[Soon Duho]

I think Seoyeon is bluffing. Why does she think I'm into her? If it's just because I showed her my notes, she's wrong. I was just polite. I just did the bare minimum. If she expects me to waltz in her life and be more than an acquaintance, I think she has to reevaluate her priorities in life.

In other words, she has trouble accepting I'm not her type and the other way around. We can be friends. I won't oppose this possibility, but going beyond that... Not a chance. I don't want to hurt her by pretending to give her an opportunity to prove herself right. I've been honest and take pride in that.

***

If you think the rest of my day is moving on with no more hassles, then you're in for a bad surprise. Taehyung claims there's someone who wants to talk to me. I hope it's not one of his stupid tricks, or I'll make sure to give him a well deserved lesson, one he won't forget until he learns not to meddle with my love life.

"Come on," I tell him as I openly show my annoyance despite trying to be polite as usual. "What is it about? Don't tell me it has to do with Seoyeon, otherwise-"

He interrupts me. "No, no, this time it isn't Seoyeon." He raises his left hand as if he's making a vow. I don't believe him, but I won't make it clear to him because this isn't what matters now.

"Not her? Really? Who is it, then?"

"Do you remember Kang Hayoon?"

I shake my head. "I'm not sure. Was she at Seolha's party?"

"No. She wasn't invited. Those two had beef at the time. But it's not important right now." Taehyung takes a deep breath before saying the next part, which stings deeper than I thought at first. "She told me she wants to ask you for a favor."

"What kind of favor?"

"She also mentioned not to tell you anything. She'll talk to you face to face." Why is Taehyung acting as if he were that girl's messenger? I should've known this is another of his devious plans. I haven't got time for payback, anyway.

"Okay. Where can I find her?"

He winks at me. "You don't need to look for her—she's coming. Now I have to go. See you." He bolts away, leaving me alone. I wonder what Hayoon wants from me. I pray it hasn't got anything to do with Seoyeon. The more I try to stay away from that girl, the more I end up falling deep in that hole.

Maybe Hayoon has some advice to help me get the problem sorted out once for all. I'll ask her when she's here.

***

I don't know why Seoyeon thinks pretending I don't exist works in her favor. If anything, it makes it easier for me to ignore her. I'm not interested in a romantic relationship, especially with her. She can go and fuck some party guy if she wishes.

I'll focus on more pressing matters, such as Hayoon's so-called "favor." It has to be something important; this is why I want to commit to it to the fullest extent. After the last morning class, I look for her throughout the campus, ask around to see if anyone has a clue of where she is. Nothing. She must be an elusive type.

I hear my stomach growl, which is a sign that I have to go to the canteen. Lunch time can't come sooner—I skipped breakfast this morning and need to eat something if I want to survive the rest of this day.

***

At last, here comes Kang Hayoon. She's on her own, which means there are no ulterior motives from Taehyung or his clique. Still, I decide to test her to see if she isn't a pawn for Seoyeon's umpteenth plan. Therefore, I ask Hayoon if she knows her.

She bursts into laughter. "What makes you think I know this Seoyeon? Do you hear yourself, Soon? Like, please... stop or you'll make me look ridiculous." Good. She seems to really hate her. I think this plays in my favor. Hayoon and I can get along well, I'm sure.

I try to apologize, but she dismisses my attempt. "It doesn't matter. We're here for a more important issue... Has anyone mentioned that I need your help?" I nod; however, before I tell her what Taehyung has reported me, she continues. "Now, listen carefully, because I'm not repeating myself."

"I'm listening. Go on."

"Well, no-one wants me at their parties because they think I look too awkward." This is a struggle I can relate to. So far, I haven't taken part in many parties. Maybe it's because of my introverted nature, maybe due to the fact that I hardly ever have fun in such a context.

"So, do you need some advice on how to score invitations?"

"Well... you're close. I do need advice, but for a different, deeper reason." This sounds scary. What is she hiding? Is it anything from her past that causes her pain? Do I have to expect her to open up to me about some struggles with anyone?

These are all interesting questions, but I end up not asking a single one of them because she reprises her line of discussion. "I want to prove myself I can handle a first date. Not just in theory, but in actual practice."

Finally, I get my chance to speak. "A first date? Is there anyone you'd like to ask out?"

"Well, not really... But I must be prepared in case it happens. So... I'd like you to test me, to see if I'm ready for a date." I'm confused. What does she mean? Does she plan to use me as a test animal to prove she's girlfriend material?

Oh, my God... I pray this doesn't turn into a disaster. I don't think I can handle Yongho, Taehyung or the others teasing me all the time over this. I know Hayoon is a little over the top, but I have to endure her just for one date. Nothing else.

"Well, why not? Just tell me when and where."

"This Friday, after the morning classes. Don't be late!" She barely bows before me and leaves without a proper goodbye. I don't think I can understand her, at least not from the get go. Anyway, this has better not be a bust or I'll be the campus' laughingstock.

Plus, it'd only be leverage for Seoyeon. She'd see I struggle with bagging a successful date as much as her and would be a true pain in the ass. Well, I'm not saying Hayoon is going to be my girlfriend. She'll keep me distracted from that one girl, though.

The clock strikes 2pm, which means it's time for afternoon classes. Fortunately, there's only one today, followed by club activities. For once, I want to truly enjoy the latter like I used to before Seoyeon's fixation on me.

The good thing is that we don't share any clubs. There's a downside, though: we share the upcoming class, which means she can try and sit next to me. Of course, my worst prediction comes true: the only available seat in the room is next to hers.

However, since she's hellbent on ignoring her, I won't have trouble not paying her any attention.