Beyond the Spotlight | Volume: 1

21

H O N G J O O N G

The dorm was alive with laughter and playful banter as ATEEZ gathered in the living room for their much-anticipated movie night. The room was cozy, filled with the scent of popcorn and the warmth of camaraderie. The boys had spread out on the large sectional sofa, blankets and pillows scattered around, creating a perfect environment for relaxation.

The large flat-screen TV flickered with the opening scenes of a popular comedy movie. San, with a mischievous grin, threw a piece of popcorn at Wooyoung, who dodged it effortlessly and retaliated with a playful jab, “Is that all you got, San? Your aim is as bad as your dance moves!”

Wooyoung's comment elicited a chorus of laughter from the group. Yunho, always the peacemaker, tried to intervene with a laugh, “Come on, guys, let’s not start a popcorn war...yet.”

Mingi, sprawled out comfortably, chuckled and added, “Yeah, save it for the real roast session after the movie. I have a list of things to roast each of you about.”

Yeosang, ever the quiet observer, smirked and said, “Mingi, the only thing you’re roasting is the popcorn you’re hogging.”

The room erupted in laughter again, with Mingi feigning offense. “Hey, I’m just making sure it’s evenly distributed!” he protested, causing another round of giggles.

Jongho, focused on the movie but always quick with a comeback, piped up, “Evenly distributed? More like you’re the main distributor to your own mouth.”

The playful roasts continued, with each member taking their turn. Hongjoong, trying to maintain some semblance of order, but failing and laughing himself, said, “Alright, alright, let’s focus on the movie...at least until the next funny scene.”

As the movie progressed, the boys shared inside jokes and commented on the scenes, their laughter blending seamlessly with the comedic moments on screen. Wooyoung mimicked one of the characters in an exaggerated voice, causing San to almost fall off the couch in laughter.

Amidst the fun, there was a moment of quiet camaraderie. Hongjoong looked around at his members, feeling a deep sense of gratitude. Despite the hard work and challenges they faced, moments like these reminded him of the bond they shared. He knew they were more than just a group; they were a family.

As the movie neared its end, the room settled into a comfortable silence, punctuated by occasional chuckles. The credits rolled, and Yunho stretched, saying, “Alright, who’s up for round two of the roast session?”

Wooyoung immediately shot back, “Bring it on! I have some fresh material on Yunho’s dance practice bloopers.”

Laughter filled the room once more, and the boys continued their playful exchanges late into the night, savoring the rare downtime and the joy of each other’s company.

Yunho seized the opportunity. “Alright, boys, I think it’s time we turn up the heat,” he declared with a grin. “Who’s ready to roast our beloved Wooyoung?”

Wooyoung’s eyes widened in mock horror, raising his hands defensively. “Hey, why me? I thought we were roasting Mingi!”

Mingi smirked, “Nice try, Wooyoung, but it’s your turn on the hot seat.”

San, always eager to join in the fun, leaned in closer to Wooyoung. “Remember that time you tried to show off a new dance move and ended up tripping over your own feet?”

The room erupted in laughter. Wooyoung rolled his eyes, though he couldn’t help but laugh along. “That was one time! And I was just testing the floor’s stability.”