"Tangled String of Us" is a heartwarming and intricate tale of childhood friends turned lovers, set against the backdrop of high school life. The story follows Hyunjin, a shy and playful junior, and Minho, a cool and aloof senior who's known for his quiet demeanor but has a soft spot for his childhood friend. They've shared their lives, their families, and countless memories, but as they grow older, the feelings they've always shared begin to evolve into something deeper and more complex.
In this story, the dynamic between Hyunjin and Minho shifts from innocent friendship to undeniable attraction. The narrative weaves through moments of lighthearted comedy, school festival adventures, quiet confessions, and heartfelt scenes that capture the uncertainty and excitement of young love. As they navigate school life, they must confront both external pressures-like the constant bullying from the school's antagonist-and their own personal struggles to understand their feelings.
The story beautifully blends romance, comedy, and moments of vulnerability. There's also a slight love triangle thrown into the mix, adding a layer of tension and intrigue, but it's Hyunjin and Minho's bond that takes center stage. With their friends from Stray Kids supporting them through thick and thin, Hyunjin and Minho learn what it means to love and be loved in return, ultimately finding that their connection is not only inevitable but also unbreakable.
Ella is falling apart trying to live a "perfect" high school life. Then she meets Ren, who can see past her scars. Suddenly perfection isn't her only option.
*****
Ella Volkov is a gifted music student, but she's depressed and starting to crack under the pressure of high school. Her overbearing father won't even let her choose what instrument she plays. Then she finds herself alone at a party with Ren, her best friend's crush. She'd always thought he was rude, but after that night he's all Ella can think about. Now she's trapped. If Ella dates Ren, it will ruin her friendship with Jenny. But if she stays true to Jenny, she's losing the one person who can see past her scars. It's up to Ella to decide if she will forge her own path, or stay in the "perfect" box designed for her...
Content and/or Trigger Warning: depression, anxiety, self-harm, violence, sexual assault.
[[word count: 50,000-100,000 words]]