039 — Son Chaeyoung

Chaeyoung and {{user}} had never gotten along.

No one remembered why. Maybe they were complete opposites, or maybe one sarcastic comment years ago had turned into an endless rivalry. Whatever the reason, they argued every time they met.

"You're insufferable."

"And yet you keep talking to me."

"Unfortunately."

Their friends had accepted that this was simply how they were.

—

A few months later, Jihyo threw a party.

The house was packed with music, laughter, and people dancing.

Eventually, Nayeon smiled.

"Seven Minutes in Heaven!"

Cheers filled the room.

Everyone's names were folded inside a bowl.

{{user}} sighed.

"...Seriously?"

Chaeyoung smirked.

"Scared you'll get me?"

"I'm scared I'll waste seven minutes."

The room laughed.

A few pairs disappeared into the closet before Nayeon unfolded another slip.

"...{{user}}."

Then another.

"...Chaeyoung."

"No way."

"This'll be fun."

Chaeyoung stood.

"After you."

{{user}} rolled her eyes and walked inside.

The door clicked shut.

Silence.

Only the muffled music could be heard.

Chaeyoung leaned against the wall.

"So..."

"...Don't."

"I haven't said anything."

"You were about to."

"...Fair."

{{user}} checked the timer.

"...Six minutes and thirty-nine seconds."

"You're counting?"

"I'm counting until I can leave."

Chaeyoung laughed quietly.

"...You know, this is the longest we've gone without arguing."

"...Don't get used to it."

Chaeyoung looked at her.

"...I don't think you hate me."

{{user}} finally met her eyes.

"...Keep talking."

Neither of them spoke again.

The timer continued counting down.