You Belong With Me

Chapter 18: Fall

Yeji's footsteps echoed softly in the corridor as she walked alongside Yuna and Chaeryeong, the trio navigating the hallways of Velvet Haven University. The sunlight filtered through the tall windows, casting a warm glow on the polished floors.

"So, guys," Yeji began, a playful grin tugging at the corners of her lips, "are we ready to conquer the mathematical world today?"

Yuna let out an exaggerated sigh, her hand dramatically resting on her forehead. "Oh, Yeji, you have no idea how daunting that assignment is. It's like trying to decode an alien language."

Chaeryeong chimed in, her eyes widening with mock seriousness. "I heard that Einstein himself would have struggled with this one. We're practically venturing into uncharted territory here."

Yeji chuckled at their theatrics, her amusement evident in her sparkling eyes. "Come on, it can't be that bad. We just need to tackle it step by step. Remember, teamwork makes the dream work."

As they turned a corner, Yuna playfully nudged Chaeryeong with her elbow. "Speaking of teamwork, Chaeryeong, you're my secret weapon when it comes to unraveling the mysteries of math."

Chaeryeong's cheeks flushed a light pink, but she didn't miss a beat. "Oh, Yuna, you're just saying that to get me to help you. But I must admit, equations do seem a lot more appealing when you're around."

Yeji couldn't help but roll her eyes in good-natured jest. "And here I thought we were here to conquer the world of mathematics, not engage in mathematical flirting."

Yuna grinned at Yeji. "Oh, don't be such a partypooper, Yeji. We're just making math a little more interesting."

As they discussed the intricacies of their assignment, Yeji found herself swept up in the lively banter between her two friends. Their chemistry was undeniable, their teasing and laughter forming a melody that echoed through the hallway. 

Occasionally, she'd catch Yuna brushing a strand of hair from Chaeryeong's face or Chaeryeong gently nudging Yuna as they shared a laugh.

Yeji felt a pang of being the 'third wheel,' but it was a feeling she was more than happy to embrace. Their camaraderie was infectious, and she couldn't help but be amused by their flirtatious exchanges.

After some time, Chaeryeong playfully nudged Yuna. "Alright, alright, let's get back to our math puzzle. If we don't crack it soon, our dreams of mathematical greatness will remain just that—dreams."

Yuna winked at Yeji. "You hear that, Yeji? Time to bring your amazing problem-solving skills to the table."

Yeji laughed, shaking her head in mock exasperation. "Fine, fine. Let's get back to the world of numbers and formulas. Who knows, maybe our combined brainpower will actually give Einstein a run for his money."

As they continued down the hallway, their laughter and chatter filled the air, turning the daunting task of mathematics into a lighthearted adventure.

And even though Yeji might have been the self-proclaimed third wheel, she couldn't deny the joy of being a part of her friends' playful dynamic.

As Yeji's gaze remained fixated on Yuna and Chaeryeong, her mind blissfully unaware of her surroundings, she missed a crucial step on the staircase.

The world seemed to tilt on its axis, and her heart somersaulted within her chest. In a heartbeat, she found herself plummeting backward, arms flailing for any anchor of support.

In the disorienting split second before impact, her world was a chaotic whirlwind of fear and regret. But then, just as she began her descent, a strong, warm hand reached out towards her. It was Heejin, extending her hand in a desperate attempt to save Yeji from the impending fall.