What are we?

35

Mina's heart pounded in her chest as she met Bambam's gaze across the crowded classroom. The air crackled with unspoken words, a tension that had lingered between them for far too long.

"Hey," she managed to whisper, her voice barely audible over the low hum of conversation.

Bambam's boyish grin, once a familiar sight, now held a touch of uncertainty. "Hi," he replied, his voice a soft echo in the room.

"Thanks about yesterday," Mina continued, her voice barely a breath. "I didn't know you were there."

His eyes, a deep, soulful brown, met hers. "It's fine," he said, his tone gentle. "You're my friend."

A wave of relief washed over Mina. "Well, I guess it's finally time to leave the past in the past," she said, her voice gaining strength. "Let's be friends again, Bam."

Bambam's grin widened, a radiant light illuminating his face. "Really?" he asked, his voice filled with hope and a touch of disbelief. "Well... yeah."

As their eyes locked, Mina felt a surge of warmth spread through her. The weight of the past, the misunderstandings, the hurt—it all seemed to melt away in the warmth of their renewed friendship.

"Well, do you want to hang out after class?" Mina asked, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "My treat. I'll bring Jihyo with me. Just like the old times."

Bambam's heart raced. The idea of spending time with Mina, and Jihyo—it felt like a dream. "Sure," he replied, his voice barely a whisper. "Uh... we should invite Jeongyeon too."

A soft smile graced Mina's lips. "Sure. But..." she hesitated, a flicker of concern in her eyes.

Bambam's expression turned serious. "Jeongyeon and I are chill now," he stated, his tone firm.

Mina's eyes widened in surprise. "Really?" she asked, her voice filled with disbelief.

"Yeah," he confirmed, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips.

A wave of warmth washed over Mina. "Well, it's nice to hear," she said, her voice soft. "You guys could start over too, and maybe become friends."

The idea hung in the air, a silent promise. As the bell rang, signaling the end of morning class.

"So... lunch?" Bambam asked, a nervous smile playing on his lips. His eyes darted towards the approaching figure, Jihyo.

"Mina, let's go grab some lunch," Jihyo stated, her gaze flicking towards Bambam. A complex mix of emotions flickered in her eyes—a hint of curiosity, a touch of wariness, and a flicker of recognition. She wasn't sure how to approach him, but the memory of his kindness the previous day lingered in her mind.

"Can Bambam go with us?" Mina asked, her voice filled with hope.
Jihyo was taken aback. She hadn't expected that. Given their history, it seemed like a risky move. But Bambam had shown a different side of himself lately, gentle and considerate. If her best friend was willing to give him another chance, perhaps she should, too.

With a sigh, Jihyo nodded. "Sure," she replied, her voice barely a whisper.

Bambam's eyes lit up with joy. A wide, genuine smile spread across his face as he cast an appreciative glance towards Jihyo.

-

Mina and Dahyun, emerged from the Mathletes' office, their laughter echoing down the hallway. The warm glow of the setting sun cast a golden hue over the campus, creating a serene atmosphere.

Good thing, Midterms are over. They now have some time to relax. Especially Mina, who passed out from fatigue last week.

"Uh... Mina?" Bambam's voice, hesitant yet hopeful, interrupted her thoughts. She turned to see him standing a few feet away, a nervous smile playing on his lips. His eyes held a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty.