쪽

“but seriously, this is fun. i’ve watched a lot of horror movies similar as the place we’re going to stay in.” sunoo giggled, imagining a scenario about a killer from the woods.

creepy. they forced out a laugh, even though there’s nothing to laugh at. you are one of the people who has always been keen on watching thriller and horror, same as sunoo and ni-ki. then again, you are weirded out since the first time you took a good look of the place.

a person beside jay is quietly praying and mumbling incoherent words. the second eldest nudges him on his ribs, “shut the freak up, jake. you were laughing at me and now, look at you.” jay cackled, adding. “you’re the weakling here, not me.”

jungwon who’s sitting at the back with sunghoon scolded his hyungs to stop acting like a kid. “both of you are the same anyway. can’t i sleep here in peace? thank you.” the rest snickered, as they silently waited to reach their destination and get some proper rest and have fun.

you leaned on the car window, staring mindlessly at the several trees outside—no villages can be seen and you frown at the sight. “hey, you good?” heeseung suddenly asked, as he glanced at your frowning features. he’s the one who’s in charge of driving. you hesitated for a bit, nonetheless, you showed him a smile that didn’t reach your eyes.

“i’m okay, hee.”

“are you sure…? you look out of it, [name]. you know, you can always tell me, right?” you huffed, looking down and clenching your fist. “don’t you think, this place is unsettling? there’s no houses, it’s full of grass and trees. it’s weird.” heeseung tapped his fingers on the steering wheel, humming. “yeah, it’s strange. but we already booked that place, [name]. we can’t do anything about it now, can we?” he turned his head to look at you for a short time, and then, shifting his attention on the steering. “if you’re really that worried… just tell me, i’ll keep you company.”

everyone is already fast asleep, except for heeseung.

the drive is taking too long that the guy who’s maneuvering is now yawning, eyes feel heavy. he was about to complain to the others, since he feels tired from the long drive, not until, he saw the mansion where they booked through online. he wanted to scream out of rapture. heeseung finally parked the car at the garage and wakes everyone up by yelling at them.

“wake up, wake up, wake up!”

groans, hissing and complaints filled the car for disrupting their “beauty sleep.” they eventually got up with their suitcases and entered the mansion, one-by-one. they looked around the luxury residence. it was rather soulless, with achromatic color in every corner.

it’s too quiet.

you can only hear the breezy rustling sound of the wind, compared to the city they are living in—too much noise from the car horns and people chattering.

this is different, more peaceful.

they proceed to roam around the area. it was big, perfect for the group. starting from the kitchen, bathroom as well as the three bedrooms. there’s also swimming pool at the backyard. everything is impeccable.

“guys…! there’s a lake nearby. who wants to go fishing with me later?” sunghoon hollered out from the balcony, still admiring the ravishing lake. he couldn’t wait to fish. “me, let’s go together.” jake replied happily, a grin appeared on his face.

everyone else merely shook their head as usual. they can’t even catch a single fish from their entire life. “they are hopeless.” you whispered, while the others let out an amused laugh.

────

[ night — 6:30 PM ]

the food is served on the marbled table. you and jay were the ones who prepared every dishes. both of you called them to eat together. as they run off towards the kitchen area, all of you began devouring the meal.

“our chefs are really hardworking.” sunghoon uttered, while munching on the grilled lamb. showing them a great support by curling his other fingers inward into tight fist and pointing his thumb directly straight up into the air, the thumbs up gesture. the two chefs acknowledge him by waving him off with a smile on their face.

they stuffed their face with food, nodding their head, humming, and throwing gang signs over their food. “this is the best lamb i’ve ever had.” riki replied.

“i agree.” jake approved, chewing the meat—enjoying how tender, and how it melts into his mouth.

then, followed by the aggressive hum of approval. they even did a slow clap and casually stood up like they are on a cooking show. you and jay only stared at each other and scoffed a laugh.

you’re grateful to have these dorks in your life.

they can be annoying at times but that’s just how they show their love to each other, to you.

someone interrupted your thoughts, “let’s go, fishing, jake!” sunghoon roared out, it almost damage your ear drums.

“give me a sec, i’ll get my own fishing rod. don’t want to use others stuff, ya know?” jake shrugged.

“man, whatever. just be quick.” the guy who’s been pumped up, since the time he saw the lake, muttered. “yeah yeah… okay, i got it.” jake is now holding a golden fishing rod ‘he owns’. the cheeky smile never left his face.

the door opens and closed, letting everyone know that the two fishers left the mansion to catch a fish. obviously. as for the others, they help you and jay clean up the table. once everything is cleared, heeseung told them he will need to use a restroom before they start a movie.

“i still can’t believe we’re staying here for five days…” jungwon whispered, scratching his arm to give warmth to his ice-cold body.

jay bob his head, “all we have to do is enjoy the rest of our day here.” he responded, and muttering under his breath, “even though, this place is giving me bad vibes.”

“wow, jay hyung.” riki simper, teasing the older. “we should play hide and clap.” jays’ blood run cold, terrified from the youngest silly suggestion.

“when?” you asked with thrilled in your tone, leaning onto the sofa armrest.

riki thinks about it for a minute, forefinger tapping on his chin. “maybe… tomorrow evening.”

“are you serious?” jay frowned at the idea.

the youngest stared at him, as if seeing his hyung petrified because of a game made it more hilarious. “yeah, i’m very serious, hyung. it’s just us here, there’s nothing to be scared of.”

“exactly, you need to loosen up, jay-ah.” a voice came behind all of you, heeseung.

“why did you take so long in the restroom?” you scrutinize him. the doe eyed guy instinctively gulp, eyes looking around all of a sudden.

jays’ blaringly gasped, “don’t tell me you took a dump?” he looked disgusted, and making gagging noises.

“ew.”

“blegh.”

heeseung tutted in annoyance, “as if you guys don’t poop. anyway, the game is still on tomorrow, yeah? i’ll head to bed now, i’m sleepy.”

“fuck my life.” jay cursed under his breath.

“good night, hyung.” riki and jungwon exclaimed.

“sleep well, hee.” you smiled at him and he nodded his head, before he walked towards the bedroom.

────

[ lake — 6:57 PM ]

sunghoon and jake are dedicated to catch a fish for tonight. it’s pitch-black outside, the sound of waves and grass swaying are the only thing that can be heard from the spot. a cold breeze grazed their skin, as they wait patiently to be able to hook for a fish, for once.

there was a loud sudden noise coming from behind the tall grass. they immediately turn their head to see if it’s a person or an animal. once they knew there’s nobody out there, they proceed on their goal.

“i’m getting sleepy, sunghoon. couldn’t we do this tomorrow?” said by the sleepy jake with his eyes closing and exhaling sharply.

sunghoon rolled his eyes, picking up his phone to check the time. “it’s only 7:15, jake. we haven’t catch a fish yet. let’s wait for five more minutes and then, we can go inside.”

jake groaned, frustrated. he regrets going with sunghoon. the only thing he could think of at the moment is a warm and cozy bed. he should be lying on the soft mattress right now, not doing this shit.

there was yet again a sharp, faint crackle of leaves sound, but, it is now getting closer to them.

“what was that…?”

“probably, the guys playing with us.”

“can you stop being so optimistic, sunghoon? what if we die here?”

“there’s no one living here except for us, jake. calm down, don’t tell me you’re scared of that (leaves cracking)?” sunghoon sneered.

the cute puppy pouts, upset from the teasing behavior of his friend. “shut up, i am not.”

“sure, you weren’t.” sunghoon sarcastically responded. “we should head in now, sleepy head.”

as they slowly stood up from the wooded bridge, both of them freeze when they saw a silhouette blankly staring at them from afar—behind the tall grass. they cannot utter a word and unable to comprehend, if it’s an entity or one of their friends pulling pranks on them.

it’s still there, motionless.

“w-who’s that..? okay, jokes over. we know it’s you guys…” jake stammered, trying to act tough even if it’s impossible for him to stay calm and composed.

no response.

sunghoon taps jake continuously on his arm, signaling the other guy to run. however, his friend didn’t get the motion and he’s just staring back at the mysterious entity.

the taller guy let out an exasperated sigh and pulled jake by the arm, dragging him so they could get away from that thing. sunghoon pulled out his phone from his pocket to call his friends, unfortunately, there’s no service to this spot.

“fuck,” he muttered, still running until they saw the mansion they are staying in. two of them knocked several times at the front door, you swing the door open and you saw how frantically they gasped for air.

jay, jungwon and riki are baffled seeing their friends came running back, scared for their lives. “what happened? did you guys drown each other on the lake or what..?”

they joked about their current state, laughing together except jake and sunghoon who glared at them.

“now is not the time to joke about this shit. there’s literally a mysterious creature staring at us while we were fishing.” jake explained frustratingly.

the boys look at one another, stifling their laughs like it’s fun seeing them getting serious and horrified from what they witnessed outside by the lake.

it honestly pissed off sunghoon and jake. they are not taking them seriously.

“what do you take us for, fools? what the actual fuck is wrong with you guys? it’s not funny.” sunghoon grumbled.

riki shook his head, “no, hyung. the decision was out of boredom and sunoo hyung decided to prank you both.”

after the unexpected revelation, the front door opens revealing sunoo hopping blissfully and innocently. acting like he didn’t give his hyungs a heart attack.

they were now shooting daggers at sunoo.

“you—“ both of the guys ran after the younger, and sunoo’s dolphin scream filled the living area.

it felt like it’s been an hour, them messing around the mansion. the fox-like eyes feverishly begged them to have mercy and that it won’t happen again, so the two elder just forgive him immediately, since they are getting exhausted from todays’ event.

────

[ DAY 2 / morning — 7:48 AM ]

the first person to wake up is jungwon. he’s sharing a bed with sunoo, jake and sunghoon. the dimpled guy stretched his body before he got up, then, he went to the restroom to wash his face and brush his teeth.

and then, he quietly left the room.

it’s a gloomy morning today which he prefers unlike yesterday, it was blazing hot. as jungwon arrived on the first floor, he went outside of the mansion to get some fresh air. once he stepped a foot at the ground, the rain poured heavily and unexpectedly, leaving him soaking wet.

“what the fuck?” someone surprisingly said behind him, followed by a loud hoot and amusing laugh. “didn’t know that you love playing in the rain, won.”

the cat-like features snarled at his sunghoon hyung. without a doubt, he went back inside the mansion—drenched and asked everyone for a towel.

“oh no, our poor kitten is wet.” heeseung butted in.

“oh no, our poor heedeungies’ breath smells like a rotten egg.” jungwon cheekily replied, while heeseung scoffs in disbelief.

as the eldest and the second youngest roast each other with insults, a loud bang on the table stops the two guys from bickering. you were the one who made the noise, since they were being too loud first thing in the morning.

“the two of you,” you pointed at jungwon and heeseung who looks frightened. “your task for today is preparing for breakfast and dinner. also, wash the dishes.”

“what…?”

“are you serious?!”

“do i look like i’m joking right now? it’s either you both do your tasks or sleep outside.” you responded, with a small grin on your face.

heeseung was about to protest when jungwon beat him up to it. “yes, maam…”

as the bambi guy rolled his eyes and heaved a sigh, both of them began cooking their breakfast—a simple one; eggs and bacon. and then, they proceeded cleaning from the living room, kitchen and up to their bedroom. when they are finally done with their tasks, they rest for awhile on their own designated room.

meanwhile, the rest of the group are in the living room watching “obsession”. it was pure silence and then, a loud boom from the speaker made them scream out of fright.

“can you move away, jay? you’re clinging onto me.” you muttered under your breath, thinking that the other guys won’t notice the close proximity between you and jay.

they saw everything.

and it shouldn’t bother them, not in one bit.

but yet, it did. so, what they did is to pull them apart. now, jay is sitting on the floor with ni-ki and jake linking their arms to the older so he won’t be close to you, while you’re with the other guys. they can be overprotective most of the time and it’s because you’re the only girl in the group.

that’s what you think.

back to watching the movie, everyone is throwing theories here and there. it’s fun hearing each of their side, like how bear is the villain and nikki is the victim. you even fought with sunghoon, the reason? he said that bear is a victim which he doesn’t even know that the one wish willow is real and he shouldn’t be blamed.

“yeah, you have a point but,” you emphasized. “he isn’t stupid, the fact that nikki told him that she was never with bear and asked him to kill her. what did he do? he went outside with sarah, his friend who likes him. that’s when she started killing their friends, and who’s at fault? bear.” they all have their jaw dropped, not even blinking.

“actually.” jungwon nods.

“but—“ sunghoon is about to argue, again.

“shh!” jake yells, as he felt the drowsiness kicking in.

as the movie ended, they began going to the bathroom in line and afterwards, they can do their own tasks.

they will play hide and clap later at night, and they will make sure everyone is included—even jay, knowing he’s a scaredy-cowardly cat.

────

[ night time — 7:38 PM ]

it is time.

the friend group is already at the living room, waiting for jay who’s taking too long to search for his phone. the youngest riki suggested to play outside instead and that’s why jongseong thought that wasting time would make them leave him alone.

he’s so so wrong.

they are still downstairs waiting for him, impatiently. “park jongseong!” heeseung hollered. it’s been 15 minutes and jay is still fucking with them like he thought they bought his lies.

sunoo was about to go upstairs to check on his hyung but the older is already at the top of the stairs, ready to step out.

“hyung, you shouldn’t be scared. you’re already old.” sunoo tuts, turning around to run away from him but jay smacked him in the ass.

“okay, let’s play rock, paper and scissors. if you lose, you will be the seeker, alright?” riki explained the rules before the game started.

“game on.”

they kept throwing rock, paper and scissors. it was between sunoo and jay fighting over who’s going to be the hider or seeker.

both of them were praying they will get to hide. eyes still shut, and once they opened their eyes, the mixed of joy and panic painted across their faces.

“i knew it’d be jay,” jake giggles. “you’re the seeker for today’s game. g’dluck.” everyone gives him a pat on his back, to encourage the guy and knowing he’s disappointed in himself from losing.

when he face the wall, everyone runs around the area to hide and not get caught by jay. he started counting while boringly nodding his head.

“6.”

“7.”

“8.”

“9…”

he heard few snickers before the last count.

“10! ready or not, here i come…” jay strolled his way through the garage and then, at the backyard.

no one is there.

he kept walking, and walking until he heard a sound coming from the tallgrass, which made his heart race. not because of excitement but out of fright. he took a big gulp before he step outside, facing the creepy area.

clutching his fist like he’s ready to throw a punch to anyone he’d see or an entity living around here.

the young lad searched around the trees, bushes and at the lake. he’s getting goosebumps from how creepy the sight is. he called out their names, as it echoes in the surroundings.

and he heard a crack, not too far from where he is.

although, he felt his anxiety building up inside him, he still went closer to the sound.

thump.

thump.

thump.

“gotcha!” he cheerfully exclaimed.

not until his face morphed into horror and disgust. there is a detached foot, and blood still looks fresh—leaking and he wanted to throw up everything he consumed a while ago.

jongseong yelled, before he fell into his bum on the withered leaves. there’s hurried footsteps behind him, alarmed from the screams of jay.

“what happened?”

“why did you scream, hyung? we haven’t even started ye—“

riki blankly stared at the horrifying detached foot on the ground. it looks real. is that a real blood? there’s so much questions running through his head and he feels sweaty all of a sudden, even though it’s cold outside.

“d—did you guys plan this to scare me off or what?” jay stammered, still terrified.

he wants to run away from this place.

“were you guys pranking me? is this a prank? because it’s not fucking funny anymore.” he bombarded them with questions, thinking that he was being prank.

jay scanned all of his friends. when his gaze stop at sunoo, who’s staring at him with concern in his sparkly eyes.

“was it you, sunoo?”

sunoo opened his mouth to defend himself but jay speak up again.

“are you happy now? you scared the shit out of me.” the guy carefully stand up, teeth grinding. “just admit it, that it was you all along. you planned this ass game and now, you put this crap.”

he’s being accused of something he didn’t even do. “it wasn’t me. fuck, why are you blaming me, hyung? what did i ever do to you?”

sunoo could feel the hot tears flowing down his cheeks. he couldn’t believe his ears from what he heard, his favorite hyung pointing fingers at him.

jungwon feels bad for his sunoo hyung, so he approached him by patting his back to comfort him. “jay hyung, i know that you got scared, but it isn’t right to accuse sunoo hyung from something he didn’t do. i was with him since the game started. it wasn’t him.” he explained. “maybe, there’s really weird shits from this place. who knows?”

the other guys nodded, except jay. however, he felt guilty for what he just said to the younger. jungwon’s right, he shouldn’t just accuse someone that’s innocent.

perhaps, it’s none of his friends who did this. he thinks it’s better to apologize to sunoo rather than put another blame to one of his friends.

once they are back inside the mansion, jay held sunoo’s wrist and ask him to talk in private without the members listening. the elder exhaled, rubbing his hands on his pants.

jay coughed to ease the awkwardness to clear the air. “i’m sorry, sun. i took my anger out on you which i shouldn’t have done that. you can punch me, slap me, anything you want… just don’t stay mad at me, please?” sunoo wasn’t looking at him, as his gaze is focus on the marble floor.

“it’s okay, hyung. i have already forgiven you. i was just as shocked as you are, seeing that thing. i should be the one apologizing, because i planned this game. i thought—i thought it’d be fun to play games with you guys, since we haven’t spend much time together, but then, this happened.” he let out a deep and shaky breath.

he only wants to make their short stay in here to be memorable and fun. three days left before they’ll leave this place, preparing for another big challenge. thinking about it made him stress out, over again.

the distance between them became smaller, embracing each other. whispering how sorry they were and that it won’t happen again.

when the night ended with a heart-warming conversation, they slept peacefully on their designated rooms. the sound of snores filled the space.

they still have no idea who made that trap.

all they wish is that, nothing weird is going to happen tomorrow. they have been contemplating on leaving this place. however, they couldn’t. not yet.

the vacation is until friday.

if they leave all of a sudden, everything is going back to normal. a boring day, where all they do is work, work and work. they do not give a fuck about the money they spent from this vacation. it’s not a problem with them, but this is the only time they could spend their rest day by renting a place where it’s far from their home.

as long as they are still breathing.

they can make it out alive.

────

[ DAY 3 / morning — 8:26 AM ]

heeseung, the eldest is the first to wake up. while the others are still laying on their bed, asleep. he opened the pantry, to look for something to eat for breakfast with heavy lidded eyes.

emitting a groan, as he can’t decide what dish he’d be making.

hands behind his head, thinking carefully.

not noticing the individual approaching him from his left side. “what ya doing?” heeseung jumped, utterly shocked due to the sudden intrusion.

“shit, you can’t just come out of nowhere like that, [name].”

you chuckled, “sorry, do you need help?” he’s been frozen for like five minutes or so, and you wanted to offer a lending hand. unless, he’s still couldn’t decide.

he hummed, nodding.

“yeah, should we cook ram—“

you cut him off, before he could finish his sentence. “no,” a frustrated sigh escapes your mouth. “we need a real meal, hee. let’s make chicken curry.”

heeseung clicked his tongue, still obeyed and took out the ingredients from the pantry and fridge. the both of you began cutting all of the components. the kitchen is engulfed with chopping sounds. none of them are talking, just focus on completing the dish.

soon, the peaceful moment got replace by their friends’ teasing remarks. “the husband and wife preparing a meal for their kids, awe.”

“it’s like watching those k-drama. where the guy was helping his wife to cook, don’t you guys agree?” jungwon added, a smirk ghosted across his lips.

they all nodded their head with an amuse grin tugging at the corner of their lips. it feels like they knew something’s up between you and heeseung.

however, you simply shrugged your shoulders, as if their bantering doesn’t affect you. although, your visible flushed cheeks said other wise. no one notice it, except for the only person who’s known to be observant around his surrounding.

park sunghoon.

he could feel there’s something going on with you and heeseung, but he’s still unsure so it’s better if he keep his mouth shut.

“what are you guys making?” jake leaned over their shoulders, peeking.

heeseung raised his eyebrow. “it’s chicken curry.” he muttered, hands busy mixing everything in the big sauce pot.

“chicken curry!” jungwon abruptly shouted in elation. “jay hyung and i’s favorite.”

as the two cooks are almost done with the dish, the other guys already took a seat and wait patiently for them to be done so they could eat together.

jay voluntarily help them to set everything up on the table; plates, utensils, as well as the chicken curry. the visual looks appealing that made their mouth water.

“wow.” riki commented, hair’s a mess and he didn’t even bother fixing it.

and then, they started taking little sip of the soup—humming, savoring the taste. the tenderness of the meat melts into their mouth. it was euphoric, how the flavors exploded.

they couldn’t get enough.

bite after bite.

until they feel stuffed and satisfied with their meal.

“thank you for the meal.”

“it was so good, swear.”

“the best breakfast i’ve ever had.”

“you guys should build your own restaurant with jay hyung.”

they commended, while the two are delighted to hear their praise. it warms their heart to see how appreciative they are of a meal.

jake, jungwon and sunoo were the one who washed the dishes, since they don’t have anything to do anyway. meanwhile, you’re on the balcony to get some fresh air. revisiting how much of a mess you were, it was clear that making a decision for yourself was arduous. the pressure your family was putting on you. you can’t control your emotions anymore. a sob escapes your mouth, tears streaming down your face.

what if i just end it all?

it was always the question you’ve been thinking about, but there’s still resistance because you still want to live. you have a dream and you can’t possibly give up now, when you’re not halfway there yet.

you must endure the misery.

the tears have dried on your supple cheeks, wiping it with the back of your hand. there was someone standing behind the glass door, staring at you, worry etched across his face.

mind is still elsewhere, you didn’t hear footsteps approaching you from behind.

there was a light tap on your shoulder, you slightly jump as you place a hand over your chest. it’s sunghoon.

“you shouldn’t scare people like that, hoonie.” you mumble, and he laughed.

sunghoon cleared his throat, face became serious. “did you cry… again?” he asked, eyes lingering on your puffy and swollen eyes.

“is it because of them? i told you… don’t listen to their bullshits, right? i saw how hardworking you are, i saw it, [name]. you’re doing great, hm? and i’m so so proud of you, always.”

you met his gaze, showing him how grateful you are with his encouraging words. “thank you, hoon. you always know what to say, don’t you?” you let out a lighthearted laugh and he merely grin, revealing his sharp and pointed teeth.

“don’t mention it.” sunghoon patted your back, slowly pulling away. “let’s head back inside, you’ll catch a cold.”

as the pale guy turned his back on you, you faintly smirk. he’s always so caring and attentive when it comes to you. you find it so adorable.

he makes it so easy.

────

every afternoon, they are all just in their room—chilling and taking some rest. it’s their routine when it hits one in the afternoon. after that, they will hang out in the living area to do a movie marathon.

they can’t even order food in-app, because this place is inaccessible for food deliveries. it’s really upsetting. they have been craving jjajangmyeon and dakgangjeong. besides, there’s just snacks here, something they brought from the city, since their meal has meat in every dishes they make.

which is getting boring.

“i’m going to work out. does anybody wants to come?” sunghoon is wearing his plain black tank top and gray pants with his cap backwards.

jungwon abruptly stood up. “me. i need to pump up my muscles.” he remarked, while flexing his biceps in front of everyone.

they scrunched up their nose from the view. although, it was a mouthwatering sight. yeah…. jake snorted, scratching the back of his neck awkwardly.

the baby cat snarled at them, before he went with his sunghoon hyung to the gym room. riki was looking around, hesitating if he should go with them to work out or just lay on the sofa.

“fuck it.” he goes upstairs and headed toward the balcony to smoke.

he took a long drag of his cigarette and then, blowing smoke into the thin air. this is what he’d always do when he’s having a hard time to choose from plenty of choices.

it’s not just because he’s bored.

he tends to be alone, yes, and when he met the guys and [name]—he feels contented. they are a family to him. smoking has been with him since he felt like the world is against him. although, there are times, he wants to quit this highly destructive habit.

in spite of stopping and holding himself back from picking up the cigarette sticks, his mouth thirsts for them.

besides, his friends got tired of lecturing his ass and even called him a brat and stubborn. telling him that “it’s bad for your health”, “do you want to die young?”, and “how will you meet my kids, if you’re in deathbed?” recalling those memories made him snicker, it was ridiculous up until now.

“is this the cause of smoking too much? scary.” jake’s voice interrupted him from the absurd memory. the elder was dumbfounded seeing riki laughing to himself.

riki tutted, rolling his eyes.

“i just remembered something, ‘kay?” he grumbled to his hyung. “why are you even here?”

jake scoffed, “because i wanted to? i need some fresh air. but then, i smell that shit again. if you want to die, don’t involve me.” he retorted, pinching his nose so he wouldn’t inhale the smell of the cigarette.

“you’re so grumpy.” the younger tossed the cigarette stick on the floor, and stomp his flip-flops on the lit cigarette.

“have you noticed heeseung hyung and [name]?” he added, curiosity got the best of him. “it feels like something is going on between them.”

the elder thought riki is about to smoke again, when the taller pulled out something from his pocket—lollipop. he unwrapped the wrapper and slid the wrinkled wrap into his pocket. he slipped the lolly into his mouth, sucking it loudly.

tsk.

“aren’t they always like that? they have been close since fifteen, riks. stop assuming stuff… and if they are really dating, they’ll let us know.” jake huff, crossing his arms against his chest.

riki pursed his plump lips, trying to regain his composure. “are you jealous?” his face broke into a grin, clearly teasing his hyung who’s now scowling at him.

jake flicked his fingers onto his forehead.

“why would i be jealous? it’s just a damn crush.” he muttered. even if he kept saying that he is not in the place to be jealous, he’d say it anyway to push aside his feelings for you.

aware of his friends liking you as well.

except for the three youngest.

“uh-huh. whatever you say jake hyung.”

“let’s just go back inside, it’s getting dark.”

“k.”

they didn’t forget to locker the glass door to the balcony and pressing the button to close the curtains. noticing how quiet it is in the living area, they knew that they went back into their rooms.

ni-ki and jake saw jay in the kitchen area preparing for dinner. they just watched the elder guy throw the components on to the pan. twigim and fried chicken are the main dishes for today. they are already salivating from the scrumptious meal.

jay looked up to see his two friends drooling over the food he made. eyebrows knitted together in pure disgust as he proceeded with the plating and just ignore them so he could focus on his chores.

“can you both tell them to come out? the food is ready.” the elder guy politely requested.

they immediately obeyed, since they are already starving. their friends came out of their shell and headed downstairs, only to smell something appetizing that made their stomach growling. they all took a seat and began digging on the meal.

bunch of hums and nods of approval because of jay’s cooking.

“such a husband material.” you commented in a hushed tone.

it was a surprise to everyone hearing you say that to jay. shock is evident on their face with mix of envious. sunoo looks around his surroundings, puckering his lips as if trying to hold himself back from laughing.

even jungwon and ni-ki who face palmed themselves from how awkward it is.

“thank y—“ jay was about to respond when someone cuts him off mid-sentence.

“how about me?” heeseung, sunghoon and jake bluntly asked at the same time.

the three lad glared at each other.

how silly of them to act so childish in the middle of dinner.

your eye twitched because of their immaturity. you didn’t pay any attention to them—since, your only goal is to finish your food and do your night routine afterwards.

the squad are finally done eating.

guess who’s washing the dishes? sunoo.

riki suggested that the one who lost rock, paper, and scissors is the one who’ll clean all the dishes as well as the dining table.

you wanted to offer help but sunoo said that it’s fine. later on, he was left alone in the kitchen area. the sound of plates clinking together as he set them on the dish rack echoed around the corner.

the only light that is turned on is in the kitchen, which gave him chills on his spine. once he’s done with his tasks, he switched off the light and runs his way towards their room.

he’s glad nothing weird happened today.

hopefully, tomorrow is just as good.

────

[ DAY 4 / morning — 6:57 AM ]

it’s almost coming to an end.

and they hated the mere thought of their short stay here in this place is bothering them. even in their sleep, on the shower and while they were having fun together.

they have no idea if this will be the last time they’ll see each other, like this again. nothing feels better than spending their time together, laughing at silly jokes and watching horror movies at night.

ultimately, they decided to enjoy to the fullest rather than being in despair because of their short amount of time staying from this mansion.

it may be sinister and strange from the very beginning, but they brush it off.

the more they give more attention to it, makes it even harder for them to relish the moment and be at ease. that’s the only wisest decision they could ever think of.

“so…” heeseung started. “what are our plans for today? should we get drun—“

you covered his mouth with your palm to stop him from talking.

and what heeseung did is he licked your hand. you quickly wiped the remnants of his spit off your sticky palm on his purple hoodie, while you made a grimace of disgust.

“that’s so gross.”

“hyung, you’re not a kid anymore. that’s childish.”

“did he even brush his teeth, the heck?”

then, there’s jake. “let me sanitize your hand, [name]. we don’t want you to catch some kind of disease, yeah?” he sarcastically said, as he sprayed your hand with an alcohol.

you’re about to pull your hand away from jake but he didn’t let go, almost gripping it, not too harsh.

it seems that he has no intention on letting you go. the guy was too enthralled on feeling your soft hand clasped against his rugged ones—dreamily.

someone from behind saw what’s happening and he came in between you and jake to pull you both apart. proud is evident on jungwon’s face from what he just did.

“don’t get too close to jake hyung.” he mumbled, only for you to hear with a hint of tease.

“uh… why is that?” you frowned.

pretending that you’re invested to hear about jake’s nonsensical information. you lifted your arms through your ears, leaning on his side to listen to the younger’s chattering.

jungwon blew on your ears, and you smacked his forearm—his big and muscular arms at that.

“you’re so cute, [name].”

“not the time, yang.”

he smacked his lips to suppress a smile growing on his lips. then, you gave him a death stare before you keep your distance from him by standing closer to sunoo.

“you know what…? let’s get drunk today.” jay shrugged his shoulders, as he look away from your moving figure. “one drink won’t kill you.”

“hell yeah.” heeseung did a victory dance when he heard jay approving with his suggestion.

rounds of dismay noises emits from their mouth. although, it sounds fun. drinking and then passing out without thinking they might regret their actions while they were drunk.

“so exciting, yay.” their energy is already drained from the thought of it.

────

(they are so stupid for thinking it would be a great idea for them to drink around someone who imagined them being killed by them.)

unless, this individual hinder their murderous plan. not today, yet. it was thrilling for them, just by thinking of it, it gives them pleasure and satisfaction.

seeing them covered by the thick and crimson blood all over their lifeless body. they unconsciously licked their lips, humming.

time is ticking like a bomb.

they are about to explode.

“i can’t wait to get a taste of you.”

the trembling of their voice, desperately begging to be freed. a sickening grin appeared across their lips.

how endearing.

hang tight, i’m coming for you.

────

they were playing uno while drinking gin and brandy. the bottles of alcohol are almost empty. from others perspective, they might seem sober. however, sunoo and heeseung are floating up above the clouds—head feels heavy—eyelids drooping.

fits of laughter reverberated the lounge area.

“should we take them upstairs…?” you chime in, hesitant is clear in your tone.

“yeah, we should. they are already passed out anyway.” jay agreed, standing up from his seat as he, jake, riki and sunghoon helped them stand up to their feet—snaking an arm around their waist with a tight grip so they wouldn’t fall.

riki and jay were on heeseung’s side while jake and sunghoon were on sunoo’s side.

as they went upstairs to their room, jungwon glance at you. “are you dating heeseung hyung?”

that sudden question made your eyes popped open. “how did you come up with that conclusion, jungwon-ah?”

“mmh, well… i always see him leech onto you, following you around like you are his owner.” he arched his brow, showing a half-smile. “you don’t need to answer, if it’s not the right time to confess yet. i am just here—watching.” you almost didn’t hear the last word he said, it came out as a whisper more to himself.

“we’re not dating.” you retorted, sharp and blunt. no beating around the bush. “the reason he was following me around—he has a secret that i only know and when we were having a silly arguments, i’d always say that i’ll tell everyone his secret. that’s it.”

“and what secret is that?”

you knew how nosy jungwon could be.

he won’t let this one get away without hearing this one secret his hyung hid from them.

“it’s supposed to be hee and i’s secret, won. can’t tell you that, sorry.” the corner of your mouth lifts, feeling bad but you do not want heeseung to be upset.

he scoffed, frustrated. “that’s a bummer. you don’t trust me? you don’t trust your cute little friend, [name]?” he pouted, using his tricky tactics, knowing that you can’t resist his aegyo.

“fuck, fine.” you groaned, helpless. “he’s a virgin.”

the truth came out of your mouth without a doubt. you are a dead meat to heeseung once he know that you exposed his dark secret.

you heard him gasped, didn’t expect that kind of revelation. “what?” he whispered-yelled, still couldn’t believe what he heard.

“heeseung hyung is a virg— but he told us he fucked a ton of women when he was in middle school, though…?” jungwon questioned.

a snort of laughter escaped from you.

“he did what?” you asked between laughs.

heeseung? a fuckboy? how ridiculous and shameless he is. good heavens.

“but seriously, he’s still a virgin?”

“he said it himself, i can’t believe it either.”

“damn, that hyung fooled us for decades. tsk.”

after gossiping about heeseung’s virginity. the others came back by saying they already changed their friends (who got drunk) clothes and they made sure they are sleeping peacefully before they left them both in their room.

they plopped down on the couch, breathing heavily. complaining.

“i’m going to sleep, good night.” jay murmured, waving his hand as he got up and went to his room.

“good night, jay hyung!” jungwon exclaimed, too loud. it almost damage your ears.

sunghoon squinted his eyes, staring at the ceiling. worn out from assisting his drunk friends a while ago. you deliberately turned your head towards him, checking if he’s doing fine.

you scooted closer to his side, while he glanced over his shoulder and seeing you sitting beside him—shoulder to shoulder—staring at him with concern hidden beneath your gaze made his heart hammer in his chest.

“you should get some rest too, hoon.” you mumbled under your breath.

he must be insane for thinking about having butterflies dancing around his stomach just because his “first love” is getting worried for him, only for him.

the tightening of his fist to restrain himself from holding you in his arms didn’t last as he held your hand tightly, gripping it in the process. shocked is an understatement to say what you were feeling at the moment.

he’s drunk, [name].

there’s nothing to be flustered about.

you slowly unclasped your hands from his grasp. he felt it, but didn’t say anything. he just loosened his grip until he could feel the cold air blowing and engulfing him.

“are you staying with me, [name] for tonight?” he suddenly asked.

your body went stiff, couldn’t utter a response. you swallowed hard, “no, i’ll sleep in my room.” you looked over to jungwon, and nod your head toward sunghoon. “can you take him upstairs, won? it’s getting late, you guys should sleep soon.”

despite the bluntness in your tone, sunghoon didn’t fight back. you’re already heading to your room while jungwon, who’s beside him let out an exasperated sigh.

“come on, hyung.” the younger held out his hand.

sunghoon merely stared at it, looking up at jungwon who’s waiting for him to grab him. the elder tutted before he rose to his feet, and ignoring the hand extended out in front of him.

the both of them and even the others automatically followed behind because they are already drained solely from drinking and assisting their friends.

────

the night has just begun.

a sudden roar of thunder jolted them awake. it is impossible to overlook an empty space on the big mattress. the heavy thud of footsteps echoed down the hallway, until the dim light from the hall made a shadow cast over the door—which jay, heeseung and riki are staying in together.

the corner of their mouth lifted, smirking.

they twisted the knob, slowly. making it sure it won’t emit sound. the hum of air conditioner rumble in their ear. jay unconsciously shifts on the mattress with a soft grunt.

the mysterious individual froze on their spot.

and once they sense that there’s no more movement from them, they strides their way specifically to jongseong. pulling out the razor-sharp knife from their pocket, and gripping the handle before lifting the sharp object over jay’s chest.

then, the thunder crash again.

the knife slipped out of their hand as jay got stabbed in the chest, penetrating his heart—letting out a surprise gasp, cursing at himself from the fact that it was accidental. still horrified from the scene, they took a glance at jay and saw him staring, eyes filled of betrayal.

“i’m sorry…” expressing remorse, and looking away with guilt. after careful thought, they covered his friends’ dull eyes.

before dawn hits, they decided to hide his lifeless friend body somewhere. chaotic thoughts running through their head, as if they are going deranged. they carried jay in their arms, leaving the room with a soft thud.

thump.

thump.

thump.

once they set foot in the living room, they made sure no one is awake and proceeded to go outside. the wind blew their hair, and then looking at the pale features of their friend.

swallowing a lump in their throat.

as they went through the backyard, they gently lay jays’ body on the ground and wrapped him up with a sack. for the last inspection, they carried jay in a bridal and throw him out in the garbage bin.

“goodbye, jong.” they mumbled, then tapping the lid before they went back inside. “i hope you can forgive me.”

────

[ DAY 5 / morning — 8:38 AM ]

it was supposed to be their last day.

last day of hanging out together.

together as eight.

and yet, they will witness their friend (jay)’s dead body was concealed in the refuse. you called riki to get all the trash out, he sighed defeatedly and just followed along because he doesn’t want to hear you nagging at him again.

the youngest also noticed he did not see his jay hyung anywhere in the mansion which got him bewildered.

“did anyone see jay hyung..?” he cannot act like nothing weird is happening.

he can see their faces went from unfazed to eyes blown wide from pure shock because how could they forget their friend is fucking missing and no one is doing anything.

“wait…” you ponder. “i haven’t seen him since i woke up so i thought he’s outside…”

a beat of silence filled the lounge area.

riki once again cut in, “i’m going to check the backyard.”

and he disappeared.

as they kept looking for him inside the mansion—in the bathroom, in the wardrobe, balcony, the big ass curtains—no sign of park jongseong.

they are about to lose their mind when they heard a high-pitched scream from the outside, riki. everyone rushed to the backyard, still clueless. when they stepped closer to where riki is, a collective intake of breath escapes them.

it must be a prank was what they were all murmuring, but the look of jays’ eyes—blank and dead—shattered their hopes.

“who among you did this..?” ni-ki pressed, trying to get an answer out of them.

he can’t possibly let them leave without proving themselves they weren’t the one who caused this.

“i could never do that to jay… this is fucking murder we’re talking about, ki. who in their right mind would do this to him?” sunghoon held his head like he’s about to explode in a minute.

jungwon hummed, still out of daze.

“i can’t believe i trusted all of you and you killed him for what? we’re not in some kind of horror movie. this is fucking real.”

“just own up to it.. whoever it was who did this to jay. i won’t let you get away from the crime you committed.” heeseung gritted his teeth, ready to beat up someone’s face.

you stepped up, “it wasn’t me either. like… come on, i can’t do that shit. i’m not as big as you guys. i’ll break my arms if i carry him.” shrugging your shoulders.

it’s true, you tried to carry heavy stuff before and you almost fell down the stairs. from the on, you stop lifting and carrying things that is bigger and heavier than you.

they agreed, nodding their heads.

“[name]’s right. she’s out of the suspect list, so you better come out now or we’ll call the police officers on you.” jake retorted.

sunoo instinctively tutted, scoffing.

“no one will admit it just like that, hyung. once a murderer, will always be a murderer. a liar too.” he stated, crossing his arms against his chest. “i promise you, it wasn’t me. i was drunk remember? and i can’t do that to jay hyung.” sunoo’s eyes started tearing up and then, looking away.

his favorite hyung.

his hyung who was always by his side.

someone who always stood up for him.

who is going to be my comfort person now? sunoo thought, grieving for his dead hyung.

“so who is it then?” riki abruptly asked, impatient is evident in his tone.

jake suddenly approached the younger.

“how about you..? where were you that time, riki? why are you accusing us when we haven’t heard a single thing about you.” frustrated, jake frowned as he pointed his finger toward riki’s face.

“i was sleeping, obviously.” the youngest sardonically said. “don’t act like you’re any better, hyung.”

“stop it.” you came in between them. “this is not going to solve this, alright? i know how stressful this is. let’s all calm down. firstly, we need to bring this trash (where jay’s body is currently in) somewhere else in the mansion before someone could see this incident.”

the guys immediately followed without questioning your command. once accomplished, they made sure the front door is locked and no one is allowed to leave the mansion due to a criminal incident.

they spent the whole afternoon fretting about the situation.

jake cursed, “fuck, i don’t want to get arrested.” he was sitting on the stool in the kitchen, holding his head while bent down.

they stared at him like he’s insane.

“pff. why would you get arrested?” jungwon quirked an eyebrow. “unless… you were the culprit, are you?”

“w-what?” jake stuttered, stunned. “i-i am not! i am not. i am innocent, okay? don’t look at me like that.”

sunoo glared at his jake hyung, didn’t like the way he said it. he doesn’t want to point fingers, but now, looking at his hyung feels like he wanted to swear at his annoying face.

he’ll find out somehow.

he will make sure that criminal is going to suffer behind the cell bars.

a promise is a promise.

for his jay hyung.

────

[ night — 8:46 PM ]

they can’t sleep, no matter what they do.

it feels like something is keeping them awake and sunoo’s plan couldn’t be put into action, because they are still conscious which made it more suspicious.

since at this time, they are already passed out, sleeping and yet, they still have the energy to play on their phones.

typical screenagers.

heeseung yawned, which reached sunoo’s anticipating ears and the youngers’ eyes widened from excitement.

“i’m heading to my room, night.. and if something happens, just call me.” he muttered, scratching the back of his head.

“yeah, we will. goodnight hee!” you exclaimed happily, though voice is hoarse.

then, heeseung has gone upstairs.

a few more minutes, they went to their room one at a time. meanwhile, sunoo is still downstairs at the living room waiting for them to go to sleep.

however, sunghoon noticed the younger is not moving an inch and has no intention to go to his room.

“aren’t you sleepy, sunoo-yah?” sunghoon asked in a soft tone, although skeptical.

sunoo shook his head, “go to bed, sunghoon hyung. i’ll sleep whenever i want to.”

sunghoon hesitated, “you sure?”

the younger hummed, and simply giving him a single nod. “i’ll be fine, hyung. don’t worry.”

he reassured his hyung that nothing bad is going to happen. there’s still uncertainty in his tone, yet he won’t let the fear consume him. after that, sunghoon patted his back and whispered softly “night” before he head upstairs.

clearly, sunoo hid the knives or any sharp weapons that killer might use upon him or anyone in this mansion. that bitch can’t outsmart him.

sooner, the time passed by and sunoo drifted off unnoticed.

there was a shadow creeping from behind the younger, back and forth. a sickening grin carved on their lips as they played around with the knife.

a knife that sunoo thought no one will find out.

they moved the knife in a circular motion near his neck, as the blade cut through a small cut on sunoo’s skin. the younger knitted his eyebrow, wincing in pain from the stinging sensation around his neck.

“what the fuck are you doing?” sunoo couldn’t even move his entire body, due to the fact that the knife is still there on his neck, putting pressure.

“what’d you think, buddy?” they slurred, as they leaned in on sunoo’s ears. “did you really think i wouldn’t find my babies (knives), mhm? better luck next time… i guess?”

“if you’ll still be alive, that is.” they let out a dry, low laugh.

in an instant, the person that sunoo didn’t expect is now beside him, grinning widely. “you love my toy..?” they giggled, “it can change your voice so no one will suspect you. wanna try?” they extended their hand to sunoo, who’s hands balled into a fist.

scared.

betrayed.

he looked up at them, “how could you do that to jay hyung?” he clenched his jaw, building resentment from the injustice that jay did not deserve.

“oh.. right. you guys are so so close, you must be having a hard time right now.” they caressed his back, their expression shifted to concern.

pulling their hand away from sunoo’s back, and clasping it above their knees. “well… to answer your question—it wasn’t me, unfortunately.”

“what the hell does that mean?” sunoo scowled, confused.

they turned their body to face the younger, smiling. “i did not kill jay, someone must have been mad and—“ they gestured the ‘throat slash’ sign which sent shivers through his spine.

“you’re lying… you almost killed me and you think i’ll believe what’s coming out of your mouth?” he raised his voice, hands still curled into a fist.

they pouted, thinking that sunoo looks adorable and the urge to pinch the latters’ cheeks is immense.

“you must believe me, sun. jay and i are this tight.” they claimed, showing a crossed fingers. “i am so disappointed that you think i could ever hurt anyone. hmp.”

the younger shook his head, he won’t let himself be fooled by someone who literally almost end his life.

“no.” he emphasized.

the look on their face changed, in disbelief.

“no?” they snapped, nose flaring.

“i won’t ever trust someone like you. fuck, i’ll never ever trust any of you. i thought i knew you guys all along, but then, this happened. you killed him!” he screamed, tears welling up in his eyes. “you killed the only person who was always there by my side, because of what? immaturity? envy? fuck you all…. fuck you.”

a couple of minutes of silence enveloping them when they stared out of nowhere. sunoo pondered that they are feeling guilty from their action.

they snorted, “it’s your decision, sun. i am giving you a warning, though. don’t trust the one who sleeps all day. shh, it’s our secret.” it came out as a whisper while they place a finger on their lips.

there’s so much thoughts running through the youngers’ head and he doesn’t know if he should listen to their bullshits.

“heeseung hyung?”

they shrugged, lips puckered.

“riki…?”

they bit their inner cheeks to stop them from smiling.

“… jake hyung?”

a wicked grin appeared on their face.

“you’ll find out somehow, smarty pants.”

“right… because i already called the police against you.” sunoo lifted up his phone, showing the history call just ended five minutes ago.

“you bitch.” they were about to attack him until sunoo said something that triggered them, once again.

“you can’t hurt me, remember? they are on their way. might as well confess that you fucking killed jay hyung.” he growled.

they tutted, crossing their arms against their chest. “i’m not going to admit something i did not do. does it remind you what you said to your jay hyung, hm? so why the fuck are you blaming me just because you saw me with a knife that you tried so hard to hide..? huh?”

tilting their head mockingly, taunting the younger.

“shut the fuck up.”

“you and i are not the same. you’re a fucking killer and i am innocent, so don’t you dare compare me to someone like you.” he’s boiling, displeased from being compared to a murderer.

they place a hand over their chest, acting as if they were hurt from sunoo’s insults.

it was ridiculous.

witnessing kim sunoo getting triggered with everything that they do. even so, it’s cute.

“that really hurts me, sunoo-yah. have some respect to your elder.” they responded sarcastically.

“you don’t deserve my respect.” he accented, pointing his finger toward their face. “you earn it and i won’t give you that satisfaction, never.”

they were about to argue with the younger, not until heeseung approached them in a slow pace.

he was walking with his hands tucked in to his pockets, a blank expression etched into his face.

“heeseung hyung, don’t come near that bitch. they are a criminal.” sunoo warned the older, yet heeseung did not even flinch.

“don’t call her a bitch, sunoo.” heeseung scolded him, voice still calm. “and do you even have a proof that [name] is the killer?”

sunoo scoffed, thinking that his hyung must be losing his brain cells. “didn’t you see what she’s holding right now? and she almost slice my neck off.”

“don’t tell me you’ll take her side just because you’re fucking in love with her?”

the younger huffed, couldn’t believe one of his hyungs will throw him off the bus so easily. for a girl.

“i am not siding with anyone, okay? and she’s just playing—loosen up, sunoo. you’re still alive, yeah? i know how much jay meant to your life, but please, this is not the right way to handle serious situation.”

he talks as if jay meant nothing to him.

pathetic.

a moment of silence falls over them, and then a very loud piercing noise alerts the tree of them.

the police officers are here.

“good luck with the interrogation.” sunoo said, before he walks away from the two (who tried so hard to keep their composure) to open the front door, letting them inside.

“who’s [name]?” they quickly ask, and you raised your hand lazily. “we heard everything on the phone and you’re under arrest.”

you did not react.

which gave them awareness that you might be a psychopath. no remorse from the action you caused.

“wait…” heeseung stood in front of you, hiding you behind him like a protector he is. “you cannot just take her.”

the police boringly stared at him.

“reason?”

“she didn’t do it.” he gritted his teeth, lowering his head to avoid the confusing and judgmental gazes thrown at him. “i did… it was me who killed jay—my friend. i regretted it so badly. i—i shouldn’t have done that because of jealousy. i was filled with rage and i know what i did is inhumane… i’m sorry.”

heeseung felt his bones cracked from the way sunoo blow a punch through his face.

“you’re sorry? shove your useless apology in your ass!” the younger got drag by the police men as he kept swearing and shouting at heeseung.

“let me go!”

“you’re going with us, lee heeseung.” the man mumbled firmly, gripping his arms behind his back and cuffing his wrist.

“don’t come back ever again!”

“go rot behind the bars!”

sunoo screamed at the top of his lungs, while you could see the tears streaming down his face.

your gaze lingered on heeseungs’ figure with a smile creeping it’s way on your lips. heeseung looked over his shoulder to see if you’re still there, you gave him a slow wave.

i’ll be back is what he mouthed to you.

and then, he’s gone.

you and sunoo are the only ones left in the lounge area. the quiet sob left the youngers’ mouth that he tried so hard to keep it in. meanwhile, you stayed on your spot—watching your friend let out all of his resentment towards you and heeseung.

you turned around, about to walk away when you heard sunoo talks, “i know you’re not innocent, [name], so don’t act naive. you and him are just the same, a fool. i hate myself for trusting you, fucking manipulative—you played us. i hope you’re the one who’s dead, not jay hyung and i don’t give a fuck anymore. you should rot in hell, the both of you!”

it stings, a little.

however, you acted like his words did not hurt. so you smirked, “i’m a manipulative now, really? that’s what you’re good at, endless nagging. if i played all of you, where’s your proof?”

“i heard the both of you.” for a fleeting second, your eyes grew wide. “heeseung hyung said, he wanted to punch jay hyung for clinging onto you and acting like you are his girlfriend.”

“why didn’t you do anything then?”

“because i thought he was joking!” he slammed his fist against the wall, creating a loud cracking noise and awakening others. “a sick fucking joke.”

there they are, frantically running.

“what’s going on?”

“where’s heeseung hyung?”

“…sunoo hyung, your hand is bleeding.”

jungwon rushed toward the freezer to get an ice and a towel for his hyung. as jungwon is focus on icing sunoo’s bruised knuckles, jake broke the silence.

“what really happened? you guys are worrying us.” you looked away, not wanting to see their concerned face.

sunoo explained the reason, and their expression says everything—appalled and couldn’t fathom how heeseung was capable of such a gruesome act.

their gaze fell upon your swaying figure at the corner, quiet. clearly, you were the mastermind behind it all. exploiting heeseung from your plan because you knew how obsessed he is to you. so you played the innocent doll you are.

“do you like jay?” heeseung suddenly asked as he barged in to your room.

you noticed his hands shaking from anger.

you bit your lip to hide the grin that was spreading.

“what if i do?” you taunted, loving the effect you have on him.

triggering one of them is not gonna hurt you, doesn’t it?

that’s when he started glaring at jay whenever he’s near you, hiding a knife on his suitcase and watching every move his friend does.

it wasn’t suppose to end up like this.

the undeserving death of jay.

him getting deranged just because of a girl.

it was dreadful, and cannot be excused.

heeseung had a sleepless night, because he felt like he was being watched. he didn’t have any appetite to eat or to do anything rather than locking himself in the room, reflecting from the crime he committed.

meanwhile, you were unaware that heeseung has killed jay. you were clearly petrified, yet you did not show it to anyone. you are the one to blame.

though, you were the root cause—you still acted like you were unbothered. so you ignored the discomfort in your chest.

it was supposed to be a joke.

you did not expect it will end up like this.

grieving.

resentment.

deception.

so you thought if you push your feelings away, it wouldn’t hurt and yet, your heart is shattered into pieces—bit by bit.

and what hurt you the most?

sunghoon, your ex lover, who’s looking at you with a look beyond comprehension. you’re still in denial that your love for him has faded away and you wonder if he still feels the same, in spite of the stupid decision you made that got heeseung involved in your messed up games.

“can we talk?”

you deliberately nodded and followed him at the balcony. he sighed softly, unsure where to start.

“did you really provoke heeseung hyung, that’s the reason he—he did that to jay?” sunghoon asked to confirm if sunoo is telling the truth. he wants to hear it coming from you. there must be reason.

“yeah, and i deeply regret it.” your eyelids flutter, blinking the tears away. “i did not think about the consequences of my actions. i thought heeseung is only going to confront him, but then, i just found out he killed jay. i wasn’t in the right state of mind so i ignored everything. i’m sorry… so sorry.”

sunghoon slowly approached you, caressing the top of your head. “you don’t need to apologize. you didn’t know he will do that. don’t mind sunoo, i’ll talk to him later, yeah? we’ll leave tomorrow morning.”

“thank you, hoon. you’re always there for me… i owe you one.”

“it’s nothing,” he smiled. “you should get some sleep, [name]. we’ll take care of it in the morning, hm?”

you’re grateful to sunghoon. if he isn’t there, you don’t know what’s going to happen to you.

────

[ DEPARTING — 5:48 AM ]

the luggages are already outside.

everyone is waiting for riki since he forgot some of his stuff on their room, until your phone rang into your back pocket. you pulled out your phone and saw the name in your lock screen notifications.

unknown caller.

you swiped to answer, and you heard a familiar voice, heeseung. “hey, [name], it’s me. they let me called you… you guys are probably leaving by now, please—stay safe. i am not sure if i’ll be able to contact you again. i wanted to apologize to you and to the guys—wait—are you on speaker?”

you cleared your throat, glancing at your side to see them watching over you. “no and i don’t think that’s a good idea. i’ll just let them know that you called, is that all?”

“i missed you, i missed all of you. this won’t happen if i—if i controlled my anger and i wouldn’t be here in this hell hole.”

there was a pause.

“we missed you too, hee.” you licked your lips, huffing out a breath. “and i’m sorry, i’m sorry, because if i didn’t provoke you that time… you’re not going to end up in this situation.”

“it’s not your fault, [name]. i was the one who was out of control and i need to pay for the crime i did…”

they are all in the van now, waiting for you to finish your call. you panicked, “yeah yeah—uh—they are calling for me now, hee. please, take care of yourself and eat lots of food, okay? bye.”

“bye, i l—“ you immediately hang up, as you hopped in the van.

you are seated in the passenger seat, like always. meanwhile, instead of heeseung in the driver seat, it’s sunghoon.

it was quiet in the van, they can’t wait any longer—bothered and intrigued by the person you were talking to on the phone for twenty minutes.

“who were you talking to?” jake raised an eyebrow.

you weren’t planning to say obviously, but you do not want to hide anything from them, because they will think you are doing something behind their backs.

“it’s heeseung,” you took a deep breath. “he said he was really sorry, and he misses us. i—i feel so bad for him. i could feel that he really regret it.”

sunoo scoffed, and was hit by jungwon.

“what?” he whispered.

jungwon shushed him by placing a finger on his plump lips and sunoo slapped his hand away from his face.

“of course, he’ll be regretting his actions. imagine, you killed your own best friend for more than a year and you only feel guilty after you committed a crime. how ridiculous.” riki sneered, shaking his head in disbelief.

the others agreed, nodding.

sunghoon turned his head to his side, he could see that you feel ashamed. he squeezed your hands with his idle hand, silently letting you know he’s there.

after everyone is back at their home, you also told them it was you who pranked about the detached foot which was a toy that seems real. obviously, they were fuming, but then later forgives you. since, they knew you were pressured and carried those burdens on your back.

forgiveness.

taking accountability due to your past actions.

valuing friendships—the bond that was created because of familiarity and comfort.

no matter how brutal and unjustifiable the crime heeseung did—they couldn’t hate him.

that’s their hyung. their deer, bambi eyed hyung. therefore, they visit him often at the jail. it breaks them to see him gotten so thin and looks so fragile.

it was unbelievable and no one would think that their heeseung hyung is convicted of murder. so they made sure he’d eat the food they packed, just for him.

lifetime imprisonment.

that’s what they told us. heeseung will be spending the rest of his years here, at the cell bars. christmas, new years and his birthday. it’s not like there’s something you can do, but hopefully, he’ll still be alive. it’s for jongseong’s justice and peace.

“i missed you, jongie.” you whispered, staring up at the clouds.

heeseung is paying for breaking the law and you wish it made jay at ease. you suddenly felt a cold air blowing, it gave you goosebumps—not like the horror type of stuff you’d see on movies, but this feels different. it was embracing you fully.

and you knew, it’s him.

eventually, you and the guys left the graveyard. sunghoon snaked an arm around your waist, kissing the top of your head and asking if you were okay.

“mhm, just… missing our two buddies.” referring to heeseung and jay. “do you remember when the four of you—hee, jay, ikeu and you—were always playing video games at 3 am? that was insane, gosh.”

he threw his head back, laughing.

“yeah… to be honest, i wasn’t even playing with them. i was just there, at the corner, making fun of them when they were being so competitive. it was hilarious, indeed.”

they really missed them too.

if time travel was a thing, they would do everything to protect their friendship that was damaged. yes, they are all flawed and that’s what makes them a human. there would be pointless arguments, but somehow, it means the bond will be stronger like a real family. if you didn’t meet sunghoon, you’d never have someone by your side—not just as a lover, but as a lifetime partner.

when there’s hang out, you made sure everyone is there and no one’s left out—just like how it used to. eight symbolizes as infinity and you still hold onto that, with or without heeseung and jay.

and as for your condition, you’re getting better. you’ve been getting enough sleep and never experience episode anymore. your life seems to be doing well, as well as your friends. everyone stops mentioning about the staycation, since it really had a negative impact on them.

for now, you’re happy to be understanding yourself more, spending your free time with your friends and having park sunghoon in your life. that’s all that matters. ── END.

he clicked his tongue, clearly amused.

what he did after, he waved his hand at you with a smirk tugging at his luscious lips and later, he entered his apartment. your eyes widened, flustered from the act.

“cute.”

it was shameless of you to gawk at someone you find attractive, after that embarrassing interaction you’ve had with the guy—you tried your best to ignore him when he called out for you. he was having fun teasing you, yet he was getting impatient as he wants to know more about his pretty neighbor.

sunghoon never stop his plans.

the first thing he do every morning before he go to his work place is to stop by at your apartment and bring you breakfast with a letter “morning pretty, i made you breakfast so don’t starve yourself. :)”

he also buy flowers for you, lilies, your favorite.

you never find it disturbing.

rather, it made your heart flutter. the flowers he gave you, you will put them in the vase. you always made sure to take care of them just like how he tells you to do.

whether he is doing this as a friend, you couldn’t care less as long as you’re happy at the moment. with him.

however, the most unexpected and shocking truth you witnessed from sunghoon was he’s jerking off while his curtains are wide open where anyone could watch shamelessly.

he’s like those men in porn.

you wonder who was he thinking about while touching himself. you felt jealous from that person. you wished it was you.

“what the fuck is wrong with me?” you mentally hit yourself, still watching him there—breathless and hands still playing with his cock.

he has a horse cock and prominent veins.

on top of that, the tip is reddish, swollen and leaking with too much pre-cum.

you instinctively pressed your thighs together, to ease the discomfort. your gaze met his, staring right at your flabbergasted ones.

he caught you.

your hands were quick to close the blinds, as your back slides against the wall, ashamed. will he confront me? is he going to report me? shit.

a yelped escaped your mouth, as your phone on the side table is ringing continuously. you saw his name, park sunghoon. your neighbor who caught you shamelessly watching him jerked off. fuck, i’m dead.

a bunch of messages from him.

park (hot neighbor) :

join me? or are you just going to watch me jerk off while thinking about your pretty mouth sucking me off?

your pussy throbs at that. so without hesitation, you rushed towards his place, knocking aggressively. when he opens the door, his annoying grin appeared.

“impatient, aren’t we? come in, princess.”

once you’re inside, a click came from behind, as he pushed you against the wall—kissing you with need, it’s one of his desire to have his mouth on you.

you moaned, trying to pull away from the intense and passionate kiss. “wait…”

you’re out of breath.

“why? didn’t expect me to be a good kisser, or—“ sunghoons’ hand slides lower, until he cupped your wetness through your lil shorts. “oh…? you’re soaked through, princess. so adorable.”

he chuckled, hands still settled between your thighs. he couldn’t wait any longer, sunghoon told you to jump and carried you in the living room, where he throw your body on the sofa.

you pulled his face, wanting to taste him better this time. there’s a hint of mint and strawberry flavor as you sucked on his tongue. he groaned at that, his hand pulled your legs apart as he kept on grinding his boner. you feel turned on, your cunt releases with more slick.

“fuck, tell me to stop right now, princess.” his voice muffled, while his mouth is attacking your neck with hickeys.

you shook your head, no. “i don’t want you to stop, please.”

so he didn’t stop.

sunghoon tugged your shorts lower, followed by your soaked undies that he instantly crumpled and slipped it into his pocket. you saw it, but didn’t say anything.

he slapped his cock on your wet folds, making squelching sounds. your cunt kept fluttering from the teasing. you just wanted for him to slip it in already and ruin you.

“look at your cunny, princess. it’s pulsating, you love being toyed like this, hm? you want my cock so bad, yeah? come on, tell hoonie.” he taunted.

you whimpered, frustrated.

“i want it so bad, hoonie. i want your big cock to destroy my pussy, god, please—“

the sudden stretch made you cry, scratching his back at the same time. sunghoon hissed, not because of the nails digging on his back, but because of your walls squeezing him in.

“this is what you wanted, right?”

you only nod your head, as the pain subsided. you look broken already and he hasn’t started yet.

“shit—you’re tight as fuck, princess.”

then, he lifted your other leg, pressing it up against your chest. his cock is so deep in your stomach and sunghoon saw how his length bulges through your belly.

he bit his lip, he wants to hold back all his strength not to drive his cock into you.

“fuck me already, hoonie…”

“please…? pleasepleaseplease.”

your whines gave him an adrenaline rush, and he felt his cock throbbing inside you—he didn’t even expect it could be worser than that.

“oh… i definitely will.”

he pulled out his shaft, before slamming it all the way deeper in your cervix. you gasped loudly, as his tip persistently hits the right spot. “right there—nghh—“

sunghoon grunted with a grin carved into his mouth. “right here…?” he asked, as he switched his angle which made your eyes rolled back, vision blurry. he also flattened his hand on your crotch, fingers working on your neglected clit—rolling, rubbing and pinching it.

your legs are shaking uncontrollably.

“i’m gonna come—hoonie—yesyesyes!” you frantically chanted, desperate to come on his cock. “yeah? come on my cock, princess. make it rain.” as he said that, you squirted—some of your liquids spattered on his face. he even tried to catch a drop by sticking out his tongue like a madman.

after getting a taste, his thrust became more feral. the only thing that’s been running through his head: breed her, breed her. fuck, he’d do it over and over until you’re swollen and carrying his babies.

“mhm—i’m coming,” he buried his face on to your neck, and he made sure to pushed his cock deeper into you. plap. plap. plaaap. he let out a deep groan, still bottoming out when he felt his cock getting bigger. a spurt of cum came out of the tip, before pulling out of you. “take it, princess. shit—jesus fuck—s’good.”

you slowly sat up on the couch, grabbing his cock on both of your hands, leaning in so you could lick the head. you moaned at the taste, before you took the entire thing on your mouth—tongue gliding on the base and you made sure to play with his balls. sunghoon placed a hand on the back of your head, pulling you closer to his length and gradually thrusts in your warm cavern.

“you’re doing good, princess.” he praised.

he tipped his head back, groaning. he’s about to come again. so you didn’t halt your movements by sucking harshly on his shaft. you got wet from sucking him off, and he noticed. sunghoon chuckled, leaning over to slide three digits on your needy cunt. ramming it relentlessly to help you come with him at the same time.

“swallow every drop, baby girl.” sunghoon grab your cheeks, tilting your head and watching your throat moves. “good girl.” when you came on his fingers, he stared straight into your eyes before sucking the three digits that was in your hole a while ago. “deliciosa.” your face heats up, embarrassed.

as the night ended, you still have no idea that park sunghoon was the one who has been watching your every move. he made sure that no one will know his dirty little secret—the stolen pictures of you while you’re cleaning your apartment, doing your laundry while wearing your little shorts that he almost could see your fat swollen lips peeking out when you bent down. and lastly, whenever you take a peek at your window to see if your neighbor is there, without knowing he has always been there—hiding and watching you.