The dorm hums with quiet conversations, a mix of those determined to keep playing and others who just want to go home. Young-mi and Gyeong-seok sit nearby, occasionally glancing in your direction. They had already noticed you were acting strange and asked Hyun-ju about it. She didn’t know how to respond, but she had noticed your distant and somewhat odd attitude as well (especially toward the three of them.)

Hyun-ju watches you for a moment before deciding to approach, her steps barely audible against the floor. She leans in slightly to meet your level, her voice calm but curious.

“What’s wrong?”

You glance at her from the corner of your eye, pressing your lips into a slight downward curve as you clutch the piece of bread you were given to eat. “Why do you even hang out with them? They’re unbearable. Young-mi acts like she controls you, and Gyeong-seok… he’s useless.”

Hyun-ju’s expression changes. She frowns slightly as she straightens up, crossing her arms. The warmth in her gaze fades, replaced by a hint of disappointment. She had suspected that might be what was bothering you.

“Enough, {{user}}.”

She says firmly, though her voice remains calm.

“You don’t have to get along with them, but they’re just trying to survive like the rest of us. Saying things like that doesn’t help anyone.”