∘❀∘After dinner, everyone gathered around the bonfire, roasting marshmallows and chatting. Heeseung and Jaeyun, however, were still cleaning up. Heeseung told Jaeyun to rest, but Jaeyun insisted on helping, feeling guilty for not contributing earlier.
As they finished cleaning, they joined the others at the bonfire. Heeseung asked Jaeyun what he wanted to do, and Jaeyun replied that he wanted to sit by the bonfire. They sat down together, enjoying the comfortable silence.
Heeseung broke the silence, asking Jaeyun, "Why do you hate me, Jaeyun?" Jaeyun looked embarrassed but decided to open up to Heeseung. "I don't hate you, Heeseung. It's just that you're too good at everything. You're top in our class, top in sports, and everyone loves you. I feel like I'm just a shadow compared to you."
Heeseung felt bad for Jaeyun and apologized, but Jaeyun interrupted him, saying, "No, Heeseung, it's not your fault. I'm just stupid and dumb at everything." Heeseung stopped Jaeyun from being too harsh on himself and asked if he could ask something personal.
Jaeyun sensed what Heeseung might ask and answered before he could. "I know you're going to ask about that incident the other day. It was my mom... she slapped me because I didn't do my homework. And to make matters worse, she's been keeping me up all night, making me study, saying that summer camp will ruin my studies. That's why I'm so tired."
Heeseung listened, his heart aching for Jaeyun. He pulled Jaeyun into a tight hug and kissed his forehead softly. "You're not alone, Jaeyun. I'm always here with you." Jaeyun's heart fluttered, and so did Heeseung's.
They went to their tent, but neither of them slept well, lost in their own thoughts. They both knew that their friendship had deepened, and they couldn't wait to see what the future held for them.
The next day arrived, and the teacher assigned more tasks to the students, which they worked on diligently. Later, the teacher gave them permission to play volleyball on the beach, a welcome break from their academic responsibilities. Surprisingly, Heeseung and Jaeyun were on the same team again, along with Jungwon, Sunoo, Sunghoon, Jay, Ni-ki, and a few other students. They were all excited to play together and enjoy the sunny day.
As they played, Jaeyun could feel Heeseung's gaze on him, which made him feel a mix of emotions. Earlier, Heeseung had been worried about Jaeyun getting hurt again, and Jaeyun had reassured him, saying, "Don't worry, I'm fine." However, Jaeyun felt happy deep down because, for the first time, someone was showing so much care for him. Heeseung's concern made Jaeyun feel seen and appreciated.
As the game continued, the ball suddenly flew towards Heeseung, but Jaeyun quickly pushed him away, his instincts taking over. Unfortunately, the ball hit Heeseung, and he fell to the ground, feeling dizzy. Jaeyun's eyes widened as he rushed to Heeseung's side, his heart racing with concern. He held Heeseung's head in his lap, saying, "I told you, you stupid fool, don't focus on me and look at your own side! Now look at you... it must be hurting, right? OMG, can you recognize me? How many fingers am I holding up?"
Jaeyun bombarded Heeseung with questions, his voice trembling with worry. Heeseung's eyes fluttered open, and he looked up at Jaeyun, a hint of a smile on his face. Then, in a surprising move, Heeseung suddenly kissed Jaeyun's cheek and said, "I'm fine, so stop crying and whining." Jaeyun froze, blushing hard, his heart skipping a beat.
Jungwon and Sunghoon cleared their throats, teasing Jaeyun and Heeseung about their blossoming relationship. Jaeyun pouted, mumbling, "We weren't being romantic!" Heeseung found Jaeyun's reaction adorable.
Later, Jaeyun took heeseung to their tent, where Jaeyun helped Heeseung lie down on his bed. Jaeyun then fetched an ice bag and gently placed it on Heeseung's injured head. Heeseung appreciated Jaeyun's care, feeling happy about their bonding moment.
As they rested, Jaeyun stayed awake, concerned about Heeseung's well-being in case he needed anything during the night. The next morning, it was time to head back home. Jaeyun boarded the bus last, finding the only empty seat next to Heeseung. He sat down beside him deep down he was happy.
As they journeyed home, they chatted and laughed, realizing their relationship had evolved. They were no longer just rivals, but something more. The bus ride ended, and they returned home, both lost in thought, wondering about the future of their friendship.
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𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑢𝑛𝑠𝑐𝑟𝑖𝑝𝑡𝑒𝑑 💕💫
Teen FictionWhen competition turns to connection, Heeseung and Jaeyun discover a love that conquers all - even their own self-doubt. As they navigate the pressures of excellence, they must confront the toll on their mental health and relationships. But when the...