Left Out Friend

29

The manager's office was dimly lit, the blinds half-closed to block out the afternoon sun. Sunoo sat across from his manager, his hands resting on his lap, fingers subtly gripping the fabric of his hoodie. He could feel the weight of hesitation in the air as his manager leaned back in his chair, tapping a pen against his desk.

"You want to go out today?" the manager repeated, eyeing Sunoo carefully.

"Yes," Sunoo replied, keeping his voice steady. "Just for a few hours. I haven't had the chance to meet up with a friend in a while."

His manager sighed, rubbing his temple before nodding. "Alright, but be back before 3 PM. I have an important announcement for all of you later."

Relief flooded Sunoo's chest, and he exhaled loudly, nodding. "I understand. Thank you."

As he stepped out of the office, a small smile crept onto his lips. The thought of seeing Eunwoo again, even just for a short while, lifted a weight off his shoulders. He hadn't had the chance to catch up with him in so long, and this little moment of freedom felt precious. The lingering cold reality of his situation still clung to him, but right now, he'd take what he could get.

The dorm was quieter than usual. Everyone was preoccupied with something. Heeseung was at basketball practice, Ni-ki had gone off for a photoshoot, and the rest were either working on their vocals or staying in. Their schedule was getting busier with the upcoming interview, and Sunoo knew they'd have to prepare. But right now, he had somewhere else to be.

Dressed in a white hoodie and black baggy jeans, Sunoo adjusted the strap of his crossbody bag before slipping on his white sneakers. As always, he wore a cap and mask. His usual shield against the public eye. Just as he opened his door and stepped out, Jay, who was seated on the couch with his phone in hand, looked up.

"Where are you going?" Jay asked, his tone casual, but his gaze sharp.

Sunoo froze for a second, his mind racing. Should he tell him? Could he trust him?

Jay had been acting differently from the others. Gentler. Unlike the rest, he didn't send cold shivers down Sunoo's spine. When Jay spoke to him, it felt... almost normal. Sometimes, Sunoo caught himself wondering... was Jay different? Could he actually trust him?

But no. He couldn't think that way. Jay was close with them. And they were all manipulative bastards. Who knew what Jay might be planning?

Clearing his throat, Sunoo forced a neutral expression and answered, "I just need to buy a few things."

Jay didn't look convinced. His eyes studied Sunoo for a moment before he gave a slow nod.

Sunoo didn't wait. Without another word, he turned away and made his way to the door, stepping outside before anyone else could stop him.

For now, he was free.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

There, on the first floor, Eunwoo was already waiting for him. Sunoo's eyes brightened slightly at the sight of his friend, and he lifted a hand to wave. Eunwoo, noticing him, smiled warmly and spread his arms wide in greeting.

Without thinking, Sunoo quickened his steps and threw himself into Eunwoo's embrace. It wasn't something he did often, but today, it felt necessary. Eunwoo chuckled, patting Sunoo's head gently. "Missed me that much, huh?"

Sunoo let out a small laugh as they pulled away. "It's been forever," he mumbled, stuffing his hands into his hoodie pocket.

Eunwoo shook his head playfully. "Forever? It's only been a couple of weeks I think." Then, motioning for Sunoo to follow, he led him toward the basement parking lot, where his car was waiting.