My Tease

Boxes and Pizza

Jin Pov

I wipe the sweat from my brow as I tape a box shut. Looking around the room, I frown at what little progress I’ve made. Sungkyung went to throw some stuff out in the trash in the hall and I’m more than grateful she’s helping me pack up my dorm. She already finished her room and I wish I had thought ahead and started packing earlier.

The door swings open as she enters and moves a box out of her way. “Jin, you have way too much stuff. Why did you keep papers from last semester?” She complains as I toss a notebook in a trash bag.

“I thought they might come in handy for later use…” She kneels next to a stack of clothes I folded.

“And did they?”

“Not really. But, that’s besides the point. Tomorrow is graduation and we get to leave homework behind forever.” I slide an empty box to her and she starts putting my clothes in. Right now my room is a tornado since I pulled things from off shelves and under my bed.

“I thought this day would never happen. Can’t say I’m excited to start my new job though.” She sighs and I nod along. “This will be the last time we’re so close to each other. We’ll go off to our jobs and live in different neighborhoods…” Her voice is thick and I stop what I’m doing.

“We won’t be that far a part. We can meet up on the weekends and you don’t even start your job for another month.” I playfully shove her shoulder. “I’m proud of you. My best friend is working for Samsung. Get ready to move up and make some dollars.”

Sungkyung smiles and sniffles, “You are always there for me, cheering me on and I’m going to miss you. You’ve always been the constant in my life…”

“Ugh, Sungkyung! I will still be constant. We will call and text and get drinks!” I shake the sadness out of her. “Now, let’s finish packing.”

A knock on the door shifts our attention before it’s being opened. Hoseok walks in with two boxes of pizza and a 2 liter of coke with Momo trailing behind. “I brought energy food!” He announces and I laugh as he sets them down on my now empty desk. “What’s with this atmosphere? It feels like death.”

“Hobie!” I yell and he gives me a cheeky grin.

“What?” He questions, “I’m just being honest. Besides, I came to help you pack up. You’re so last minute.”

Momo sits by Sungkyung and hugs her since her tears haven’t dried. “You need pizza.” She says with all seriousness. Momo motions for Hoseok to put a slice on a napkin and quickly shoves the pizza in Sungkyung’s face. “Much better.”

I shake the laughter out of me and go back to packing. “I can’t believe you won’t be here for my final year.” Hoseok says casually while eating a slice. “Want one?”

“Yeah,” I responds, “And like I told Sungkyung we will be in touch. I can even visit you on campus when I’m free.” Hoseok’s eyes light up.

“Really? For me?” He puts his hands on his chest and I nod my head.

“Of course. Everyone here has helped me more than I could ever ask and I know we will stay friends forever. I’m not letting a little distance get in between that.” I reassure and the mood in the room gets lighter. It’s like everyone was worried about what would become of us as we go our separate ways and shape our own futures.

“Jin, you’re the best.” Momo says and gives a thumbs up. “Do you guys know about Suran’s party she’s throwing after the graduation ceremony tomorrow?”

“No, did she invite you?” Momo nods her head.

“Yup and I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before she tracks you guys down and invites you too.” I rub the back of my neck, hesitant to really go to a party. College parties always seem to get out of hand and next thing you know someone ends up in the hospital.