Step by Step [TO1 ROMEYOU 1]

CHAPTER 5

     The cafeteria looked different from usually. Since the summer started, most of the students settled down outside at the tables and after the duos started working by themselves, many of them sat together to work on their assignment. As soon as Jerome and Jeyou entered the cafeteria, they noticed how their friends were sitting at separate tables. Jeyou gave Jerome a confused look and suggested sitting down outside together due to the warm weather.

»I am sorry you can't sit with your friends...« Jerome said as he sat down at the one side of a picnic table next to the building. Jeyou looked surprised and stared into Jerome's eyes while sitting down in front of him. 

»Why? It's fine. It's not that I hate you or something.« He answered and smiled slightly. Jerome noticed Jeyou's friendly behavior towards him for the first time. Maybe he just had a few really bad days before? Now he seemed kind and approachable, which filled Jerome's heart with happiness. The awkwardness was sometimes still present, but not as terrible as before. It was by far better now, and Jerome started to feel comfortable around Jeyou.

Last class, both of them just talked about their preferences and dance style to find something they both liked. But after noticing they genuinely had different interests, and it was hard to decide a choreography, they agreed on creating one since Jeyou already had some experience with it. Now, they just had to find a song.

»How about something from SHINee?« Jeyou took out his phone to look through a variety of songs.

»Sounds good!« Jerome smiled brightly. »I also like Taemin's songs!« He exclaimed.

»Ohh yeah! Great choice!« Jeyou said while looking at Jerome.

»We actually would need more than just our classes to finish a whole choreography...« Jeyou admitted and took a look at Jerome, who was getting out his lunch with a bright smile.

»Mhm..« Jerome nodded.

»Shall we meet up to work on it at home?« Jeyou stared at Jerome to see his reaction. »We could come to my place, I have enough space and a mirror.« Jeyou added, his gaze still fixed on Jerome's face, now munching on a cookie.

»Yeah, that would be great!« Jerome laughed and handed Jeyou a cookie as well.

»Listen to this...« Jeyou played two b-side songs by Taemin.

»Woah! 'Impressionable' sounds good to me!« Jerome answered excitedly and handed Jeyou a banana milk.

»What? Have you prepared that for me?« Jeyou took the milk with a puzzled look in his eyes. It was the moment he realized how well their relationship was developing after the horrible start. There was no reason for Jerome to be this kind to Jeyou, after he behaved like a jerk towards him. I guess it's just the way he is... he has a kind heart. It's impressive...

»Since lunch break is quite long.. shall I get some cards? I have them in my locker.« Jerome seemed like a sweet puppy wanting to play fetch while waiting for Jeyou's answer. He nodded  in response and observed Jerome entering the building.

Walking down the now empty hallway, Jerome approached his locker to get cards to play. Opening it, with a squeaky sound following, he heard somebody talking around the corner. Jerome recognized Donggeon's soft voice and became interested in the conversation going on. He stood in front of his locker without moving, to avoid making any suspicious sounds. It wasn't his intention to eavesdrop or get involved into any situations, but it wasn't usual to chat in an empty hallway during break time either. 

»Why are you so clumsy, though? If it's something this important, how could you even manage to...« Jerome recognized the second person talking as Chan. But Donggeon interrupted him, »I know! But it really wasn't intentional. If you just could help me to get the key-« but cut himself short as the hallway was filled with a scream. »JEROMEEE! Long time no see~!« Woonggi came running towards Jerome, who froze at the spot instantly.
I'm doomed.
Was he about to say keychain???
Why did Woonggi have to scream! Should I just ask Donggeon..? And admit that I eavesdropped on them?! Certainly not!