The cozy warmth of the living room was a stark contrast to the cold New Year's Eve air outside. The lights twinkled festively, and the faint sounds of celebration from the TV filled the space as the members bustled around, preparing for the midnight countdown.
But one particular member, Sunoo, was missing.
"Where's Sunoo?" Jay asked, glancing around. "He was here just a moment ago."
Jungwon frowned. "Maybe he went to his room?"
Sunghoon, sipping his drink, shook his head. "I don't think so. He left his drink here."
Jake and Niki joined the search, calling out for Sunoo, their voices laced with curiosity and concern.
The countdown was nearing, and the members were still scrambling around looking for Sunoo.
"Sunoo!" Jake called out, scanning the living room.
"Where could he have gone?" Jungwon mumbled, scratching his head.
As they continued their search, Heeseung noticed something peculiar—a swish of orange fur peeking out from under the dining table. A knowing smile crept onto his face.
He crouched down, lifted the tablecloth, and there was Sunoo, curled up with his fluffy fox tail wrapped around him. His cheeks were puffed with grapes, and a small pile of grape stems sat beside him.
"Sunoo?" Heeseung called softly, his voice laced with amusement.
Sunoo froze, his eyes wide as if caught committing a crime. "Uh... hi?"
By now, the other members had gathered around, curious about the commotion. Jay tilted his head. "What are you doing under the table, Sunoo?"
Sunoo hesitated, his fox ears twitching nervously. "I... I was eating grapes."
Sunghoon raised an eyebrow. "Under the table?"
Blushing, Sunoo muttered, "It's a tradition! Eating 12 grapes under the table on New Year's Eve is supposed to bring luck."
Jake burst out laughing. "Seriously? You’re hiding under the table for luck ?"
Jungwon shook his head, a fond smile tugging at his lips. "You’re already loved by all of us, Sunoo."
Heeseung leaned closer, gently pulling Sunoo out from under the table. "They’re right, Sunoo. You don’t need luck when you’ve already got us."
Sunoo’s blush deepened as Heeseung cupped his cheek and leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. The rest of the members groaned playfully, but their fond smiles betrayed their teasing.
"Happy New Year, Sunoo," Heeseung whispered, his eyes sparkling with affection.
Sunoo ducked his head, smiling shyly as the others joined in, each giving him a hug or a kiss on the cheek.
As the clock struck midnight, Sunoo looked around at his members and realized he didn’t need any grapes or traditions to feel lucky—he already had everything he could ever wish for.
As the group pulled Sunoo out from under the table, Jake called out, "Hurry! The countdown is starting!"
The members rushed to the living room, dragging Sunoo along with them. They huddled together in front of the television, the countdown flashing boldly on the screen.
“10… 9… 8…”
Sunoo found himself in the center of the group, his fox tail swishing slightly as excitement bubbled around them.
“7… 6… 5…”
Heeseung stood closest, his hand gently resting on Sunoo’s waist. The others encircled him, their expressions soft with adoration as they joined the chant.
