RED

CHAPTER 34

The soulmate's touch works like magic. It's a mix of assurance and security that even the strongest emotion can't deny.

Just like now, when Donghyuck is preparing for their mock trial, he never stood another meter from Gayoon.

He will either play with her hands or brush his shoulders against hers—anything that could just let them have physical contact.

Donghyuck is sitting outside the trial room, waiting for his group's turn. All of them are also with their soulmates, showing their utmost support.

For Donghyuck, this is heavenly. His head is leaning on her side as she's standing. Meanwhile, her hand is also carding his hair.

"They're taking longer than usual." Donghyuck spoke after he checked the time. "Did something happen?"

"When Jeno's there? Their group is equally prepared as yours, Hyuck. Come on, you'll do great."

He frowned. "I feel restless."

"You stayed up all night," she said, clicking her tongue. "I told you to sleep and relax your brain."

"Okay, okay, sorry."

"Fucking finally" They both looked over in the direction of the voice and saw Jeno exiting with the rest of his group following.

The male immediately beamed a smile when he saw his cousin looking all curious.

"We just had a problem with the tech; everything is well, Hyuck," Jeno assured. "Now go up there and shoot your shot, will you?"

Donghyuck sighed and stood up, and Gayoon faced him with a big smile.

He just kissed her forehead and mumbled a small thank you before gathering his group.

By the time the group went in, Gayoon took a deep breath and walked towards Jeno, who had promised Donghyuck that he'd accompany her for awhile.

"Don't worry, he'll be fine. He's just overwhelmed that his soulmate is literally there for him; maybe that's why he finally let out his nervousness. Hyuck is stone-cold whenever we have mock trials, just hiding his feelings because he's tough." Jeno sighed. "But on the good side, he learned to lean onto someone. Really thank you for not giving up on him, Gayoon."

Gayoon chuckled. "You thanked me enough, Jen. Don't worry, I won't ever leave him. I love having a soulmate so much."

The two ended up on the bleachers of the outdoor court, watching the basketball team practice.

There's Mark easily shooting a three-pointer, and then Jaemin, who was late on Jeno's mock trial but still ended up receiving an assuring kiss.

Least to say, Gayoon isn't alone and is now with Yuna, Jisung, Jeno, Jaemin, and Renjun.

The five are sharing snacks and have their own drinks, sparing Mark an extra too.