You're My Escape[S.Coups FF]✅ - Chapter 2: Chapter 2

As the morning sun filtered through the curtains, Yoon Ara's eyes fluttered open, greeted by the promise of a new day. Stretching languidly, she felt the excitement bubbling within her—a typical weekday tinged with the anticipation of university life and the warmth of familiar routines. With practiced ease, she began her morning rituals, the soft melody of her favorite playlist providing a soothing backdrop as she moved about her room. As she got ready, meticulously choosing her outfit and gathering her essentials, Ara's mind buzzed with plans and possibilities, unaware of the unexpected twists fate had in store for her.
As Ara descended the stairs, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon greeted her, enveloping her in a comforting embrace. The morning light streamed through the kitchen window, casting a golden glow over the cozy space. Ara's mother, clad in a soft floral apron, stood at the stove, humming a gentle tune as she tended to the breakfast spread.
"Good morning, sweetie," her mother greeted, turning to face Ara with a warm smile. "Your brother left early for basketball practice today. He didn't want to miss his morning routine before the big match."
Ara nodded, a hint of pride swelling in her chest at the mention of Jeonghan's dedication. She moved to the table, where a spread of freshly baked pastries, ripe fruits, and steaming dishes awaited her. Taking a seat, she eagerly dug into her meal, savoring each bite as the flavors danced on her palate.
Her mother, ever the nurturing presence, sat across from her, pouring a cup of coffee and offering gentle words of encouragement. "Make sure to eat well, dear. You have a long day ahead at the university."
As Ara savored her breakfast, she couldn't shake the feeling of excitement tinged with curiosity. What adventures awaited her today? Little did she know, the day held surprises that would unfold with each passing moment, reshaping her world in unexpected ways.
Ara finished her breakfast and was just about to grab her bag when she heard a car honk outside. Curious, she headed to the door and peeked out to see Mingyu, her best friend, waving at her from his car.
"Yaaaaa, just come fast! We're getting late, you idiot!" Mingyu called out, a playful grin on his face.
Ara chuckled and hurried over, opening the car door and sliding into the passenger seat. "Why did you even come to pick me up if you're getting late?" she teased, buckling her seatbelt.
Mingyu rolled his eyes, but his smile remained. "Oh, Jeonghan hyung called me to pick you up since he had practice early this morning."
Ara's expression softened into an understanding "O" as she nodded. "That makes sense. Thanks for coming to get me."
"No problem," Mingyu replied, starting the car. "Now, let's get to college before we're actually late."
As they drove off, the familiar banter between them filled the car, setting a lighthearted tone for the day ahead.
At University
After reaching college, Mingyu parked the car, and both he and Ara got out. The campus was already buzzing with students hurrying to their classes. As they made their way across the parking lot, Jungkook spotted them and waved enthusiastically at Ara before jogging over to join them.
"Hey, Ara! Hey, Mingyu!" Jungkook greeted, falling into step beside them. The trio had been close friends since middle school, their bond strengthened over the years.
"Hey, Jungkook," Ara replied with a smile. "Ready for another day of fun?"
"Always," Jungkook grinned.
As they walked together towards the main building, their path took them past the basketball court. Ara's eyes lit up when she saw Jeonghan practicing with his team, his focus and athleticism evident in every move. She couldn't resist the urge to go closer, and without a word, she veered towards the court, her friends following her lead.
"Looks like your brother's in the zone," Mingyu remarked, watching Jeonghan make a perfect shot.
Ara nodded, a proud smile spreading across her face. "Yeah, he always is."
They reached the edge of the court, and Ara waved to catch Jeonghan's attention. He noticed her and flashed a quick, appreciative smile .The team took a break, and Jeonghan jogged over to the trio with a smile on his face.
"Thanks for picking up Ara, Mingyu," he said, giving his friend a grateful nod.
"No worries, hyung," Mingyu replied with a casual wave.
Jeonghan then turned towards the sidelines and called out, "Yaa, Coups, can you pass me the towel, please?"
Seungcheol (S.Coups), who had been sitting nearby, stood up and grabbed the towel. "Here," he said, handing it to Jeonghan. As he did, his gaze shifted to Ara, and their eyes met briefly, a flicker of something unspoken passing between them.
Ara felt a slight flutter in her chest but maintained her composure, smiling politely. "Hi, Seungcheol oppa," she greeted warmly.
"Hey, Ara," Seungcheol responded, his voice softening a bit as he acknowledged her.
Jeonghan, oblivious to the subtle exchange, wiped the sweat from his forehead with the towel.
"You guys sticking around to watch the match today?" he asked.
"Yeah, we thought we'd cheer you on," Jungkook chimed in, grinning.
"Great, I could use the support," Jeonghan laughed, appreciating their presence. "We'll get back to practice soon, but make sure to attend your classes too."
Ara's thoughts lingered on Seungcheol's brief look, wondering if she had imagined the intensity behind it. Meanwhile, Seungcheol couldn't help but steal a few more glances in her direction, his feelings for her stirring quietly within him.
As the trio left the basketball court and headed to their classe scoups thoughts lingered on Ara. He couldn't shake the image of her smiling face and the way their eyes had met earlier, sending a thrill through him that he couldn't ignore.
Meanwhile, in her class, Ara found it hard to concentrate. Her mind kept drifting back to Seungcheol and how cute he looked today. She was lost in a daydream about him, replaying their brief interaction and imagining scenarios where they could be together.
Suddenly, a light slap on the back of her head jolted her out of her reverie.
"Yaa, Yoon Ara, where are you lost?" Jungkook's voice was playful but insistent.
Mingyu chuckled from the seat next to her.
"Yaa, Jungkook, she must be dreaming about her future husband, Choi Seungcheol."
Ara's eyes widened, and she felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment.
"Yaaaa, you both stop it!" she exclaimed, trying to sound stern but failing to hide her smile.
Ignoring their teasing laughter, Ara quickly gathered her things and left for her next class, her heart pounding. Jungkook and Mingyu continued to chuckle behind her, sharing a knowing look.
As she walked down the hallway, Ara couldn't help but smile to herself. Despite their teasing, the idea of Seungcheol being her future husband was a sweet, tantalizing thought that she carried with her throughout the rest of the day.
Mingyu and Jungkook sauntered into the dance class, spotting Ara sitting near the front. With mischievous grins, they plopped down beside her, immediately picking up where they had left off.
"So, Ara," Mingyu started, nudging her playfully, "still dreaming about Seungcheol?"Jungkook joined in, laughing. "Yeah, you looked pretty lost in thought earlier. Was he giving you that smoldering look again?"
"Yaa, you two need to stop!" Ara protested, her face turning a light shade of pink. She tried to focus on her dance notes, but their teasing was relentless.
Just then, the teacher walked into the hall, commanding the attention of the class. "Good morning, everyone," she vegan. "Today, I have an exciting announcement. We will be working on a couple project for your next assignment. Each pair will perform a dance, and the couple who earns the highest score will receive top marks in their interims."
Ara, who was already a top grader, felt a surge of competitiveness and excitement. She glanced at Mingyu and Jungkook, assuming one of them would naturally partner with her. They exchanged knowing looks, seemingly on the same page.However, the teacher continued,
"To make this more interesting, we will be assigning partners randomly. There are chits in total for 40 students. Each chit has a number, and those who draw the same number will be partners
"The room buzzed with anticipation as the teacher held up a small basket filled with folded chits. "Please come forward one by one and draw your number."One by one, the students approached the basket, drawing their chits and unfolding them to reveal their numbers. Ara's heart raced with each step closer to her turn. She watched as Mingyu and Jungkook took their chits, each giving her an encouraging smile.
Finally, it was her turn. With a deep breath, she reached into the basket and pulled out a chit, unfolding it to reveal the number 8. She looked around the room, scanning for whoever might hold the matching number.Across the hall, Minghao (The8) unfolded his chit and saw the number 8. His eyes met Ara's, and a slow smile spread across his face.
Number 8, please come together," the teacher called out.Ara and Minghao walked toward each other, their gazes meeting with a mix of curiosity and determination.
Mingyu and Jungkook exchanged amused glances, stifling their amazement.As they stood side by side, Minghao gave Ara a reassuring smile.
"Looks like we're partners.""Yeah," Ara replied, her excitement mixing with a hint of nervousness. "Let's give it our best."Minghao nodded. "Absolutely. Let's work hard and win this."