Reputation

Chapter 11 - Results

After two weeks, the results were finally out. As we arrived at school, a bunch of students had gathered around the notice board in the hallway.

"Number 1, Choi Ara! Number 2, Yoon Jeonghan," I exclaimed happily, giving Scoups a spontaneous hug.

"Don't get too comfortable at the top, Ara. I'll catch up during finals," Jeonghan teased, a confident smirk playing on his lips as his hands were tucked into his pockets.

"I got 20th place," Jiyeon announced as she joined us.

"Hey, that's an improvement from last time," I said encouragingly, offering her a smile.

"Yeah, that's good enough for me," Jiyeon replied with a nod.

"Joshua got 4th and Scoups got 3rd. Alright, this calls for celebratory chicken nuggets!" I declared enthusiastically, already skipping towards the canteen.

As we made our way to indulge in our post-exam treat, the excitement of our achievements filled the air, and I couldn't help but feel proud of all of us for our hard work paying off.

As we made our way to indulge in our post-exam treat, the excitement of our achievements filled the air, and I couldn't help but feel proud of all of us for our hard work paying off.

"Chicken nuggets for everyone!" I declared again, glancing back to make sure everyone was following.

"You know, Ara, I think it's more than just luck," Scoups remarked with a grin. "You've been putting in the effort, and it shows."

"Thanks, Oppa," I replied, nudging him playfully. "But let's not forget, I still beat you."

"Yeah, yeah, just you wait," Scoups retorted, his competitive spirit undiminished.

Jeonghan joined in, slinging an arm around my shoulder. "Congratulations, Ara. Looks like we make a good team after all."

"Only in studying, Jeonghan," I teased, elbowing him lightly. "I don't need you stealing my top spot."

Joshua chuckled, walking alongside us. "Seriously though, Ara, you killed it. Number 1 is no joke."

As we approached the canteen, the aroma of freshly cooked food filled the air, adding to our jubilant mood. We gathered around a table, sharing stories of our exam experiences and laughing at our collective nervous moments.

"So, what's next?" Joshua asked between bites of his chicken nuggets. "More studying?"

"Absolutely," I replied with mock seriousness. "But first, a well-deserved break."

After school, Scoups and I made our way back home, chatting about our day and the upcoming break from studies. As we approached the front door, I noticed a nagging feeling that something wasn't right.

"Oppa, did you leave the door unlocked?" I asked hesitantly as we reached the entrance.

"No, I remember locking it," Scoups replied, looking puzzled.

"Omo, did we get robbed?" I gasped, stepping back cautiously.

"Come on, let me go in first," Scoups said, his voice steady as he slowly pushed the door open. We entered cautiously, scanning the living room for any signs of intrusion.

"Kids, what are you doing?" a familiar voice called out from the living room, making us both jump.

"Eomma!" I exclaimed with relief, rushing forward to envelop her in a hug. "When did you guys get back?"

"We touched down this morning," she said warmly, returning the hug.

"Where's Appa?" I asked as we pulled apart, noticing him entering with his arms full of grocery bags.

"Here I am!" Dad announced cheerfully, setting the bags down on the kitchen counter. "Coups, can you help me with these?"

"Uh, sure," Scoups replied, quickly moving to assist Dad.

"Mom, Dad, what's with all the groceries?" I asked, curiosity piqued as I eyed the spread on the counter.

"We invited the Yoons and Hongs over for dinner tonight," Mom explained with a smile. "And we thought we'd celebrate your results too."

"That's so sweet of you," I said gratefully, feeling touched by their gesture. "Thanks, Eomma and Appa."

As we were unpacking the groceries, I turned to Mom with a smile. "So, how was your business trip?" I asked, moving to the kitchen to start making some ice matcha for everyone.

Mom sighed happily as she sorted through vegetables. "It was good, busy as always, but productive. We had some successful meetings and managed to finalize a few deals."

"That sounds great," I replied, pouring water into a pitcher and adding matcha powder. "Did you get to see any interesting places?"

"A bit," she nodded, slicing a cucumber. "We had some downtime in the evenings, so we explored the area a little. You know your Dad, always keen on trying local cuisine."

Dad chuckled from the living room, where he was setting out plates. "Gotta taste the world's flavors wherever we go!"

"Did you bring us any souvenirs?" I teased, placing the matcha in the fridge to chill.

Mom smiled mischievously. "Maybe," she said cryptically. "You'll have to wait and see."

After setting aside the groceries, Scoups and I retreated to our respective rooms. I headed straight to the bathroom for a quick shower, wanting to freshen up before dinner began. The warm water helped wash away the day's fatigue, and I took a moment to relax under its comforting stream.

Once I finished, I wrapped myself in a fluffy towel and changed into a comfortable yet presentable outfit for dinner. I could hear the faint sounds of preparations and conversation drifting from the kitchen, where Mom and Dad were likely putting finishing touches on the meal.

As I walked back to the living room, I noticed Scoups already there, scrolling through his phone. He looked up and smiled as I entered.

"Ready for dinner, A?" he asked, setting his phone aside.

"Yeah, I'm starving," I replied with a laugh, sitting down on the couch next to him. "What do you think Mom cooked up for tonight?"

Scoups shrugged playfully. "Knowing her, it's bound to be delicious. Did you finish washing up?"

"Yeah, all done," I confirmed. "Mom and Dad seem excited about having everyone over."

"They missed us," Scoups remarked softly, his gaze wandering towards the kitchen. "It's nice to have everyone together again."

10 minutes later, we heard the doorbell ring, signaling the arrival of our guests. I hurried to the door, eager to welcome Uncle and Aunt Yoon with a warm smile.

"Hello, Uncle, Aunt Yoon!" I greeted them enthusiastically as they stepped inside. They returned my smile warmly, exchanging pleasantries as they entered our home.

Behind them, Jeonghan followed, offering a casual wave. "Hey, Ara," he said with a grin, clearly relaxed and at ease.

"Hey, Jeonghan," I replied, returning his smile before turning back to our guests. "Come on in! Mom and Dad are just finishing up in the kitchen."

Uncle Yoon chuckled, patting me on the shoulder. "Lead the way, Ara. It's good to see you."

After a while, there was another ring of the doorbell, signaling the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Hong along with Joshua. I hurried to open the door, greeting them warmly as they stepped inside.

"Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Hong! Joshua!" I said with a bright smile, ushering them in. They exchanged greetings with Uncle and Aunt Yoon, and soon the living room filled with cheerful conversations and laughter.

"Hey, A," Joshua said, giving me a quick hug as he joined the gathering.

With everyone gathered, the dinner table was bustling with energy and joy. Mom and Dad had prepared a delicious spread, and we all dug in eagerly, passing dishes around and enjoying the flavors.