𝐒𝐜𝐚𝐫 | 𝘑𝘦𝘯𝘰

10: Pretend.

Jeno sighed upon seeing his mom still in his apartment, this time with his dad as a cherry on top. He dropped his bag onto the floor, unbothered, when suddenly, the couple walked his way. With furrowed brows he wanted to ask what was going on, but his dad managed to race him to it.

"Why did you reject the girl's dinner invitation?"

He gulped. "How did you know?"

"Her father called me, asking to reconsider." he stared into Jeno's eyes until the boy looked away, gritting his teeth.

"Honey, why did you tell her no?" his mom suddenly spoke up, being sweet as always.

"Stop being so soft towards him all the time." mr. Lee gave his wife a look while he waited for Jeno's explanation.

The boy ran fingers through his hair, acting unbothered. "I just don't see the point. She thanked me already, we don't have to eat a stupid meal together, do we?"

Mrs. Lee's brows furrowed. "I thought she was your friend."

"You made me pay medical bills for someone you don't even like?" his dad put his hands into pockets, feeling anger building inside him.

Jeno shrugged, looking his father in the eyes. "I just felt bad, that's all. Besides, isn't that going to make you look good in the public eye?"

The man breathed heavier, seeing his son's behavior while Mrs. Lee stood on the side, observing the tension between her most beloved men.

"I didn't know you were so cold hearted." he blurred out.

Jeno chuckled. "I get it from someone, don't I?"

Mr. Lee's face was blank as he suddenly and without hesitation, slapped his son. Jeno wasn't exactly surprised when his head flew to the side and the burning sensation growing on his cheek felt way too familiar. "I've given you way too much free hand. It's time to teach you some manners." he took a deep breath before adding "friday, 6pm, we're leaving to Mr. Sim's dinner and you better bring your best behavior."

Jeno clenched his jaw, sharing one last gaze with his father before he walked out of the boy's apartment. His mom reached her hands towards her son who stood there frozen as she placed a gentle kiss on his reddened cheek. "I'm going back to our house since you don't want me here anymore and I can see you're doing ok on your own. See you on friday, baby."

The boy didn't say a word back and waited impatiently to be left all alone - exactly how he liked it recently.