CHAPTER 51 - A CENTER FOR CRAZY PEOPLE

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The weeks following graduation felt like a whirlwind of excitement, uncertainty, and nostalgia as Donghyuck, Haeeun, and Jaemin transitioned into their new lives as review center students. The thrill of having crossed the graduation stage quickly morphed into the sobering realization that their next journey was just beginning—a six-month sprint toward board exams that would determine their futures.

As they walked through the bustling streets of Gangnam, their eyes absorbed the vibrant chaos of city life. Crowds surged through the pedestrian walkways, the air thick with the scent of street food and the incessant buzz of chatter. For Haeeun, who had grown accustomed to the quieter confines of her previous neighborhood, the energy was both exhilarating and overwhelming.


"Is it just me, or does it feel like everyone is moving a hundred miles an hour?" Haeeun remarked, furrowing her brows as she adjusted the strap of her bag.

"Welcome to the big leagues," Donghyuck replied, trying to sound nonchalant, though his wide eyes betrayed his nerves. "If we're going to survive this review, we might as well blend in with the hustle."

Jaemin chuckled, glancing at the numerous cafés lining the street. "I guess that means we need to find our go-to study spot that's not too distracting. Coffee shops in the middle of Gangnam might be too stimulating."

Haeeun glanced at him, her expression serious. "Or too expensive. Have you seen the prices here? I could have a full meal for what they charge for a latte."

"Good point," Donghyuck agreed before their conversation took a sudden turn as they reached their destination—a modest yet charming apartment complex. "This is it!" he exclaimed, gesturing toward the building with a grin.


The apartment was smaller than their original one, a reality that stung for a moment. It was a two-bedroom unit on the third floor, a space that felt cramped even with the three of them. But the proximity to Donghyuck's review center and the bustling city life made it all worthwhile.


"I know it's not much," Donghyuck said, his voice slightly apologetic as they stepped inside, "but it'll do for now. We'll save on travel time and can study together more easily."

Haeeun surveyed their new home. "I mean, it's cozy," she said, her lips curling into a smile. "A little tight, but we can make it work." She turned to Jaemin, who was already claiming the smaller of the two bedrooms. "What do you think?"

Jaemin gave a small nod. "I think it'll be good for us. A change of pace, right? We just need to find our rhythm here." He tossed his bag onto the bed and stretched his arms overhead, taking in the scent of fresh paint and new beginnings.

Donghyuck turned to face them, his expression serious for a moment. "Alright, guys. We've got six months ahead of us that are going to test our limits. I'm not going to sugarcoat it—this is going to be a wild ride. Are you ready?"

Haeeun took a deep breath, the weight of expectations settling on her shoulders. "I guess so. But do you think we'll be ready for the exams?"

"Ready or not, we're doing this," Donghyuck said firmly, determination flashing in his eyes. "If we want to secure our futures, we have to push ourselves. Let's set some ground rules, like no distractions, and we stick together."


As they began to unpack, the atmosphere shifted from tense anticipation to a blend of camaraderie and excitement. They shared anecdotes about their first impressions of the review centers, recounting moments that left them both awestruck and a little terrified.

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