HEART STRINGS | 지훈

15

Days passed, and Minwoo's visits to the music room became more frequent, much to Jihoon's irritation. He often found Minwoo and Jinhee playing music together or chatting casually, their interactions filled with a growing ease that unsettled him. It wasn't just the music room; Jihoon spotted them together in the cafeteria, laughing over lunch, and in the library, studying side by side. Each sighting fueled his suspicion and unease.

One afternoon, as Jihoon approached the music room, he noticed the door was slightly ajar. Peering inside, he saw Minwoo leaning close to Jinhee, their heads almost touching as they laughed softly over something on the music sheet. Unable to ignore the situation any longer, Jihoon decided to confront Minwoo. He waited until Minwoo was alone and followed him down the hallway. As they reached a quieter area, Jihoon called out, his voice sharp.

"We need to talk."

Minwoo turned, a smug smile playing on his lips. "Jihoon. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

Jihoon stepped closer, his expression hard. "What are you doing with Jinhee? What game are you playing?"

Minwoo's smile widened, though his eyes held a cold glint. "Game? No game, Jihoon. Just enjoying some time with a talented musician. Why? Does it bother you?"

Jihoon's gaze was icy, his patience wearing thin. "I know you too well. What's your real motive?"

Minwoo shrugged, his tone mockingly innocent. "Jinhee's a great girl. Maybe I just enjoy her company. Or maybe," he leaned in slightly, voice low and taunting, "I'm considering her for something important coming up. You know, an event where the right impression matters."

Jihoon's expression hardened. "You're only interested in her because it suits your image. You don't actually care about her."

Minwoo's laugh was sharp and mocking. "And what about you, Jihoon? Are you worried about her, or are you just afraid I'll come out on top again? We're both after the same goal, but you know, I've always been quicker and smarter than you. It's almost amusing how you're so eager to prove yourself when it's clear I've always been a step ahead. You remember the countless times I've outperformed you, don't you? This is just another one of those moments where I'll show you who truly knows how to play the game. It's not just about who wins her favor, it's about who makes the most compelling impression, and let's be honest, I've always had the advantage there."

Jihoon's eyes narrowed, his voice cold. "You think you can just manipulate people to get what you want. Jinhee will see through you sooner or later."

Minwoo's smile widened, savoring the provocation. "Or maybe you're just afraid that I'll steal her right from under your nose. It's not just about speed or intelligence, it's about making the right moves."

Jihoon's voice was firm, barely concealing his irritation. "I'm not afraid of you."

Minwoo tilted his head, his tone becoming more challenging. "How about this, we'll keep it simple ⎯ whoever Jinhee chooses gets to take her to the grand ball. No tricks, no games. Just the truth of who she prefers."

Jihoon hesitated for a moment, feeling the weight of being drawn into Minwoo's dirty schemes. He knew Minwoo too well and wasn't fond of his manipulative games. Yes, he and Jinhee still had their fair share of disagreements and were still hating each others' guts, but he reminded himself that Jinhee wasn't a prize to be won.

As Jihoon mulled it over, Minwoo's phone buzzed. He checked the screen and a smirk spread across his face. "Looks like Jinhee's asking if our guitar lesson today is still on." Minwoo turned the phone towards Jihoon, showing the message with a hint of bragging.

Jihoon's hesitation vanished as he saw the message. His jaw tightened with determination. "Fine. Let's see who ends up laughing. You might think you have the upper hand, but I won't let you win this so easily."