Do Not Open The Gallery! || Markhyuck

1

Being in classes can be boring, at least Haechan doesn't think the same when his only job there is teasing his best friend.

He was peacefully sleeping while Mark was taking notes about the class that was being exposed when suddenly he heard his friend's sleepy voice.

—"Did you take the class notes? I need them to copy."

For Mark, it was the question of the day, something so repetitive he had it memorized in his head.

—"Of course I have them, but next time, stop drooling on your desk while sleeping instead of paying attention. You know you need to improve your grades because of your lack of focus in class, and this time, I won't help you if you keep this up."

It may have sounded harsh, but Mark only said it for his friend's own good. He wanted to see him improve and not get stuck. The root of Haechan's academic struggles was his constant sleepiness and nonexistent focus in class. Mark had tried to help him before, but Donghyuck never put in any effort. At that comment, Donghyuck raised his head and glared at him.

—"You act like you're perfect."

—"Maybe not, but I'm like that little voice in your head trying to keep your butt in that chair without dozing off at the first chance."

—"Idiot."

—"Moron."

These days were intense as they were reviewing past lessons for upcoming exams. Everyone was stressed—some catching up on overdue assignments, others already studying even though there were still two weeks left until "freedom from prison."

Donghyuck couldn't wait for that day to come.

Over the years, Mark had managed to stand out not only for his grades but also for his kind heart and personality, which made him a favorite among teachers and a comfort zone for his friends. He had also shown a clear motivation for learning. He admitted he didn't necessarily enjoy school but liked the idea of challenging himself and improving every day.

A perfect boy straight out of Pinterest—a complete package.

Donghyuck, however, couldn't relate. He just wanted to finish school and take a well-deserved break. His greatest school-related nemesis? Math. Who on Earth invented algebra? Did people back then really have that much free time and imagination to create such a headache?

But here they were, surviving as best they could.

While Donghyuck tried not to fall asleep again, Mark was helping his classmates better understand the lesson.

—"So, you're telling me it was all wrong because of the signs?"

Renjun asked indignantly. It frustrated him that the whole process and result could change just because of the signs.

—"Relax, it's easy to learn where to place them. It's all about the formula, too."

The group listened and watched Mark's explanation attentively. There were three types of reactions: excitement from those who understood, confusion from the lost ones, and pure frustration from those ready to cry.

—"Got it?"

Mark asked with a faint smile, looking around. Most just exchanged looks until Jeno smiled and nodded.

—"Perfectly."

—"Kind of."

—"It's horrible!"

Those were the three responses, followed by collective groans as they rested their heads on their hands, prompting laughter from Mark. With patience, he explained again until they all understood.