Always Seven // Xdinary Heroes 7th Member

ׂ╰┈➤ part 8.

I.

Fast forward to the first week of July, and the excitement was palpable in the dorm as the members of Xdinary Heroes were up early despite their typically nocturnal schedules. It was almost noon, and they were gearing up for a busy afternoon ahead. The reason for their early start was a scheduled appearance on "Weekly Idol," a popular show that features various groups, bands, and artists, giving fans a chance to get to know them better. 

This appearance was a pre-recording meant to air after their comeback, which added an extra layer of anticipation and excitement to their day. They had fond memories of their first appearance on the show during their debut, where they were warmly welcomed into the music industry by the friendly hosts and comfortable atmosphere. 

As Gunil and Minhee took charge of cooking an early brunch in the kitchen, the sound of sizzling food and the aroma of freshly cooked dishes filled the dorm. Gunil expertly flipped pancakes while Minhee scrambled eggs and fried some bacon. They worked in harmony, exchanging light-hearted banter and laughing at inside jokes. Meanwhile, in the living room, the rest of the members engaged in various activities to pass the time and prepare for the day's shoot. 

Jungsu and Seungmin sat on the floor, practicing phrases and lines they planned to say during the show. They went back and forth, trying to come up with witty and memorable things to say, often bursting into laughter at their own antics. Across the room, Jiseok and Hyeongjun were engrossed in a competitive game on their phones, their faces lit up with concentration and the occasional shout of triumph or frustration. 

They nudged each other playfully, their competitive spirits shining through. Jooyeon, ever the night owl, was sprawled out on the sofa, dozing off with his headphones on, the remnants of sleep still visible on his face. The scene was a perfect blend of camaraderie and anticipation, each member contributing to the lively and bustling atmosphere in their own way. 

"Hey, Seungmin, what do you think of this line?" Jungsu asked, reading from his notebook. "Welcome to the world of Xdinary Heroes, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary!" Seungmin chuckled, shaking his head. "A bit cheesy, don't you think? How about we say something that highlights our music? Like, 'Get ready to rock with Xdinary Heroes and our new hit songs!'" 

Jungsu nodded thoughtfully, scribbling in his notebook. "Yeah, that sounds better. Let's keep brainstorming." In the kitchen, Gunil glanced over at Minhee with a grin. "Do you think we should make extra pancakes for Jooyeon-Oppa? He looks like he could use the energy." Minhee laughed, nodding. "Definitely. He might sleep through brunch otherwise. Besides, we all know how much he loves pancakes." 

II.

They continued cooking, the smell of food growing more enticing by the minute. The sound of sizzling bacon and the clatter of dishes created a comforting background noise. Jiseok and Hyeongjun, still immersed in their game, barely noticed the activity around them. "I'm going to win this round," Hyeongjun declared, his fingers flying across the screen. 

Jiseok smirked, determined to prove him wrong. "In your dreams, Hyeongjun. I've got this." Their friendly rivalry added to the lively atmosphere, their laughter and competitive banter echoing through the room. Jiseok and Hyeongjun, who had just finished an intense round of their game, couldn't help but laugh at Jungsu and Seungmin, who were practicing their lines in front of the mirror in the living room. 

"Guys, seriously, you're overthinking everything," Hyeongjun said with a muffled laugh, while Jiseok laughed loudly and nodded in agreement. Jungsu and Seungmin rolled their eyes but continued their rehearsal. Jungsu shot them a playful glare, "You guys won't be laughing when we nail our introductions on 'Weekly Idol.'"