TANTIANA UNIVERSITY | SCARLET LIGHTS

CHAPTER 31: A BREATHER, HE SAID

Exams came and went in what felt like a whirlwind, and for the past two weeks, Gayoon and Donghyuck had been each other's steadfast study partners.

Thanks to the similarities between their courses, they often quizzed each other, turning their late-night review sessions into a mix of academia and affection. Each correct answer came with a playful reward—usually a kiss, much to Donghyuck's delight.

It was a sunny afternoon when Gayoon met Donghyuck halfway at the intersection of their buildings. The sight of him brought a soft smile to her lips, which he reciprocated before pulling her into a warm hug.

She responded with a quick peck on his cheek.

"Any hints if you'll ace the tests?" he teased as they began walking toward the cafeteria for lunch.

"I think so," she replied confidently. "You?"

"I finished them fast. Not sure how I did, though."

"You'll do great," Gayoon assured him, giving his back a gentle pat and beaming at him.

Her encouragement made Donghyuck's heart swell, and for a moment, he found himself grateful for every circumstance that had led them to this point.

Exam week had been a blur of intense focus and determination. The pair worked diligently through one subject after another, taking only brief breaks to recharge before diving back into their notes.

Gayoon had grown accustomed to Donghyuck's unique study habits—his sudden need to pace when brainstorming or his habit of muttering formulas under his breath. In turn, Donghyuck learned to manage his tendency to overwork himself, taking cues from Gayoon's reminders to rest and hydrate.

For two weeks, their lives revolved around school and home. Though exhausting, they found solace in each other's presence, the quiet companionship fueling their drive.

So, when the exams finally ended, Donghyuck decided it was time for a well-deserved breather.

"Let's take a trip," he suggested over dinner the night their exams concluded.

Gayoon raised a curious brow. "A trip?"

"You'll see," he replied with a mischievous grin.

The next morning, Donghyuck led her to a car he had borrowed, a proud look on his face as he opened the passenger door for her.

"Where are we going?" Gayoon asked as he slid into the driver's seat.

"Somewhere beautiful," he said cryptically, starting the engine.

!!!

A trip on a flower field, he said.

Gayoon wasn't informed that they'd go on a trip to heaven beforehand.

"You're just so amazing," Donghyuck sighed as he threw his head back. "I can't get enough of you."

"My legs are sore." Gayoon whimpered as she dropped her head to his neck, still bouncing on his lap as hard as she could.