Chapter 5- Dinner at Jumin's
*I'm going to start doing character intro's to make them less boring. (Keep in mind they don't affect the story)*
Me: Yay! Kao finally admitted that she likes Seven!
Zen: I can't imagine why.
Seven: I sure can! XD
Zen: -_-
Jaehee Kang: The question is, if Seven likes Kao.
Jumin: Hmm...
Seven: ….
Zen: -_-
Jaehee Kang: -_-
Jumin Han: -_-
Yoosung: -_-
Seven: What?! Why are you making those faces?!
Kao: Haha...aha….
Me: Also, there will be spoilers in this chapter for the actual game. So I recommend you play through it at least once before continuing!
"Kao, Wake up!" I felt someone shake me gently and my eyes slowly opened. I raised my head from my desk and looked around. Jeong waved at me.
"Hey Jeong." I said, yawning. He gast me a smile and then a concerned look.
"You shouldn't sleep like that, Mr. Loung won't be happy." I nodded slowly, blinking. He continued.
"But between friends, are you alright? You seem exhausted."
"I'm so tired." I said miserably.
"Why?" He asked.
"I only got four hours of sleep last night." I could barely concentrate, my eyelids felt like weights, and my actions were sluggish. He winced.
"Rough night then."
"Yeah." I said.
After the trip we had gotten one more free day. Everyone had been exhausted, and during that day I had been catching up on work. I didn't regret any of it though. The trip to Busan was freaking fantastic. I hadn't let go of my stress and worries like that for years. I thought a little about what had happened after the test of courage.
I had fallen asleep at around twelve, after taking a shower and getting ready for bed. The next morning I had woke up slightly before 4 to board the plane at 6, which I had gotten little sleep on.
"You should have asked for another free day." Jeong said, interrupting my thoughts.
"I guess, but I've already missed two days." I replied. Jeong nodded slowly, and turned to his computer, eyes hardening. He didn't ask where I had been before that. And I deemed it as uninterest.
For the rest of the day, I could barely get anything done. As if my drowsiness wasn't enough, whenever I was awake, thoughts of Seven constantly flooded my head. Replacing calculations, and estimates, and all the things I should have had in my head as I was working.
"Goddamit." I hissed under my breath, massaging my forehead. I wanted to talk to him, badly. I hadn't seen him since the plane ride, and it was affecting me.
My hand itched to check if he was online. I wondered if he was thinking of me. Biting my lip, I checked my phone, disappointed when he was offline. Though, Jaehee was on. I assumed she was on her break. I glanced over my shoulder, Jeong had gone for a break and Mr. Loung was nowhere to be seen. It wouldn't hurt. I decided to pm her.
Kao- "Hey Jaehee."
A few seconds passed.
Jaehee Kang- "Good afternoon Kao."
Kao- "How's work going?"
Jaehee Kang- "All right. I'm currently on break. How about you?"
Kao- "I'm not doing very well T-T"
Jaehee Kang- "Oh? What's wrong?"
Kao- "Tired."
Jaehee Kang- "Me too. Oh, right!"
Kao- "Hm?"
Jaehee Kang- "Mr. Han has an announcement to make."
Kao- "lol, not another trip is it?"
Jaehee Kang- "No."
Kao- "Aww"
Jaehee Kang- "He was planning to have dinner with all of the members this evening."
Kao- "Did he announce it in the chat?"
Jaehee Kang- "Yes, but not many people were on. And you're probably not in the habit of checking previous chatrooms yet."
Kao- "oh true. Thanks!"
Jaehee Kang- "Of course, happy to help."
Kao- "Why are we eating dinner though? I'm not complaining, but we just went on a trip together."
Jaehee Kang- "Mr. Han wants you to meet V in person, and we still need to decide the next party date, so Mr. Han decided to schedule dinner."
Kao- "Ohhh, I see."
Jaehee Kang- "Besides that, are you doing okay?"
Kao- "Tired."
Jaehee Kang- "No, I meant with Seven."
Kao- "..."
Jaehee Kang- "...?"
Kao- "..."
Jaehee Kang- "?"
Kao- "I'm...managing."
Jaehee Kang- "So you're not doing very well."
I laughed bitterly. She knew me well.
Kao- "I...gah…"
Jaehee Kang- "At least you'll be able to see him this evening."
This was true. A small smile crept up on my face. I would see him again, tonight.
Kao- "How should I act?!"
Jaehee Kang- "I'm not sure…"
Kao- "What am I going to wear?!"
Jaehee Kang- "It shouldn't be too hard to find something."
I covered my face with my hands, sighed, and picked up my phone again.
Kao- "I'll try...but enough about me. What about you Jaehee?"
Jaehee Kang- "Not much is going on with me. Just the usual overload of paperwork, stress, and lack of sleep. Not to mention Mr. Han will be dropping Elizabeth the 3rd off tomorrow. I find your life far more interesting.'
Kao- "Honestly, I'd be happy to switch places with you. Elizabeth is so cute!"
Jaehee Kang- "...Go ahead please."
Kao- "haha"
Jaehee Kang- "You know, I could come over before we go to dinner, if you need some help with clothes."
Kao- "Could you?! That would be great!"
Jaehee Kang- "Yes, I can bring some of my clothes over."
Kao- "You're a lifesaver!"
Jaehee Kang- "^^"
Kao- "What time do you want to come over?"
Jaehee Kang- "Dinner is at 7, so maybe around 5:30?"
Kao- "Sounds good! The address of my apartment is 1702 SomewhereinSeoul St, and my room number is 503."
Jaehee Kang- "Okay, thank you. I have to go now, my break is over."
Kao- "Alright."
Jaehee Kang- "See you then."
Kao- "Yup!"
I turned off my phone and sighed, letting my head rest against the back of my chair. I glanced at the watch on my table, it was almost 2. I had around 3 hours to finish the rest of my work before I had to meet Jaehee. I shook my head to stay awake. It was impossible. I glanced at Jeong who had come back, currently typing at light speed.
"Jeong?" I asked. He didn't respond. I tapped his shoulder, and he glanced at me. "Sorry, can I ask for a really big favor?" I questioned. Jeong leaned back and smiled.
"Of course."
"Could you give me some help on estimates? I need to finish up quickly. If you're good with yours that is." I added quickly. Jeong laughed a little.
"I finished work four hours ago, happy to help." He came over to my desk and started talking about estimates. I stared at him. He had finished four hours ago? Then why was here still here?
Jeong was a genius. He seemed to be one with the computer and the mechanics. He knew every shortcut, glitch to be avoided, and code. He didn't even do the calculations most of the time, because he was so proficient at using the computer. He appeared to be patient with my errors and questions, and by the time it was almost 5 I had finished for the day.
"Jeong! Thank you so much!" I said, grabbing my coat and logging off. He flashed me a grin.
"Of course, always happy to help a fellow noob."
"Fellow? Don't make me laugh. We're totally different in skill, you're the senpai, I'm the kohai."
"Hey now, we aren't in Japan." He replied. I laughed.
"Seriously though, you're a genius."
"You're flattering me." He was leaning on his chair.
"It's true. Where did you learn?"
"Secret" He replied.
"That's no fun."
"Quite the contrary." He replied. "But on another note, can I treat you to dinner again?"
"Ahhh, sorry, I'm busy today." He seemed to be slightly disappointed, but recovered.
"Aw. Then you have to promise something." He said.
"Of course, you just helped me a lot, I owe you a favor."
"Let me take you out for a while, just to hang out. Dinner, movies, something like that." I stayed silent.
"Like a date?" I asked uneasily. Jeong caught my tone.
"Nah, just hanging out. Between friends." I nodded.
"Sounds good." I said, a smile on my face. There was nothing to worry about. It was just hanging out. He smiled."Thanks again, I won't forget this." I said happily as I walked out.
As the elevator doors shut I stared at the floor in silence. I couldn't read Jeong. One minute he was closed off and secretive. And the next he was flirty and charming. I couldn't tell if he liked me romantically or if he just considered me as a co worker and a friend. Something had changed between him and I in between the trip. I felt slightly off, as if I had betrayed Seven somehow. But that was ridiculous. I had no reason to feel that way. It wasn't like Seven liked me. I closed my eyes for a few seconds, opened them, and walked out of the elevator.
Later on, when I heard the doorbell, I hurried to the door and opened it. Jaehee stood in the hallway, holding a bag in her hand.
"Hey Jaehee!" I said happily.
"Hello Kao." She replied, stepping in after I gestured her to. "You have a lovely place."
"Thanks." I said with a laugh. "It's small but I love it." She nodded.
"It's very quaint." Jaehee glanced at her bag. "Do you want to see some of the clothes? I'm by no means a fashion expert, but…"
"Of course!" I said, excited. It felt like I was a child again. Inviting my friend over, talking about school, trying on clothes and hanging out. It had been years since I had a good friend.
Jaehee laid out the clothes she brought on my bed and we discussed the options. There were four dresses. One was black, long and slick. With an open back and a white bow. The red was fairly shorter, and slightly more revealing, but gorgeous. The blue dress was a beautiful evening gown, long and flowing, with a ribbon and a few frills. And the last dress was more refined and mature, with the top being white and the bottom being black.
"Oh boy." I said, bewildered.
"Sorry, I might have brought too much." Jaehee said bashfully. I shook my head quickly.
"No, no! This is great! I've never had so many options." Jaehee smiled.
"The red one is sexy." I admitted. Jaehee blushed slightly.
"It was on sale." She said quickly. I laughed.
"Great deal then. And the two black ones are refined. And the blue one is graceful." I added. Jaehee nodded.
"You know, I've never actually worn any of these." She said sadly. I blinked.
"What? They're so beautiful!"
"I know...I've never had the chance. All the fancy occasions I go to are with Mr. Han, and I have to wear business suits. I can't be the center of attention, I am merely an assistant. But I don't particularly mind the suits, they are comfortable."
"But you'd look amazing in these." I said, hands on my hips. Jaehee smiled.
"I don't think so."
"Uh huh." I said. She shook her head. I stayed silent and then looked at her. "Wait, you aren't planning to wear a business suit to dinner are you?" I asked. Jaehee blinked.
"And if I was?"
"You can't! Absolutely not! I won't allow it!" I demanded.
"I'm not going to wear a dress." Jaehee said.
"Of course you are! This is dinner! Not a Mc Ronalds dinner! Fancy dinner! And you're going to it as Jaehee Kang, not Jumin's assistant. You're going to it as a member of RFA, an equal." I said. Jaehee seemed to be unsure.
"I wouldn't be comfortable." She said quickly.
"You'll be fine." I said.
"I don't-"
"Jaehee." I interrupted. She blinked. "If you're not going to wear a dress, then I'm not going to go to the dinner at all." Jaehee panicked.
"But Kao-"
"Nu uh." I waved my finger in front of my face. "Not gonna go." She stayed silent. I raised an eyebrow. "You in or you out?" Jaehee sighed, as if she was in pain and then she responded.
"Fine. But nothing flashy." I nodded, delighted.
"Of course! You choose!" I said grinning.
I ended up choosing the blue dress, and Jaehee chose the black one with the white top. I let her borrow a pair of flats (I wouldn't let her wear the shoes that went with the suit) and I put on a pair of blue ones.
"I didn't think you were into fashion." Jaehee said, staring at herself in the mirror.
"I'm not." I admitted. "My friend in high school was into it though." I slipped my braid over my shoulder and smiled. "There."
"Your keeping your braid?" Jaehee asked, bewildered.
"I always have my braid." I said.
"You should put it down." She said.
"Should I?" I asked, staring at myself. I didn't think there was really a difference if my hair was up or down. Jaehee nodded.
"Why not?" She asked.
"I guess." I responded, taking out my braid. My hair landed on my back lightly. Because it was always braided, it was slightly curly even though it was naturally straight. Jaehee smiled and then nodded.
"I like it." She said with a smile. I shrugged, glancing at her.
"Jaehee, you should grow out your hair a bit." I said. She seemed to ponder the idea.
"I kind of like it short. Easy to manage."
"That's true." I checked my watch. "It's 6:24, we should get going." I said.
"Yes." Jaehee responded, grabbing her purse. "I'm excited, I haven't seen V personally since the last party." I blinked. That's right, V would be there.
"That's true! I can't wait!" I said, ecstatic.
When we got there Jumin and Zen were waiting for us outside of the restaurant. Which was, by the way, owned by Jumin's company and beautiful. It was westernly themed, with dark walls and pillars. It had multiple stories, and balconies, with gold lacing the rooftop. A small fountain was sitting in front of the main entrance, with shrubs and trees decorating the lawn around it. It looked like something out of a movie. I whistled.
"Hey guys." Zen called out. He looked fabulous as usual, white suit, black tie. You can imagine. Jumin looked as he normally did as he usually wore a suit, but this time it looked more expensive and slick. They waved to us and we came over. Zen stared at us as we came closer.
"You two look lovely." He said as he winked at us. "Almost as handsome as me." Then he blinked. "Wait. Is that Jaehee?" Jaehee made a strange face. Zen peered at her. "No, it can't be. Jaehee never wears a dress." Jaehee frowned. Jumin slid besides him.
"I agree. It can't possibly be Assistant Kang."
"Is there a problem with Jaehee wearing a dress?" I asked, offended. Jumin and Zen were silent.
"It can't possibly be Assistant Kang." Jumin said again. Zen nodded.
"I agree, I've never seen her before." He said with a bow. "It's nice to meet you fair maiden. What's your name?" He asked slyly. Jaehee seemed to burst with frustration.
"Yes! Yes it is me! I know it's shocking, but I can physically look nice once in awhile! Just because I have to wear business suits most of the time does not mean that when I do wear a dress everyone has to treat me differently!" She yelled. We were silent, and then Jumin spoke.
"Good lord. It really is Assistant Kang."
"Yes it's me." Jaehee snapped impatiently, pushing up her glasses. Zen whistled.
"Sorry Jaehee, I didn't recognize you." He said. "You usually don't look so...feminine." Jaehee was silent, and I took a few steps back.
A few terrifying seconds later.
"Remind me to never say that again." Zen muttered.
"Never say that again." I warned him. Zen nodded. We stared at Jaehee who was acting like nothing happened.
"But seriously Zen. You look amazing." Jaehee said, admiring his figure while she sighed in bliss.
"Thanks." Zen replied. After the compliment he seemed to be revived. "I'm glad no one else will be here tonight, otherwise I'd be bombarded with fans."
"Will you ever stop?" Jumin snapped. Zen cast him a dirty look.
"You know it's true."
"Wait, no one else is going to be there?" I asked. Jumin nodded.
"I wanted it to be empty."
"Hey!" A voice called out behind us. We turned around to see Yoosung waving as he crossed the street.
"Hey Yoosung!" I said, waving back.
"Good evening." Jaehee said. Zen waved as well.
"How do I look?" Yoosung asked. He wore a black suit and blue tie, and was tugging at his blonde hair. "A friend let me borrow it."
"Very nice." I responded with a smile.
"Much better." Zen said.
"You don't look like a delinquent who plays LOLOL." Jaehee added with a nod.
"Jaehee is mean." Yoosung whined.
"Jaehee...is in a bad mood right now." I responded wearily. Yoosung glanced at her and then gaped.
"Jaehee is wearing a dress! AAAA MONSTER!"
"Be quiet." Jaehee snapped. I snickered.
"Hello everyone." V emerged from around the corner, hands in his pockets. We waved.
Seeing him personally was strange. He had light blue hair that stylishly hung over his eye. He wore a gray suit and a white tie, with a necklace with a metal plate. He looked like an anime character.
"Blue hair." I muttered under my breath.
"What?" V asked.
"Nothing." I said quickly. "It's nice to meet you." V smiled
"It's nice to see all of you again. It's been a while." V said. The others began converse with him and I added a few points then and there, eventually letting them talk on their own. I looked at the evening sky, which had a light blush across the sky. It was a beautiful evening. Not as sticky as usual with a light summer breeze that whisked up your hair, carrying it into the wind. And that's when I heard him.
I turned around, mind blank as soon as I heard his voice. A voice that I had wanted to hear since this morning. I saw him strolling over, a hand in his pocket as he waved. He came closer, walking over to talk to Jumin. Seven's crimson hair was pushed back and his golden eyes glistened brightly. He wore a stylish black suit with bits of red. His glasses were gone, he didn't seem nerdy at all. Not one bit. I swallowed and looked away, biting my lip. God dammit Seven.
"Everyone is here." Jumin said, satisfied. "Let's go."
We turned around and made our way towards the doors. My eyes flicked towards Seven's, surprised when I realized that they were planted on mine. His golden eyes were wide as he stared at me. And I stared at him.
And for a moment, I forgot where I was, and what I was doing. And it was just us, alone, lost in each other's eyes. I swallowed, I could feel my reddening cheeks and my heart in my ears. It was almost excruciating looking at him. But I couldn't stop. I didn't want to stop. In that moment he became even more perfect. I realized that I couldn't keep this up much longer. I couldn't stop my feelings. They were like a glass of boiling water, bubbling at the top, ready to burst. His eyes lowered slightly, and then he looked away. And then moment was over.
I breathed and forced my eyes away, screaming internally. I was greedy, I wanted more. More moments like that, where his eyes were on me, and me only. I didn't care that it was selfish. I couldn't help it. When I liked Seven, I became a completely different person. And I hated it, but I couldn't stop.
Seven P.O.V
I had been avoiding looking at Kao. It was painfully difficult and eventually I couldn't help but take a glance. So I did. And when I did I was completely bewildered. Her hair was down, slightly curled, resting on her back, the dress was lovely and fit her perfectly. She was gorgeous. And I couldn't move my gaze. With a start I realized her eyes had moved to meet mine. I told myself to look away, but I didn't. I couldn't. I forgot about the others, I forgot that we were going to eat dinner. I just saw her face and her brown eyes and became lost. My fingers twitched, I almost stopped walking completely. My breath hitched. Why was she so beautiful? Why did she always stare at me like that? It drew me to her, and I swallowed. Look away. I told myself. I didn't want to. I wanted to stare at her forever. I wanted her to stare at me forever. But I had to stop. Using everything I had, I ripped my eyes away and looked forward. Feeling her eyes bore into mine, and then look away slowly.
Kao P.O.V
"Kao." I blinked and looked up. Yoosung was staring at me worriedly.
"Are you okay? Your cheeks are red." He said. I blinked in surprise, and then touched my face gently, taking a breath.
"I'm fine." I replied quickly. Yoosung seemed doubtful, but he nodded and looked forward. Get yourself together. I muttered, slapping my cheeks.
As we walked inside the restaurant it seemed to loom forward, as if it became 10 times bigger. The lights shined brightly, shimmering on the tiles, coming from a chandelure that rested on the ceiling. A staircase led to the upper floor which overlooked the bottom and led out to the balcony. On both floors were tables with white cloth that had shimmering glasses and small flowers, with plush chairs surrounding them. The dim smell of freshly lit candles surrounded the room, and a classical song played luxuriously in the background.
"I'm glad I wore a suit. Even if no one else is here but the staff." Yoosung whispered, gazing at the chandelure nervously. A woman came up to us, her hair was in a bun and she wore a white blouse and black pants. She tilted her head in respect.
"Good evening Mr. Han, where would you like to be seated?"
"Somewhere on the balcony." Jumin replied. The woman nodded, and she led us up to the second floor.
The balcony was lovely as well, with a slick railing that overlooked the fountain and the heart of the city.
"Jumin you always go above expectations." I said in awe, as if the vacation to Busan wasn't impressive enough. Jumin smiled slightly.
"Of course." He replied, as if there was no other way it would be.
"This guy can get whatever he wants because of his money." Zen said with a huff.
"That's correct." Jumin replied a matter a factly.
"Wait you arranged for the restaurant to be empty?" Asked Yoosung, bewildered.
"Yes."
The other members continued talking, but I stayed silent, and Seven did as well. My eyes involuntarily flicked to his, but Seven was staring out at the city, his cheek resting on his hand, golden eyes lowered in speculation. My heart tightened. And I looked down, hands clenched. Did I look nice?
"Kao?" I blinked, looking up.
"Yeah? Sorry." I said quickly, V smiled.
"How was the trip?" He asked, looking at all of us. We all became excited.
"A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!" Yoosung cried, throwing his hands up.
"It was very nice." Jaehee said happily.
"Fantastic!" I responded energetically.
"Loved it." Seven said.
"Pleasant." Jumin added cooly.
"Great." Zen said with a smile. "We threw Jumin into the ocean while he was sleeping." Jumin cast him a frigid look. V laughed. He had a nice laugh.
"Did you get any guests on the trip?" V asked. We all stayed silent.
"We forgot." Jaehee said finally.
"My bad." I said miserably.
"No, I forgot as well." Jumin added.
"That's all right, we still have time. But I'd like to tell everyone the date of the next party." We all stared at him, alerted. The next party? "I was thinking in at least a week." V said. The table burst in conversation.
"A week?! We don't even have any guests!"
"This is Kao's first time at holding a party, isn't this too soon?"
"I don't know V, that's a little abrupt."
"It'll have to be small."
"Yes, I think it would be better if it were small." V said, nodding. "Because it's Kao's first time holding one, I figured a small one would be best. And then a larger one after you understand what to do." He looked at me. "What do you think Kao?" I stayed silent, feeling everyone's gaze rest on me.
Could I do it in a week? With all of the work I already had? I couldn't say no though, everyone was counting on me. I knew they all wanted a party, all wanted things to be the way they used to be. I also knew that if I wasn't able to do it, they would give me time, and wouldn't pressure me. That's just the kind of people they were. But I wanted to do something for them, everyone had been so kind to me. Jaehee had become my new best friend, Jumin had taken me on the best vacation I had ever been on. Yoosung had become like a younger brother to me. Zen was a freaking celebrity who was a good friend to me as well. And Seven, well, that was self explanatory.
"I'll try my best." I said, with a smile. There were several grins.
"Thanks Kao."
"Yes, thank you Kao."
"Don't thank me." I said with a laugh. "I should be the one thanking all of you. You've all been amazing friends, the best I could ever ask for."
An hour later.
"Okay, so, I had decided to hide on the upper deck right? Cause I figured no one would expect it, since it was the closest to the starting point." Yoosung said, as he recited what happened to him during the test of courage.
"I started on the upper deck as well." Jaehee added with a nod.
"And when the lights went off, I almost screamed! I was this close!" He held up his fingers a few centimeters apart. "And then freaking Jumin lumbered in, tripping on me! And then I screamed!" The table burst into laughter. Yoosung interjected them. "I'm serious, really screamed. Loudly! And then Jumin started to hit me cause he thought I was attacking him."
"I already apologized." Jumin said coolly, taking a sip of his wine.
"NO! You be quiet!" Yoosung yelled, pointing at him. "And then he dumped a glass of water on me!"
"In my defense I thought you were trying to kill me." Jumin interrupted.
"Why?! We were in the middle of a test of courage! Why would I be a murderer?! And why did you have water anyways?!" Yoosung snapped.
"And it was wine actually." Jumin added. "I took a glass of wine with me."
"You took wine with you?" I asked, bewildered. "In the dark?!"
"Jesus." Zen said.
"Mr. Han…" Jaehee started to say, massaging her forehead.
"That was wine?!" Yoosung yelled. He sniffed his hair and then stared at Jumin angrily. "You dumped wine on me?!"
"How do you mix up wine with water anyways?" Seven asked, a grin on his face.
"They're both liquids!" Yoosung said defensively, hands on the table.
"They smell completely different!" Zen yelled.
"How should I know?! I was a little preoccupied with Jumin who was hitting me, thank you very much!"
"So that's why you got out in the first few seconds." I said.
"Hey! Kao! Why aren't you on my side!?" Yoosung whined. I shrugged.
"Can't support someone who defends himself by saying that wine and water are both liquids." I responded.
"Hold on, that means Jumin was the second one to get out." Zen said as he leaned forward with a grin on his face. "Relay us the story."
"Please, do tell Mr. Han." Jaehee said. Jumin blinked and cleared his throat.
"I apologize, I must go to bathroom."
"Oh no, don't you run away mister." Zen snapped, dragging him back in his chair as he made an attempt to stand up.
"I must excuse myself." Jumin said cooly.
"Tell us what happened." I said with a grin. "Wait, who got him out anyhow?"
"I did." Seven said, glancing at me.
"If Jumin won't say anything, you tell us what happened!" Yoosung said with a squeal. I glanced at Seven who seemed to be revived.
"Well, I was prowling through the darkness, like a lion stalking it's prey." He began.
"Good lord." Jumin muttered under his breath, covering his eyes.
"I saw a figure with my golden eyes, and I crept towards them silently. I could hear their frightened breaths, their small frame. And then I lunched for the kill." Seven paused, took a dramatic breath, and then continued. "My fingers were sharp claws of death, wanting their blood, wanting to win. Desperately wanting to hear that bloodcurdling scream that filled my life with sick, twisted joy." The table was utterly silent.
"Did they scream?!" I asked finally.
"They did." Seven replied simply. The table started talking again.
"That was Jumin!?"Jaehee asked, hands on the table.
"Stop shitting around, I didn't scream at all." Jumin interjected. Jaehee was having a hard time not bursting into laughter. Unlike Zen and I who were laughing openly, and Yoosung who was snorting.
"Oh...that's priceless." Zen said.
"Now now Jumin, don't be embarrassed." Seven said slyly.
"I didn't scream. You grabbed my ribbon." Jumin snapped.
"That's not what happened and you know it." Responded Seven, as his golden eyes narrowed.
"You grabbed my ribbon!" Jumin hissed, tightening his tie.
"We're all friends here." I said, letting my chin rest on my interlocked hands. "Tell us the truth." Jumin made a frustrated noise and stared at us.
"I can't begin to comprehend why you are all taking his side. V, you do believe me, correct?" V glanced at Jumin and shrugged innocently.
"You were never good with that kind of stuff. Remember that one time with the haunted house when we were kids?"
"V, come on." Jumin said, controlling his anger.
"Wait, how long have you two known each other" I asked.
"They're childhood friends." Zen said.
"Then V must know all of Jumin's dirty secrets!" I said eagerly.
"Exactly!" Seven interjected, his finger in the air. "That's why we must convince him to spill them!" V smiled guiltily.
"I want to hear that story about the haunted house." Jaehee said. V leaned forward.
"Well, it's not that big of a deal but when we went to the haunted house, as soon as we entered. Jumin screamed and held my hand." He whispered. The table screamed loudly.
"Jumin screamed!" I cheered.
"It's a Christmas miracle!" Yoosung said, throwing his napkin in the air.
"It's not even remotely close to Christmas!" Jumin countered, slamming his hands on the table.
"This is such a happy day." Jaehee sniffed, taking a napkin to her eyes.
"Oh my god. Jumin Han you actually held his hand!" Zen said, laughing.
"What did I tell you?" Seven asked. "Jumin is secretly as small little boy. Sheltered by his family, secretly yearning for love!" He cooed.
"Shut up!" Jumin snapped. "It's not a big deal, screaming is what you do in a haunted house. And I was seven."
"No you weren't." Seven replied slyly.
"The age." Jumin replied icely.
"But the fact that it was you-" I laughed.
"Is priceless!" Zen said, flipping his hair back. And throughout the night, the table continued to make fun of Jumin.
The time flew by, and by the time we decided to leave, it was already almost 11 at night. Everyone thanked Jumin for the dinner and re-thanked him for the trip to Busan (even Zen), and then we began to take our separate ways. Zen and Yoosung left together right away, as Zen had given him a lift. And Jumin got in his limo, leaving Jaehee, Seven and I. Jaehee and I had driven in her car and she would drop me off at my apartment.
"Hold on." She told me, as she went back towards the doors, where Seven was making his way towards his car. I stared at her, bewildered. What was she doing? They exchanged a few words, and Jaehee came back, holding back a smile.
"What?" I asked. She gestured towards Seven and then got in her car, shutting the door behind her and locking the doors. "Hey, Jaehee!" I knocked on her window. Jaehee glanced at me and rolled it down slightly.
"Yes?"
"What are you doing? I'm getting a ride back with you." I said.
"No you're not." She responded.
"What? We said-"
"I'm afraid I'm in a rush." Jaehee said with a sigh. "I don't have the time to drop you off." I blinked.
"Then who-"
"Seven will." She interrupted. I glanced at Seven who was leaning against his car, on his phone, and then back at her.
"Jaehee." I snapped. "You...didn't arrange this on purpose, did you? I don't want a ride with Seven! I can't be alone with him-"
"Sorry." She mouthed, as she rolled up the window.
"Hey! Jaehee!" I yelled as she drove off. I groaned and closed my eyes, opening them again. This was bad, really bad. Slowly, I turned around and began to walk towards him. I would get a taxi ride, or something.
Seven looked up and then put his phone away, opening the door on my side and then getting in on the drivers side. I stared at the car hesitantly. But a taxi was expensive. And...and...he had a nice car. I looked around, silently cursing Jaehee before I got inside, shutting the door behind me.
"Sorry about this." I said softly. "If you don't have the time, I can just-"
"I don't mind." Seven responded quickly as he started the car. He gave me a sly grin and I wanted to melt then and there.
"All right." I replied, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear nervously.
We decided to take the "country" road back, to avoid traffic and enjoy the view. But I couldn't pay attention to the view at all.
I hadn't been completely alone with Seven since the Test of Courage. What should I say? How should I act? Like normal? To hell with that! I couldn't act normal...I bit my lip. I was physically and emotionally incapable of acting normal around him when I wanted to. He brought it out of me.
"You...look nice." Seven said finally. My breath hitched and I glanced at him.
"You too." I said quickly. "You look nice without your glasses." I stuttered. "I mean. You look nice with them on too. I mean. You just look-" I stopped talking and laughed uneasily. Seven grinned as he stared at the road in front of him.
"Thanks. But seriously Kao, I'm nothing compared to you." He said.
"No way." I said.
"It's true." He said. I shook my head. "Kao."
"Nope." I said. "You look better tonight." It was true. He looked amazing.
"Hey. I'm serious." Seven responded.
"So am I." I challenged.
"You want to go?" Seven asked, raising an eyebrow and giving me his classic "Seven" look.
"I'll fight you." I said, raising my fists. "You looked better tonight. That's final."
"Did not." Seven said. "And I'd beat you."
"Would not!"
"Yup." He responded.
"You're just a nerd!" I said.
"A 22 year old hacker nerd to be exact. But so are you. Minus the hacker part." He added.
"That's true." I stuttered. "But that's besides the point!"
"Is it?"
"Yeah." I said. Seven sighed dramatically.
"And I won our contest. Better than you~" He gave me a grin. I bit my lip.
"That was luck." I responded.
"Do you really think so?" He asked, his golden eyes sliding back to meet mine. I opened my mouth to respond and then closed it.
No. It wasn't luck. The truth was that Seven was a prodigy, he was a genius. Frankly, I had been lucky to win the swimming part of the contest, and a bit of me wondered if he had purposely let me win. If that was the case then no luck had taken part in any of it, it had all been Seven. It annoyed me a little. Why was he so good at everything? I couldn't even compete with him.
I stayed silent as I stared at him. His eyes were so beautiful, unnatural almost. Seven blinked, and his eyes moved forward to face the street. I silently released the breath I was holding, and looked down. When Seven was around I couldn't think straight. I couldn't stand when he looked at me. It was painful, but at the same time, I wanted him to stare at me.
"I guess you really wanted that cereal." I responded shakily. Seven tilted his head to the side in contemplation.
"Yeah." He responded. "That wasn't the only reason though." I glanced at him.
"Why else?" I asked, confused. Seven was silent.
"Secret." He said finally.
"Hey." I said. "You didn't have to mention it then."
"What's the fun in that?" He asked.
"That's true. Speaking of which, when do you want that cereal anyways?"
"Oh." He hesitated. "Anytime you're free."
"I'm not sure. Can I text you when I know?" I asked.
"Sure." Seven responded.
"How did you like the dinner?" I asked.
"It was nice." He said. "What about you?"
"I liked it." I responded quickly. "It was nice seeing V in person." I added. Seven nodded.
"It's too bad he couldn't come with us on the trip." He said.
"Yeah." I responded softly. There was silence.
"Making of fun of Jumin was hilarious." I said with a laugh. Seven grinned.
"I can't believe he screamed." He said.
"Me either! I can't believe he even went in a haunted house!" I replied.
"It was probably V." Seven admitted. "Damn, I would pay so much to watch Jumin scream on video." I pointed at him and he blinked.
"So you didn't make Jumin scream during the Test Of Courage." I said.
"Hoho, smart girl."
"Not really, I played around at dinner, but I didn't think you actually made him scream." I admitted. Seven gasped dramatically.
"You don't think I'm capable enough?" He asked, offended.
"No you're definitely capable enough. But Jumin would have been flustered if you said so."
"You think?" He asked. "He has a pretty good handle on his emotions."
"Not that good though." I replied.
"Debatable." Seven replied. Our eyes met and we laughed.
"Maybe." I admitted. A smile crept on his face.
"Maybe." He said. I looked down, cheeks warm.
"This is it right?" Seven asked. The car stopped with a halt. I glanced at the apartment outside the window. We were already here?
"Yeah." I responded. I didn't want to leave. I really didn't. Being with Seven was amazing, and I didn't want it to end. I could feel Seven's golden eyes on me as I slowly reached for the car handle.
"Kao." He said. I looked at him. "If you want." He hesitated, scratching his head. "We could drive around a little longer." I stared at him, surprised. He caught my glance and blushed a little. "I mean, if you want."
"Yes." I said quickly. "If you don't mind" I added quickly. A small smile pulled at Seven's lips and he nodded.
"I don't mind." He responded
"Neither do I." I said. Seven grinned bashfully.
"Where to?" He asked.
"Your choice Captain Seven." I said, winking.
Almost two hours later.
Kao- "JAEHEE KANG!"
Jaehee Kang- "Oh, good evening."
Kao- "DON'T YOU GOOD EVENING ME"
Jaehee Kang- "?"
Kao- "I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU JUST LEFT ME LIKE THAT!"
Jaehee Kang- "Oh that? Wasn't that almost two hours ago?"
Kao- "That's besides the point!"
Jaehee Kang- "Did you have fun?"
Kao- "Hey! Don't change the subject...but...yeah...kinda maybe."
Jaehee Kang- "I will take that as a yes ^^"
Kao- "...Promise to never do that again."
Jaehee Kang- "Can't."
Kao- "Grrr"
Jaehee Kang- "How long were you with him?"
Kao- "Seven?"
Jaehee Kang- "Yse."
Kao- "?"
Jaehee Kang- "Typo sorry, yes."'
Kao- "Lol...almost two hours."
Jaehee Kang- "...Your apartment is not two hours away."
Kao- "We...drove around Seoul."
Jaehee Kang- "How nice~"
Kao- "...You're enjoying this aren't you."
Jaehee Kang- "Yes."
Kao- "...Getting ready to kill you."
Jaehee Kang- "^^"
Kao-"..."
Jaehee Kang- "I'm happy you two are progressing."
Kao- "I...progressing?"
Jaehee Kang- "Yes."
Kao- "I hope...that he doesn't just think of me as a friend."
Jaehee Kang- "Hmm…"
Kao- "What about you Jaehee?"
Jaehee Kang- "?"
Kao- "How was your evening?"
Jaehee Kang- "Oh. Just finished a bundle of paperwork that Mr. Han gave me."
Kao- "Ahhh"
Jaehee Kang- "I'm exhausted…"
Kao- "You should go, get some sleep."
Jaehee Kang- "Yes. Thank you for your concerns."
Kao- "...Jaehee."
Jaehee Kang- "Yes?"
Kao- "You...don't have to be so formal around me. You're kinda my best friend."
Jaehee Kang- "I'm your best friend?"
Kao- "Yup."
Jaehee Kang- "It's nice of you to say that ^^ Well, I can't really be informal...but I'll try."
Kao- "XD"
Jaehee Kang- "For curiosity's sake, how does one be "informal* exactly?"
Kao- "Uhhhhh. less..formal words? Idk. But if you prefer to talk formally, go ahead. Don't mind me."
Jaehee Kang- "I don't mind. The main reason I talk like that is because It's been ingrained in me due to being Mr. Han's assistant."
Kao-"hold up."
Jaehee Kang-"Yes?"
Kao- "Say Jumin."
Jaehee Kang- "...Why?"
Kao- "Just say it...ples? XD"
Jaehee Kang- "...Mr. Han."
Kao- "Oh my god."
Jaehee Kang- "?"
Kao- "You can't call Jumin by his actual name?"
Jaehee Kang- "I am merely his assistant."
Kao- "But he's not even here!"
Jaehee Kang- "..."
Kao- "LMFAO!"
Jaehee Kang- "...Maybe one day XD"
Kao- "gasp you used an emoji! Well...not really but still."
Jaehee Kang- "XD"
Kao- "haha, I gtg"
Jaehee Kang- "Me too"
Kao- "Yup! Talk to you later! Goodnight!"
Seven P.O.V
Well, my not talking to Kao because I felt weird around her, had completely gone to shit. I stared at the ceiling in silence. I had done the complete opposite. I pushed my hair back in mild frustration. What was wrong with me? I never acted like this. Annoyed, I glanced at my computer which sat in the corner of my room. I should work. I should. I would do my normal work, get it done perfectly, and have enough time for LOLOL.
But I couldn't. I couldn't do anything.
"Shit." I muttered. All I could think about was- I heard a small buzzer and I sat up abruptly, walking over to my computer and turning it on. Jumin Han stood in front of my door, arms crossed. Why was Jumin here? I opened the door and leaned against the doorway.
"Come to whisk me away again?" I asked with a grin. Jumin stared at me silently with his typical fuck off look. "All right, sorry." I said, holding my hands up.
"I need to talk to you." He said, walking into my room. I felt a mild pinch of irritation, but followed him, closing the door behind me.
"What?" I asked.
"It's about Mint Eye." He said. The atmosphere immediately changed and I frowned.
"What about them?" I asked.
"It happened again." Jumin responded.
"Shit." I said. He nodded.
"It's getting worse." He said. I slumped into my chair and closed my eyes.
"How far are they?"
"From breaking the algorithm?" He asked. I nodded.
"Less than a day away." He said finally. I cursed softly and spun around to face my computer.
"You can't keep changing it." Jumin said as he walked up behind me.
"Watch me." I responded, keys flying across the keys. Numbers flashed across the screen, small streaks of white. I let my mind wander. I wondered what she was doing right now. If she had thought about me at all. Did she have fun? If she had-
"Seven." Jumin inturrupted. I blinked. "What are you doing?" He asked. I stared at the screen. It was a complete mess. I began to speak.
"I-"
"You know what will happen when they break in." He snapped. I covered my face and sighed.
"I can't concentrate."
"I can tell." I heard him reply. We were silent. "Is it because of Kao?" He asked. My eyes snapped open and I glared at him.
"What are you insinuating?" I asked darkly. Jumin glanced at me, eyes narrowing.
"I've seen how you act around her."
"I don't act any special way around her." I responded.
"Really?" He asked sarcastically.
"Yeah." I responded.
"Then you don't mind if I take her for myself?" He asked. I stared at him, in surprise, fists clenched. A wave of anger washed over me, and for a split second, I wanted to punch him. "I'm joking." He replied. Though I already knew he had been. I looked away, my fists slowly opening.
"I really hate you sometimes." I said.
"The feeling is mutual." Jumin replied cooly. "I can't tell whether your dense, or if you're just fighting against yourself. Though, I support it" He said. I stayed silent to that. I didn't like Kao. I didn't have time for emotions like that. I couldn't have emotions like that.
"I don't like her romantically." I replied. I heard Jumin sigh.
"I'll prepare for the break in. Should I warn the others?" He asked. Kao's face flashed in my mind for a brief second.
"No." I replied. "I'll take care of it." And I would. I had to.
That's it for chapter 5! Sorry it took so long to come out! Next chapter there will be problems with Mint Eye!