𝐬𝐤𝐮𝐧𝐤 𝐛𝐨𝐲 ; 𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐦𝐢𝐧

𝐟𝐢𝐯𝐞

Over the next few weeks, Renjun found himself spending more and more time with Jaemin and Jeno. Their trio became inseparable, a tight-knit group that navigated the ups and downs of school life together. Lunches in the courtyard, study sessions at the library, and impromptu adventures around town became their routine. But beneath the surface, something deeper was beginning to take root.

One Saturday afternoon, the three of them decided to visit a nearby lake. The weather was perfect—clear skies and a gentle breeze that rustled the leaves. They spread out a blanket by the shore, unpacking snacks and drinks they had brought along.

"This is nice," Jaemin said, leaning back on his elbows and gazing at the sparkling water. "We should do this more often."

"Definitely," Jeno agreed, glancing at Renjun with a warm smile. "It's good to get away from everything for a while."

Renjun nodded, feeling a sense of peace he hadn't experienced in a long time. "Thanks for inviting me. I really needed this."

As the afternoon wore on, they took turns telling stories, laughing, and just enjoying each other's company. At one point, Jaemin stood up and stretched. "Who's up for a swim?"

Renjun hesitated. "I didn't bring a swimsuit."

Jeno shrugged. "Neither did we. We'll just go in our clothes. Come on, it'll be fun."

After a moment's reluctance, Renjun agreed, and the three of them waded into the lake, splashing and laughing like carefree kids. The cool water was refreshing, and Renjun felt the weight of his worries lift, if only for a little while.

As they floated on their backs, staring up at the sky, Jeno turned his head slightly to look at Renjun. "You know, Renjun, I'm really glad we became friends. You're... special."

Renjun felt a blush creep up his cheeks. "Thanks, Jeno. You guys mean a lot to me too."

Jaemin, floating nearby, chimed in. "You've brought something new into our lives, Renjun. I'm grateful for that."

They lingered in the water until the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the lake. As they made their way back to shore, Jaemin and Jeno exchanged a glance, a silent understanding passing between them. They were both developing feelings for Renjun, and while it was unexpected, neither wanted to jeopardize their friendship.

---

The following week, Renjun found himself at Jaemin's house for a study session. Jeno was supposed to join them later, but he had a meeting with the football coach. As Renjun worked through his notes, Jaemin watched him, admiration evident in his eyes.

"Renjun, can I ask you something?" Jaemin said suddenly, breaking the comfortable silence.

"Sure, what's up?" Renjun replied, looking up from his textbook.

Jaemin hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "Do you ever think about... what it would be like to be with someone? I mean, more than just friends?"

Renjun blinked, caught off guard by the question. "I guess I do, sometimes. Why do you ask?"

Jaemin bit his lip, a mix of nervousness and determination on his face. "Because I think I'm starting to have those kinds of feelings. For you."

Renjun's heart skipped a beat. He hadn't seen this coming, though he realized now that there had been signs. "Jaemin, I..."

Before he could respond, the door opened, and Jeno walked in, his expression brightening when he saw Renjun. "Hey, sorry I'm late. Did I miss anything?"

Jaemin quickly composed himself, shooting Renjun a reassuring smile. "No, we were just talking. Come join us."

As Jeno settled in, Renjun's mind raced. He cared deeply for both Jaemin and Jeno, but he had never considered the possibility of a romantic relationship with either of them. Now, it seemed, he had to.

---

Over the next few days, Renjun found himself more aware of the small gestures and lingering glances between him and his friends. One evening, they went to a local fair, the bright lights and cheerful atmosphere providing a perfect backdrop for their growing bond.

They played games, ate cotton candy, and rode the Ferris wheel, the world spreading out beneath them as they reached the top. Jaemin sat on one side of Renjun, while Jeno sat on the other, their closeness comforting yet charged with unspoken feelings.

As they looked out over the fairgrounds, Jeno broke the silence. "Renjun, there's something I need to tell you."

Renjun turned to face him, his heart pounding. "What is it, Jeno?"

"I like you, Renjun. More than just as a friend," Jeno said, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "I've been feeling this way for a while, and I can't keep it to myself anymore."

Renjun's breath caught in his throat. He glanced at Jaemin, who nodded, a silent confirmation that he had already confessed his feelings.

"I... I don't know what to say," Renjun admitted, his voice trembling. "I care about both of you so much."

Jaemin reached out and took Renjun's hand, his touch gentle. "You don't have to say anything right now. We just wanted you to know how we feel."

Renjun squeezed Jaemin's hand, grateful for their honesty but also overwhelmed by the implications. "Thank you, both of you. I need some time to think about this."

Jeno and Jaemin nodded in understanding. "Take all the time you need," Jeno said softly.

As the Ferris wheel descended, Renjun felt a mixture of emotions—confusion, hope, and a deep affection for the two people who had come to mean so much to him. He knew that whatever he decided, it would change the dynamics of their friendship forever. But one thing was certain: he wouldn't face it alone.