HEART STRINGS | 지훈

16

The sun dipped low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the campus as the weekend drew to a close. The excitement of finding the perfect dress for the university autumn ball still lingered in Jinhee's mind. The dark red gown she chose now hung in her closet, a promise of the evening that lay ahead.

The autumn air had begun to cool, crisp leaves crunching underfoot as students moved between classes and social gatherings. Jinhee found herself immersed in a new project, one that had unexpectedly drawn her closer to Junkyu. Over the past few days, they had been spending a considerable amount of time together, their interactions filled with quiet intensity and shared laughter.

Jinhee and Junkyu's friendship wasn't new. They shared the same major and often found themselves in the same study groups, working through assignments and projects. But recently, their connection had deepened. What started as casual conversations about schoolwork had transformed into secretive meetings and hushed discussions, something that didn't go unnoticed by those around them. Except for Minji.

In the library, Jinhee and Junkyu occupied a secluded corner, heads bent over notes and laptops. Their whispers and occasional laughter created a bubble that seemed impenetrable to outsiders. It wasn't unusual to see them there, but the frequency and intensity of their interactions had changed. To an onlooker, it was as if they shared a secret, something that bound them together in a way that others couldn't understand.

At the nearby cafe, they had become a familiar duo. Jinhee always ordered her favorite strawberry cheesecake, while Junkyu ensured her cup of tea was always full. Their conversations flowed effortlessly, ranging from light-hearted banter to serious discussions. There was a noticeable ease in their companionship, a growing familiarity that suggested something beyond mere friendship.

Jihoon, meanwhile, couldn't help but notice this shift. At first, he brushed it off as nothing more than an increase in study sessions or perhaps a shared project. But the more he saw them together, the harder it became to ignore the nagging feeling in his chest. It was a sensation he hadn't expected, a blend of irritation and... something else he couldn't quite name.

One afternoon, while passing the cafe, Jihoon's attention was drawn to Jinhee and Junkyu seated at their usual table. Jinhee's animated gestures and Junkyu's attentive gaze suggested a conversation of significance. They were so engrossed in their discussion that they didn't notice Jihoon observing them from a distance.

He tried to dismiss the unease inside him. After all, he and Jinhee were only connected because of a dare, a silly challenge that meant nothing beyond a temporary obligation. But seeing her with Junkyu stirred something inside him, an emotion he was reluctant to acknowledge. Minwoo first, but now Junkyu? Nah, impossible. But.. is it?

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Jihoon's pov

I woke up to the sound of my alarm, signaling the start of another day. I groaned and rubbed my eyes, the remnants of sleep still clinging to me. The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a soft glow through the window of my dorm room. I got ready quickly, grabbed a quick breakfast, and headed out to my morning classes. The day unfolded like any other, with lectures, group discussions, and assignments that kept me occupied.

Deciding I needed to clear my head, I returned to my dorm and changed into my running gear. Jogging always helped me think, and I figured some fresh air would do me good. The park near campus was my usual route, and as the evening sun began to dip, I set off at a steady pace, letting the music in my headphones drive away the thoughts that cluttered my mind.

The path through the park was familiar, a mix of tree-lined trails and open spaces where students often gathered. I focused on the steady beat of my footsteps and the cool breeze that brushed against my skin. But just as I was beginning to relax, something caught my eye ⎯ a flash of movement near a bench off to the side.