The moment they stepped out of the Seheon Club, a cold wind slapped them in the face.

Even while they put on the coats the staff had handed back, none of the three said a word.

"Thank you for visiting."

Beyond the revolving door, a staff member went on seeing guests off as if nothing had happened.

"Pfft."

It was Jang Jiyu who broke first, with a laugh of disbelief.

"Haa, that feels good~"

Pulling her hair out from her coat collar and smoothing it, Jang Jiyu let out a long breath.

Was this how a chick felt when it had just broken out of its shell?

It felt like she'd smashed a stifling wall to pieces.

"When Ju Seojun was running his mouth back there, I almost threw my water glass at him."

"Good thing you held back."

"I wouldn't have, if it weren't for you."

Kang Junu looked back. Two staff members were still standing in front of the closed door.

No one had followed them out.

Now that they were out of the banquet hall, his heart was beating faster than it had inside.

He'd said what he had to say, but now he found himself wondering whether he'd been too hasty.

"I did the right thing, didn't I?"

When Kang Junu asked, Jang Jiyu's eyes went round.

"Aww, our Junu did so well~"

Tock, tock.

Jang Jiyu patted his arm with her gloved hand.

Kang Junu still didn't look entirely at ease.

"What! You want me to stamp a gold star on you too?"

"I asked you seriously, and that's all I get?"

"That was a serious answer. I've got new respect for you after today~ Our Junu, your noona won't tease you for being a kid anymore~"

"Yeah? Heh heh."

Only then did Kang Junu break into a wide smile.

Beside them, Choi Harin buttoned her coat.

Her fingertips wouldn't cooperate, and she fumbled the same button twice.

"Harin-a, you cold?"

"A little."

"That face isn't just from the cold."

Choi Harin tried to force a smile, then gave up.

It felt like the eyes…