Chapter Text
“Why do I always have to come? I could be under my blanket watching a movie right now,” Tzuyu huffed as she was dragged to the bar. “Because we both know Momo need’s a babysitter and you owe me.”
“Hey! I don’t need a babysitter!”
“I would never have accepted the bread had I known it had terms and conditions attached to it.” “I thought you were supposed to be the smart one, should have read the fine print,” Jeongyeon smirked.
“Yeah, honestly when does Jeong ever do things from the good of her heart?”
“I’m very kind hearted, just not to you,” Jeongyeon snickered as Momo hit her over the head. “I think we’re all missing the point here.” “That you’re both idiots?” Tzuyu muttered while pushing open the door to her own personal hell for the evening. A million sweaty bodies packed into a tiny rundown bar near their university. The noise was already a bit overbearing as tipsy college students talked over each other. Some definitely bridged the gap from tipsy to drunk a while ago as they spoke a bit too loudly to their friends that were about a foot in front of them.
“The point is, if anyone needs a babysitter, it’s Jeongyeon, not me. Remember last year’s Christmas party?” “Oh come on, that was one time!” Jeongyeon whined, trailing behind Momo and Tzuyu, weaving through the small clusters of people. “It doesn’t matter, when Santa throws up all over the reindeers, there’s just no coming back from that. Those poor choir girls didn’t even know what hit them,” Momo chuckled. “It was an accident! I was trying to make it to the bathroom, but someone in a giant gingerbread costume was blocking the way! The choir just happened to be beside me when I turned, I couldn’t help it!” Jeongyeon defended, glaring at Momo across the only free table they could find, situated next to a karaoke machine.
“Hey at least no one knew it was you, with the Santa beard and all. Probably a good thing too, I think I saw one of the reindeers cleaning her hair an hour later in the bathroom. You really did a number on them.” Jeongyeon groaned, burying her face into her hands, trying to push those horribly embarrassing memories as far back in her mind as possible. God, that night was terrible. As soon as it happened she ran as fast as she could, dying inside as her fake belly bumped into the crowd that was staring wide eyed at her, having witnessed the series of unfortunate events.
“So basically I’m here because you both need a babysitter.”
“I don’t need a babysitter!” Momo and Jeongyeon whined, causing Tzuyu to chuckle. “I’ll go get drinks, you two try not to destroy anything before I get back.”
===
“I can’t believe they’re doing half priced drinks after midnight,” Chaeyoung squealed happily. “I can’t believe you two talked me into coming here when I have a speech to prepare for the assembly on Monday.” “It’s for your own good! You need to socialize, spread your wings, the butterfly needs to come out of the cocoon!” Dahyun wiggled her eyebrows while Chaeyoung flapped her arms around for emphasis. “That was the worst pep talk I’ve ever heard in my life and what are you even talking about? I see more people every day than you two do in a week.”
“Student Council, tutoring, and club meetings don’t count, we’re talking about fun,” Dahyun said, pointing an accusing french fry Jihyo’s way. “Those meetings are fun,” Jihyo weakly defended, feeling stupid as soon as the words left her mouth. Chaeyoung and Dayhun shared a pointed look, making Jihyo crumble further into her seat. Conceding, she rolled her eyes, “Okay okay, I get it, I need to get out more. To be fair though, there’s just so much to do! It never ends! I spent two hours yesterday fixing decorations that were supposed to already be done because Yuqi and Minnie got into a fight and trashed half the set up. I thought a tornado hit the place, only to find Yuqi sitting in a bin full of streamers, hiding from Minnie. Those two are almost as bad as you guys are,” Jihyo complained, snatching the accusing fry from Dayhun, making her pout.
“We aren’t that bad,” Dahyun defended, glancing over at Chaeyoung. “Yeah, we’re very mature,” Chaeyoung replied seriously, grabbing a couple fries from Dayhun’s plate. Ignoring the glare thrown her way, she placed a single fry above her lip, attempting to balance it between her upper lip and nose. “Check it out,” Chaeyoung said proudly. Her fake, makeshift mustache would have been the star of the show, had her eyes not been crossed trying to get a look at it as well. “I’m not that bad,” Dayhun rephrased.
Jihyo just rolled her eyes at the pair. “Anyway, I was supposed to be tutoring Miyeon, but since they put me two hours behind, I had to reschedule. Now my tutoring time is running into my study time, so my study time is running into my speech preparation time,” Jihyo trailed off, already beginning to feel a bit overwhelmed and drained just from speaking about all her problems. Her shoulders slumped, she really shouldn’t have let them convince her into coming tonight. Why did they have to use their puppy dog eyes? It was uncalled for.
Honestly it wasn’t just their fault though, in the back of her mind she knew she wanted to be here. To put it simply, she missed them. It had been a couple weeks since they had been able to hang out since she had such a busy schedule. She missed Chaeyoung’s childish antics and Dahyun’s dumb jokes that had her laughing so hard she could barely breathe. She, despite being surrounded by people every day, felt a bit lonely.
“That’s even more reason to be here tonight. You need to let loose. Stop pretending to be the parent of the group and be the child you were born to be!” Chaeyoung grabbed Dayun, pulling her into a side hug as they extended their hands out in invitation. “Join us!” Dayhun cried, puffing her chest out, Chaeyoung following suit only moments later. Jihyo’s eyes danced between her two favorite losers. She grabbed their hands, catching them off guard when she used them to pull her off her seat. “Fine, but I'm going to need a drink if I'm unleashing my inner child,” Jihyo stated, ignoring the cheers that erupted behind her as she walked away from their table. Though, a small smile stretched across her lips at their antics. She really loved them.
Dodging a random frat guy that was flinging his arms around way too animatedly for someone holding an open drink, she made her way to the counter to order some more drinks. They had already been there for about a half hour, having ordered some food and a drink each, but if she was letting herself go tonight she definitely needed more than one drink.
She stood behind a couple people who were there first, feeling sorry for the poor bartender who was scrambling around, definitely not as fond of the half off night as the customers were. The bar definitely knew their main money makers were broke college students in desperate need to escape the pressures of school, that's for sure.
As her eyes skimmed around the cramped space, she noticed some people she knew from around school. Jihyo may have sucked at getting out to socialize, but she really did know quite a few people from her various activities. Granted, they were more friendly acquaintances, but that was something at least. Looking to the side her eyes lingered for a second on the dark headed tall girl standing near her. Chou Tzuyu. She had seen her around a few times, even has a math class with her, but she’s never really talked to her.
Jihyo doesn’t tend to be an easily intimidated person, actually, she’s usually the one that does the intimidating. That’s one of the reason’s she gets voted into high positions in her clubs and student council. Who wouldn’t want a confident, reliable, headstrong person who could get things done in charge? Jihyo is very confident…just not with Tzuyu. She’s actually one of the only ones Jihyo has a hard time around. There’s just something about Tzuyu. She gives off an unapproachable vibe.
There’s been a few occasions in math class where even Jihyo was confused. It happens to everyone, but she had yet to see it happen to Tzuyu. Every time her brows furrowed helplessly, scanning around the room to see if everyone was just as confused as she was, her eyes would land on the beautiful girl. In disbelief, she would see her working just fine on the problem without a care in the world.
Jihyo really was tempted to ask her for help quite a few times, but she could never make herself do it. Her confidence betraying her, she would sink back into her chair and resolve to ask the teacher for more help later. Which really was too bad because, while Mr.Lee was a nice teacher, he just talked circles around himself which made everything even more complicated sometimes.
She stole another glimpse of Tzuyu, taking a second to look over her outfit for the night. The girl wore a simple white shirt and jeans, her long hair cascading down her shoulder. The part that Jihyo couldn’t wrap her head around was how she could wear that, such a normal outfit, but be glowing. Normally your clothes were supposed to make you look better, so why was Tzuyu making the clothes look better? Jihyo was sure if she wore that she would look like your average person, someone that no one would bat an eye over (though she’s sure her friends would disagree with that statement). Yet somehow, Tzuyu looked like she could walk on a runway here and now.
And now she's turning around, oh god.
“Excuse me,” Tzuyu said politely, passing her with drinks in hand. Jihyo dumbly nodded and moved to order her drinks. Yep, she definitely wasn’t talking to her anytime soon. No words would come out even if she tried.
===
When Tzuyu made her way back to her group's table, drinks in hand, her brows furrowed. Their table was now pushed up to another table, surrounded by two girls she didn’t know and an empty chair next to her own. Jeongyeon sat next to Momo, chuckling with her head back, while Momo talked animatedly to a girl with short blonde hair. Another girl with much darker and longer hair sat next to her looking a bit shy. Maybe even a bit sheepish? Tzuyu wasn’t sure, but she supposes she's about to find out.
“Hey,” Tzuyu greeted, looking a little lost at the sudden turn of events. “Tzuyu! Guy’s this is Tzuyu, Tzuyu this is Chaeyoung and Dahyun,” Jeongyeon introduced with a radiant grin. “Hi,” the blonde girl, Chaeyoung, said while Dahyun waved with a shy smile.
“You missed all the fun, Momo’s a beggar now.” “I’m not a beggar! The fries were getting used as projectiles anyways, might as well give them to a good cause,” Momo defended, eating a fry that was not there when Tzuyu initially left. Confused, she looked to Jeongyeon for help when the two new girls giggled at Momo’s reasoning.
“We were minding our business when a fry hit Momo in the back of the head. Hilarious by the way, but when we turned around there were fries in both their hair and a couple on the table,” Jeongyeon explained, receiving a slap from Momo for the side comment.
“The look of despair in Momo’s eyes when she saw the fries was just too much to handle,” Chaeyoung continued, earning a high five from Jeongyeon for throwing Momo under the bus as well. “Little Dahyun over there apologized a bunch, but Momo just turns to them and asks if she can have the fries if they aren’t eating them,” Jeongyeon said between gasps of air, cackling. “I haven’t had dinner! They were going to waste!” Tzuyu physically facepalms, why was she friends with them again?
“Quit looking ashamed! It ended well, look, we made two new friends!” Momo justified her actions, throwing her arms toward Dahyun and Chaeyoung who were giggling again. “Actually you made three, Jihyo should be back pretty soon,” Chaeyoung gestured to the empty seat next to Tzuyu.
“Park Jihyo?” “Yeah, you know her?” Dahyun asked. “Not really, I just saw her a second ago at the bar and we share a math class,” Tzuyu elaborated, handing the girls their drinks then taking the available seat next to Jeongyeon.
“I’ve met her a couple times when she helped with a tennis club event,” Jeongyeon said. “Me too, just once while the dance club was holding an event,” Momo chimed in while eating a couple more fries.
“She was nice when I talked to her, but man, everytime I see that girl she’s doing something. Does she ever take a break? I would be dead on the floor by lunch if I had her schedule,” Jeongyeon grimaced at the mere thought. “I know right! I think any normal person would, Jihyo’s like superhuman or something, it’s crazy,” Chaeyoung agreed, sipping on her drink while flailing her arms a little for effect.
“That’s actually why we're here, to give her a bit of a break,” Dayhun said in a small voice. Tzuyu was sort of glad to hear that, sure she didn’t talk to Jihyo, but Tzuyu wasn’t blind, Momo was right, she never stops. Anytime Tzuyu see’s her around campus she's booking it like she’s got a million places to be.
===
Jihyo grabbed her drinks and started walking back to her table. Her mind drifted back to all the school work she needed to do over this weekend. She tried not to think about it and enjoy her time, but that really was easier said than done. When she gets a moment by herself, it’s almost like she drowns in her thoughts. There's always just so much to do, why can’t she say no to anyone? Why does she always over extend herself?
She sighed, shaking her head, trying to clear her mind only for it to go blank when her gaze drifts up. She slowed to a crawl then stood frozen in place.
Since when do Chaeyoung and Dahyun know Tzuyu!? Why are their tables smashed together with both groups laughing? Why is Tzuyu smiling? Why is this Jihyo’s first time ever seeing Tzuyu smile?
Oh my god her dimples are showing, that's so cute! Why is the only open chair next to her, what do I do?
Jihyo was getting bumped into, but what is she supposed to do? Where’s her confidence?
Calm down, she's just a girl. A girl that could be a model and slightly scares you in a very interesting way. Breathe. Why are you freaking out, you talk to a million people everyday. You can talk to Tzuyu.
Ok no you can’t. New plan: Hide in the bathroom until you can properly think
===
“Why are there no tables,” Sana whined, pulling on Nayeon’s arm, swinging it back and forth. “Because broke college students will do anything for discounted alcohol,” Nayeon rolled her eyes trying to find a table as well. A group of loud frat boys bolted past them, playfully pushing each other, not bothering to care who they pushed each other into. Nayeon quickly grabbed Mina pulling her closer, out of harm's way as they laughed loudly. Obnoxiously. Her hand trailed down interlacing their fingers as Sana pulled them around looking for a table.
“Should I use my charms?” Sana wiggled her eyebrows looking for a good victim. “What charms?” Nayeon deadpanned. “Oh stop being so grumpy! You guy’s fight all the time, he’ll apologize in the morning. Have fun with your two super amazing super pretty best friends,” Sana bounced on the tips of her toes. “Where’s the other one, I only see Mina,” Nayeon grinned when Mina stifled a laugh behind her hand.
Sana glared at Nayeon and Mina. “I see you laughing back there, both of you suck, I'm not buying drinks anymore.” “Sattang,” Mina whined, giving Sana her best pout which of course crumbled Sana’s defenses immediately. “Fine I’ll pay, but you’re both still annoying,” Sana grumbled. Suddenly she turned to them grinning from ear to ear.
“Tell me you love me,” she eyed both of them smirking. “Why would I do that?” “If you don’t want to spend the whole night standing you’ll tell me you love me,” Sana sang, swaying back and forth, obviously pleased with herself. Nayeon and Mina shared a look, Mina slightly nodded causing Nayeon to sigh heavily. “Fine I love you,” Nayeon said in a monotone voice. “Love you Sattang,” Mina said much more sincerely.
“See, was that so hard to admit?” Sana smirked at Nayeon before abruptly turning around and bouncing across the floor. “Can we just leave her here and go home? We can play Mario Kart,” Nayeon pleaded. “As much as I love kicking your butt at Mario Kart, you need some cheering up. Sana is walking pep, you need her. Come on.” Mina pulled a groaning Nayeon after Sana.
“Jihyo!” Sana exclaimed, coming closer to the short haired tiny girl. Sana’s expression turned to one of puzzlement when she noticed the girl just standing in the middle of the floor. She traced her line of sight, but wasn’t sure what she was looking at. “Jihyo,” Sana tried again to gain her attention. Jihyo’s gaze drifted off to the side following her voice. She seemed to unfreeze, her blank expression turning into one of acknowledgement.
“Sana, hey what’s up.” Jihyo straightened herself up, smiling, her normal demeanor returning almost immediately. Perplexed, but willing to let it slide in favor of getting what she wanted, Sana brushed it off. “Are you headed to your table?” Sana motioned to the drink’s in Jihyo's hands questioningly.
Jihyo’s eyes seemed to flicker back and forth with a little bit of conflict, before releasing a defeated, “Yeah.” Sana put on her best smile, batting her eyelashes before asking in her sweetest voice, “Do you happen to have room for a few more? We can’t find an available table.” Sana motioned to Nayeon and Mina who waved in greeting. The reply came almost immediately, barely having given it any thought. “Of course you guys can join us, I don’t know if there's enough chair’s though,” Jihyo said sadly.
Sana squealed, throwing her arms around Jihyo. “You leave that to me! Come on guys!” Sana happily pulled Nayeon and Mina behind her as Jihyo led the way to their table. “I can’t believe you made me say I loved you for that. I know Jihyo too, I could have easily gotten us a spot at her table.” “Yeah, but I thought of it first,” Sana turned around, sticking her tongue out at Nayeon in victory.
“I’m going to trip her.” “No you’re not.” Nayeon sighed heavily.
“Wow, we leave you alone for a few minutes and you come back with new friends. We aren’t that bad,” Chaeyoung quipped, causing spurts of laughter through the groups. “I could say the same for you!” Jihyo accused light-heartedly. “I'm a people person, they just come to me in flocks,” Chaeyoung replied arrogantly, leaning back in her seat. Her cool persona quickly broke as she leaned too far back, her chair crashing to the floor causing more laughter to erupt.
“We actually needed a table to sit at and god Jihyo herself just happened to be there at the right moment,” Nayeon explained. “Our hero!” Sana lunged towards Jihyo, hugging her again while rocking them back and forth. “But I don’t think we have enough chairs,” Dahyun glanced around looking for any empty chairs, but coming up short. “And that’s where I come in beautiful!” Sana exclaimed joyfully after she pulled back from Jihyo looking at Dahyun, who turned as red as a tomato in a matter of seconds.
“I’ll be back!” They all watched Sana’s retreating form disappear into the sea of people. “Where’s she going?” Momo wondered. “To use her charm,” Nayeon replied, only confusing half the group more. “She’s going to flirt with some guy’s to get them to give up their chairs,” Mina elaborated, taking a step closer to Nayeon as all eyes shifted to her. A chorus of Oh’s sounded across the group. “You can sit down Jihyo, Sana will be back with our chairs in just a second,” Nayeon smiled.
Awkwardly Jihyo nodded and took the seat between Chaeyoung and Tzuyu. She passed the drinks to her friends, quickly taking a sip of her own. “So, who’s who?” Momo questioned looking around. Everyone looked between each other. “Wait! Wait! Don’t say anything interesting without me!” A voice yelled, the group turned to see Sana fast walking with a couple guys in tow holding chairs. “Thank you,” Sana said sweetly as the guys placed the chairs down.
Everyone scooted a bit closer, making room for the three girls to join the table as the guys retreated. “How did you do that so fast?” Tzuyu questioned. “It’s a talent I've mastered over the years. High heels hurt and chairs come in handy a lot. So, what were you guys saying?” Sana looked around questioningly. “We were going to do introductions,” Jeongyeon said before introducing herself. Everyone followed suit until the last one was Jihyo. “Honestly, does Jihyo even need an introduction, who doesn’t know her?” Nayeon said, causing everyone to agree. Bewildered, Jihyo looked around, “But I’ve never spoken to some of you?” “We don’t have to speak to you to know who you are, everyone knows who you are,” Mina commented. “I think you do more for the school than some of the teachers,” Tzuyu added. Jihyo felt like dying.
Seeing Jihyo’s embarrassment, Sana decided to throw her a bone, changing the topic. Jihyo did let them stay at their table after all. “You know, I think I should go try for the lottery,” Sana said nonchalantly, puzzling everyone at the sudden statement. Well, everyone except Mina and Nayeon, the latter already banging her head on the table.
“Huh why?” Dahyun asked, confused. Sana leaned forward on her arm with a mischievous smile. “Well obviously my luck is amazing tonight, I’m sitting at a table with the most beautiful girl in the world,” Sana flirted. Dahyun almost had a heart attack until Nayeon grabbed a napkin, wadded it up and threw it in Sana’s face. “Okay rude.” “I’m not sitting here listening to you flirt all night long.” “But everyone here’s so hot!” Sana complained.
Tzuyu leaned towards Jihyo, “Is she always like that?” Jihyo swallowed, meeting Tzuyu’s eyes. She opened her mouth as if to say something, only to stop short and give one small nod. Tzuyu lifted an eyebrow at the odd behavior, but sat back, her eyes returning to the conversation. Jihyo internally facepalmed.
Okay new mission, just say a word to Tzuyu. That’s the goal tonight.
Jihyo took another sip from her drink. “Sana, I thought you were going to get drinks,” Mina questioned, trying to stop the two bickering next to her. “Oh yeah! I’ll go get them, do you still just want water?” Mina nodded. Sana made a move to get up, “Okay, I’ll be right back! Don’t miss me too much,” Sana winked at Momo before leaving to get drinks. “Why didn’t she ask me what I wanted,” Nayeon huffed. “Because we both know you’ll drink whatever she brings you.”
===
As the night went on, the groups seemed to blend together perfectly. Everyone was starting to get used to Sana’s flirting. Many were on the tipsy side while a few chose not to drink. Dahyun, being one of the few that didn’t care for drinking, was as stiff as a board next to Chaeyoung. She had a million jokes ready at any given time on a normal day, but was suddenly one of the quietest at the table. Chaeyoung bumped her, causing her to look over. Chaeyoung gestured to her phone. Everyone was involved in conversations of their own anyway. No one would notice if they didn’t contribute for a few minutes.
Chaeyoung: Dude you look like you’re gonna pass out. You good?
Dahyun: HOW COULD I POSSIBLY BE GOOD! LOOK AROUND. DO YOU SEE HOW MANY WOMEN ARE AROUND ME!
Dahyun: YOU KNOW I CAN’T TALK TO GIRLS
Chaeyoung chuckled lightly to herself.
Chaeyoung: You talk to me everyday
Dahyun: And I’ve never regretted anything more
Chaeyoung looked up to glare at Dahyun, but was cut off by a vibration.
Dahyun: Ok seriously though bro, I’ve known you and Jihyo since we were practically in diapers, I can’t talk to girls I don’t know! What do I even say?!?
Chaeyoung: I’m sure Sana would be more than willing to talk to you about any topic you want
Dahyun kicked Chaeyoung under the table.
Chaeyoung: OK OK, maybe start with Momo first, you’ve been making eyes at her since the french fry fight, she seems chill, a little calmer than Sana…….who you’ve also been making eyes at this whole night too
Chaeyoung: You know come to think of it, you should really be a little more discreet, your gay has been showing an awful lot tonight
Dahyun kicked Chaeyoung harder under the table, before abruptly standing up. “I’m going to go to the restroom,” she excused herself quietly, subtly kicking Chaeyoung once more, causing her to stand up as well. “I need to go too, I’ll come with you.” Somehow the bathroom happened to be empty, so Dahyun grabbed Chaeyoung by the collar of her shirt and threw her in. “Chae, I’m going to kill you!”
“There she is! I thought the Dahyun I knew and loved was gone.”
“OUCH! Would you stop kicking me!” “Then stop deserving it!” “Okay I’m sorry, I’ll behave,” Chaeyoung threw her hands up in surrender. “Seriously though, you need to calm down dude. You’re stiff as a board out there.” “You think I don't know that!? I’m nervous, they’re all really pretty, but I mean have you seen Momo and Sana? Oh my god.” Dahyun paced back and forth.
“Momo has been sending me little smiles and why is Sana flirting with me so much, can’t she see I'm fragile!” Chaeyoung chuckled, grabbing Dahyun’s shoulders to stop her. “Dubu, everyone that meets you loves you, just be yourself. You’re great at making people laugh. Just do what you would in any other conversation.” “But that’s the problem! My mind is going blank, nothing is going on up here,” Dahyun gestured to her head. “Well I could have told you tha-OUCH!”
Chaeyoung cradled her foot, hopping on the other. “New plan. I give you a topic and you see if you can play off it until you get comfortable with whoever you're talking to.” Dahyun thought it over for a minute, not a bad plan. “So what’s my topic?” Dahyun asked curiously. “Piano, you can talk about it for hours. You have talked about it for hours. Just ask what their major is and they’ll ask you what yours is and you can go on a tangent. Problem solved!”
Dahyun mulled over her words for a good minute. She did usually have to make herself shut up when she talked about the piano. There was just so much to talk about, between the composition and arrangements, to the history behind some of the greatest pieces she knows. “But what if they think I'm boring,” Dahyun said in a small voice, showing a shred of one of her insecurities. She found it interesting, but what if they thought she was dull . It wouldn’t be the first time. Chaeyoung gave her a soft smile, “Dahyun, you're the farthest thing from boring i've ever seen in my life. Everyone has something they like and could go on about for days, you know how I am with art.” They shared a look.
“It’s usually cute to hear someone ramble on about their special interest, they get all excited. Besides, it’s just a stepping stone to help you get more comfortable with the conversation. When you think of something you can bridge off of, go to another topic. Like,” Chaeyoung thought for a moment. “This song is so much fun to play. You know, it was playing in the background when I was 5 and jumping on our trampoline and thought I could fly, so I intentionally jumped off and broke my collarbone. Then they’ll be like, what kind of person purposefully jumps off a trampoline? ” Chaeyoung said in a funny voice, making Dahyun crack a smile.
“In my defense, I really thought I could fly.” “I did too, that's why I told you to do it.” They both looked at each other before bursting into laughter. “Jihyo almost killed us when she found out what happened.” They both snickered. “Hey speaking of Jihyo, have you seen her tonight?” Dahyun questioned. “Yeah, what’s up with that? It’s so weird to see her like,” Chaeyoung did a vague gesture unsure how to vocalize what was wrong.
“She’s not taking the lead on everything like she always does?” Dahyun supplied. “Yeah! She’s all awkward, when’s the last time you saw awkward Jihyo?” They both paused trying to think of a time when the self assured god wasn’t…well, so self assured. “Honestly the only thing I can think of is when her mom guilt tripped her into wearing that awful dress to prom.” “But even then, she walked like she owned it despite looking like she stepped out of a Crest commercial.” “ Seriously, why did that thing make her look like a bulky tube of toothpaste?” They shuddered at the memory.
“Do you think we should ask her what's wrong?” Dahyun wondered. Chaeyoung shook her head. “You know how closed off she gets when she’s dealing with stuff. If it continues to be a problem, yeah we should ask, but this is the first time this has happened. Maybe she needs to work through it?” Chaeyoung said. Pushing usually wasn’t what Jihyo needed, sometimes she pushed back, sometimes she curled into herself. Most of the time she would come to them when she was ready to talk about it.
“Okay, we should probably get back before they think something was holding us up,” Chaeyoung raised an eyebrow gesturing to the toilet. A mortified expression quickly took over Dayhun’s face, kicking the inquisitive one aside. She grabbed Chaeyoung’s arm pulling her out of the bathroom.
When they stepped out, they almost immediately ran into Momo. “Oh hey,” Chaeyoung said while Dahyun did a small wave. “Hey! I’m glad I ran into you guys, I offered to get more drinks for the table, but the more I started thinking about it, the more I realized how few hands I have to bring everything up,” Momo sheepishly stated, looking between the pair. Chaeyoung smirked.
“Dahyun, why don’t you help Momo, I have something I need to ask Jihyo real quick,” Chaeyoung quickly exited. Dahyun turned pale…well, paler than normal. Momo turned away from Chaeyoung, shooting a friendly smile at Dahyun that made her relax a little bit. Only a little bit.
Dahyun trailed behind Momo, remembering their bathroom conversation. Momo was nice, she could talk to her. She mentally prepared herself before broaching the subject. “S-so, what’s your major?” Dahyun asked in the tiniest voice she was able to force out of herself. She honestly wasn’t sure Momo had even heard her until she glanced back at her with the kindest eyes Dahyun had ever seen.
Momo internally awed when she heard the question. She could tell the girl was nervous from her demeanor and it endeared Momo, she looked so cute. She told the bartender what she wanted and turned back to Dahyun. “I’m trying to get my Culinary Arts Degree with Jeongyeon. It may not look like it, but I can make a mean cookie.” Momo replied, trying to make Dahyun comfortable. It seemed to work when a small smile broke out on her face. “That’s really cool, I bet they taste great,” Dahyun scrambled her mind trying to build on the conversation. After a brief pause she added, “I-I wish I could, I burnt the only batch I’ve ever tried to make. It basically turned into a hockey puck.” She internally facepalmed, who can’t make a simple cookie? Why had she voluntarily admitted that? She only had a second to beat herself up before she heard a giggle.
“Maybe I can help you make an edible batch sometime, it isn’t too hard when you have a five star chef at your disposal,” Momo said with fake arrogance, popping the collar of her shirt, making Dahyun laugh. “So what are you studying?” Momo questioned as she started handing Dahyun some drinks, grabbing a few herself to carry back. “I'm a music major, I play piano. I’m trying to become a music therapist.” Dahyun said, relaxing a little the more they talked. It was becoming very apparent how nice Momo was, it was almost like she was encouraging Dahyun to take her time and keep going. “Oh wow, you must be really smart. I tried to learn the piano one time. I didn’t go far, the coordination just wasn't there. I think my brain melted a little when I tried to play with both hands at the same time. My dad looked like he wanted to pull his hair out by the end of our practice,” Momo chuckled as they walked back to the table.
Dahyuns smile brightened at hearing that, “I get it! I had the same issue when I first started. I have tiny hands so I had a hard time reaching the keys too. I remember crying to my mom about it and she said the only way to get them to grow was to eat all my veggies. She said the same thing about my height, you can see how well that went,” Dahyun mumbled the last bit to herself and jumped at the loud laugh Momo let out.
Am I funny? She’s laughing at my jokes! I’m doing it!
The thought made Dahyun grin from ear to ear, as Momo continued laughing. Chaeyoung noticed as they got closer and shot Dahyun an encouraging smile. Momo glanced around as they sat the drinks down. “ Where’s Jeong,” Momo asked Tzuyu. Tzuyu pointed at a bent down figure in front of the karaoke machine. Momo’s jaw dropped.
“No.”
“Yes.”
“No!”
“Yes,” Tzuyu laughed as Momo looked between her and Jeongyeon. “How did that happen, she never sings with me!” Momo whined. “Nayeon started arguing with her. One thing led to another and now they’re battling each other.” Momo was astonished, she looked over to Jeongyeons now empty seat. Just as she did that, Dahyun made a move to go back to her seat next to Chaeyoung. Momo softened. “Hey, thanks for the help. Do you maybe wanna sit by me, since Jeongyeon is a bit busy at the moment?” Momo questioned a little shyly. Dahyun stood wide eyed until Jihyo gave her a slight encouraging push. “Y-yeah, no, y-yeah sure,” Dahyun stuttered, moving to Jeongyeon’s seat beside Momo.
Sana, who was watching the exchange, leaned over to Mina. “Oh my god they’re so cute. Wow. Oh my god, I wanna pinch their cheeks and pull them into my lap and cuddle them oh my god,” Sana whisper-squealed into Mina’s ear. “Did you see how shy they were getting, that was so cute,” Sana slightly shook Mina. Mina giggled behind her hand at Sana’s words.
“You're going down.” A voice abruptly took the attention away from the table and directed them toward the front. Jeongyeon grabbed her microphone, “You’ll be eating those words in a minute.” “How drunk are they?” Dahyun asked no one in particular. “They started downing shots a little bit ago, I think it’s starting to kick in,” Jihyo pitched in.
Jihyo took a deep breath, she could do this. She’s had a few drinks, she's relaxed a little bit. Tzuyu may be intimidating, but she isn't rude. If anything she seems more approachable tonight, laughing at a couple jokes and smiling more than Jihyo has ever seen. She mustered up her courage that always seemed to disappear around Tzuyu and leaned slightly over. “How competitive is Jeongyeon?” Jihyo asked, thanking the gods that her voice didn’t crack.
Tzuyu seemed to freeze for a second, probably because it’s the first time tonight Jihyo spoke directly to her. The first time she actually said a word to her. “She can get pretty competitive, why?” Tzuyu questioned, looking at Jihyo.
Keep going, pretend you’re not looking directly into her eyes.
Jihyo cleared her throat. “Nayeon’s extremely competitive.” Tzuyu seemed to get her point, raising an eyebrow. “Well this might be a pretty fun match to watch then,” Tzuyu commented, looking at the two staring each other down up front.
“It’s a shame I have to embarrass you so soon after we’ve met, but to be honest you deserve it for saying brownies beat cookies,” Nayeon says with disgust. “You only say that because you’ve never tried my brownies! I swear, the moment you try one, you’ll be begging me for the recipe,” Jeongyeon said cockily. “I only beg after the 3rd date,” Nayeon deadpanned. Sana let out a snort from her seat, thoroughly entertained. Jeongyeon turned toward Momo and Tzuyu, eyes bouncing between them “Someone hold me back.” Suddenly music started to play behind her and she stumbled over her words to catch up with the song that prematurely started. Jeongyeon sent a look of disdain to a smirking Nayeon, the obvious culprit to her current struggle.
Once she caught up with the beat, she knew she had to do something to make her performance memorable. She needed to beat Nayeon, but was off to a rocky start, so she considered her options. Sexy definitely wasn’t for her, so she went with the next best thing to move a crowd.
“Why is she doing the robot,” Chaeyoung said between fits of laughter. Her eyes disappearing as her head fell back, she couldn’t catch her breath as Jeongyeon quickly switched to attempting the caterpillar, keyword attempting . A group of frat boys pumped their fists, encouraging her. To top it off, she was still singing to the song, microphone in one hand, voice breaking from the movement. “I think the real question is why is she doing that to Eye of the Tiger ,” Jihyo said, eyes wide in horror at what she was witnessing.
Momo looked at Tzuyu, pointing to Jeongyeon, “And I’m supposed to be the one that needs a babysitter?” “To be fair, you’ve done the scuba dance drunk in a pink cowboy hat before, so I feel like this just makes you even,” Tzuyu said, way too casually for everyone at the tables liking. Apparently this happens with them a lot, noted. Tzuyu looked at Momo, “You know, normally you’re drunk by now and I’m having to take care of both of you. What’s going on?”
“Maybe I’m just maturing, being a sensible adult you know?” Momo said tilting her chin up with a proud smile on her face. Tzuyu scrutinized her for a second, going through scenarios in her mind. “Do you have something due or practice?” Tzuyu shot Momo a knowing look. “Practice. I forgot we had to switch it to tomorrow morning so I can’t get drunk,” Momo slumped in defeat.
“Wow, great performance cheater. Since when were we adding choreography to our songs? We never agreed to that!” Nayeon complained once Jeongyeon finished her song. “Oh I’m the cheater? You're the one that started the song early, too scared I would beat you?” Jeongyeon accused between panting breaths, visibly spent from rolling around. “I was just trying to be a good samaritan and get your song over with as fast as possible so our audience didn’t have to suffer.” Nayeon walked over to the karaoke machine to hit a few buttons.
“You know this just means Nayeon is going to try to one up her by doing some kind of performance right?” Mina said in concern, looking toward Sana. “Oh I’m counting on it,” Sana happily replied. She was having the time of her life, a drunk Nayeon, was a wildcard that made their nights out unpredictably fun. Sana put her hands together to boost her voice before yelling, “Strip!” when Like a Virgin , started playing. Mina reached over, pushing her hands over Sana’s mouth, effectively silencing her. However, it was too late, Sana already planted an idea in Nayeon's head. Sure, she couldn’t fully strip, they were in public after all, but she did have a few things on and if there was one thing Nayeon knew how to do, it was put on a show.
Nayeon sang the song with powerful vocals, gazing seductively at her audience. Her hand going behind her head to free her hair from its ponytail. She ran a hand through her silky locks, swaying her hips while she sang the lyrics. Sana bounced in her seat, clapping while Mina still held her hand firmly over her mouth. Nayeon slowly started unzipping her coat. Mina’s eyes widened as she watched, unable to look away. Mina knew Nayeon wasn’t going to actually strip in front of all these people, but that didn’t stop her from swallowing hard when Nayeon started taking her jacket off.
Nayeon looked between the group until her eyes fell upon Mina, who in turn, froze. Nayeon sauntered over, their eye contact unbreaking. Nayeon slid her jacket around Mina as best she could with only one hand to work with. She winked before turning around, walking back to the front. Mina was still frozen in place, unable to process what just happened as she flushed red across her cheeks and up her neck.
Sana took advantage of her friend's temporary malfunction and pulled the hands from her face. She whistled as loud as she could, yelling, “Take it off!” This snapped Mina back into action, her palms covering Sana’s mouth once again while Nayeon finished the last lines of the song.
When Nayeon was done, she smirked and turned to Jeongyeon, “I won.” Jeongyeon scoffed, “Like hell you won! Did you see my performance, everyone's jaws were dropped! One guy choked on his burger!”
“I don’t think that's a good thing,” Dahyun muttered under her breath. Momo stifled a laugh at her words, she couldn’t agree more. Jeongyeon and Nayeon bickered for a few minutes until Jihyo piped in. “Your performances were so different, I don’t think it's even possible to compare them. I’m pretty sure we have to call this a tie.” Their eyes danced between Jihyo and each other, before Nayeon sighed. Jeongyeon grumbled and released a disappointed,” Fine.” Jeongyeon shuffled defeatedly to the table, locating an empty seat next to Chaeyoung to sit in. However, before she managed to sit, Momo quickly stood up.
“Oh no you don’t, I’ve been waiting for years to do a duet with you. Get your ass over here.” Momo speed walked over to Jeongyeon, yanking her back to the machine. Nayeon sat next to Mina, resting her head on her shoulder. “I won right?” Nayeon mumbled, looking up as Mina looked down at her. A small smile spread across Mina’s face. “Of course you did,” Mina tilted her head slightly, resting her own head atop of Nayeon’s. Nayeon melted into her, content and happy.
Tzuyu leaned over toward Jihyo when she noticed her watching the scene too. “They’re really cute together, I wonder how long they’ve been dating,” Tzuyu whispered. Jihyo, now having regained her confidence from the alcohol and definitely a bit drunk, looked at Tzuyu with glossed over eyes. “Oh, those two aren’t dating.” Tzuyu’s eyes widened in shock, earning a grin from Jihyo. “I know right! I’ve never met Mina before tonight and totally would have thought the same thing, had I not met Nayeon’s boyfriend already.” “But, but they’re so sweet together,” Tzuyu said, dumbfounded.
Jihyo nodded, looking back at Mina and Nayeon who were engaged in a conversation with Chaeyoung, still with Nayeon’s head resting on her shoulder. “What’s even more strange is I don’t think I’ve ever seen Nayeon cuddled up with her boyfriend like she is with Mina now. They’re usually at eachothers throats every time I've been around them,” Jihyo commented, sort of confused the more she thought about the situation. Tzuyu hummed, a bit perplexed, but hey, it wasn’t her life and she didn’t have all the details so who was she to judge?
Across the table Sana’s eyes trailed from the two performing a duet to the dark haired girl beside her. She was watching the performance quietly in her seat. Sana glanced at her friend’s, finding them preoccupied with Chaeyoung and scooted her chair closer to Dahyun. She leaned over, gaining her attention before saying, “They’re pretty good aren’t they?” Dayhun looked a little bit like a deer caught in headlights as she replied, “Y-yeah their voices blend well.” Sana brightened, having finally gotten a few words out of the girl that had only offered shy nods to her up until this point. Well, shy nods and many blushes. This girl definitely wasn’t used to people flirting with her, which baffled Sana. Who wouldn’t want to flirt with her? She had the cutest puffed out cheeks and a shy expression perched upon her face with her brows slightly furrowed like she was trying to come up with something to say. She was the epitome of adorable.
Thinking about it more, Sana wondered if maybe she should tone down her flirting a little with her. She obviously was having a little trouble with talking to her at the moment. Maybe she should try a little bit more of a warmer approach?
With that in mind, Sana offered her a gentle smile. “So, I can’t say I’ve seen you around campus, are you a Junior, Sophomore, Freshman?” Sana trailed off. “I’m a Sophomore,” Dahyun timidly replied. “What about you?” Dahyun quietly asked after a brief pause.
“Junior! Actually we’re all Junior’s,” Sana said, motioning over to Nayeon and Mina. “Nayeon’s a year older than us, but luckily she got help back,” Dahyun raised her eyebrows. “Wait, I didn’t mean for it to come out like that,” Sana giggled. “I just meant I'm glad we can all be in the same year you know? It wouldn’t be the same without her,” Sana said, thankful Nayeon didn’t care if people knew she got held back, because she really hadn’t meant for her words to come out that way.
Dahyun let out a small smile at her rambling. She still was a little nervous, but Sana seemed to be a bit of a talker. She decided maybe it would be best to let Sana do most of the talking until she calmed down a little. Bearing that in mind, she tried to ask another question. “How long have you known them?” “Forever! Okay well not forever, but it feels like it.” Sana leaned back in her chair thinking back to when they first met. “Mina and I are both from Japan, technically she's my cousin, but her mom passed away when she was a baby and her dad isn’t around. So, my family took her in, she’s basically my sister,” Sana said with a soft smile, love radiating from her words. It made Dahyun soften at how much she clearly cherished her relationship with Mina.
“You guys are from Japan?” Momo asked, having just walked over to return to her seat between Sana and Dahyun. She looked between the two, “Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt or like eavesdrop or anything.” “No, it's fine! Yeah, Mina and I are from Japan, we came here when we were around 9 years old I think?” Sana said, trying to remember. Momo sat down excitedly, “That’s so cool, me too! Well, I mean, I came over when I was like 5 or so, but yeah, I'm Japanese too!” Dahyun looked between the two who looked giddy at the revelation with a smile. It was even more endearing how they both started doing a little happy dance shortly after.
Sana suddenly paused, “Oh wait I still have to tell you guys how we met Nayeon!” She clapped her hands together. “So! We didn’t know how to speak Korean that well. We tried to learn as fast as we could, but my dad was moving here for work and it all happened really quickly. It was during summer break before school started back up and Mina and I were playing at a park near our house. We were talking to each other in Japanese while I pushed Mina on one of the swings. There was a girl on the swing next to us, but like I said, we couldn’t speak Korean very well, so we just kinda kept to ourselves.”
“A group of boys came over, yelling something at us so we stopped swinging and were super confused about what was going on until they started kicking a bunch of dirt at us.” Momo and Dahyun frowned. “We didn’t know what was going on or if we did something wrong and all the sudden the girl swinging next to us put her feet out and twisted the seat a bit and bam! She swung the swing full force into the boy closest to us. Her feet slammed into his shins and he just fell down crying like a baby,” Sana laugh’s at the memory while Momo and Dahyun smile at the thought of him getting kicked in the shins.
“That was Nayeon?” Dahyun guessed. “Yep!” Sana beamed. “She jumped off right after and started screaming at them. They all left with the crying kid and Nayeon helped us brush some of the dirt off. Apparently they thought we were stupid for not speaking Korean and wanted us to go back home. Nayeon told them to get lost before she knocked their teeth out. After seeing what she did to that one boy, they believed her. She offered to help us with our Korean and we started going to her house everyday. Then when it was time to go to school, Nayeon helped us around, we’ve been together ever since.” Sana fondly glanced at Nayeon. Sure they bickered, but Nayeons like her partner in crime. Sana and Nayeon find the trouble and Mina cleans up the trouble. It’s a good system. Mina balances the two out while they bring some well needed chaos to her life.
“That’s sweet, I’m glad you guys had Nayeon to help you. It’s scary being in a new place and not knowing anything,” Momo said sincerely. Dahyun turned a little to Momo. “Did you have issues too, when you moved here?” Dahyun asked, making Sana turn curiously to Momo as well. “Honestly, since I was so young I don’t remember a whole bunch about when we first moved here. I remember being frustrated when I was trying to learn the language, but no one ever bullied me. I was just kinda, there, in school if you know what I mean,” Momo shrugged. “I was homeschooled for a while before my parents finally put me into public school. At that point, I was fine at speaking Korean, but I didn’t know anyone really, so I spent a lot of time in my favorite teachers room,” Momo brightened considerably.
“She taught basic skills like sewing and cooking to us so she had this huge kitchen set up. She taught me how to make the best french toast you’ve ever had. Oh and around Christmas time, we spent weeks making loads of ginger bread cookies, trying to find out what recipe made the best tasting ones,” Momo rambled happily, her grin stretching from ear to ear clearly reliving some of her best memories. Sana and Dahyun looked at each other and shared a soft smile, both obviously finding Momo’s story and smile incredibly endearing.
===
Until the early hours of the morning, the group bonded. Everyone was talking to everyone and each person took a turn on the karaoke machine, even the more timid members were forced by their way too drunk and outgoing friends to take a turn. Luckily half of them weren’t going to remember much of it given how drunk they were.
“This night has been one of the best nights of my life,” Nayeon sniffled. “I love you, I would die for every single one of you,” she pointed to each individual person. “I would let you,” Jeongyeon sniffled as well, a small tear rolling down her face. Mina and Tzuyu shared a look, “Okay guys, why don’t we get you ready to go,” Tzuyu said, grabbing a few jackets and handing them out to their owners. Mina cleaned off the table while the drunks at the table bonded.
“I just- it feels like we have a connection,” Chaeyoung said, putting her hand on Jeongyeons chest, over her heart. “I feel it too,” Jihyo said, also putting her hand over Jeongyeons heart. “We should go on a trip together!” “Oh my god yes! We could like, go to Mexico or something. Have you ever had taco’s? We could get some there!” Chaeyoung said bursting with excitement. “Why can’t the taco’s come to us, why do we have to go all the way there to get them,” Nayeon shed a tear, distraught at the current lack of taco’s in her vicinity.
Momo held in her laugh, careful not to wake the sleeping girl with her head resting on her shoulder. Sana, who was a little drunk, but definitely not as bad as the others, laid her head on Momo’s shoulder while listening to one of Jihyo’s stories. Momo didn’t think anything of it after seeing her gradually become more clingy as the night went on.
When a funny joke was made, she looked to see her reaction, only to find her in a soft slumber. Momo looked over to Dahyun who noticed what had happened as well. “Doesn’t she look cute? Look at how puffed out her cheeks are,” Momo pointed out, glancing back down to Sana. “She looks like a little hamster, it’s adorable,” Dahyun said, captivated by the sleeping beauty just as much as Momo.
Dahyun and Momo spent the remaining time together, talking about anything and everything. Words flowed so easily between them now. Dahyun had started to come out of her shell as the night went on, clearly more comfortable with these new people she was definitely on the road to becoming friends with. Momo and Sana just had such inviting personalities. Momo was a relaxed goofball, who made Dahyun calm. Sana was a cheerful energetic puppy, who made Dahyun feel cherished. She hoped she made them feel a faction of how accepted they made her feel tonight.
When everyone decided it was time to start rallying up all the drunks, Dahyun excused herself to the bathroom. Her mind wandered off to revisit the fun they had tonight. She didn’t want it to end. Not just with Momo and Sana, but everyone else as well. The three groups just meshed well with one another, it was like they had known each other for years. Jeongyeon and Nayeon bickered, but you could tell they were enjoying it. Chaeyoung and Mina talked amongst themselves, finding common ground in video games. Dahyun had even seen Tzuyu and Jihyo whispering back and forth a couple times with smiles plastered across their faces.
She wanted everyone to hang out again, but she didn’t know how to bring the topic up. Half of them were drunk, the others were tending to the drunks. The best people to ask were probably Momo and Sana, since all three of them were a part of a different group. But what if they didn’t want to hang out again? What if it was just one drunken fun night with a bunch of strangers? What if they wanted to be friends with each other, but not with her? They had so much to offer after all, what could she offer them? She wasn’t sure. Dahyun shook her head, clearing her thoughts while washing her hands.
She didn’t need to doubt herself, they were smiling and laughing at her jokes. Why wouldn’t they want to be friends? She groaned. Why did her mind have to make everything so confusing? A normal person would be able to walk over to both of them and ask for their number’s to hang out again, after all, when would she see them again if she didn’t do that? She hadn’t seen them around campus or anywhere else up to this point, so her odds of randomly running into them seem quite low.
Okay, I’m just gonna go do it, I’m gonna ask for their numbers.
She looked in the mirror, gave herself a nod and walked out of the restroom. The bar was much less crowded now with most people already gone, only a couple people remained, scattered around. Her eyes landed on a questioning sight as she walked up to their table.
“I’m walking on sunshine, woahhh, I’m walking on sunshine, woahhh.” Chaeyoung, Jeongyeon, Nayeon, and Jihyo stood side by side holding onto each other's shoulders, swaying from side to side, eyes closed as they sang. Dahyun spun around, her eyes landing on Momo as she lifted a questioning eyebrow.
“I don’t think anyone knows what's going on right now, your guess is as good as mine.” Her eyes drifted over to a sleeping Sana, Momo looked down. “It’s probably time to wake her up don’t you think?” “Yeah, it’ll give her a second to get her bearings while we get everyone ready to go,” Dahyun said, feeling slightly bad that they had to wake Sana when she looked so content.
“Sana,” Momo said quietly, lightly shaking the girl a little. Sana hummed, burrowing deeper into Momo’s shoulder. Dahyun melted at the sight, she looked so cute. “Hey, you have to get up, everyones leaving for the night,” Momo whispered, her soft eyes trained on Sana. “Do I have to? You're really comfy,” Sana mumbled, making Momo flush a little. Sana’s eyes fluttered open as she slowly sat up. She rubbed her eyes, looking around. “I guess the fun’s over huh?” Sana pouted. She looked at the two for a moment before holding her hands out. “Let me have your phones.” Dahyun and Momo, albeit a little confused, obliged and handed over their phones.
“We're doing this again,” she said seriously while putting her number into their phones, then sending a heart emoji so she had both their numbers as well. She looked up, giving them a tired smile. “You guys can give me everyone's numbers and we can start a group chat,” she said before standing up and stretching.
Oh thank god I didn’t have to ask for their numbers.
Sana looked to the side, seeing Mina trying to pry Nayeon away from the others who were still singing and swaying. “I’ll see you around okay?” Sana said sweetly, her eyes darting between the two. They nodded and Sana smiled at them once more before going over to rescue Mina.
“But, why can’t they come home with us,” Nayeon cried into Mina’s shoulder as the younger girl patted her head. “Yeah why can't we,” Jeongyeon said, crying into Nayeon's back, holding her from behind. “I’m nothing without you, don’t leave me,” Jihyo added, hugging the duo with Chaeyoung following closely behind, latching on as well. “They can’t separate us if we hold on tight enough,” Chaeyoung chimed in, making everyone strengthen their grip on one another. Mina looked at Sana with pleading eyes. Sana turned around to the three coherent people behind her. “Okay everyone get your designated drunk person and pull.”
Tzuyu walked over with Momo toward Jeongyeon, prying her hands off Nayeon and the others hands off her. Dayhun struggled, having one idiot more than the other pairings. Why had she encouraged Jihyo to get drunk again? Oh yeah, all the crushing responsibility she has. Dahyun sighed.
Once Jeongyeon was detached from everyone, it got easier to manage. Nayeon clung to Mina. Chaeyoung and Jihyo didn’t have anyone to attach themselves to, so they turned to Dahyun in despair. “Why would you separate us? I can’t live without them.” Dahyun consoled Chaeyoung as Jihyo whined on her shoulder, hugging her tight. “You’ll see them again soon, I promise,” Dahyun said, dragging them towards the exit, sparing one last glance Momo and Sana’s way before walking through the door.
“We’re like twins, you know? You can’t separate twins,” Nayeon cried. “Guess she’s never watched The Parent Trap,” Sana commented. Mina shushed her, running her hands through Nayeon’s hair as they walked towards their dorm. Sana turned to her, “You sure you don’t need any help?” Mina shook her head, “No, we’ll be fine, she’ll just cry for a little bit and ask for some ramen when we get home.” “There’s ramen?” Nayeon lifted her head, her reddened eyes looking hopeful. “Ton’s of ramen, you can have some after you change into your pajamas. Okay?” Nayeon nuzzled back between Mina's neck and shoulder, nodding. “Night, good luck!” Sana waved, parting ways with the pair to go to her own dorm.
When Mina arrived at the door, it was a mission in itself just prying Nayeon off to get her keys out of her pocket, the older girl’s body completely blocking the way. After finally managing to get the door open, she got to work, grabbing both of them clothes to sleep in, then helped Nayeon take off her makeup, before preparing her a bowl of ramen. She didn’t mind though, Nayeon’s eyes lighting up in pure joy at seeing the noodles was a reward in itself.
Mina’s eyes were starting to droop as she settled Nayeon into bed. “Wait,” Nayeon grabbed Mina’s hand as she started to walk away. “Can we,” Nayeon asked in a quiet voice with big, hopeful eyes. She melted a little inside. How could she say no to her? It was physically impossible. Mina nodded, making Nayeon spring into action, quickly pulling her covers back and scooting to the side. Mina settled onto the bed next to Nayeon, who cuddled up next to her, throwing her arms around her. She hugged her like she never wanted her to leave, which, if she was being honest with herself, she didn’t.