It was once of those days when Taemin had morning practice. As their dancing competition coming near, his days were full of practices. Already drained of energy, there he and Moonkyu were, lying exhausted on the floor of the Practice Room 5.

“Let’s take a break,” said Moonkyu, panting heavily. Taemin gave him a slight nod without parting his back from resting on the floor. As Moonkyu stood up to take a drink, Taemin lied still, staring at the ceiling.

He started spacing out.

“Instead of thinking too hard, you should listen to your heart.”

“Don’t take too long. People say love is about timing, Lee Taemin. Just don’t regret it later.”

He ruffled his hair.

What about you? What do you want me to do, Naeun-ah?

“Jongin’s late.”

Moonkyu’s voice took him back from his reverie. He responded in a flat tone, “I know right.”

As if getting the command, the door suddenly banged open, letting a head popped out through it. A big grin expanded on her face, leaving the two with mouths hanging open at the unexpected arrival.

“Mwoya, Jung Soojung??” Taemin said in surprise. Moonkyu beside him was lost at words, he kept staring at Soojung with big round eyes, making sure his eyes were functioning just fine.

“Wassup, Lee Taemin!” Soojung exclaimed. She opened the door widely, revealing Jongin standing by her side. “Yup it’s me!”

“No wonder Jongin took so long. It’s Jung Soojung he was dealing with.” Taemin said while crossing his arms across his chest, achieved a smack from Soojung at his side ribs. The four of them were sitting down on the practice room floor, enjoying Soojung’s coffee treat.

While gently rubbing on his hurt ribs, Taemin asked, “When did you arrive?”

“Before dawn. Jongin picked me up.”

Taemin’s mouth made a small o- shape while his eyes chancing glances at Jongin. “I see.”

Soojung got up, “I came here just to say hello. I should meet Kibum-oppa now, I’m waaay too excited to hear his naggings.”

Taemin laughed at her remark, “Straightforward as always. Thanks for the drink.”

Soojung waved her hand, “Eooo.”

The second the door closed, Taemin threw a slap on Jongin’s thigh, earning a wince from the latter who spontaneously screamed,

“Ya! What was that for?”

Taemin squinted his eyes at him. “Why did you do it? Picking her up and all? Acting like a reliable boyfriend?”

Jongin’s features weakened at his words, breathed a quiet sigh. “She called me herself.”

“What? Seriously, Jung Soojung. I know she’s insensitive, but isn’t this too much? Asking your ex—”

“I’m her friend way before that, remember?” Jongin cut off Taemin’s words, shooting him a glare. “Why are you exaggerating? It’s no big deal.”

***

“What a surprise, our Soojung is back!” Kibum welcomed her with literal open arms jokingly. Soojung laughed at his antics.

“You’re having a hard