Always Seven // Xdinary Heroes 7th Member

ׂ╰┈➤ part 8.

A Special Chapter for "GunHee"

I.

All seven members of the band had developed a deep bond, treating each other like family. Despite their different backgrounds and personalities, they had become inseparable, each finding their place within the group.

Minhee, who was initially shy and reserved, had grown comfortable enough to call her bandmates "Oppa," an endearing term for older brothers. Her transformation from the quiet girl to someone who could confidently interact with the others was a testament to the strong connections they had all formed.

It was a source of joy for everyone, seeing Minhee blossom in their supportive environment. On March 13, 2020, the group had just returned home after a delightful evening celebrating Minhee's 17th birthday at a restaurant. The night had been filled with laughter, gifts, and well-wishes, each member making sure Minhee felt special and loved.

The festive spirit lingered as they entered their shared living space, but there was an unspoken concern as they noticed the frown on Minhee's face. Despite the joy of the celebration, something seemed to be weighing heavily on her mind. "Minhee, are you okay?" Jungsu asked, his voice filled with genuine concern.

She forced a smile and nodded, brushing off his worry as she headed towards the bathroom to freshen up. Inside the bathroom, Minhee allowed herself a moment to breathe. She turned on the shower, hoping the warm water would wash away her stress and the lingering sadness she couldn't shake off.

She let the steam envelop her, trying to clear her mind. "Why can't I just be happy today?" she wondered aloud, her voice barely audible over the sound of the water. The pressure of school and her looming finals were weighing heavily on her, making it hard to fully enjoy her special day. She sighed deeply, leaning against the cool tiles, trying to gather her strength before rejoining her bandmates.

After her shower, Minhee felt a bit more refreshed but no less burdened. She dressed quickly, opting for comfortable clothes that would help her focus on her studies. She stepped out of the bathroom and walked towards her and Seungmin's shared room, where she grabbed her school textbooks.

Seungmin glanced up from his spot on the bed, noticing the determined yet weary look on her face. "Minhee, are you sure you want to study now? It's your birthday, after all," he said softly, concern etched in his features. Minhee gave him a small, reassuring smile. "I have to, Oppa. Finals are tomorrow, and I can't afford to slack off," she replied, her voice steady but tinged with fatigue.

II.

Carrying her books, Minhee made her way to the living room. She set up her study materials on the coffee table, determined to make the most of the time she had left before her exams. As she settled down to study, the other members went about their evening routines.

Gunil was in the kitchen, preparing a late-night snack, while Jungsu and Jooyeon were engrossed in a video game, their laughter and competitive banter filling the room. Seungmin watched her from a distance, his worry for her growing. "Maybe I should try to help her study," he thought, but decided to give her some space for now, trusting that she would ask if she needed help.

Minhee opened her textbooks, her mind struggling to focus. She felt the weight of the day pressing down on her, the celebration juxtaposed with the anxiety of her upcoming exams. She groaned softly, running a hand through her damp hair.

The noise caught Gunil's attention as he emerged from the kitchen with a steaming mug of coffee. He watched her for a moment, noting the frown on her face and the tension in her posture. "Minhee, do you need a break? You seem really stressed," he asked gently, approaching her with concern.