Max entered the classroom before the professor, shooting Shiyoung a victorious smile.
Professor: "Today, you'll start your project on friendship. I've chosen the groups myself."
The students perked up, paying close attention.
Professor: "Shion... and Shiyoung... you're together."
Silence fell immediately.
Shion (frowning): "What? No, please, professor... with anyone else!"
Shiyoung stood, furious: "Nooooooooo! Anyone but her!"
The entire classroom burst into laughter.
Professor (sternly): "The decision is final."
In the University Library
Shion arrived, carrying a bag full of papers, colored pens, and books about friendship. She sat at the table, waiting for Shiyoung.
Shiyoung entered late, his steps cold, carrying nothing.
Shion sighed: "You didn't bring anything with you?"
Shiyoung raised an eyebrow and sat down, coolly:
Shiyoung: "I brought myself... isn't that enough?"
Shion raised an eyebrow in disbelief: "Are you serious?"
She began cutting papers, pasting pictures, and writing notes.
Shion (sighing): "At least help me with something."
Shiyoung played along, waving sarcastically:
Shiyoung: "What do you want me to write? How friends tie each other to a tree?"
Shion paused, then remembered Max tied up in the courtyard. She tried to suppress a laugh... but it slipped out.
Shiyoung looked at her, surprised: "What's so funny?"
Shion shook her head: "Nothing... just remembered a silly moment."
The atmosphere softened between them, laughter breaking the tension.
Leaving the Library
They stepped out late; rain poured heavily. Shion carried her bag and books, her hair soaking wet.
Shiyoung opened his umbrella quietly.
Shion (smiling shyly): "You're lucky you have an umbrella."
Shiyoung hesitated for a moment, then extended it toward her:
Shiyoung: "Take it... but don't get the wrong idea."
Shion: "Huh?"
Shiyoung: "Not for you... so we don't have to redo the project if you get wet."
Shion laughed as they walked together: "Sure... but thanks."
Short glances passed between them as the rain pattered around them. Shiyoung adjusted his jacket collar and walked beside her, the tension from earlier slowly melting away.