𝐬𝐤𝐮𝐧𝐤 𝐛𝐨𝐲 ; 𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐦𝐢𝐧

𝐭𝐰𝐨

The following morning, Jeno and Jaemin met outside the school gates, their usual meeting spot. Today, however, the atmosphere felt lighter, filled with the promise of something new. They had made a friend out of Renjun, and both were eager to see where this newfound friendship would lead.

"Morning, Jeno!" Jaemin greeted, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Morning, Jaem," Jeno replied, leaning in for a quick kiss. "Ready to see if Renjun shows up today?"

Jaemin nodded. "I hope so. I want to make sure he's okay after yesterday."

They walked into the school, heading straight to their lockers. As they were putting away their books, they spotted Renjun walking down the hall, looking a bit more confident than usual. When he saw them, his face lit up with a shy smile.

"Hey, Renjun!" Jeno called out, waving him over.

Renjun walked up to them, his smile growing wider. "Hi, Jeno. Hi, Jaemin."

"How are you feeling?" Jaemin asked, his tone filled with genuine concern.

Renjun shrugged. "I'm okay, thanks to you guys."

"Good to hear," Jeno said, clapping him on the shoulder. "Ready for class?"

Renjun nodded, and the three of them walked together to their first period. As they entered the classroom, the usual buzz of conversation quieted slightly, with curious glances directed their way. Renjun's presence with Jeno and Jaemin did not go unnoticed.

They took their seats, and just as the bell rang, Professor Taeyong walked in, his usual calm demeanor commanding attention. "Good morning, everyone," he began, placing his notes on the desk. "Today, we'll continue our discussion on the impact of the Renaissance on modern art."

As the lecture progressed, Jeno glanced sideways at Renjun, who was diligently taking notes. It was clear Renjun was passionate about learning, and Jeno admired that about him. He felt a growing desire to help Renjun feel more comfortable and accepted.

---

During lunch, the trio headed back to the café. This time, Renjun seemed less hesitant, accepting their invitation without protest. As they sat down, Jaemin couldn't help but notice the changes in Renjun. He seemed more relaxed, more willing to engage in conversation.

"So, Renjun," Jaemin began, "what do you like to do for fun?"

Renjun paused, considering the question. "I like reading and drawing. It helps me relax."

"That's cool," Jeno said, genuinely interested. "Maybe you can show us some of your drawings sometime."

Renjun smiled, a hint of pride in his eyes. "I'd like that."

Their food arrived, and they dug in, chatting about various subjects. For once, Renjun felt like he belonged, like he was part of something bigger than himself. He was grateful for Jeno and Jaemin's friendship and kindness.

---

After school, Jeno and Jaemin walked Renjun home. They reached Renjun's house, and as he turned to thank them, he hesitated. "Do you want to come in?" he asked, his voice tentative.

Jeno and Jaemin exchanged glances, then nodded. "Sure, if that's okay with you," Jeno said.

Renjun led them inside, and as they walked through the door, they were met with the sight of Renjun's mother sitting on the couch, her face now cleaned and bandaged. She looked up, surprised to see her son with company.

"Mom, these are my friends, Jeno and Jaemin," Renjun introduced them.

She smiled warmly, though it was clear she was still in pain. "It's nice to meet you boys. Thank you for looking out for Renjun."

Jaemin stepped forward. "It's our pleasure, ma'am. Renjun's a great guy."

They sat down, and for a while, the room was filled with light conversation and laughter. Renjun's mother seemed to brighten up in their presence, grateful for the joy they brought into her home. It was a small reprieve from the usual gloom that hung over their household.

---

Later, as Jeno and Jaemin prepared to leave, Renjun walked them to the door. "Thank you for today," he said softly. "I don't think I've ever had friends like you before."

Jeno smiled. "We'll always be here for you, Renjun. Don't forget that."

Jaemin nodded in agreement. "Anytime you need us, just let us know."

As they walked away, Renjun watched them go, feeling a warmth in his heart that he hadn't felt in a long time. He knew his life was changing, and for the first time, he felt hopeful about the future.

---

That evening, back at Jeno's house, he and Jaemin sat on Jeno's bed, talking about the day. "I think Renjun's really starting to come out of his shell," Jeno remarked.

Jaemin nodded. "Yeah, I think so too. We just have to keep being there for him."

Jeno leaned in, giving Jaemin a soft kiss. "I'm glad we're doing this together."

Jaemin smiled, resting his head on Jeno's shoulder. "Me too, Jeno. Me too."

As they held each other, they knew they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, as long as they had each other and their new friend, Renjun. Together, they would navigate the complexities of high school life, forging bonds that would last a lifetime.