8 Letters | Catnipz

-CHAPTER 5-

-Haerin-

I'm peacefully working on my assignments when I suddenly hear my brother's excited voice echoing through the house. He bursts into my room without even bothering to knock. "Haerin, Haerin!" he exclaims, jumping up and down like a kid who just got his first phone. I pause on what I'm doing, with a mix of annoyance and curiosity on my face I scold him gently "Could you please knock before entering? What if I was changing my clothes?"

With an animated expression, he quickly explains, "Ni-ki just told me about this amazing new figure display at the arcade nearby! I really want to see it, and if luck is on my side, I might even win it. So, can you please come with me?" I raise an eyebrow, slightly intrigued. "Why would I go with you when you can easily go by yourself, Jungwon?" I ask.

Jungwon looks at me earnestly and says, "Well, you're really good at playing the claw machine, Haerin. Plus, it's more fun when we're together. Please, Haerin, come with me. Don't worry, I'll treat you to whatever you want." He pleads, and I can't help but feel my heart soften at his genuine request. I lean back in my chair, contemplating his words. A smile slowly creeps onto my face. "Okay, just give me a few more minutes to finish this. Go ahead and take a shower first, you smell like a gym locker. When was the last time you had one?" I teasingly comment, covering my nose dramatically.

Jungwon's face lights up, and he immediately leaves my room, practically floating on cloud nine, knowing I've agreed to go with him. I can't deny that his enthusiasm is infectious. After all, he's my brother, and moments like these bring us closer together. Even though I tend to lean toward introversion, I'm willing to step outside my comfort zone when it comes to my family because they have a way of making me happy.

❀

After finishing my shower, I quickly went through my routine and left my room. On my way down the staircase, I spotted Jungwon tying his shoelaces at the bottom step. I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at him. "Tying your shoes here? Why not do it in your room?" It suddenly struck on me that he must have sneak out last night and returned quietly by removing his shoes to avoid making noises.

I decided to let it slide for now, considering that summer was approaching and I figured he should be able to do what he wanted. As I continued to the kitchen, I saw Dad coming out, glancing at both Jungwon and me. "Where are you going early this morning?" he asked before taking a sip of his tea as he wait for our response. "Jungwon wants to check out something at the arcade, and he wants me to join him. Apparently, there's this claw machine he's determined to conquer and win a cool figure display," I explained with a smile.

Dad offered, "Want me to get the car and drop you guys there?" Jungwon and I exchanged a look, and I shook my head, declining the offer. "Nah, it's just a short walk. The arcade's right next to that café we like." Jungwon replied

"Alright then, take care," Dad said before heading back upstairs. "Haerin, let's go get that figure!" Jungwon exclaimed, making some goofy superhero noises. I chuckled and followed his lead. Despite being two years older, Jungwon always acted like a kid when we hung out together. But that's what makes our adventures so much fun.

As Jungwon and I walked towards the arcade, I couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity nagging at me. Then I remembered that I need to ask Jungwon on why did he sneak out last night

"Hey, Jungwon," I called out, matching my stride with his. "Why did you sneak out again last night?" I tried to keep my tone light, not wanting to come across as accusatory.