Something Stolen || Hoonki

Shut up, Sunghoon

Riki had a comfortable group of friends:

Jay, the father of the group, organizing their outings and regularly getting news from everyone. Jake, the light of the party and everyone's precious baby. And himself, Riki, the coolest, funniest and hottest one.

A larger group was gravitating around these close childhood friends, recently including Jake's boyfriend, Jungwon*, an intimidating kid from their old days who had had some serious glow up.

Finally, between the lines was standing Sunghoon. His belonging to the group also dated back to high school, but since he never was in the same class as the rest, he was a bit withdrawn.

He was now Jake's co-worker and even if he was rarely seen at their outings, he was always invited.

But Riki did not like Sunghoon.

Level-headed and smart, Riki knew how to talk to others and loved people. This same sociable Riki did not like Sunghoon.

And never did!

While Riki's humour was a bit sassy and always of good taste, Sunghoon's humour was prickly and cold, easy to misunderstand. Riki considered the man as condescending and chronically unfunny.

"You look terrible today. Worse than usual," said Sunghoon while sitting next to Riki.

Of course they had to be the two first to arrive for this meetup.

"I get worse for every second of seeing your face," immediately replied Riki.

"Why are you staring at me then?"
Riki turned away with a sigh.
"When are the others supposed to arrive?"

"Didn't you see the group chat? They should already be here."

"Did you order something already?"

"You saw me arrive only one second before you! I didn't have the time," exclaimed Riki, getting mad on his own, which annoyingly made Sunghoon laugh.
"What's so funny?"

"Why are you so on edge? The sky is blue and it's the weekend, smile a little!"

"Shut up, you're the one testing my patience."

Sunghoon shrugged and checked the drinks menu.

Damage was done, Riki was in a bad mood. How did Sunghoon manage to always say the wrong thing!? And why did he have to sit so uncomfortably close to him?

Jay finally arrived, closely followed by Jake and Jungwon.

"What's up with this terrible atmosphere?" complained Jake upon arriving. "And what's up with your face Riki? You look like you're fomenting a murder."

Riki tried to relax, realizing he was ruining the mood.

"Sorry, I just had a bad day at work, nothing serious," he explained, accidentally crossing Sunghoon's gaze. He hurriedly looked away and exclaimed, "I'm so happy it's finally Friday!"

"Yeah! Let's celebrate!" cheered Jay.

Riki gradually forgot about his vexation and started having fun, but during the whole evening, he felt Sunghoon's gaze on him.
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*Read "Kiss Practice" for the whole story about Jakewon ❤️