annoyed Haechan. Mingyu noticed Haechan's expression and staring at him demanding a real answer. Half-heartedly Haechan said he actually didn't know about it too. Not only him, but no one knew what was their true relationship was. They were so close to the point if they admitted they were dating, no one won't be surprised anymore.

After getting information from Haechan, now Mingyu's attention shifted to Namjoon. He must know something since he was close with Chaeyoung. Just like Mingyu, Haechan was also curious and following Mingyu, he was staring at Namjoon with curious eyes.

"I don't know. She never told me about it. I just assuming because I just happened to see them together. That's all," said Namjoon reminiscing the time he saw those two walkings while linking arms to each other when they had family dinner.

"Then, which team are you? Chaekook or Jungrose? Ah, no, no, no I'm correcting my question. From your prediction, who will win and become her boyfriend?" Haechan asked a question to Namjoon just like when he was hosting the sports festival.

"Why are you asking him such a question? It's not a race nor competition. But, I'm also curious. Which team are you on?" Mingyu who also got infected by Haechan's curiosity asking the same question.

Namjoon looked at two of them consecutively. He was thinking for a while and finally, he reached his decision.

"Well… I think it's Jung…,"

***