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Chapter Text

Jihoon and Seungcheol had been inseparable long before they joined their current group, Seventeen. Their friendship was the bedrock of their lives, built on years of shared experiences and unwavering support. They laughed together, faced challenges side by side, and found comfort in each other's presence. Their bond was so strong that Seungcheol once joked on camera that they were "married," a playful remark that delighted their fans and solidified their close relationship in the eyes of the public.

However, as time went by, Jihoon began to notice subtle shifts in their dynamic. The easy camaraderie that once defined their relationship started to feel different, as if an invisible barrier had been erected between them.

Seungcheol, who used to always be there for Jihoon, offering support and extra attention, now seemed to be focusing more on Jeonghan. It wasn't just Jihoon's imagination; even the fans picked up on it. Seungcheol and Jeonghan's interactions became a hot topic among the fanbase. Their increasing closeness didn't go unnoticed, and soon enough, fans began to "ship" Seungcheol and Jeonghan, creating fan art, stories, and videos celebrating their apparent bond. This was a new development, something that had never happened before, and it left Jihoon feeling adrift and unsure.

Jihoon had always been a calm and composed person, never one to let his emotions get the better of him. He prided himself on his ability to remain unbothered by things that might upset others. Jealousy, in particular, was a feeling he had never truly experienced. At least, that was until Seungcheol started spending more time with Jeonghan. At first, Jihoon didn't think much of it. Seungcheol and Jeonghan had always been close, and their laughter was a common sound in their friend group. But as days turned into weeks, Jihoon couldn't help but notice the subtle changes. Seungcheol's attention seemed more focused on Jeonghan, their private jokes more frequent, their shared glances lingering a bit too long.

Every time Jihoon saw them laughing together, his heart ached a little. It was a strange, unfamiliar pain, like a knot tightening in his chest. He would catch himself staring at them, a frown forming on his face before he quickly looked away. He didn't want to feel this way. He didn't want to be the kind of person who let jealousy creep into his friendships. But it was way harder than he thought. Jihoon tried not to think about it too much. He buried himself in his music, spending long hours in the studio, hoping the melodies and rhythms would drown out his thoughts. But the more he tried to push it away, the harder it became to ignore.

Late at night, lying in bed, Jihoon would replay the day's events over and over in his mind. He questioned why it bothered him so much, why he couldn't just be happy for his friends. The jealousy gnawed at him, a constant, unrelenting presence. He felt a pang of guilt for feeling this way, but he couldn't help it. He missed the easy friendship he used to have with Seungcheol, and the thought of losing it was more painful than he ever imagined.

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One night, after an exhausting practice session, Jihoon decided to stay longer in the studio. He had unfinished song arrangements to work on, and the quiet solitude of the studio felt comforting. The rhythmic clicking of his keyboard was the only sound until the door creaked open, startling him. Seungcheol walked in with his characteristic warm smile.

"Jihoon-ah, you’re still here?" Seungcheol asked, his voice carrying a blend of surprise and concern.

"Yeah. There's still some work to finish," Jihoon replied curtly, keeping his eyes on the computer screen, trying to stay focused.

Seungcheol moved closer, pulling up a chair beside Jihoon and glancing at the computer screen. "You’re working too hard. Don't make yourself sick."

Jihoon sighed softly, the weight of unspoken words pressing on him. "I’m fine, hyung. Besides, this is our job, right?"

An awkward silence settled between them. Seungcheol seemed like he wanted to say something but hesitated, choosing his words carefully. Finally, he broke the silence. "Jihoonie, don’t you think… we haven't spent much time together lately? I… kinda miss how we used to be, you know…"

Jihoon's heart skipped a beat, but he forced a neutral expression, unwilling to reveal his feelings. "What do you mean?" he asked, feigning ignorance.

Seungcheol frowned slightly, his gaze earnest. “Well, you know, we used to hang out more often. Like just the two of us?"

Jihoon shrugged, still avoiding eye contact. "Hm… Yeah, we’ve all been busy, I guess?”

Seungcheol looked at him, disappointment flickering in his eyes. "Yeah, yeah, I guess so."

The conversation ended there, the room filled with a tension that neither of them could dispel. Jihoon felt the ache in his chest intensify, but he kept his focus on the screen, the notes and melodies blurring together. Seungcheol lingered for a moment longer, as if searching for something more to say, before quietly leaving the studio.

As the heavy door clicked shut behind Seungcheol, Jihoon felt a rush of conflicting emotions flood over him. He remained seated at the desk, his fingers hovering over the keyboard, suspended in a moment of introspection he hadn't anticipated.

The silence in the room seemed to deepen, as if the absence of Seungcheol's presence left behind a void that echoed with unspoken sentiments. Jihoon closed his eyes briefly, trying to steady his racing thoughts. He hadn't realized he was holding his breath until he exhaled slowly, the sound muffled by the quiet of the studio.

The weight of the unspoken words between them hung in the air like a dense fog, obscuring clarity and understanding. Jihoon couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in his chest, a blend of guilt and longing that he dared not acknowledge fully.

With Seungcheol's departure, Jihoon was left alone with his swirling thoughts. He ran a hand through his hair, a habitual gesture that betrayed his inner turmoil. Part of him wanted to chase after Seungcheol, to unravel the tangled threads of their conversation and lay bare the emotions that simmered beneath the surface. Yet another part of him recoiled from the prospect, fearing the vulnerability and the inevitable changes it might bring.

Jihoon let out a long, weary sigh, the sound echoing softly in the stillness of the room. He leaned back in his chair, staring blankly at the computer screen. He knew he had lied to Seungcheol, brushing off the ache in his heart with a casual dismissal. But the truth was, he wasn't ready to confront his own feelings, let alone navigate the complexities of Seungcheol's emotions.

The distance that had grown between them felt palpable, a tangible barrier that seemed insurmountable in that moment. Jihoon wondered how they had drifted so far apart, losing the easy intimacy they once shared.

Alone in the studio, surrounded by the remnants of their shared creativity, Jihoon was confronted with his own inner turmoil. He closed his eyes briefly, trying to steady his racing thoughts. He traced the lines of a melody on the screen, the notes blurred and indistinct, mirroring the blurred edges of his thoughts. The familiar melody of a song he had been working on played softly in the background, offering a bittersweet soundtrack to his introspection.

In that moment of solitude, Jihoon realized that facing his own emotions and navigating the complexities of his friendship with Seungcheol would require courage he wasn't sure he possessed. But for now, he allowed himself the temporary respite of avoiding the inevitable, letting the silence of the room envelop him as he grappled with his own uncertainties. The echoes of their conversation lingered, haunting him with unspoken questions and unresolved emotions. But for now, he remained seated, lost in the shadows of his own hesitation, unsure of what the next chapter would bring for him and Seungcheol.

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Days turned into weeks, Jihoon found himself inadvertently playing the role of a workaholic hermit, buried under piles of music sheets and studio equipment. He watched, half in awe and half in amusement, as Seungcheol and Jeonghan's friendship blossomed like a well-watered plant. The regret of not being honest that fateful night gnawed at him, but Jihoon was too stubborn to admit it, even to himself.

One evening, amidst the chaos of post-practice chatter, Jihoon received an unexpected visitor in the form of Jeonghan, looking like a concerned friend on a mission. "Jihoonie, mind if we have a quick chat?” Jeonghan's voice cut through the background noise like a comedy scene about to unfold.

Jihoon, intrigued by this sudden turn of events, nodded cautiously. They maneuvered their way to a quiet corner, the anticipation hanging in the air like a suspenseful plot twist. Jeonghan leaned in, his expression a blend of curiosity and mischief. "I’ve noticed you’ve been avoiding Seungcheol lately. Is everything cool in the land of Jihoon?”

Jihoon, caught off guard by Jeonghan's directness, scrambled for a witty response. "Oh, you know, just drowning in melodies and lost in a sea of musical brilliance." He attempted a nonchalant shrug, hoping to deflect the attention from his inner turmoil.

Jeonghan, never one to miss a beat, arched an eyebrow in mock seriousness. "Ah, the classic 'I'm too busy being a musical genius' excuse. Very convincing."

Jihoon couldn't help but crack a smile at Jeonghan's playful jab. "Hey, it's a tough job, but someone's gotta do it."

Jeonghan chuckled, the tension easing between them. "Well, just remember, if you keep avoiding him, people might start thinking you’re secretly working on a solo career or something. You wouldn't want to steal the spotlight, would you?"

Jihoon couldn't help but chuckle at Jeonghan's playful teasing. "Trust me, I'm far from stealing anyone's spotlight. Just trying to survive the creative chaos."

Jeonghan's expression softened, mischief dancing in his twinkling eyes. "Hmm, well, okay, I won’t prey. But you know, Jihoonie, I've been noticing our leader sulking around lately, like a lost puppy. And I have a sneaky suspicion it's got something to do with you."

Jihoon blinked, caught off guard. "Me? What do you mean?"

Leaning in conspiratorially, Jeonghan whispered, "You've heard about the fan shipping with Hoshi, right? Well, every time Seungcheol catches a glimpse of you two together, he sports this comically tragic pout. It's like we're living in a K-drama."

Jihoon's eyes widened with realization. "Are you telling me he's jealous?"

Jeonghan nodded, barely containing his amusement. "Oh, absolutely. It's been quite the entertainment. You should've seen his face when someone showed him a fan edit of you and Hoshi. It was priceless, like he'd taken a bite of the sourest lemon."

Jihoon shook his head, perplexed. "But why would he be jealous? You're always around with him."

Jeonghan theatrically rolled his eyes. "Oh, Jihoonie, you sweet clueless thing. Seungcheol and I are just friends. Reeeeally good friends. He cares about you a lot, you know."

Forcing a smile, Jihoon brushed off his doubts. "I'm sure it's nothing serious."

Jeonghan sighed, a touch of exasperation in his voice. "You're too stubborn for your own good. Fine, if you say so. Just remember, Seungcheol genuinely misses your company."

Jihoon nodded, but inwardly, he couldn’t shake off the lingering doubt. He observed Seungcheol and Jeonghan with newfound curiosity, wondering if there was more to their friendship than met the eye.

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That night, as he lay in bed, Jihoon replayed Seungcheol’s words from the studio in his mind. He missed how things used to be too, the effortless camaraderie and the shared moments of laughter. But admitting it out loud was a different story. Maybe Jeonghan was right, but Jihoon wasn’t ready to confront his feelings. Not yet.

Staring at the ceiling, Jihoon let out a deep sigh. The soft glow of his phone cast shadows across his room, but the light did little to dispel the thoughts swirling in his head. He remembered the late-night conversations, the inside jokes, and the way Seungcheol used to look out for him. It all seemed so distant now.

Jihoon rolled over, clutching his pillow a little tighter. The thought of Seungcheol pouting over fan edits was both amusing and perplexing. It hinted at something Jihoon wasn’t sure he was ready to face. Feelings were complicated, messy even, and Jihoon preferred the clarity of his music, where every note had its place.

Yet, as much as he tried to push the thoughts away, they lingered. What if Jeonghan was right? What if Seungcheol really did miss him in the same way he missed Seungcheol? The idea both scared and comforted him.

Jihoon closed his eyes, trying to quiet his mind. He wasn’t ready to confront his feelings just yet. But maybe, just maybe, he was a step closer to acknowledging them. And for now, that was enough.

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tbc

Chapter Text

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Seungcheol and Jihoon had been inseparable since their trainee days, their friendship forming the bedrock of their group. Fans adored their close bond, often referring to them as the heart of the team. But recently, an unsettling shift had occurred. Jihoon seemed to be pulling away, immersing himself in work and creating a distance that Seungcheol couldn't ignore. The late-night studio sessions that used to be filled with shared laughter and inside jokes were now solitary endeavors for Jihoon, leaving Seungcheol feeling sidelined.

This change was driving Seungcheol crazy. He missed their effortless camaraderie, the way they could communicate with just a glance, and the unspoken understanding that had always existed between them. It was as if a wall had sprung up between them, and no matter how hard Seungcheol tried to reach out, Jihoon seemed determined to keep his distance. Gosh, he missed Jihoon—missed the easy laughter, the shared dreams, and the unwavering support.

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One evening, after a grueling practice session, Seungcheol found himself lounging in the dorm’s living room with Jeonghan. The other members were scattered around, some engrossed in their activities, others resting. Seungcheol sighed heavily, catching Jeonghan’s attention.

"What’s with the long sighed? I know we’re getting old, but I don’t think we’re that old." Jeonghan asked, noticing the troubled look on Seungcheol’s face.

"Shut up. It’s Jihoon," Seungcheol admitted, his frustration palpable. "He’s been so distant lately. I even think he’s avoiding me. I don’t know what’s going on."

Jeonghan raised an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "Are you sure it’s not just your imagination? Jihoon is always busy, you know that."

Seungcheol shook his head, the frustration evident in his eyes. "No, it’s more than that. He’s been spending a lot of time with Hoshi. And did you see how he didn’t even flinch when Seokmin kissed him on the cheek the other day?!"

Jeonghan chuckled. "You’re seriously jealous of a friendly kiss? Seokmin does that to everyone."

"It’s not just that," Seungcheol groaned. "I’ve seen the way Jihoon and Hoshi laugh together, sharing inside jokes. And the fans are starting to ship them too. It’s driving me nuts."

Jeonghan leaned back, clearly enjoying Seungcheol’s turmoil. "So, you’re saying you’re jealous because Jihoon is getting close to Hoshi? Sounds like someone’s got a crush."

Seungcheol shot him a look. "It’s not a crush. It’s just... I miss how things used to be between us. And it’s not just Hoshi. Jihoon’s been getting a lot of attention from the agency too. Sometimes I wonder if the CEO has a soft spot for him."

Jeonghan laughed. "Now you’re just being paranoid. The CEO has a soft spot for all of us. That’s how he is."

Seungcheol rubbed his face, exasperated. "I know, I know. But it feels like Jihoon is getting special treatment. Everyone loves him. Even the fans are all over him. I can’t help but feel like I’m being left behind."

Just then, Joshua walked into the room, catching the tail end of their conversation. With a sly grin, he interjected, "You think Jihoon isn’t jealous seeing you with Jeonghan every day, acting like a lovebirds all over places?"

Seungcheol blinked in confusion, looking between Joshua and Jeonghan. "What? I don’t act like I’m in love with Jeonghan! I’m not... I mean, I like Jihoon."

Joshua rolled his eyes. "Please, open your eyes, you idiot. Haven’t you noticed how Jihoon looks when he sees you and Jeonghan together?"

Seungcheol frowned, trying to recall any such moments. "Jihoon... looks? What do you mean?"

Jeonghan, still chuckling, added, "Yeah, he looks at us just like you look at him and Hoshi. Pure jealousy."

Seungcheol’s mind raced. "Wait, Jihoon? Jealous? Of me? And YOU?!"

Joshua nodded emphatically. "Yup! Guy gets all moody and quiet whenever you and Jeonghan are together. How can you not see that?"

Seungcheol shook his head, trying to process this new information. "But... but why would Jihoon be jealous? He’s always so composed."

Jeonghan smirked. "Composed? You should see his face when you’re not looking. It’s like he’s trying to set us on fire with his mind."

Seungcheol looked utterly perplexed. "I don’t understand. Why would he... I mean, I like Jihoon, but I thought he was just busy with work and Hoshi."

Joshua sighed dramatically, throwing his hands up in the air. "Seungcheol, you’re dense as a brick! Jihoon likes you. He’s been trying to hide it, but it’s so obvious to everyone else. He’s probably over there thinking you’re head over heels for Jeonghan!"

Jeonghan burst into laughter, almost falling off the couch. "Seriously, it's like a bad rom-com. Jihoon’s practically giving you heart eyes, and you’re here acting like you’re in a love triangle from a K-drama!"

Seungcheol blinked, utterly baffled. "Wait, what? Jihoon... likes me? And he thinks I’m in love with Jeonghan? This is insane!"

Joshua nodded, smirking. "Welcome to the soap opera that is your life. Now go talk to Jihoon before this gets any more ridiculous."

A knot formed in Seungcheol’s stomach. "I never... I never thought he would see it that way. I just... I miss him."

Jeonghan leaned forward, serious for once. "Then tell him that. Stop overthinking and just talk to him. You’re both making this harder than it needs to be."

Joshua patted Seungcheol’s shoulder. "Go on, Romeo. Time to go after your Juliet before he writes a breakup ballad."

Jeonghan laughed. "Yeah, go sweep him off his feet. Just don’t serenade him under his balcony; we don’t need the neighbors complaining again."

Seungcheol nodded slowly, but even as he agreed, his mind began to spiral. What if Jeonghan and Joshua were wrong? What if Jihoon didn’t feel the same way? What if talking to him only made things worse?

The doubts crept in like shadows, casting a veil of uncertainty over his determination. Seungcheol’s heart raced with a mix of anticipation and anxiety, unsure of the outcome awaiting him. As he stood there, battling his inner turmoil, he realized that sometimes the hardest part of taking a leap of faith was not knowing where you would land.

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Seungcheol found himself constantly analyzing every interaction. Jihoon laughing with Hoshi? Clearly, they were getting closer. Jihoon receiving praise from the CEO? Obviously, favoritism. Seokmin's cheeky kiss? How could Jihoon be so unfazed?

In quiet moments, Seungcheol's mind drifted to every little detail. Jihoon's subtle smiles, his rare but genuine laughter, the way his eyes crinkled at the corners when he was truly happy. Seungcheol missed those moments between them, moments that now seemed reserved for others.

And then there was Jeonghan. Sure, they were close, but Seungcheol didn't feel that way about him. Yet Joshua's comment kept echoing in his mind. Could Jihoon really be jealous? Did he misunderstand all those times Jihoon looked their way with an unreadable expression?

"Please, open your eyes, you idiot." Joshua's words haunted him. Could it be that simple? Seungcheol found himself overanalyzing Jihoon's every move. Did Jihoon linger in the practice room because he wanted to be around Seungcheol? Or was he just dedicated to his work?

The more Seungcheol thought about it, the more confused he became. He remembered a time when Jihoon seemed genuinely happy to spend time with him, when their late-night conversations were a refuge from the stress of training and debuting. But now? Now it felt like a gulf had formed between them.

Seungcheol's mind wandered back to a recent memory. They were all at a variety show filming, and during a break, Seokmin had playfully kissed Jihoon on the cheek. Seungcheol's heart had clenched at the sight. But Jihoon? He had just smiled, unbothered. Did that mean he didn't care about Seokmin's affections? Or worse, did it mean he was used to such gestures from others, but not from Seungcheol?

One night, unable to sleep, Seungcheol found himself wandering the dorm halls, his thoughts a tangled mess. He ended up in the kitchen, pouring himself a glass of water. As he stood there, he couldn't help but replay every interaction with Jihoon over the past few weeks. The distance, the smiles that never quite reached his eyes, the laughter that seemed more reserved for Hoshi these days.

"Jihoonie, I miss you," he whispered to the empty room. But the silence only made his heart ache more. He knew he needed to talk to Jihoon, but fear held him back. Fear of rejection, fear of misunderstanding, fear that their friendship would never be the same.

Joshua's words cut through his thoughts again. "Jihoon gets all moody and quiet whenever you and Jeonghan are together." Was it really that obvious to everyone but him? And what if Jihoon felt the same way, but was too scared to say anything?

The more Seungcheol thought about it, the more he realized he couldn't keep living in this state of confusion. He needed to talk to Jihoon, to clear the air once and for all. But as he headed back to his room, his mind was still a whirlwind of doubts and hopes.

Lying in bed, Seungcheol stared at the ceiling, replaying every conversation he’d had with Jihoon and every moment they’d shared. His heart ached with the possibility that maybe, just maybe, Jihoon felt the same way. But until he found the courage to speak up, he knew he would remain trapped in this cycle of overthinking and longing.

And so, Seungcheol resolved to find the right moment to talk to Jihoon. But for now, he would try to get some rest, knowing that tomorrow was a new day. Tomorrow, he would talk to Jihoon. No more doubts, no more overthinking. He needed to know the truth, even if it hurts.

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tbc

Chapter Text

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Trial 1

Today was the day Seungcheol had mentally prepared himself for. He had psyched himself up to talk to Jihoon, ready to lay his feelings bare. With a deep breath, he steeled his nerves and approached Jihoon, who was engrossed in practicing a dance routine in the studio.

Just as Seungcheol was about to speak, his phone vibrated with a notification. He glanced at the screen to see a message from Dino. "Hyung, wanna join us for a snack? Seungkwan’s craving burgers."

Seungcheol's heart sank as he read the message. It was like a cruel twist of fate, teasing him with missed opportunities. He looked back at Jihoon, who was now focused on perfecting a move, completely unaware of Seungcheol's internal struggle.

Seungcheol sighed, feeling the weight of indecision and hesitation pressing down on him. He wanted to talk to Jihoon, but he also didn’t want to miss out on spending time with the group. It was a dilemma that left him feeling torn. He once again stared at his phone screen with mixed emotions. Dino's message was still displayed, reminding him of the missed opportunity from the previous night.

With an impulsive gesture, Seungcheol said to Jihoon, "Hoonie, you want to join Dino and Seungkwan? They're going out for a snack, burger or something he said."

Jihoon looked up to him, his eyes meeting Seungcheol's. "Oh, they're going out?"

Seungcheol nodded quickly, trying to hide his confusion. "Yeah, I thought we could join them."

Jihoon furrowed his brow slightly, sensing that something was off. However, without showing any doubt, he agreed, "Alright, why not. Let's join them."

Seungcheol sighed with relief, feeling slightly comforted by this spontaneous plan. The two of them then joined Dino and Seungkwan outside, although Seungcheol still felt something gnawing at him inside.

That night, Seungcheol tried to enjoy the company of his friends, but his mind kept drifting back to the missed opportunity. He realized that his impulsive invitation only prolonged the time before he could have a serious conversation with Jihoon.

After that night, Seungcheol vowed to himself to be more focused and not to divert attention with unimportant things. His failure in inviting Jihoon to join them became a valuable lesson that he needed to be smarter in choosing the right moment to discuss important matters.

Trial 1: Failed.

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Trial 2

The next day, Seungcheol spotted Jihoon sitting alone in the practice room. This was it, he thought. This was his chance. With determination fueling his steps, he walked over to Jihoon, ready to finally have the conversation they needed.

But just as he opened his mouth to speak, a loud crash echoed through the room. Startled, Seungcheol turned to see Mingyu and Wonwoo standing near a toppled equipment cart. Cables were strewn everywhere, and Mingyu's guilty expression was hard to miss.

Seungcheol's frustration boiled over, but before he could say anything, Jihoon spoke up. "Let's help them," he suggested, already moving towards Mingyu and Wonwoo.

Seungcheol blinked in surprise but quickly followed Jihoon's lead. Together, they worked to untangle the mess of cables and set the equipment cart upright. Seungcheol couldn't help but notice how well Jihoon and he worked together, their silent coordination speaking volumes.

Mingyu and Wonwoo apologized profusely, thanking Seungcheol and Jihoon for their help. "No worries, accidents happen," Jihoon reassured them with a smile.

As they finished tidying up, Seungcheol stole a glance at Jihoon. Their eyes met briefly, but neither of them spoke about their initial intention to talk.

"Thanks for your help, guys," Wonwoo said gratefully.

Seungcheol grinned, trying to lighten the mood. "No problem. Just consider it our daily workout routine."

Jihoon chuckled, shaking his head. "We should probably stick to dancing."

The tension from the interrupted conversation had dissipated, replaced by a sense of camaraderie. Seungcheol realized that even though their planned talk didn't happen, this unexpected teamwork with Jihoon was a different kind of connection—one that spoke volumes without words.

As they parted ways, Seungcheol couldn't help but feel hopeful. Maybe the right moment to talk to Jihoon would present itself naturally, without the need for elaborate plans or confessions.

Trial 2: Failed, but well… An Unexpected Bonding Experience - Success!

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Trial 3

The following day dawned with Seungcheol's determination reaching new heights. He spotted Jihoon leaving the studio alone, and this time, he wasn't going to let anything stand in the way. Without hesitating, Seungcheol hurried after him, catching up just as Jihoon reached the hallway.

"Hoonie, wait!" Seungcheol called out, his heart racing with anticipation and nerves.

Jihoon turned around, surprise evident on his face. "Hyung, what’s up?" he asked, curious about the sudden urgency in Seungcheol's voice.

Taking a deep breath to steady himself, Seungcheol finally spoke up, "I've been wanting to talk to you for a while now. Can we find a quiet place to chat?"

Jihoon seemed confused but nodded, intrigued by Seungcheol's request. They quickly found an empty practice room nearby and sat down, facing each other. Seungcheol felt a surge of determination as he prepared to finally express his feelings.

But just as Seungcheol was about to open up, the door burst open, and in walked Seungkwan and Vernon, both looking visibly agitated. They were in the midst of a heated argument about their next song, completely oblivious to Seungcheol and Jihoon's presence.

Seungkwan, gesturing animatedly, exclaimed, "I'm telling you, this chorus needs more punch! We can't afford to play it safe."

Vernon shook his head, countering, "But if we go too heavy, it might overshadow the lyrics. We need a balance."

Seungcheol exchanged a knowing look with Jihoon, both of them realizing their conversation would have to wait once again.

"Uh, sorry to interrupt," Seungkwan said, finally noticing Seungcheol and Jihoon. "We just need to settle this song thing real quick."

Jihoon, ever the peacemaker, nodded in understanding. "Sure, let's talk about it."

Seungcheol couldn't believe his luck. Here they were again, on the brink of a meaningful conversation, only to be interrupted once more.

As Seungkwan and Vernon delved into the details of their song, Seungcheol couldn't help but feel frustrated. Jihoon, ever the supportive friend, listened attentively and offered his input.

Despite his disappointment, Seungcheol knew he couldn't force the issue. He sighed inwardly, deciding to go along with the flow for now. After all, the last thing he wanted was to cause more tension between Seungkwan and Vernon.

After what seemed like an eternity of discussing chord progressions and lyrics, Seungkwan and Vernon finally seemed to reach an agreement. They thanked Jihoon for his input and left the room, still deep in conversation about their song.

Seungcheol and Jihoon were left alone once again, the moment for their conversation lost in the chaos of the studio.

Trial 3: The Interrupted Conversation - Failed.

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Trial 4

Seungcheol didn't give up. Three failures didn't mean the fourth would end the same way. Today, he was determined to talk to Jihoon. With a firm resolve, he made his way to where Jihoon was practicing.

"Jihoon-ah," Seungcheol called out as he approached, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.

Jihoon looked up from his practice, a smile forming on his face. "Hey, hyung. What's up?"

Seungcheol took a deep breath, steeling himself for the conversation he had been wanting to have for so long. "I've been meaning to talk to you. Can we find a quiet place to chat?"

Jihoon's smile faltered slightly, noticing the seriousness in Seungcheol's tone. "Of course, let's go to the lounge," he suggested, leading the way.

As they settled into the comfortable chairs of the lounge, Seungcheol's heart raced with anticipation. This was it, the moment he had been waiting for.

But just as he was about to speak, his phone rang. It was the director, calling to discuss their next comeback. Seungcheol's heart sank as he glanced at the caller ID.

"Sorry, Hoon, I have to take this," Seungcheol apologized, gesturing to his buzzing phone.

Jihoon nodded understandingly, but Seungcheol could sense the disappointment in his eyes. "It's okay, take your time."

Seungcheol quickly answered the call, trying to keep his focus on the conversation while his mind raced with thoughts of missed opportunities.

"Yes, sir," Seungcheol replied to the director's questions, his mind still lingering on the conversation he had hoped to have with Jihoon.

After what seemed like an eternity on the phone, Seungcheol finally ended the call, feeling a sense of resignation. He looked up to see Jihoon patiently waiting for him.

"I'm sorry about that," Seungcheol apologized as he pocketed his phone.

"It's alright," Jihoon reassured him with a small smile. "Work comes first, right?"

Seungcheol nodded, feeling a pang of regret for not being able to seize the moment. "We'll talk later, I promise," he said, hoping to convey his sincerity.

Jihoon's smile brightened. "Take your time, hyung. Looking forward to it.”

As they returned to their respective tasks for the day, Jihoon couldn’t shake off the feeling of confusion. Seungcheol had seemed so determined at the beginning, only to be disappointed after the call from the CEO. He wondered what Seungcheol had wanted to talk about and why it seemed so important.

Trial 4: Jihoon’s Confusion – Failed.

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Trial 5

Seungcheol was teetering on the edge of giving up. Four attempts down the drain had left him feeling like he was starring in a drama series with too many plot twists. But Seungcheol was not one to go down without a fight. So, with a determined glint in his eye and a slightly exaggerated mental image of a rom-com scene with Jihoon, he marched towards the kitchen where Jihoon was attempting to master the art of frying eggs.

As he stood there, Seungcheol's mind wandered into a whimsical daydream. He pictured a world where Jihoon was officially his significant other, and he would playfully sneak up behind Jihoon, wrapping his arms around him in a warm embrace. "What are you cooking, love?" Seungcheol would ask with a playful grin, expecting a blush and a shy reply from Jihoon.

A soft chuckle escaped Seungcheol's lips at the amusing scenario playing out in his mind. However, reality had a knack for shattering such whimsy, much like the four previous escapades that ended in disappointment.

Summoning his courage, Seungcheol took a tentative step forward, ready to bridge the gap between unspoken feelings and potential romance. But fate, in its mischievous ways, had other plans. Just as Seungcheol parted his lips to speak, Jihoon's phone chimed with an incoming call. The melody pierced the air, stealing Jihoon's attention away from the culinary masterpiece and Seungcheol's carefully crafted moment.

Jihoon, completely engrossed in a conversation with his mother, remained oblivious to Seungcheol's presence, leaving Seungcheol standing there like a rejected extra in his own romantic comedy. With a melodramatic sigh that would rival any K-drama protagonist, Seungcheol realized that his timing was once again impeccable...ly terrible. Deciding not to interrupt what was clearly a family moment, Seungcheol slunk back to his room, his dreams of a heartfelt confession dashed once more. He couldn't help but laugh at the absurdity of the situation. "Well, that's one way to crash and burn," he joked to himself, finding humor in the comedy of errors that seemed to follow his attempts at confession.

Trial 5: Almost There, But Not Quite. – Anyway, Failed.

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Jihoon's Trial

Seungcheol lay sprawled on his bed, scrolling through his phone, checking the latest trends about him. He couldn't help but notice that the shippers pairing him with Jeonghan were nearly as numerous as those pairing Hoshi with Jihoon. It made sense why Jeonghan and Joshua had hinted that Jihoon might be jealous. But what if Jihoon wasn't jealous? What if it was only Seungcheol who was green with envy? Seungcheol let out a bitter laugh. Life was really something.

Just as he was in the middle of mocking his own life, his phone buzzed. Jihoon had sent him a message. Seungcheol chuckled again, marveling at how things worked. He had just been thinking about Jihoon, and now there was a message from him. Jihoon was calling him to the studio to discuss a new song. Seungcheol sighed. It seemed that, to Jihoon, Seungcheol was just the leader of SEVENTEEN and nothing more. Just a musical consultant. Another bitter laugh escaped his lips as he took a deep breath and trudged towards the studio.

When he arrived, Jihoon was still facing the computer screen, looking intensely focused. His fingers tapped the table rhythmically, and his brows were furrowed in a way that Seungcheol found endearingly cute. It was as if they were begging to be kissed, Seungcheol thought, laughing internally at his own delusions.

“Jihoonie,” Seungcheol called out softly.

Jihoon jumped, clearly startled. “Oh, hyung. Have a seat,” he instructed, his voice slightly shaky.

Seungcheol complied, but he noticed Jihoon seemed even more nervous. Raising an eyebrow, he asked, “What’s up, Hoonie? Is there a problem with the new song?”

Jihoon shook his head slowly, then took a deep breath and cleared his throat before speaking. “Listen, but promise you won’t laugh, okay?”

Seungcheol was puzzled but nodded in agreement. “I promise.”

Just as Jihoon was about to continue, the studio door burst open, and Hoshi and Seokmin stumbled in, arguing loudly about some choreography details. They were so engrossed in their debate that they didn’t even notice the tense atmosphere in the room.

Jihoon quickly turned back to his computer, pretending to be busy as Seungcheol sank back into the couch, trying to suppress the overwhelming sense of disappointment.

But Seungcheol's frustration finally boiled over. "You've got to be kidding me," he muttered under his breath. He was fuming with rage and frustration, without thinking he grabbed Jihoon's arm and started dragging him out of the studio.

“Hey, what—” Jihoon began, but Seungcheol was already hauling him down the hallway.

Hoshi and Seokmin, momentarily stunned, watched them go with bewildered expressions before shrugging and resuming their argument.

Seungcheol led Jihoon to his bedroom, where Mingyu, Wonwoo, and Minghao were lounging around. “Out,” Seungcheol barked. The three quickly vacated the room, sensing Seungcheol's rare display of authority wasn't to be questioned.

"Hyung, what's going on?" Jihoon asked, confusion evident in his voice as Seungcheol closed the door and flopped down on Jihoon's bed, letting out a frustrated yell. Jihoon couldn't help but laugh at the sight of Seungcheol so exasperated, flopping down dramatically on his bed.

“Hey, what’s gotten into you, hyung?” Jihoon asked, sitting down next to him.

Seungcheol groaned, covering his face with his hands. "You wouldn't understand," he mumbled, his words came out muffled and incoherent.

Jihoon chuckled even more at Seungcheol’s antics. “Seriously, what’s going on?”

The sound of Jihoon's laughter made Seungcheol peek through his fingers, catching a glimpse of Jihoon's amused expression. Jihoon looked... beautiful.

Words tumbled out of Seungcheol's mouth before he could stop them. "It's so unfair.”

Jihoon chimed in, “What is?”

Seungcheol mumbled, finally removing his hands from his face. “I’ve been frustrated for weeks, and just seeing you laugh makes everything feel lighter.”

Jihoon blushed at Seungcheol's heartfelt admission but decided to tease him a bit. “Seeing me laugh is all it takes? I was planning to kiss you though?”

Seungcheol groaned again, feeling a mix of embarrassment and longing. “Don’t joke about that, Hoonie.”

Jihoon leaned in closer, his playful smile turning softer. “And who said I was joking?”

Seungcheol’s heart pounded in his chest. Maybe, just maybe, he wouldn’t need a seventh trial after all.

Jihoon, deciding to be brave for once, closed the distance between them and gently pressed his lips to Seungcheol's. The kiss was soft and hesitant, but it conveyed everything that words had failed to express. Seungcheol's eyes widened in surprise before he melted into the kiss, bringing his hand up to cup Jihoon's cheek.

When they finally pulled apart, Jihoon’s face was flushed, and Seungcheol was grinning like an idiot.

“Well, that’s one way to shut me up,” Seungcheol said, his voice light with happiness.

Jihoon laughed, a sound that Seungcheol decided was his new favorite melody. “Hyung, you talk too much sometimes.”

Seungcheol chuckled, pulling Jihoon into a tight hug. “I guess I do. But I’m glad you finally did something about it.”

Jihoon smiled, resting his head on Seungcheol’s shoulder. “Me too, Hyung. Me too.”

Jihoon's Trial: Not as planned, but... Succeed!