The Choi Brothers

🍵Chapter 2🍵

Standing in front of the University entrance, Soobin couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension about the year ahead.

"VanTae's School and University" loomed before him, every top student's dream. It boasted a comprehensive education system, catering to students from primary all the way to university level. Sponsored by KT Corporation, one of South Korea's most powerful and longstanding companies, it was a prestigious institution with a reputation for excellence in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities.

Yeonjun, Soobin, and Beomgyu had been part of the VanTae's family since they were children. They had progressed through each stage of education: Pre-Primary from ages 2 to 5, Primary from ages 6 to 9, Middle School from ages 10 to 13, and High School from ages 14 to 17. Now, at ages 18 to 22, they found themselves embarking on their University journey, the final chapter of their education. It was like a package deal for students, spending four years in each section except for university, which had five years.

While VanTae's School and University provided an exceptional learning environment, it also harbored dark secrets beneath its prestigious facade. Bullying, illicit relationships, teen pregnancy, hazing-these were just some of the issues that lurked behind closed doors. Despite the majority of students coming from affluent backgrounds, the Chois stood out due to their family's unparalleled success in South Korea's business world, inviting jealousy and resentment from their peers.

"Hey, Hyung! What are you thinking so deeply about?" Soobin snapped out of his reverie as someone came up from behind him, wrapping their arm around him. It was none other than Beomgyu, his infectious energy palpable.

"Hmm? Oh, nothing, just random stuff. Anyway, are you ready to start university?" Soobin replied, trying to hide his inner turmoil behind a casual facade.

"You know, I'm so excited to start my university years!! Oh my gosh, yes!" Beomgyu exclaimed, his enthusiasm contagious.

Soobin smiled at his younger brother, masking his concerns about what lay ahead. Little did he know that Beomgyu was more aware of the university's inner workings than he realized, thanks to his extensive network of connections and friends.

Unbeknownst to Soobin, Beomgyu had silently sworn to himself to protect his Hyung at any cost, no matter what challenges they might face. He returned Soobin's smile with one of his own, masking the depths of his determination.

"Well, that's great, Beomgyu... shall we go inside? We'll meet Yeonjun Hyung there, okay?" Soobin suggested, receiving a nod of agreement from Beomgyu. Together, they walked towards the entrance of the university.

"Hey, Choi Soobin!" A voice called out to Soobin from behind as they walked towards the entrance.

Before Soobin could even respond, Beomgyu had already grabbed the boy by his collar, ready to throw a punch at any moment. "Dare hurt my brother and I'll punch your hands! No, I meant punch your face!" Beomgyu threatened, his protective instincts kicking in.

"Oh my gosh, Beomgyu! Let go of him! He's my friend!" Soobin exclaimed, attempting to separate Beomgyu from the boy.

"No, Soobin Hyung! Not today! Don't lie! I know what you go through! You don't have to lie anymore! I'll protect you! Don't you worry, hyu- ow ow ow! Aaaa, Hyung, let go!" Beomgyu protested loudly, completely ignoring Soobin's attempts to calm him down. His protestations abruptly ended when Soobin tightly squeezed his ear.

"Soobin Hyung, Soobin Hyung, Soobin Hyung! W-what's wrong? D-doesn't t-this brat b-bully you- Soobin Hyung! It hurts!" Beomgyu cried out, his voice escalating in pain.

"First things first, Beomgyu, you don't shout at elders... it's rude. Second things second, he's my friend and not a bully! Got it? C'mon now, let go of him!" Soobin scolded, his voice firm as he maintained his grip on Beomgyu's ear.