mr. socialite. | 희승 √

CHAPTER 10

During the train trip, I reflected on a few things. Many of them were questions directed to the secrets that I could never slip- especially at Ms. Socialite. She manipulated him but was it because of his popularity or for it? If she gave it to him, why would she take it back? Is there more than even Heeseung doesn't know? Could she be going for not only his "love" but for another ulterior motive that could break them all?

And why doesn't it seem like the other six know? Could it have happened way before they ever became a group? Sunghoon told me about them getting together five years ago... So could it happened way back in their youth? Is that why she is still taunting him about it- and why they have no clear understanding of it? They know who Ji-Hun is, they know that she's hurt him... but there's nothing that they know.

Would they forgive Heeseung for using Sunghoon? Almost getting Jake imprisoned? Telling on Jungwon to his disapproving parents? That he bullied Sunoo to death for him to join the group? For almost killing Ni-Ki and Jay? 

Would they forgive him for almost disbanding their group... when all he wanted to do was keep them together?

They're literal family at this point, so would they? Because I know... that I wouldn't be able to decide.

"We're here!" Sunoo squeals slightly, clapping as they start to point at the winter trees. Snow piles and shakes against the trees as the streets are bustling with people in jackets and snow hats, causing me to smile. Everyone's so lovey-dovey this season, and I love watching it. It's better than watching old tv series, with sappy romance and whatnot.

"Are you excited?" Jake inquiries, prompting me to turn around. I nod slightly, trying to get away from my suffocating feeling. "Christmas is one of the best events. Everyone looks so happy."

"Yeah. Even when things happen- you can't be sad on Christmas," More of reassurance towards me than a reply, I stop playing my music. Jake hands me my earbud, to which I kindly and quietly send him a 'thank you.' The train stops as people pile off, gathering into groups. Brushing my hair back a bit, I keep my eyes low, looking at the floor.

Finally, the seven all group where I am, making sure nothing was robbed. "Since it's only 12, I'll go check into our hotel. If you all want to go get coffee or go somewhere, I'll send you the location."

"Is it safe for you to go by yourself, Iseul?" Sunoo asks, frowning. "I'll come with you."

I try to intervene because I know damn well I need time alone, but Sunoo's already pushing me away from the crowd. We head down the escalator, my head low. 

"Upset, aren't you?" Sunoo mentions quietly, sighing. "I'm sorry Jake hyung is clueless about these things, I-"

"It's no problem. Not your fault, not Jake's fault, not anyone's-" I cut short, gulping. "I should've guessed this light rejection was coming."

"Jake hyung will realize it all eventually, especially when it's too late," Sunoo chuckles, rubbing his temples. "It might be a bit of foreshadowing at this point, but... do you think you'll ever get to be with him?"

"I never thought about it either," I reply, stepping off the escalator before walking out of the station. "Of course, my first love has always been him. Of course, I've dreamt about dating him and him being in love with me... but I've never thought that it would come true. So, I don't think that I should be too sad over it."

"I mean, you always have the duo if hyung doesn't take it into consideration."

"The duo?" 

"Sunghoon hyung and Heeseung hyung." Do they like me? I think Sunoo's mistaken at this point- Sunghoon is a flirtatious freak while Heeseung is doing this for the bet.