Quatervois

Chapter 1

"Kookie, catch me!"

A cheerful voice called out, cutting through the usual campus chatter. Taehyung's playful grin stretched across his face as he dashed toward Jungkook, his chestnut hair bouncing with each step. Jungkook's attention shifted immediately, the soft sound of his name never failing to catch his ear, especially when it came from Taehyung. With a bright laugh, Taehyung leaped into Jungkook's arms without hesitation, trusting him completely.

Jungkook, ever the sturdy and reliable one, effortlessly caught Taehyung, his strong arms wrapping securely around him as he spun the younger boy in circles. Their laughter rang out like music, filling the air and drawing the attention of nearby students. But instead of scoffing or rolling their eyes, most onlookers couldn't help but smile at the sight.

"They're at it again," a girl whispered to her friend with a fond smile.

"Honestly, they're too cute to handle," another student added as they passed by, unable to resist watching the pair.

After a few moments of playful spinning, Jungkook gently set Taehyung down, though his hands lingered at Taehyung's waist, keeping him close. There was a warmth in Jungkook's eyes, a love so deep that it felt like the whole world disappeared whenever he looked at Taehyung.

"Did you miss me, muffin?" Jungkook asked with a soft chuckle, his voice full of affection.

Taehyung's face lit up even more as he nodded enthusiastically, his eyes crinkling into crescents. "I missed you very, very much," he said, leaning up on his toes to plant a quick kiss on Jungkook's lips.

Their closeness, their easy displays of affection, had become something everyone on campus was used to. They were the "it" couple—the ones everyone looked up to, admired, and even envied. But just as Jungkook was about to lean down and steal another kiss, an exaggerated groan interrupted their bubble.

"Jesus, will you two stop being so disgustingly sweet with each other?"

The voice belonged to Jackson, who stood a few feet away, arms crossed and an exaggerated look of annoyance on his face. His eyes, however, were playful, and despite his complaint, there was no real venom behind his words.

Taehyung, ever quick to defend their relationship, smirked at Jackson. "Come on, Jackie. You and Mark were practically eating each other's faces in the school parking lot last week. We're just hugging here."

Mark, standing next to Jackson, let out an amused snort. "He's got a point, babe," he said, giving Jackson a light nudge with his elbow.

Jackson rolled his eyes but couldn't hold back a grin. "Oh, whatever. We're a couple! Why shouldn't we make out whenever we want?" he shot back, wrapping an arm around Mark's shoulders possessively.

Jungkook shook his head in mock exasperation, his arm still securely around Taehyung's waist. "Whatever you say, Jackson. Anyway, we should head to class. It's our last day before exams."

Taehyung bounced slightly on the balls of his feet, excitement shining in his eyes. "I know! We're graduating in a week!" He clapped his hands together in glee, his entire face lighting up with joy.

Jungkook watched him, his gaze softening, his heart swelling with love for the boy next to him. Taehyung had that effect—he could make the smallest moments feel like the most important in the world. Every time he smiled, Jungkook felt like he was falling in love all over again.

Meanwhile, Jackson let out a long, dramatic sigh. "Ugh, don't remind me. We've got exams the day after tomorrow. Why is everyone so excited? I hate exams." He groaned, burying his face in his hands.

Mark chuckled and shrugged. "Same here. I don't even know what I'm going to write down. It's all going to be a mess."

Jungkook gave them both an amused glance. "You two always say that and then somehow end up in the top ten anyway."

"Right? And the real unfair part is that you two," Jackson pointed accusingly at Taehyung and Jungkook, "always get first and second. Isn't that totally biased, Mark? The two smartest students in the entire class, and they're dating each other."

Taehyung laughed at the playful accusation, stepping closer to Jungkook as if proving a point. "Yah, J-Flawless, stop being jealous! I'm going to beat you again in this exam," he teased.

Jackson's competitive spirit flared. "Not this time, Taehyung. I'm going to study my butt off and beat you fair and square!"

Before the banter could continue, another voice cut through the conversation, this time quieter but filled with exasperation. "Can you all stop it already? You're so noisy."

The group turned to see Bambam, arms crossed and looking unimpressed. His nickname "dab master" had stuck since his high school days, but now he was more known for being the flirt of the group. And yet, somehow, despite his constant smooth-talking and winks, he remained the only single one.

Jackson grinned mischievously. "Yah, Bambam, you're the one who's always so quiet. No wonder you're single."

Bambam huffed, his pout exaggerated. "Yeah, yeah. At least I'm not glued to someone's side 24/7. Why am I the only single one in this group?" He sighed dramatically, but there was a playful glint in his eye. "Whatever. Let's just go to class before we're late."

The group fell into step together, making their way across campus toward the lecture hall. They were an odd mix—Taehyung and Jungkook, the beloved couple of the college; Jackson and Mark, the fiery pair known for their constant public displays of affection; and Bambam, the flirt who somehow remained unattached. But despite their differences, they were the closest of friends, inseparable since their first year.

Taehyung, slipping his hand into Jungkook's as they walked, leaned in with a bright smile. "Can you believe we've been together for three years now? It feels like no time has passed at all."

Jungkook squeezed his hand, his smile soft. "Time flies when you're with the right person."

As they reached the lecture hall, Jackson groaned once more. "Ugh, stop being so cheesy, you two. Save it for after graduation."

But despite his grumbling, there was no mistaking the warmth in his tone. They all knew—no matter what lay ahead after graduation, their bond would never break.