After our third period class, we found a serene spot under the blossom trees that were in full bloom, casting a spray of pink petals around us. It was a perfect setting to unwind. I sat with my back against the trunk of one of the trees, sipping on iced coffee, while Hongjoong sprawled out with his head resting on my lap, deeply engrossed in his sketching.
Every so often, I'd watch him, a soft smile playing on my lips, appreciating his concentration and the quick movements of his pencil. Occasionally, I'd reach down to ruffle his hair affectionately, and he'd respond by pouting and playfully batting my hand away, which only made me smile more.
Our peaceful moment was slightly disrupted by whispered chatter nearby. I turned my head, spotting Yeosang and Jongho huddled together, speaking in hushed tones that suggested secrecy. Their closeness didn't escape Wooyoung's notice either.
"You two should date already—why are you acting so sus?" Wooyoung teased loudly, earning a laugh from some of our other friends sitting nearby.
I smirked, joining in on the fun. "Please, can't you see they're already together? They just hide it so well," I said, gesturing toward them with a nod. They were indeed sitting unusually close, their body language hinting at more than just friendship.
Yeosang, hearing my comment, tried to kick me from where he sat, but his mock annoyance was betrayed by a blush creeping up his cheeks. "Like Mingi and Yunho—they act like best friends, please, I'm a hundred percent sure Yunho kissed him," he retorted, shifting the spotlight away from himself and onto Yunho and Mingi.
I chuckled at Yeosang's attempt to deflect. "We're talking about you two, not Mingi or Yunho," I said playfully, keeping the banter light and enjoyable.
Just then, Hongjoong chimed in, his voice teasing as he looked up at me from my lap. "Seonghwa babe—don't tease poor Yeosang, look at him blushing," he said, and I laughed, amused by his ability to stir the pot further while making it all seem like affectionate fun.
The exchange was typical of our group dynamic, where teasing and light-hearted accusations were our way of showing affection. It kept our interactions lively and strengthened the bond we all shared.
As the laughter died down, the air filled again with the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant sounds of other students enjoying their lunch break. The shade under the blossom trees provided a cool respite from the warm spring sun, creating a peaceful haven where our group could relax.
Hongjoong finally set aside his sketchbook, stretching his arms above his head with a contented sigh, still lying across my lap. "This is the life, huh?" he remarked, a blissful expression on his face as he gazed up into the canopy of pink blossoms above us.
