It’s a quiet afternoon, and the members are relaxing after a long day of practice. But somehow, the topic of their “ships” with Sunoo comes up, and things start to get… heated.
HEESEUNG’S POV
I lean back on the couch, smirking as I glance at the other members. “I don’t want to brag, but ‘Heesun’ is definitely the sweetest ship. I mean, Sunoo and I just have this… understanding, you know?”
Jay scoffs. “Understanding? Please. ‘Sunjay’ is way better. Sunoo and I have the most natural connection.”
I laugh, giving him a playful shove. “Oh really? Well, I don’t see anyone swooning over ‘Sunjay’ like they do with ‘Heesun.’”
JAY’S POV
I roll my eyes. Of course Heeseung would try to claim he’s the closest with Sunoo. But honestly, if anyone knows Sunoo best, it’s me. I’ve seen every side of him—the cheerful, the calm, and the silly.
“Look, Heeseung, we all know Sunoo lights up whenever I’m around,” I say confidently. “It’s clear that Sunoo and I have a bond that’s hard to beat.”
Heeseung just raises an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed.
JAKE’S POV
I jump into the conversation, not about to let them downplay ‘SunJake.’
“You guys can argue all you want, but you’re forgetting who Sunoo always shares his snacks with,” I say with a grin. “Every time we’re watching a movie or hanging out, he passes me the popcorn first.”
The others roll their eyes, but I know that it’s true. Sunoo and I have this easygoing vibe that’s hard to match. We’re always laughing together, and that kind of friendship is unbeatable.
SUNGHOON’S POV
I listen to them bicker for a while before finally speaking up. “I don’t even need to argue about ‘Sunsun,’” I say, crossing my arms confidently. “Sunoo and I are naturally close. He doesn’t tease anyone else like he teases me.”
The others look at me, clearly unconvinced, but I know what I’m talking about. Sunoo only shows that playful side to me, and our bond is unique. I’m not just his teammate—I’m his partner-in-crime.
JUNGWON’S POV
“Okay, okay,” I say, holding up my hands. “We all know ‘Sunwon’ is the sweetest and most real ship here. I’m his leader, and Sunoo and I are practically inseparable during practice. Who’s always there, making sure he’s okay? Me.”
I can feel everyone’s eyes on me, but I know what I’m saying. Sunoo trusts me, and I make sure he feels safe and supported. That kind of bond? It’s special, and it’s real.
NIKI’S POV
I laugh, listening to everyone try to claim they’re the closest to Sunoo. But I know something they don’t: Sunoo and I have the most fun together. “You guys are too serious,” I say, waving my hand dismissively. “‘Sunki’ is the best because Sunoo and I are like brothers. We’re always goofing around, and I know he has more fun with me than anyone else.”
They all groan, but I just grin. It’s true—Sunoo always laughs the loudest when he’s with me. That has to count for something, right?
SUNOO’S POV
I’m sitting on the couch, watching all of them argue, and I can’t help but laugh. It’s cute seeing them all try to claim that our bond is the “realest.” Little do they know, I appreciate each one of them in a different way.
I clear my throat, deciding to finally say something. “Okay, guys, I have something to say.”
They all go quiet, looking at me eagerly.
“Each one of you means something special to me, and no ship can define that. Heeseung, you always make me feel understood. Jay, you bring out a calm side in me. Jake, you’re my go-to for laughs. Sunghoon, you’re my partner-in-crime. Jungwon, you always make me feel safe. And Niki, you remind me to let loose and have fun.”
Their faces soften as they listen, realizing they don’t need to compete for a title. I smile at each of them.
“So, there’s no need to fight over who has the ‘sweetest’ ship,” I say. “Because in my eyes, each one of you has a special place that no one else can fill.”
They all exchange glances, a bit embarrassed but clearly touched. Then, one by one, they start to smile, finally letting go of their competition.
HEESEUNG: “Fine. Guess we’re all ‘Sunoo’s favorites.’”
JAY: “Lucky for him, we’re willing to share.”
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AUTHOR’S POV
The room is filled with laughter as the boys finally put their rivalry aside. They each know that Sunoo cares for them in his own unique way, and that’s enough.
And as Sunoo smiles at them, he realizes he couldn’t ask for a better group of friends—and maybe something a little more.