Always Seven // Xdinary Heroes 7th Member

ׂ╰┈➤ part 12.

A Special Chapter for "HanHee"

I.

Lunch time just started, and the practice room was abuzz with the usual energy of a band taking a well-deserved break. Gunil, the leader and drummer, stood in the center of the room, phone in hand, ready to order food for the group.

"Alright, guys," he called out, his voice carrying over the scattered conversations and tuning instruments. "What do you all want for lunch?" The members, sprawled out on the floor and couches, threw out their orders with a mix of enthusiasm and laziness. Jungsu, the main vocalist and keyboardist, asked for something spicy, while Jooyeon, the bassist and main vocalist, requested a hearty serving of bulgogi.

Hyeongjun, the lead guitarist and sub-vocalist, chimed in with a preference for some sushi, and the others followed suit with their choices. Gunil nodded, making quick notes on his phone before placing the order. As soon as the order was placed, the members began to drift into their chosen modes of relaxation.

Some stretched out on the floor with their arms behind their heads, eyes closed, ready to catch a quick nap. Jooyeon lay back on one of the couches, earbuds in, lost in his music. The room began to quiet down as the anticipation of food and the lure of rest settled over them. It was a rare moment of calm amidst their hectic schedules.

Minhee, however, was still standing near her bass guitar, a small frown creasing her forehead. She examined the worn-out strap, noticing how frayed and fragile it had become. The strap had seen better days, bearing the weight of her instrument through countless rehearsals and performances.

Now, it was barely holding on, and Minhee knew she needed a new one. But money was tight, and she couldn't afford to buy a replacement just yet. The realization brought a wave of frustration and helplessness. Hyeongjun, who had just finished tuning his electric guitar, noticed the troubled expression on Minhee's face.

He walked over, his curiosity piqued. "Hey, Minhee," he said gently, tilting his head to catch her gaze. "What's bothering you?" Minhee sighed and lifted her bass slightly, showing him the nearly broken strap.

Hyeongjun's eyes widened in understanding, and he reached out to touch the strap, feeling the worn material. "Ah, I see," he murmured. "This strap looks like it's been through a lot." Minhee nodded, her shoulders slumping a little. "Yeah, it's old and I need a new one, but I just don't have the money for it right now," she admitted, her voice tinged with frustration. Hyeongjun gave her a reassuring smile, his hand resting on her shoulder.

II.

"Don't worry about it too much. We'll figure something out," he said softly. "For now, let's take a break. Come on, let's watch that K-Drama we started." They made their way to the sofa, Minhee feeling a bit lighter from the comforting words of her friend. They settled down, Minhee leaning her bass against the wall.

Hyeongjun pulled out his tablet, and soon they were engrossed in the latest episode of their favorite drama. The characters' antics and the unfolding plot provided a much-needed distraction from Minhee's worries. They laughed at the funny scenes, commented on the twists and turns, and forgot about the worn-out strap for a while.

As they watched, the room around them remained peaceful. Gunil and the others, having ordered lunch, were dozing off or chatting quietly among themselves. The episode they were watching was particularly engaging, filled with dramatic cliffhangers and humorous moments.

Hyeongjun and Minhee exchanged glances during the intense scenes, their bond growing stronger through these shared moments of relaxation. Hyeongjun glanced at Minhee as the episode progressed, noticing how her frown had turned into a smile. "Feeling better?" he asked, nudging her gently with his elbow. Minhee nodded, her eyes still on the screen.