Friday

Donghyuck practically sprinted into his small apartment, the buzz of the day still humming in his veins. Tie undone, shirt unbuttoned, belt loosened—he shed the stiff armor of professionalism like a second skin. Sliding into soft, oversized joggers and a loose, breathable linen shirt, he caught his reflection and smiled—comfortable but still effortlessly sharp.

Tonight’s gotta impress.

His fingers paused over the closet before choosing a dark emerald green blazer, tailored but with a playful silk lining that peeked out when he moved—professional with a subtle wink. Underneath, a crisp white shirt left just one top button undone, paired with sleek black trousers that tapered just right to show off polished loafers. Simple silver cufflinks glinted on his wrists, the only flash of boldness in an otherwise classic ensemble.

---

At the school, the other staff were equally dialed up in style:

Mark sported a deep navy suit, perfectly pressed, with a soft lavender tie—just enough color to show he owned the room without shouting.
Taeyong was sharp in charcoal gray, his sleeves rolled just so, glasses reflecting the overhead lights like a scholar ready to conquer.
Jeno looked casual-cool in a black button-down with maroon accents peeking at the cuffs, his dance instructor’s charisma radiating effortlessly.
Jaemin dazzled in a sleek dark green velvet blazer that caught every whisper of light, his smile ready to disarm anyone in his path.
And Jaehyun was suave in a maroon suit with subtle pinstripes, dimples flashing as wide as his grin.

---

Mark stepped forward, voice carrying with calm authority:
“Hello, fellow teachers. Thank you so much for coming today. I’d like to introduce you to our newest music teacher—Lee Donghyuck.”

Hyuck’s shy smile and tentative wave sent a ripple of welcoming nods through the room. He glanced around, wide-eyed, soaking it all in.

“I hope we become good friends,” Hyuck murmured, a little unsure but earnest.

Suddenly, upbeat music kicked in, the room buzzing into motion. Drinks clinked, laughter bubbled, but Hyuck stood a little apart—unsure who to approach first. Luckily, fate had a plan.

---

“Hey! I’m Na Jaemin,” came a bright voice, the owner flashing a grin that almost blinded Hyuck. “I teach math and physics. Nice to meet you.”

Hyuck blinked, awkward but amused. “Uh… hi. I’m Lee Donghyuck, the music teacher.” His nervous giggle barely masked his fluttering heart.

Jaemin chuckled. “I know that. No need to be shy. I heard you were quite the social butterfly in high school.”

Hyuck raised an eyebrow. “Oh? Who told you that?”

“Our principal, of course.” Jaemin winked conspiratorially.

“Oh.” Hyuck’s cheeks warmed.

“Come on, I’ll introduce you to my husband.” Jaemin gently took Hyuck’s wrist, guiding him across the room.

---

Jaemin grinned as he presented, “Jeno, this is Donghyuck.”

Hyuck’s mouth parted slightly—holy… he scanned the man before him.

Jeno chuckled nervously, eyes forming crescent moons. “Hey, I’m Lee Jeno. I teach Geography, dance assistant, and sometimes P.E. substitute. I remember you.”

“Yeah, I remember you too.”

“I’ve heard a lot about the ‘new you,’” Jeno teased.

Hyuck blushed, looking away. “You did?”

Jeno nodded. “Our principal won’t stop bragging.”

Hyuck’s tension eased a little. “Uh… do you think I’ll do well? Because honestly, I’m super scared.”

Jaemin smiled warmly. “If you got hired here, you’re perfect. Our principal is strict—if you were just a little grumpy, you wouldn’t have made it.”

Jeno added, “And the students are already happy you’re here.”

Hyuck laughed softly, grateful.

---

Suddenly, a voice cut through the chat—Jaehyun appeared with a grin.

“What are we talking about?”

Hyuck’s eyes widened—damn, he’s handsome.

“Hey, hyung. This is the new teacher.”

“I’m Jung Jaehyun,” he said, flashing dimples. “P.E. and English teacher.”

“Nice to meet you.”

“Hope you’re happy here.”

“I hope so too,” Hyuck replied, a shy giggle slipping out.

The surrounding smiles made him feel a little less alone.

---

“Don’t worry,” Taeyong’s voice came from behind.

Hyuck turned—and nearly dropped his cup.

Taeyong’s smile lit up his whole face, warm and boyish. “I’m Lee Taeyong—the assistant. I teach history, architecture, literature, and Korean. Nice to officially meet you.”

“Ah, thank you,” Hyuck smiled back.

“When you need something, call me first. That way you won’t bother Minhyung.”

“Oh. Okay. Thank you.”

Taeyong’s grin widened. “Come on, loosen up. Have some alcohol, hit the dance floor.”

“Uh… maybe later.”

“We’re going. If you want to join, find us.”

Jaemin chimed, “Jeno and I need to stretch. Come find us when you’re ready.”

“See ya.”

They left Hyuck standing alone again.

---

He drifted to the drink table, where a tall, friendly-looking male handed out cups.

“Lee Donghyuck, right?”

“Uh, yeah. That’s me.”

“I’m Kim Doyoung,” the man smiled. “Psychologist and librarian. Also help out with the choir.”

“Oh! You can sing?”

Doyoung laughed softly. “I went to music university—ranked second out of more than 400.”

“Cool! We can totally win with your help.”

“Just call me a day ahead if you want choir help.”

“Will do! Thanks.”

Hyuck took a sip. The ‘apple juice’ tasted weird—but he liked it.

He stumbled slightly, dizziness creeping in.

He turned to ask Doyoung about it but accidentally bumped into someone—spilling his drink all over them.

“I AM SO SO SORRY! I CAN’T WALK STRAIGHT, CAN’T EVEN SEE—”

A sudden pair of lips crashed onto his.

The world slowed.

That familiar warmth spread through him as he kissed back without hesitation.

“Mark…”