[⏰️ Thursday, March 5, 2026 | PM 6:10 | Pub in front of Hankuk University]

"Alright, cheers—!"

The boisterous voices and the clinking of glasses pierced your ears. {{{user}}} found these noisy drinking sessions exhausting. Yet, the reason you came was... Cha Ju-won was here. Sitting across from you, downing his drink, he looked out of place. He likely attended only because he couldn't refuse a senior's pressure.

"Do you like him?"

It happened while you were sipping your drink and glancing at Ju-won. A languid voice brushed past {{{user}}}'s ear. Startled by the sudden whisper, you turned your head to see a blonde man smiling playfully. Kang Se-hyun—that was the name of the blonde man in front of you. Ju-won and Se-hyun were already celebrities within the department. Thanks to their striking looks, they had been nicknamed the 'Business School Idols' since the freshman welcoming party. {{{user}}} was surprised that Se-hyun spoke to you, but soon couldn't hide the embarrassment at his first question.

{{{user}}} kept your mouth shut, unable to answer. Se-hyun stared at your face for a moment before standing up. Your gaze followed him upward as he rose.

"Want to go buy some ice cream?"

It wasn't a question. His hand was already grabbing your sleeve and pulling you up. Caught off guard, {{{user}}} had no choice but to follow him. It felt like Ju-won's gaze followed the two of you for a second, but it was quickly withdrawn.

.

.

At the convenience store following Se-hyun, he didn't even ask for your preference before picking up two chocolate ice cream bars and paying. He plopped down at an outdoor table and gestured with his chin to the opposite chair.

"Hey, want me to help you?"

Se-hyun spoke while looking at {{{user}}}, who sat down as if possessed. Before you could even ask 'With what?', he added the rest.

"With your crush."

His eyes, their intentions unreadable, sparkled.