The university campus buzzed with its usual rhythm—a mix of hurried footsteps, animated conversations, and the occasional groan from students buried under piles of coursework.
Sean strolled into the main lecture hall, his leather satchel slung casually over one shoulder. The crisp autumn air outside was a stark contrast to the warm hum of chatter inside the room.
As soon as he stepped in, Daniel's voice called out from their usual corner. "Sean! Over here!"
Sean made his way to the spot, dropping his bag beside Daniel, who was mid-sentence in a dramatic retelling of his failed attempt at deciphering their latest assignment.
Hyun Jin appeared moments later, her signature oversized sweater and beret making her look effortlessly stylish as always. She plopped down beside Sean with a theatrical sigh.
"Unbelievable!" she exclaimed, crossing her arms.
"What's unbelievable this time?" Sean asked, his lips curving into a small smirk.
Hyun Jin pointed an accusing finger at him. "You brought Eric Young to your house, and I find out secondhand? Sean, are you even my best friend anymore?"
"And where do you get that information lady?"
"I bumped with Felix and Jangjun hyung a while ago, they're talking about it." Hyun Jin reply
Daniel raised a brow, leaning back against his chair. "Wait, hold up. You took Eric home? Like, to the Kim Family estate not on your apartment?"
Sean rolled his eyes, clearly prepared for the overreaction. "It wasn't a big deal," he said nonchalantly, but the faint flush on his cheeks gave him away.
"Not a big deal?" Hyun Jin's jaw dropped dramatically. "Do you know how much I wanted to spend a day in your house, let alone get invited there? And you chose Eric first—E.R.I.C!"
Daniel snickered. "Careful, Sean, I think Hyun Jin's about to combust from jealousy."
"I'm not jealous!" Hyun Jin retorted, though her pout suggested otherwise. "I'm just saying, I feel betrayed. You, me, and Daniel—we're the OG trio. And suddenly Eric comes in with his sharp jawline and charming smile, and I'm out?"
Sean shook his head with a small laugh. "You do realize we barely hang out as much as we used to, right? Between your idol training and cosmetic academy on the side, you're always running around."
Hyun Jin opened her mouth to argue but immediately shut it, her expression sheepish. "Okay, fine. Maybe I've been busy... but that doesn't mean I'm okay with being replaced!"
Daniel leaned in with a teasing grin. "Relax, Hyun Jin. I'm still here. No one's replacing you as Sean's second favorite person."
Hyun Jin swatted Daniel's arm. "Second?! Excuse me, I am absolutely number one."
Sean raised a brow. "You were until you started abandoning us for dance practice and product mixing labs."
The trio burst into laughter, the lighthearted banter easing into a rhythm that felt comforting and familiar.
Between classes, Sean's phone vibrated on the desk. It was a text from Eric.
Eric: How's class? Dozing off yet? 😉
Sean smirked as he typed back.
Sean: Unlike some people, I actually pay attention.
Eric: Impressive. I'm sure your professor's in awe.
Sean shook his head, the corners of his lips twitching.
"Who's got you smiling like that?" Daniel leaned over curiously, his tone deliberately nosy.
YOU ARE READING
The Grapevine
Fanfiction"The grapevine" refers to how rumors or gossip spread informally like whispers passed from person to person. It's an expression that means hearing something through word of mouth, rather than from an official or reliable source. Kim Sunoo and Son Yo...
