SMNTCERR, Chapter 18 <11> #5.

   “Ohhhhh….”

   As soon as the door opened, Jaeyoung let out a big sigh. Sangwoo tossed the jelly bag onto Jaeyoung’s tray.

   “Just order once, please.”

   “Ohhhhhhhh….”

   “And if there’s something to say, say it. Don’t just keep sighing.”

   “It hurts, it hurts so much.”

   “Will I ever know what to do?”

   Sangwoo sighed and turned around to face Jaeyoung. As he grabbed the doorknob of the smoking zone, he heard a loud sound from behind.

   “I was thinking of ordering until you asked why I keep sighing.”

   Sangwoo just chuckled. If there’s something to say, then say it. Why use roundabout ways to waste money and time?

   “So why do you keep sighing then?”

   “My notebook is broken.”

   Jaeyoung sighed as if he had been waiting all along. At the same time, it felt like he was just speaking in passing, making Sangwoo wonder.

   “What’s the problem?”

   “I don’t know, it makes a beep sound and won’t turn on.”

   “The memory card [1] might have come loose from the slot [2] or there may be an issue with the motherboard [3]. If the RAM is loose, you can just put it back in and it should work, but if there’s a problem with the chipset, you might have to take it to a service center to diagnose the issue based on the number of beeps.”

   “I’m not good with computers, I really don’t know.”

   Jaeyoung spoke softly and took another deep breath.

   “What should I do? I might have to sell it for scrap metal. Maybe I’ll get around five hundred thousand won for it.”

   ‘You believe in easy solutions.’

   Sangwoo turned around and hugged himself. Jaeyoung sat on the chair, looking at Sangwoo. Then he started murmuring as if talking to himself.

   “Even though I brought it here, it doesn’t mean I can fix it. I’ve been playing games for a while, but I’ll probably have to go to a service center. And by the way, is there any place open at this time? It’s so annoying.”

   “Give it to me then.”

   Sangwoo blurted out. It wasn’t out of pity, he just wanted to solve the problem right in front of him. Jaeyoung clapped his hands and widened his eyes.

   “Really, you’re a computer expert, aren’t you? We should be able to fix the computer together.”  “I’ll take a look.”

   Jaeyoung handed over his green notebook bag without hesitation. Sangwoo took the notebook and went back to the counter. When he opened the bag, he found a white notebook with a 14-inch display, a brand he was familiar with because he had used it before, and it had been on the market for two years.

   When he pressed the power button, the laptop didn’t boot up as Jaeyoung had mentioned, and there were two beeps. Not four beeps, but two beeps, indicating a problem with the memory. Sangwoo held down the power button to force shut down the notebook, then took out a screwdriver and started disassembling it.

   “Can this really be fixed?”

   When he opened it up, he found that not only had the RAM come loose from the slot, but there was no RAM at all. Sangwoo immediately messaged Customer 22 through the store’s internet system.

   [Admin: Hi. There’s no RAM_20:16.]

   [Guest22: What?ㅠㅠ, Let me check in my bag_20:16.]

   Upon seeing the guest’s distressed response, Sangwoo frowned, but upon inspection, there seemed to be no damage. So he searched in the small bag, and inside, he found the RAM, unbelievably intact.

   [Admin: It’s in the bag, and why did you take out the RAM? _20:18.]

   [Guest22: It came out when I pulled it out, here it is ㅠㅠ_20:19.]

   ‘Are you going to say that the computer parts came loose by themselves when you opened the case?’

   This is the most meaningless statement among all the things Jaeyoung has ever said. However, when he inserted the RAM back and turned on the machine, it worked fine. But it seemed like this notebook had more than just a hardware issue [5] because it took longer than usual to boot up.

   After 5 minutes, the desktop appeared on the screen. When looking at the desktop, Sangwoo was speechless. The majority of the desktop space was occupied by graphic design software icons. There were also folders for pictures, videos, documents, and many others. Because of this, he couldn’t see the face of the female celebrity that was set as the background image.

   [Admin: The boot-up is very slow. Organize the icons on the desktop. 

   Delete any unused programs _20:27.]

   [Guest22: Is it broken? ㅠㅠ_20:27.]

   [Admin: It’s not completely broken. I will install optimization software 

   [6]. If possible, buy an SSD [7] and install it _20:27.]

   But it’s not something that software can fix. Just opening a web browser takes up to 1 minute, so it’s obvious how the owner has been using this computer despite its age.

   [Admin: Formatting might improve it _20:32.]

   [Guest22: Please do it ㅠㅠ_20:32.]

   [Admin: I don’t have the OS, unfortunately _20:32.]

   [Guest22: It looks like there’s a CD in the bag _20:32.]

   Is there anyone on this planet who carries a computer operating system in their bag? But even though it’s hard to believe, it must be true. Inside the small bag behind him, there is a copyrighted OS CD. Sangwoo couldn’t find words to say.

   [Admin: Do people usually carry an OS with them? _20:34.]

   [Guest22: I don’t know ㅠㅠ. Maybe it’s a thank-you gift _20:34.]

   [Admin: Okay. You should back up your data _20:35.]

   [Guest22: What is backup? ㅠㅠ_20:35.]

   [Admin: Find a flash drive with plenty of space. Otherwise, use a portable hard disk. If you don’t have one, use online storage _20:35.]

   [Guest22: I’ll check in the bag _20:35.]

   It’s unbelievable that there is actually a 1TB portable hard disk in the inner pocket of the bag. This bag can be called a universe bag, huh? Someone who doesn’t know what a backup is but carries such a large-capacity portable hard disk, it’s really surprising.

   [Admin: I will format it. Will Partition [9] split automatically? _20:37.]

   [Guest22: Divide it into drives, C, and D, each half. Install Windows on 

   Drive D_20:38.]

   [Guest22: I don’t know anything at all ㅠㅠ, but I see that it’s a good way to divide it. _20:38.]

   [Admin: Yes_20:39.]

   He moved the slow data of the laptop to the portable hard disk, then formatted the computer, boosted its performance, and installed various basic programs. Sangwoo proudly folded down the screen. After doing something useful, time passed productively, and he himself felt better.

   “Hmm, your eyes seem tired.”

   Jaeyoung stood with his chin on the counter, looking at Sangwoo. The other side had been there for a while. Sangwoo didn’t notice.

   “Is it finished already? Impressive.”

   Sangwoo just figured it out when the cable went off, because he kept fixing the notebook for the other party. So he lost two hours, and this was something he did on his own without anyone ordering him. Nevertheless, it’s still this junk hooligan’s annoying notebook. Even though the guy himself didn’t act maliciously like before. But still, Sangwoo packed the equipment in a bored and indifferent face and handed it to Jaeyoung.

   “The specs don’t support graphic software, so don’t install those programs.”

   “Thank you.. Sangwoo.”

   Jaeyoung’s three-word remark had an odd weight in his heart. He felt a little strange. How can two hours of labor be repaid with just a simple thank you? But the moment he heard those words, he felt as if all the fatigue didn’t matter. Sangwoo looked away without making eye contact with Jaeyoung.

   At that moment, the late part-time employee arrived and switched places with Sangwoo, while Sangwoo packed his lunch and put on a coat. Jaeyoung slung the notebook bag and stood by the door.

   Sangwoo walked without thinking for a moment. Then, when the NDorphin spray came out while dealing with the computer, he found himself walking next to Jaeyoung. Jaeyoung walked alongside, swaying his hand and humming a strange song, but there was no sign of any intention to provoke or show off.

   “What are you doing, sunbae?”

   “Huh?”

   Jaeyoung made a face as if he just realized that Sangwoo was walking beside him.

   “Where are you going, senior?”

   “Am I? Oh… How about home?”

   “This is the way to my house.”

   “I’m going this way too.”

   If that’s the case, it can be explained why the other party is walking beside you on the way back home. Not following him.

   “Sangwoo, you’re really good with computers.”

   “I just have everything I need in my bag, that’s all.”

   “I should express my gratitude a little bit.”

   “Don’t mention it. I only did it because I couldn’t stand watching.”

   Sangwoo spoke sharply, saying he didn’t know what else to do to show gratitude, and he didn’t want anything like that.

   “No, no, if you intend to do it, you must receive a reward.”

   “It’s okay.”

   Jaeyoung stayed quiet for a while and then asked suddenly.

   “Do you want to watch a movie?”

   Sangwoo wasn’t interested in movies, but he knew that the equation “cinema = dating place” was a common perspective in society.

   “Why do I have to go watch a movie with you sunbae?”

   “Huh? I didn’t invite you to watch it together. I just bought a ticket for you to watch alone.”

   “…”

   Sangwoo felt uneasy as to why these past few days he had been thinking on his own. He couldn’t breathe properly.

   “Whatever you say, if that’s the case.”

   He quickly said something and walked away, lucky to have reached home. Jaeyoung’s footsteps stopped in front of an apartment, while Sangwoo walked towards the door as if he was escaping.

   “Sweet dreams.. Sangwoo.”

   That was an unnecessary gentle farewell, but Jaeyoung’s farewell today made Sangwoo feel uneasy inappropriately. He didn’t know why the other party seemed different than usual.

   “…you too, sunbae.”

   Sangwoo spoke without caring whether Jaeyoung would hear or not. Then he ran up the stairs two steps at a time.

   ________________________________________.

[1]      Memory card. In this case, it refers to RAM “Random-access memory” or “ram.” the main memory unit of a computer that is an important component affecting overall performance and also has an impact on system speed.

[2]      Slot. It is a slot for inserting devices such as RAM, modem, internal expansion cards, or other devices that help enhance the capabilities of a computer on the motherboard.

[3]      Motherboard or mainboard. It is the main circuit board that controls the operation of connected devices according to instructions. The chipset is the main and crucial component, considered the heart of the system, responsible for coordinating the operation between various devices on the motherboard.

[4]      Boot. It prepares the computer for use and is the first thing that appears after pressing the power button. It checks the status of the machine, provides various details about the computer, such as how much RAM is available, what buses are present, and the CPU speed, using BIOS software.

[5]      Hardware. It comprises the physical components of a computer, including peripheral devices related to the computer that can be seen and touched, such as the main unit, display screen, keyboard, and mouse, among others.

[6]      Optimization software, also known as cleaning software or junk file cleaners, helps remove unnecessary files from computers, tablets, or smartphones, and improves the overall system performance “also called optimization”. Antivirus programs also have tools for this purpose.

[7]      SSD “Solid State Drive”. It is a type of data storage device used with computers or laptops to store data persistently, similar to a hard disk drive “HDD”, but faster and more reliable.

[8]      Format. It is the process of erasing all data on a drive. In the case of the C: drive or the drive where the OS “operating system” is installed, a new OS must be installed afterward.

[9]      Partition. It is the act of dividing the space on a hard disk into sections or multiple drives for convenient access to data and programs.

      SMNTCERR CHAPTERS HOME

 

SMNTCERR, Chapter 17 <11> #4.

   The loud sound of a door closing made the two male students who were playing games turn to look in surprise. Sangwoo’s heart raced, and he could feel the heat rising on his face.

   ‘Why do you like taking other people’s belongings?’

   Sangwoo hurriedly ran out of the drama club room, remembering that he had always been someone who liked change. Yes, that’s right. His own words were correct. Sometimes he was like this, sometimes he was like that, a person whose behavior was unpredictable like the weather.

   Sangwoo’s hurried footsteps gradually slowed down. As time passed, he became more and more embarrassed. Even though Jang Jaeyoung had taken the hat and refused to return it, suddenly, he seemed too vulnerable when Sangwoo got closer. Normally, Sangwoo wasn’t easily intimidated, but when someone approached him, he made a face-pulling gesture and became so surprised that he couldn’t make a sensible decision.

   ‘It’s not like I’m attracted to the same sex.’

   When fighting for the ball on a football field, the touches were more intimate than this. It was the same in wrestling or Korean wrestling. Even though their bodies were closely connected in every way, it didn’t seem strange. When entering the dressing room and changing clothes together, it still didn’t seem like a big deal because they were both men.

   Sangwoo concluded that it was his own lack of self-control that caused him to do such things. So when Jaeyoung chased after him, he dared not look at the other side. Jaeyoung handed him a blue outfit for the play along with a wig.

   “I just took off the hat to put on the wig, so I teased you a little. Didn’t expect you to get angry.”

   “I’m not angry at all.”

   He lied, because until now, Sangwoo’s heart was still pounding with anger. Jaeyoung was just preparing things, and it was clear that he had misunderstood something weird, whether intentionally or unintentionally, it seemed like the other party could make him stressed in many ways, whether intentional or not.

   “We have to practice and perform well, so let’s do our best. Sangwoo.”

   Sangwoo evaluated the other party’s words as he put away his clothes and wig into his bag and left the building. He heard Jaeyoung’s voice following him. So Sangwoo turned around to speak.

   “It seems like the plan has changed. However, it doesn’t matter. So let’s not pretend to be close.”

   The corner of his mouth that used to be calm curved into a smile.

   “I didn’t plan anything. I just did what I wanted to do.”

   “And from this point on, there’s no need to follow anymore. Because of you, sunbae. I won’t go to the library anymore. I will go back home and study there.”

   “The more you forbid, the more tempting it becomes.”

   “So please come along.”

   “Come on, talking about something like that, I’m already there.”

   “…”

   Sangwoo hurriedly walked towards the library to get his bicycle as usual. He thought that if he deliberately rode the bicycle past Jaeyoung and ran down the slope, it might help him forget about it. But Jaeyoung followed him down.

   “What are you doing?”

   “Just following you, I told you.”

   Sangwoo looked at the sparkling skateboard that Jaeyoung was riding with a surprised face. How crazy can this person be? Isn’t time important for everyone? Why waste such a valuable time on something that doesn’t make any difference?

   He shook his head and thought that he would just stick to riding the bicycle. But his gaze kept shifting towards that direction. Jaeyoung was very skilled at skateboarding, and he knew how to attract people’s attention. Not just Sangwoo, but everyone who saw Jaeyoung in that alley looked at him with curiosity and admiration. Jaeyoung seemed to enjoy getting attention, so he showed off his skateboard tricks in front of many people, smiling like a celebrity and high-fiving children. While the skateboard was still rolling.

   The other side seemed free like a character in a video game. At that moment, even though Sangwoo already knew that Jaeyoung was different from him, when he saw the smiling lips, flowing hair, and skateboarding skills, he felt that Jang Jaeyoung was a completely different species.

   They were completely different from each other. Sangwoo did what he had to do, while Jaeyoung did what he wanted to do, no matter what it was. Sangwoo had no friends, not even one person, while Jaeyoung was a famous person at the university, known by many wherever he went. Sangwoo wore only black clothes, while Jaeyoung’s wardrobe had to be full of rainbow colors. Sangwoo often looked expressionless, while Jaeyoung often smiled like a mischievous child. Sangwoo clung to his daily routine, while Jaeyoung acted like a carefree wanderer, they lived in different worlds. If it weren’t for those unfortunate events, they would have never crossed paths.

   They crossed the sidewalk and turned into the alley, then both of them gilded side by side. Even though there was no one around, Jaeyoung still jumped and spun half a turn before landing on the ground, the skateboard seemed to stick to his feet.

   “So why did you follow me?”

   If Jaeyoung wanted to skate, there would be plenty of good places to do so. I don’t understand why they had to play in a street full of potholes. Jaeyoung answered nonchalantly that there was nothing else to do, and that wasn’t an answer that matched the question. But no matter what, Sangwoo didn’t need to understand the other side because he had already passed halfway.

   “Now there’s only one week left.”

   “What?”

   “During the withdrawal period for classes.”

   Jaeyoung just laughed. He didn’t say anything.

   It didn’t take long for them to arrive at the apartment where Sangwoo lived. It was a four-story building with vines crawling up the walls. Sangwoo locked his bicycle in the designated bicycle parking area labeled ‘Room 402’ and had a chain lock.

   “Here we are.”

   “Breaking into someone’s residence carries a maximum penalty of 3 years.”

   “Why haven’t you mentioned that yet?”

   “If you take the bicycle, I’ll report it to the police immediately, including any modifications or accessories.”

   Hearing Sangwoo speak like that, instead of scolding, Jaeyoung just laughed. 

   He stepped on one end of the skateboard, and then the other end popped up. 

   Jaeyoung held up the skateboard with his left hand and raised his right hand.

   “Have fun on your day off.. Sangwoo.”

   “…Okay.”

   Upon hearing the non-hostile words, he politely responded. Sangwoo turned his gaze away from the other side and walked into the building. He wondered why he felt so unsettled and tried to think about it while climbing the stairs. It seemed like this was the first time they had separated on good terms. There were no curses exchanged.

   Even though he worried that the other person would follow, there was no sound behind him. Sangwoo reached the fourth floor, entered the code at the door, and went inside.

   He let out a sigh for no reason. Then he placed his bag by the door, took off his hat and coat, and hung them on the coat hanger. After changing out of his jeans into sportswear, he went to wash his hands with soap in the bathroom. The reflection in the mirror showed an ordinary teenage boy with flat bangs sticking to his forehead.

   Sangwoo picked up a book to read from the bookshelf and placed it on the table. He took out a pencil box and a notebook from his bag and put them side by side. But before sitting down on the chair, his feet walked towards the window.

   He squinted a little and looked through the window below. Jaeyoung was still in the same place. On the other side, he left the skateboard and played with the black cat lying belly up, while Jaeyoung sat there gazing, using his hand to stroke it. Sangwoo had encountered that cat several times, but if it didn’t feel threatened, it would run away quickly. Sangwoo looked at Jaeyoung as he picked up his phone to take a picture of the cat before closing the curtains.

   In the two-day hardcore mode, one day off. Then, it would be slightly annoying for another two days, as Jang Jaeyoung’s actions were unpredictable, like an irregular function, just like his indescribable nature.

   Sangwoo didn’t like anything without structure, because it couldn’t be predicted.

   He sat down at the table and started reading a book. return 0;

   Uncertainty comes with inefficiency.

   Jaeyoung’s actions had no pattern, so it was impossible to guess what he would do on the weekend break. Therefore, when he saw the reflection of a person on the frosted glass door of the internet cafe with posters attached, Sangwoo felt restless. Then, after a while, he felt relieved and continued to stay this way.

   The special working hours on Saturday passed slowly because there were fewer people using the service than usual, so he didn’t have much work. However, because he was idly staring at the door, he didn’t use his free time effectively. If an enemy suddenly appeared, he had to be prepared to deal with it, so vigilance was a good defense. But from the situation, it seemed like he was waiting for Jaeyoung to arrive, which Sangwoo thought was funny.

   ‘I haven’t missed a day of us seeing each other until now.’

   That was the only pattern Sangwoo found in Jaeyoung’s various behaviors, even on Wednesdays when they studied different subjects. The other side still came chasing after Sangwoo as if to catch him.

   But until four o’clock, Jaeyoung didn’t show up. Sangwoo felt disappointed and slightly uneasy. At the same time, he thought that the other side might be waiting in front of the house. It wouldn’t be surprising since the other side had come before when riding a skateboard. When looked at from that angle, it wasn’t strange if the other side came again.

   When he walked to the front of the house, Sangwoo saw a black shadow in front of the building.

   “So, he must be there!”

   But when he walked closer, he found that it was just a large garbage bin. In the end, on that day, Sangwoo didn’t meet Jaeyoung even once. If he knew that it would be like this, he would have used the spare time during work more productively. He regretted wasting his time idly staring at the door.

   Sangwoo entered the house in a gloomy mood. And Saturday life came to an end.

   [1.) On an ordinary day, there is a 100% possibility that Jaeyoung will appear.

   2.) On a day off, there is a possibility of x% that Jaeyoung will appear, 

   (0≤x≤50).]

   From the case of Saturday, although it was not conclusive, it could be inferred according to the above conclusions. Today, Sangwoo chose to believe the option that Jaeyoung would not show up in order to avoid restlessness like yesterday, as if it were his belief system.

   Gong-ging gong-ging.

   But Jaeyoung destroyed Sangwoo’s “belief” by appearing at 19:33. When the ringing sound echoed through the door, dealing with customers became one of his responsibilities, and Sangwoo’s former assumption was torn in half, shattered to pieces.

   Jaeyoung picked up the card and walked past the counter. Sangwoo felt anxious because he didn’t know what the other side would do, but luckily there were surveillance cameras installed on the ceiling. If Jaeyoung did something pointless, Sangwoo would immediately inform the store manager and make sure he never came here again. The store manager was a kind person. Previously, when Sangwoo had an argument with another man who asked him to put something on hold, the store manager sided with Sangwoo.  [Order from customer number 22: Spicy Fried Chicken.]

   Sangwoo glanced at the notification message. It had only been a minute since Jaeyoung passed by the counter; he had to place the order immediately upon opening the computer.

   Sangwoo got up from his seat and went to boil water, preparing the ramyeon according to the instructions. He placed the ramen bowl on a tray and carried it to the smoking area. Jaeyoung sat leaning against a chair, reading manga on his shaking legs. As soon as Sangwoo placed the tray on the table and turned around, he heard a loud exhale behind him.

   After returning to the counter for three minutes, the notification popped up again.

   [Order from customer number 22: Lemonade.]

   “So, the strategy for today is training a thousand dogs, huh?”

   If that’s the case, it must be the most tolerable thing he has encountered so far. Despite sitting not far from the counter, Jaeyoung seemed content, and there was nothing unsatisfactory for Sangwoo because this was a job that earned him money.

   He filled the glass with filtered water, about 80%, and stirred the lemonade powder with a teaspoon. After adding four ice cubes, the water level rose to just below the rim of the glass. Sangwoo placed the glass on a tray for a moment and went to find Jaeyoung. The other side was watching a video of someone spray painting on the wall, the ramyeon already more than halfway gone in the bowl.

   “Huh…”

   The sound of a loud exhale seemed like the earth was collapsing, coming from the mouth of the person sitting there. Sangwoo placed the drink next to the ramyeon bowl and stepped out of the smoking area.

   After returning to his seat for five minutes, the notification popped up again.

   [Order from customer number 22: Fried Clam-Purse Potatoes.]

   Sangwoo looked at the screen with a dissatisfied expression. Customers could order any food through the store’s system, but hardly anyone ever ordered pastries. Normally, they would come to the counter to buy them themselves.

   “So, you’re trying to give me an excuse to exercise, huh? Thanks.”

   Sangwoo picked up the pastries from the shelf and walked to the smoking area, while Jaeyoung was watching a basketball game from another country.

   “Ohhh….”

   The sound of exhaling grew louder each time. Sangwoo placed the bag of snacks next to the Lemon Green water and the Ramyun cup before leaving the smoking zone.

   Sangwoo knew well that it wasn’t over yet. He sat down at the counter and hugged his chest, looking at the screen. It wasn’t known how many minutes had passed when the notification sound became louder.

   [Customer request number 22: Jelly fruits.]

   Sangwoo grabbed the jelly from the shelf and headed towards the smoking zone.

   ________________________________________.

   [1] Training a disobedient dog. “똥개, 훈련, : Tong-gae, Hoon-nyeon.” A proverb used to describe giving orders to perform tasks that are both difficult and easy or have no repeated meaning.

      SMNTCERR CHAPTERS HOME

SMNTCERR, Chapter 16 <11> #3.

   The playground path they walked on still had the sign that said, ‘Drama Club Filming  in Progress,’ pinned up as usual. Even though it had been a fake sign for three days, now he knew the truth… Sangwoo kicked the sign until it broke and then threw it into the trash bin.

   When they walked on the snatched path, tranquility visited them. Even with Jaeyoung by his side. Sangwoo took out a coffee can and sipped from it, walking on the path where he could close his eyes.

   “You’re not too brave, are you?”

   Sangwoo hurried his steps a little, not wanting to be disturbed. Of course, Jaeyoung followed and walked at the same speed.

   “Do you know what I’m going to do with just the two of us like this?”

   “Are you a delinquent?”

   “…What harsh words!”

   “If you’re not a delinquent, then don’t worry about it. I’m just asking if you’re a delinquent, that’s all. Do you have a black heart?”

   “If you want to gather 191 people, the ones you like, it will take time, so be careful.”

   He clenched his teeth and spoke. Sangwoo smirked and looked at

   Jaeyoung, who was wearing a nice coat. He had a tall, slender body, but didn’t look as strong as those fighting athletes.

   “Sunbae, you don’t seem very skilled in fighting.”

   “Oh, really? Then, are you working out?”

   Sangwoo used to learn taekwondo a long time ago, but since entering high school, he prioritized his studies. Besides cycling around his neighborhood or to the university, he hadn’t done any other exercises.

   “I used to. But now, not so much.”

   “Next time, play basketball with me. I won’t let you touch the ball at all.”

   “No, thanks. And also, please stop increasing the number of other people’s family members.”

   At the end of the path was the soccer field under construction. Sangwoo walked up to the Faculty of Natural Sciences automatically, stood in his usual spot, aimed at the can, and threw it into the trash bin. The can curved beautifully into the second leaf of the bin. Sangwoo felt relieved as if he had built a card castle again after being blown down by someone.

   Next was the library. Sangwoo sat in his reserved seat, while Jaeyoung sat next to him, not borrowing any books this time, and twirled a pen. Sangwoo took out his study book and notebook. As he hung his bag on the chair, Jaeyoung took the notebook away.

   “Give it back. That’s stealing, you know.”

   Jaeyoung glanced boredly and flipped the back cover of the notebook, looking at the price tag. Then, he reached into his leather wallet, taking out two banknotes and placing them on Sangwoo’s desk. Sangwoo was speechless. If it had been an important notebook, he would have reported it to the police, but it was just a practice book. Instead of wasting time arguing with Jaeyoung, he took out a similar-looking notebook from his bag instead.

   From now on, the disturbance would start again because one heart was waiting for the sound of flipping paper. He picked up the earplugs, which were the third round of ammunition, from his backpack and put them in both ears. Then he didn’t hear the disturbing sound anymore. Even though he was puzzled by Jihye’s first two instructions, the third one might work.

   It was a bit uncomfortable wearing the earplugs, but the advantage was that it blocked out the sound for real. He felt that he would be able to concentrate for several days and read a book. But before he could read a single page, he could feel eyes staring at him.

   When he looked to the right, he found Jaeyoung sitting there and drawing something in the notebook. He sat with a professional attitude and occasionally glanced between Sangwoo and the concealed notebook, shifting the pen in his mouth.

   ‘Behaving strangely again.’

   Sangwoo opened the partition on the right and turned his face back to the book. After a minute passed, he looked sideways with concern and noticed that the partition had been silently folded down because he couldn’t hear it due to the earplugs. He set up the partition again, but Jaeyoung put it down again. It had been like this for three rounds. Sangwoo was about to explode. He thought he would be able to read a book today, but it seemed like he would miss out again.

   After setting up the partition again, he used his right arm to hold it firmly so that it wouldn’t fall down and continued reading. At first, it was okay, but after a while, he could feel the piercing gaze again. This time, Jaeyoung stood up, swept his gaze diagonally at Sangwoo, and drew a picture.

   ‘That crazy guy.’

   Sangwoo cursed silently, realizing he needed group work assistance. He prepared a cup of coffee with compassion and even left a pathway for walking. In the end, he just kept writing the script until the professor scolded him, and he stared beside him without any concentration.

   Although it would be better than wearing a red duck feather jacket, the green coat was still annoying. Sangwoo decided to move and read the book at home. Even though the table at home was not as big as the library table, and the light was dimmer, if he stayed here and couldn’t do anything like this, it would be better to go home and read.

   He pulled out the earplugs forcefully, preparing to put them in his bag. At that moment, he heard a loud tearing sound from the side. After putting the textbooks into his bag and turning back, Jaeyoung had moved the paper to the front.

   “A gift.”

   The other party drew a cartoon-like picture in the notebook. It was a realistic sketch that resembled a political cartoon character in an American newspaper. A puffed-up cheek, squinted eyes, pointed finger, black-painted lower part under the eyes, downturned mouth, and a disproportionately large black cap. Sangwoo tore the picture into pieces right away.

   “Too much.”

   He ignored Jaeyoung’s mumbled complaints and picked up every piece of paper in his hand, then stopped by the trash bin and threw them away while walking out.

   “Do you know how much money I make by illustrating for magazines?”

   “And what does it have to do with me?”

   “I’ll tell you that it’s not something you can easily tear apart.”

   “I tore it because sunbae, you are the one who drew it. Not because it wasn’t beautiful.”

   “But you’re still drinking the coffee I gave you.”

   “Senior is not the one who made it.”

   “Just say what you want to say.”

   He left the library at 1:32 PM. It was a complete waste of time. As Sangwoo hopped on his bike, Jaeyoung shouted from afar.

   “Sangwoo!”

   “What is it?”

   “Even though it’s a bit early, have sweet dreams.”

   It’s a meaningless phrase whether spoken in the scorching midday or whispered in the dead of night. He had no way of feeling pleased to hear it.

   “Wish bad dreams for you, sunbae.” With that said, he pedaled down the slope. return 0;

   The next day turned out better than before. On Friday, there were only elective classes. Jaeyoung dozed off on his desk during the first and second periods. Sangwoo absentmindedly picked up the pen he left behind the day before and thought about the incident that made him upset. At the same time, he tried to focus on his studies. Even though he sat next to Jaeyoung, he managed to maintain a usable mood.

   “Want me to treat you to lunch again today?”

   After school, Jaeyoung offered to treat Sangwoo to a free meal without any reason, just like before. If it were someone else, Sangwoo would probably accept, but because it was the other party, he pondered in his head first.

   [1.) Accept.

   Profit in monetary form, Y / Stress, Y = Minimal damage.

2)       Reject. – In the case that Jang Jaeyoung follows me to the cafeteria.

   Profit in monetary form, N / Stress, Y = Significant damage.

3)       Reject. – In the case that Jang Jaeyoung suggests going to a different restaurant.

   Profit in monetary form, N / Stress, N = Maintain the status quo.

   If he agrees, he has to eat with Jaeyoung 100% and there will be stressful issues. But if he refuses, Jaeyoung will follow him. Apart from not getting a free meal, there will be more stressful matters depending on the reaction of the other party. Therefore, he couldn’t do anything but gamble and see what happens.

   “No, thank you.”

   “Then shall we eat at the cafeteria today?”

   “Yes.”

   “I’m a fan of the university cafeteria, you know.”

   Fortunately, the lucky number was 3, after Jaeyoung went somewhere else.. Sangwoo went to the cafeteria alone, got Korean food as usual, and walked to sit quietly in a secluded corner to enjoy his meal, relieved that it was slower than usual by just one minute, so it was still considered good. But when he came out, he found Jaeyoung waiting at the exit of the cafeteria.

   “Oh.”

   Obviously, it was a ‘black-hole.’ Sangwoo took a can like before, checked the condition on the outside and shook it. When he saw that there were no problems, he opened the can. While taking the first sip, Jaeyoung asked strange questions.

   “Do you want to perform a short drama?”

   “Of course.”

   “In that case, let’s go together for a while.”

   If you want to perform a good short drama, do you have to go to a specific place? It’s a really strange instruction.

   “Where should we go, sunbae?”

   “Let’s go find our costumes.”

   “Why do we need to do that?”

   “We have to play as rival dynasty merchants. Otherwise, are we to wear tshirts with English prints or something?”

   “But this is our free time to hang out.”

   “We can do that later.”

   Jaeyoung made a bored face and finally pulled Sangwoo’s wrist to make him follow along.

   “This is using force. I will report it. I said I would report it.”

   Sangwoo shouted while holding the phone in his other hand. Jaeyoung frowned, snatched the phone, and put it in his own pants pocket. The other party was stronger than he thought.

   “Today, I’ll make sure you get a red line drawn [1].”

   “This narrow-mindedness, what makes you think I need help like this? If it’s done from here and you still feel threatened, just let me know. No restrictions.”

   Do you really want to help? Sangwoo wondered, but he decided to trust the other side’s words. When he agreed, Jaeyoung released his grip.

   “So you’re a merchant, right?”

   “Yes.”

   It’s certain. Merchants have a lot to say, and the possibility of getting a good score is high as well.

   “So I’m just a customer being fooled over the phone, huh?”

   Jaeyoung only led him to the student club building without specifying where they were going. When they reached the stairs, Jaeyoung stopped in front of a room labeled “Drama Club.”

   When they opened the door, they were greeted with stage props, masks, and scattered clothes. On a small refrigerator, there were canned coffee, blackhole, piled snacks. On the wall, theater season posters were pasted one on top of another. On the sofa, two male students were playing football on a gaming console [2].

   “You’re here already, Jaeyoung-sunbae.”

   “Do whatever you want. Don’t mind me.”

   Jaeyoung didn’t care about those people. He moved the mannequin aside and opened the door behind it. Then Sangwoo followed the path indicated by the other party.

   In that narrow room, there were clotheslines on all three sides of the wall. Various types of clothes were tightly hung. Jaeyoung took a wooden stick and searched for clothes, while Sangwoo followed suit by searching the lower rack for clothes that people in the previous dynasty might wear, but it wasn’t easy.

   “What’s this?”

   Jaeyoung found a set of clothes that could be used among the dozens of sets. It was a yellow jumpsuit with long sleeves from the neck to the wrists, with bands at the waist and sleeves, and a complex pattern in gold on the chest. Then he picked up another set that was similar in style but purple.

   “Which set is better, this one or that one?”

   “They look the same to me.”

   “The edges are different. The lines are not the same.”

   “Any set will do. Just pay attention to the short Chinese language drama. It’s strange to care about clothes this size.”

   “If you want a full score, you have to do this. I’ll choose this one.”

   Jaeyoung chose a yellow set that looked similar in style. “Actually, in

   Sangwoo’s eyes, they looked almost identical.” It seemed like he liked that set.

   “Try looking for the wig over there.”

   Sangwoo did as the other party instructed. He sat and searched through the box intently but found nothing. He reached out to grab another box to continue searching, but suddenly Jaeyoung also sat and stared in the same manner, only focusing on the legs of the other side. Now, he was being replaced by a new face.

   “Move back a little.”

   “Oh, got it.”

   Jaeyoung remained motionless, not even flinching, despite Sangwoo’s words. Sangwoo searched the box with a feeling of unease. Although he found nothing, he felt relieved. When he looked up, he discovered that his own hat was in Jaeyoung’s hand. Sangwoo examined the other side, who remained still like a statue, without any clear indication of what he intended to do. If one were to judge solely based on the hat mentioned since yesterday, Sangwoo guessed that he probably wanted it.

   “It’s just an old hat I’ve been wearing for a long time. Please go buy one yourself.”

   Jaeyoung simply stared at Sangwoo.

   “If from now on, you don’t come to find me, I will buy a similar one for you, sunbae.”

   Although Sangwoo proposed with the phrase “If.” he guessed that the other party would not agree. If he were to borrow Jaeyoung’s words, it would mean that if it were a matter that can be solved with a cheap hat like this, it wouldn’t have come to this point.

   Jaeyoung’s reaction seemed somewhat peculiar, not at all what Sangwoo had anticipated. Whether it was a scornful smile, a sarcastic remark, or even wearing a hat for himself, it ended up being an outstretched hand held in front of Sangwoo.

   “There’s something stuck right here.”

   His long, slender fingers slowly moved closer. Although there was time to avoid the touch, Sangwoo became rigid with an inexplicable sense of resistance.

   Next, Jaeyoung’s index finger and middle finger gently touched Sangwoo’s forehead, and the moment their fingertips made contact with his temple, static electricity sparked.

   Sangwoo tightened the box and pulled back, the sudden intense stimulation causing him to resist with his spiritual energy, which swept away the other party’s hand.

   “Give it back please.”

   “It’s better not to wear too many hats. Why do you only cover your face and hide your eyes like that?”

   “It’s my business.”

   He extended his hand, but Jaeyoung still didn’t return the hat, making Sangwoo on the verge of getting angry.

   “Please give me back the hat.”

   “Why? Let me see your face for a moment.”

   “Hey, I said give it back?”

   Since he was born, it was the first time Sangwoo spoke without a trace of respect for his seniors. Sangwoo moved forward and snatched the hat from Jaeyoung’s hand. Their chests brushed against each other for a moment before Jaeyoung fell backward, but Sangwoo quickly got up and ran out of the dressing room.

   ________________________________________.

[1]       The red line represents spoken language, indicating a criminal history. In this case, Sangwoo intended to say that he would make Jaeyoung have a criminal history.

[2]       A game console, or video game console, is a gaming device that displays images through a screen on the device or television. There are both home gaming consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and portable gaming consoles like Nintendo Switch.

      SMNTCERR CHAPTERS HOME

SMNTCERR, Chapter 15 <11> #2.

   After class ended, Sangwoo, feeling flustered and embarrassed in front of Jang Jaeyoung, hurriedly ran to the Engineering Faculty immediately, where the previous class was held. Sangwoo had to arrive before Jaeyoung, but his bag (a blue backpack containing equipment to reserve seat number two) was left on the far-right table in the fourth row.

   Sangwoo sat down and spread the divider to his left. In the Chinese language class, they had to prepare a short drama, so he couldn’t see the other side’s face for help. But in the class ‘Engineering Mathematics 2.’ he just listened to the lecture and solved problems by himself. So he believed that Jihye’s guidance might be helpful, but he didn’t think it would be that easy, because Jang Jaeyoung was no different from a wicked monster.

   Sangwoo speculated on the various plans of the other side, whether it was accidentally knocking down the divider without intending to, or tapping the table, or making strange noises to disrupt the class.

   However, waiting and waiting, the other side seemed harmless. He was just worried about what Jaeyoung, who was behind the divider, was doing, so he wasted six minutes of the class.

   Finally, Sangwoo quietly lowered the divider a bit, allowing a glimpse of Jaeyoung’s sleepy face on the desk. Today, he felt a conflict in his heart, as if it wasn’t just because the other side wasn’t wearing a red feather coat or glasses. Jang Jaeyoung seemed like a completely different person, as if Sangwoo didn’t know that he was the same person as the part-time worker at the Italian restaurant.

   There were no earrings on his ears as usual, and his hairstyle looked neater than before. Moreover, when he closed his eyes like this, he looked gentle as if he was not the same person who used to find trouble for Sangwoo.

   “What the hell are you doing?”

   Sangwoo felt confused and uneasy at the same time. Defining that indescribable identity was not easy. He defined the other side as ‘Fool, trash, human cancer’ but the image in front of him seemed more suitable for words like “polite, refined, adult.” Those characteristics seemed like different types of data [1] that couldn’t replace each other.

   However, Sangwoo knew well that Jaeyoung’s behavior contradicted his good appearance. The evidence was that Virtual Arts Design’s kid came to study engineering mathematics. He came here to obstruct and ruin Sangwoo’s studies. Even though he was asleep, he still achieved his goal.

   Sangwoo gritted his teeth and refocused on studying. Between thinking about what intentions Jaeyoung had, they proceeded to the next lesson.

   During the second class of “Engineering Mathematics 2.” Sangwoo learned very little. Except for the subject “Contemporary Culture and Cultural

   Theory.” It was already Wednesday. All the other subjects were the same. After these two weeks passed and Jaeyoung disappeared… if he read additional books by himself and listened to online lectures, he had to keep up with the lessons. But the teachers often emphasized the content that would be tested in class, so he couldn’t afford to lose anything.

   Therefore, the moment when Jaeyoung was drowsy was an opportunity. Sangwoo focused on the teacher’s words and tried to understand what the teacher said, but strangely, a few minutes passed, and his consciousness shifted to Jaeyoung, who was deeply asleep.

   ‘Just by being here, you’re already bothering me. It’s an amazing ability.’

   Sangwoo tried his best not to look in that direction, but the fierce battle between consciousness and desire ended within 1 minute, and he turned around.

   As. Error. Jaeyoung yawned peacefully. Sangwoo was engulfed in indescribable emotions that couldn’t be summed up in a single sentence, and he didn’t like those feelings at all. However, when he thought about the wickedness of Jaeyoung, who wore a mask of normalcy, the incomprehensible feeling vanished, replaced by a rising tide of anger and revenge.

   It has been said in ancient laws, ‘eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth.’ Don’t you feel anything like that? Jang Jaeyoung must have misunderstood something… If all the conditions are met, Sangwoo can seek revenge as well, but he’s not crazy to that extent. He doesn’t see the benefit of using excessive energy to torment others.

   ‘There’s nothing I can’t do.’

   Sangwoo reached into the box of pencils for the exam rain and pulled one out. Pulling the cap off the pencil evoked a sense of tension as if unsheathing a sword. He held the pencil cautiously and moved closer to Jaeyoung.

   The moist tip of the pencil moved closer to Jaeyoung’s forehead and paused in mid-air. Sangwoo realized that he hadn’t drawn for a long time; he didn’t need to make it beautiful like a painter. But the humble feeling of lacking artistic ability emerged, hindering his decisive action.

   ‘Just draw wherever you want!’

   Startling himself, Sangwoo tightened his grip on the pencil, never having done anything like this before. Just thinking about giving up study time to do something like this made his hand tremble, but he clenched his fists bravely and reached forward. The tip of the pencil, which had hesitated a little, lightly touched Jaeyoung’s forehead. At that moment, their eyes forgot to blink, causing him to inadvertently lower the pencil without intending to.

   And that made him look like someone who had done this before, compared to Jaeyoung’s skillful handwriting. What he had done seemed insignificant, but he had never deceived anyone in his life, so his heart sank to his gaze like a misbehaving child caught in the act.

   Jaeyoung just opened his eyes wide. Sangwoo put the pencil back in the pencil case and leaned over to read the book. His pale brain raced, and his heart beat faster.

   He didn’t know how time passed after that. Sangwoo sat still as a stone until he regained his composure, and by the time he was able to concentrate, the class was over, and the students were gradually leaving the classroom.

   Is he acting like Jang Jaeyoung because of that slight anger? It’s hard to believe that he would stoop to the same level as the other side.

   Owner of the wild hair name was stunned. If Jaeyoung was angry, Sangwoo would have something to say as well, but other than that, he can’t stand himself using a pencil to draw on someone else’s face.

   “Sangwoo-ya, I’m calling you.”

   “… Yes.”

   “Are you seeking revenge?”

   Sangwoo turned around. Jaeyoung smiled, even with a black line on his nose.

   “Wow, it feels like a robot came to vacuum and bring bread crumbs.”

   Instead of getting angry, Jaeyoung looked pleased and adjusted his cap on his head. Sangwoo felt so embarrassed that he didn’t have the heart to find fault with the other party who touched him without permission.

   “Let’s go eat together. Today, I’ll treat you.”

   “I told you, it’s only my sisters.”

   Sangwoo resisted answering. When Jaeyoung stood up and grabbed his wrist, he was so unconscious that he was dragged away without resistance.

   While walking out of the engineering faculty, Jaeyoung pretended to greet many people, and everyone who knew Jaeyoung laughed and talked about Sangwoo’s work.

   “Sunbae, why is your nose dirty? Are you putting on makeup preparing for a play?”

   “Cool right? this kid did it.”

   “Oh. Jaeyoung, what are you doing in engineering? And why did your face get like that?”

   “Oh well, I have a little something to take care of, as for the face, this hubae did it.”

   Instead of feeling embarrassed when someone greeted them, Jaeyoung pointed to Sangwoo and proudly told everyone that the pen marks on his face it was his skill, just like citing references in a thesis, it was very strange to be a craftsman, and that day Sangwoo learned the meaning of “shamelessness.”

   Every time Jaeyoung introduced them to his acquaintances, Sangwoo felt as if he was being attacked. As soon as he walked out of the entrance hall, Sangwoo was in high spirits. After being dragged around like that, when he realized it, he was standing in front of a pizza shop on campus.

   “Don’t you like pizza?”

   Jaeyoung asked after sitting down at the table. Sangwoo replied with a resigned expression.

   “No, I don’t.”

   “Then why are you so quiet?”

   “Can you remove it?”

   “No, I won’t remove it.”

   Jaeyoung smiled widely and looked at the menu. He ordered one pizza and two soda bottles without asking for Sangwoo’s opinion.

   “As for pasta, since you said you don’t like it, I didn’t order it.” Then he acted like himself, caring about something like that.

   Sangwoo made a sound, ‘tsk.’ In his heart, he said that he didn’t like pasta because Jang Jaeyoung worked at a different Italian restaurant. He never thought about whether the food was delicious or not, and he didn’t choose what to eat.

   Eating is just a process of gaining energy. If the nutrients are complete, there’s no need to think about taste or appearance because constantly thinking about such things is foolish. The idiot with a black line on his nose threw away Korean food worth three thousand won and is now wasting money for no reason.

   “Sangwoo, did you understand what was taught earlier?”

   “If you were not present, I would have understood.”

   “How strange. It’s amazing that you can remember the name with just three syllables and not an entire lecture.”

   “The person who checks attendance by asking the juniors in the subject they have to attend. Moreover, they come and sleep in a class that has no benefit to themselves, this is even more strange than me.”

   While they were talking, the food arrived. Sangwoo ate without saying a word. Jaeyoung thought he ate without enjoyment, but he continued to eat without caring.

   He ate as much as he could and stood up, feeling uncomfortable eating in an unfamiliar place, wanting to leave quickly or maybe because there are crazy people with wide smiles and something stuck on their noses.

   “Sangwoo.”

   Jaeyoung paid and followed him immediately.

   “Nice weather, huh? Look at the sky.”

   ‘You damn fly, fly up to the sky.’

   Sangwoo lowered his head and walked steadily.

   They walked out of the restaurant in just a few steps. Jaeyoung took out a canned coffee from his leather bag, with a black background and the logo saying ‘Black Holic,’ which attracted Sangwoo’s attention. The other party was definitely thinking of using this drink to annoy him.

   ‘I’ve been waiting for this moment.’

   Sangwoo applied Jihye’s advice and prepared for situations like this since the day before. The convenience store owner said that ‘Black Holic’ coffee will come to the store again next Monday, so he only buys coffee on regular days, one can per day. Therefore, the amount he needed to save up was seven cans, so he went to the supermarket and bought that amount, but the moment he thought he had to open his backpack, Jaeyoung handed him the coffee without being able to react in time. “Oh, coffee [2].” ERROR.

   ERROR.

   TYPE, ERROR[3.]

   Originally, he thought Jaeyoung would tease him by opening a can and putting it in his mouth to show off. Sangwoo stopped walking without realizing it and absentmindedly took the can without intending to.

   Sangwoo examined the can closely to see if it was tightly sealed. Jaeyoung saw that and muttered, ‘crazy guy…’. Sangwoo examined it carefully. He shook it, but the can showed no signs of being tampered with, no leaked coffee, not even a single drop.

   “Just drink it already.”

   “What are you doing?”

   “I thought about throwing it away, so I bought 16 cans, but it didn’t taste good, so I left it for your mouth.”

   ‘What’s wrong with him?’

   Sangwoo felt puzzled. The behavior that made him suspicious wasn’t causing any confusion, like arranging the sequence 2 4 6, 8… all was fine, then suddenly, √55 emerged.

   Jaeyoung made a lazily remark.

   “I’ll pick up the remaining cans for you, so take off your hat.”

   “What he wears is none of our business, senior.”

   Since a while ago, why did he only talk about hats? Sangwoo opened the can and felt better when he heard the cheerful sound he hadn’t heard in a long time. He slowly raised the can and touched his lips. As he tilted the can, the warm drink flowed in.

   “Do you think it tastes good?”

   Sangwoo didn’t really know the taste, but he just went along with the comfortable feeling he used to have every day. Sangwoo didn’t pay attention to Jaeyoung and walked straight toward the Humanities building, embracing the hope of recovering his lost daily life.

   ________________________________________.

[1]      Different types of information. For Sangwoo, it refers to data types, or the type of data in computers that specifies the characteristics of the data to be used as numbers, letters, integers, decimals, or dates and times for convenience in processing.

[2]      “Ah, coffee.” In the original Korean version, Jaeyoung said, ‘커피, 셔틀’ “coffee, shuttle”, where the word 셔틀 “shuttle” is a slang term in 

   Korean derived from 빵셔틀 “bread, shuttle”, which refers to a student who is sent by classmates or delinquents in school to buy bread during class time.

[3]      Type Error, an unexpected condition that arises during various stages of program development.

      SMNTCERR CHAPTERS HOME

SMNTCERR, Chapter 13 Green.

   Jang Jaeyoung teased Chu Sangwoo to the fullest for two days. He booked a place where the other party usually sits in advance and made a noisy scene in every class, following him everywhere and watching Sangwoo get angry until he trembled.

   And this is the success of the past two days.

   Jaeyoung received six derogatory nicknames, namely, (1) Stalker, (2) Trash, (3) Mental illness, (4) Human cancer, (5) Sadist, (6) Joker. This means that he has firmly embedded himself in Sangwoo’s memory. Although the nameplate given to Sangwoo may not be very cute, it’s better than having no name at all. Jaeyoung is a graphic designer who knows how important branding can be.

   Forget the phrase “When I call his name, he comes to me, and he turns into a flower [1].” It can go away. It’s not a sweet cartoon scene where rich people with good looks chase after girls, splash water on their faces, and then run away. Negative emotions are stronger than positive ones because of marketing tactics like Noise Marketing [2] which is why it’s popular. Moreover, it could be considered an honor for crazy guys who have never given anyone a name before to be called by six different names.

   Jaeyoung sought revenge with extreme vengeance. It was a feeling that spun around, refreshing and fizzy like drinking soda. While destroying Sangwoo, who was so meticulous, he felt that the feeling he had lost had been compensated.

   He enjoyed teasing Chu Sangwoo rather than pitying him. Instead of sympathizing, he felt good seeing the twisted face of the other party. He was so happy that he could endure the torment of having to wake up early every morning. Is that sadistic? He had never thought about it before, but sometimes he might have that side.

   Jaeyoung planned to follow Sangwoo for as long as two weeks until the withdrawal period ended, but he began to think that it was time to stop. Because Sangwoo seemed more miserable than he had imagined, he even thought that the other party might drop out of school altogether. Jaeyoung just wanted to tease Sangwoo a little. He didn’t really want to ruin the other party’s daily life.

   Besides, he was already an easily bored and annoying person. Giving orders for his junior to carry his bag was not an easy task. He had to attend classes that he didn’t understand, and sitting in the library for just one minute made him itchy all over. Moreover, eating tasteless food in the cafeteria with people whispering around was really difficult. There was no way he could do it for two weeks, and anyway, Jaeyoung just wanted to find a way to pass the time.

   These days, Jaeyoung really doesn’t have much to do.

   ‘Sangwoo, why are you doing this?’

   After attending the class on “Hankuk University Student Personality Test.” Jaeyoung immediately felt disgusted with Sangwoo. The classroom was overcrowded, making it difficult for the professor to control everyone, so some students skipped attendance. It’s unknown how many of those people have been suspended or expelled. If Sangwoo is someone who overlooks things that are not right and lets them pass like an ordinary person, then Jaeyoung must be sitting quietly, listening to a world-class designer teaching in America.

   It’s not a course on etiquette.

   But no matter what, it’s just a meaningless assumption. He should be sorry that he himself is in a worse situation than secret inspectors, having done poorly last semester and being closely watched by professors this semester. Jaeyoung sits dejectedly at the back of the room, borrowing paper from the person next to him to doodle.

   Once outside the building, the air feels great. The season of autumn leaves, the season of love, is approaching. It’s been half a year since he broke up with his last girlfriend. He hasn’t been with anyone for a long time either, but he thinks about that while walking among other students. And then he sees

   Sangwoo in the distance, whose attire doesn’t stand out but catches the eye. Sangwoo is walking quickly toward the cafeteria with a group of female students in green outfits.

   ‘Hey, that guy is good with girls.’

   It’s surprising that when they reached the restaurant, he came with another girl. That kind of behavior doesn’t seem popular among real girls. He imagines that Sangwoo must not have a girlfriend.

   He was suspiciously led to the crowded cafeteria. Sangwoo looks across the empty tables and sits at a table full of people, looking enchanting.

   ‘One punch hit.’

   He laughed as he saw the other party slide and sit directly at an empty spot, which also has a charming angle. As for the girl in the green outfit, she sits down beside him. Upon closer inspection, the other party is none other than Ru Jihye, who is sitting there with Sangwoo.

   After eating a ridiculously unappetizing meal, they leave the cafeteria. Jaeyoung thinks that he should be satisfied now. He can’t stand eating this kind of food anymore, even just one meal. He bought sixteen cans of coffee, which he just noticed at the convenience store. When he tried to taste one can, he realized that he can’t go on drinking it, so he threw it away. He left the remaining fifteen cans in the club room, but no underclassmen drank them either.

   While walking towards the smoking area with others, he happens to come across Sangwoo and Jihye crossing the street from the opposite side.

   ‘They’re about the same height. Looks lively, huh? They match well, don’t they?’

   Jaeyoung’s heart sank as he complained bitterly in his mind like a sullen person. Today, Sangwoo wasn’t teased by him, so he appeared more alive, paying attention to Jihye. Jaeyoung thinks that the other party will walk past him like that, but it’s strange that even though they are far away, the other party remembers Jaeyoung. Even though their eyes met briefly that day, Jaeyoung still can’t remember why it feels strange that Jaeyoung is in a strangely good mood.

   Sangwoo turned around and immediately started running away, but Jaeyoung was still half-walking, half-running after him, thinking of catching up with the other side. When they were about ten steps apart, Sangwoo turned to look with a worried face before widening his eyes. He knew that the other side would be surprised, but he didn’t expect their reaction to be running away with such force. Jaeyoung himself quickly emerged as if he were a consecutive killer, chasing after the other party.

   ‘Hey, why the hell am I running?’

   Who would have thought he was crazy… Jaeyoung didn’t understand himself, but his feet kept moving automatically. Sangwoo ran very fast because his determined expression made him think that the other side probably didn’t have much strength left. However, even though Jaeyoung ran as fast as he could, he still couldn’t catch up with Sangwoo, who was running while carrying a backpack.

   Suddenly, he realized that they had reached the main gate. Since he stopped working, this was the first time he had run such a long distance, after sitting on the floor to catch his breath. Jaeyoung also became aware.

   ‘It is said that human greed knows no bounds.’

   When he saw the image of the other side running away in front of him, he understood why he was chasing after them. He used to playfully think of making Sangwoo remember him, whether it was through useless things like Noise Marketing, just to achieve success. But for Sangwoo… Jaeyoung was just a low-quality product. He might feel good for a moment when Sangwoo looked surprised at seeing him, but that couldn’t fill his satisfaction. Jaeyoung wanted to be an excellent sunbae, someone capable and interesting for Sangwoo, just as he was for other junior members.

   ‘Is it true that you’re investigating my relationships, sunbae? She’s a good kid and has nothing to do with me at all!’

   He couldn’t stand seeing Sangwoo getting close to anyone else. He created conflicts with the other side, which led to his reputation as a good person being transformed into something like an unwanted fruit that no one could reach.

   As for Ru Jihye, he had investigated her. Her SNS posts were easy to find, including her name, major, student ID, and there was nothing difficult. From briefly looking at her posts, she didn’t seem like an outstanding person like Sangwoo, but she appeared genuine and sincere. The day they went to the restaurant together, she posted:

   [Looks a bit scary, but doesn’t seem like a bad person. Is there a chance to meet again? #weird person, #first meeting, #feeling expected.] It was obvious that she was talking about Chu Sangwoo.

   [Ru Jihye – Good-natured.

   Jang Jaeyoung – Stalker / Garbage / Mental illness / Human cancer / 

   Sadist / Joker.]

   Ru Jihye was an angel in a green outfit, while Jang Jaeyoung was a redtongued demon from hell. Jaeyoung didn’t like these contrasting elements of good and evil.

   It seemed that Sangwoo still didn’t care about Jihye since he didn’t know her last name or her major. But even so, men with such a clear and honest demeanor always easily passed through when they did good deeds. Leaving it like this, they would have to date within three months for sure. Jaeyoung took the luxury brand watch given by his grandfather as a graduation gift, just in case.

   Jaeyoung felt insecure. He felt that on Chu Sangwoo and Ru Jihye’s wedding day, about eight years from now, he would have to hold hands with the bride who was remembering how Min Youngjae, who hadn’t graduated, had come roaring in with rude methods. It just so happened that Jihye was always there, which allowed the rudeness to pass by. Although he didn’t remember the face of human cancer, he remembered that rude person always wore a red duck feather jacket wherever she went, something like that.

   “I can’t bear to see that scenario at all.”

   Jaeyoung’s goal has changed. Or should I say, leveled up?

   What are the conditions of being a good sunbae? At least for now, there is no hope for him at all. The only thing that he express at this moment is his own identity. At least Chu Sangwoo can correctly remember his name, and it has become a driving force. And now he seems to know how to deal with the other side a little bit. But first, Jaeyoung feels that he has to do something about the equal value between ‘Jang Jaeyoung = red color = bad guy = Joker = garbage.’

   ‘I don’t know why I have to do something so tiring, but… well, I have plenty of time.’

   He started to consider what clothes were in the wardrobe.

   ________________________________________.

[1]       “When I call his name, he comes to me, and he turns into a flower.” It comes from a verse called “Flower” by Min Chun-soo, which says, “When I call his name, he comes to me, and he turns into a flower.”

[2]       Noise. Marketing, a Korean-style English word “Konglish”, refers to marketing that stimulates consumer curiosity and interest by bringing up issues to promote product sales, regardless of whether it adversely affects the brand image or not. It is similar to Word-of-mouth marketing “WOMM”, but mouthto-mouth marketing presents a much better image.

[3]       SNS, Social Networking Service.

      SMNTCERR CHAPTERS HOME

SMNTCERR, Chapter 12 <10> #5.

   Sangwoo had a friend to hang out with for the first time. Originally, he thought they would go straight to the store and spend thousands of won. However, as Jihye suggested, they went for a walk first, which wasn’t a bad idea. Although he did some morning exercises to strengthen his muscles, it was necessary for maintaining good health. Walking in daily life is essential.

   “Oppa, can I ask you something?”

   “Is that a question?”

   “No, just a preamble to my question. When you were a kid, your nickname was ‘Sangchu [1]’  right?”

   “…How did you know?”

   Jihye chuckled and thought ‘That’s right.’ She even clapped her hands and mentioned that ever since she heard his name for the first time, she had been thinking about it repeatedly. She almost blurted it out several times, but she managed to stop herself from laughing.

   “If I call you ‘Sangchu Sunbae’ will you get mad?”

   “No.”

   However, Sangwoo has been called that way his whole life. Even if he tells everyone not to call him that, it’s pointless. He has been giving in for a long time. Moreover, there is no logical reason for it, starting from the moment

   Jihye insisted on calling him “Oppa.” Even though they are not real siblings. And people like to use wrong terms according to their own feelings. If you pay attention to every little thing, it becomes exhausting. For example, even though some people have a hostile relationship with me, they still call me “Sangwoo-ya” as if I were a family member.

   As he thought about it, a red down jacket suddenly appeared from behind the building, catching him by surprise. Jang Jaeyoung walked with two male students, and they glanced at each other for a short time. Then Sangwoo turned around.

   “…Oppa?”

   “I’m going that way. See you.”

   “Yes! Have a nice walk!”

   Sangwoo quickly passed by Jihye who was standing there waving goodbye, learned something, and enjoyed a delicious meal. Even though he didn’t drink coffee, he still went for a walk. But when he saw the color red, he immediately felt upset. Now Sangwoo really hates the color red.

   After walking for a while, he sneakily looked back. Jaeyoung had separated from the group of friends without him noticing and was ten steps away from 

   Sangwoo. Seeing this, Sangwoo’s legs moved before his brain ordered him to.

   ‘I won’t get caught.’

   He ran away following his instincts, his world remaining stable no matter who threatened or used force against him. During high school, he used the power of the teacher, and as an adult, he used the power of government officials. But then mistakes crept into the fair system he had protected all along, an ERROR that occurred suddenly without knowing the cause, rendering the program unable to function.

   Since being released from duty, there was nothing that required him to run. But simply because he didn’t want to see Jang Jaeyoung’s face, Sangwoo exerted all his energy to run. He ran past the Faculty of Natural Sciences, student clubs, and convenience stores that blurred into a haze, passing numerous students whose faces were indistinct, until he arrived at the main gate without realizing it. Sangwoo turned back, thinking that he might have escaped.

   ‘Why are you running so fast?’

   Then he had to scream in his heart.

   “Hey, take a breath first. Wait, me… Do I have to run at this age? I’m not wearing running shoes, jesus…”

   Sangwoo sat staring. Although he wanted to escape from Jaeyoung who was catching his breath, he ran at full speed throughout the long distance.

   Now he was out of breath. Sangwoo distanced himself about one meter from Jaeyoung and sat down on a block of pavement, taking a water bottle out of his bag. Then he took a sip to moisten his throat.

   “Are you crazy? Why did you run like that?”

   “To run or not to run, why are you chasing after me?”

   “Well, it’s weirder, I saw you running and still ran after you without thinking.”

   “That’s even weirder.”

   They exchanged strange conversations while gasping for breath. Then there was a moment of silence.

   After resting for a while… Sangwoo got up and walked. He had to go get his bicycle parked in front of the library. Jaeyoung got up with an annoyed face and followed closely beside him. If he accelerated, Jaeyoung would accelerate too. If he slowed down, Jaeyoung would slow down. Continuing like this might turn into a footrace. Sangwoo lost interest in that side and maintained a normal speed.

   “She’s pretty, huh?”

   “I don’t have a girlfriend.”

   “And the friend who ate with you earlier, what’s her name?”

   “Min Jihye.”

   “Which department?”

   “Philosophy… I think?”

   “Last name Ryu, first name Jihye, she’s half-French.”

   Sangwoo was focused on walking, so he responded robotically, but when he heard that, he paused and turned to look at Jaeyoung.

   “Is it true that you’re investigating my relationship, sunbae? She’s a good kid and has nothing to do with me at all!”

   Upon hearing that, Jaeyoung smirked mockingly.

   Investigate something, didn’t you guys used to come to the store where I work? You brainless idiot. Back then, I saw your student ID card. It’s not surprising that I can’t remember your name.

   Sangwoo evaluated the words of the other party and continued walking.

   “Hey, do you know my name?”

   “Do I gain anything by knowing?”

   “What’s good about it? Can’t you remember a three-syllable name?”

   “An efficient brain deletes unnecessary information.”

   “You are making me upset again.”

   Jaeyoung grabbed Sangwoo’s shoulder to make him stop, and the other party’s hand touched his body. Sangwoo instinctively turned his face away.

   “Homework, compose a three-line poem using my name.”

   In addition, Jaeyoung said something strange, and Sangwoo removed the other party’s hand from his shoulder.

   “The reward is that starting tomorrow, I won’t provoke you anymore.”

   Evaluating that statement was difficult for Sangwoo. He pondered for a moment before speaking.

   “Question: If I do it, will you go away, sunbae? Do you even have the boundaries for teasing?”

   “Answer: At least listen if it is with artistry, then I will accept it. As for the boundaries, it depends on you.”

   Sangwoo thought carefully, finding the phrase “listen with artistry” confusing, but he liked the condition that he could set the boundaries of teasing himself, so he agreed.

   “Just say the words.”

   “You have to be the person who spoke, you jerk.”

   Sangwoo understood that normally the listener would be the one to say the words when playing the three-line poem game, but judging from Jaeyoung’s reaction, it seemed that wasn’t the case. So he opened his mouth to speak.

   “Monitor [3.]..Suddenly, heavy rain is so annoying.”

   While he was speaking what he thought, Jaeyoung hugged himself and boasted with a proud expression. After seeing that face, Sangwoo continued the next paragraph automatically.

   “Monitor …Suddenly, heavy rain is so annoying.”  The red down jacket shimmered in the sunlight.

   “Yo… It would be better if you don’t show up again.”

   Jaeyoung’s painted face was difficult to read, his forehead slightly wrinkled.

   At the same time, the corners of his mouth seemed to form a small smile.

   Sangwoo thought he could compose a three-line poem without any trouble,

   but he couldn’t know what Jaeyoung was thinking. On top of that, he was also an arbitrator. Therefore, during the period when he closed his mouth and remained silent, it was quite tense.

   “Results of evaluation.”

   Jaeyoung spoke with a condescending tone.

   “Accuracy, full 10, given 10.”

   “Oh…”

   “Sincerity, full 10, given 10.”

   “More generous than I thought.”

   “Literary value, full 10, given 3.”

   “Is that so?”

   “Plot relationship, full 10, given 1.”

   “…”

   “Uniqueness, full 10, given…”

   “If this question receives a 10, is there any hope for a score?”

   “0 points.”

   Sangwoo almost blurted out a curse word and cursed Jang Jaeyoung to death.

   “Total score 50, received 24. We’ll see each other again tomorrow…

   Sangwoo-ya, goodbye~.”

   ‘I guess so.’

   Sangwoo left Jang Jaeyoung standing there and walked away briskly. In the end, it turned out like this, he couldn’t believe those hesitant words were wasted. Jang Jaeyoung didn’t follow after him, but he could still hear the other side’s words chasing after him.

   “It seems that I misunderstood, and now I know how to walk away from you.”

   “Am I an electrical appliance in your house or something?”

   “I thought you were similar.”

   Those words didn’t warrant a response. In Sangwoo’s mind, he thought about everything in the store a thousand times since they had lunch— unlocking his bicycle, mounting it, and pedaling quickly past Jaeyoung.

   ________________________________________.

[1]       Sangchu, derived from the first name of Sangwoo “Sang.” + surname “Chu”, is ‘Sang Choo,’ which corresponds to the word “sangchu” “lettuce” in English.

[2]       Oppa, in this context, refers to an older brother that is commonly used by women to address their older brothers. Normally, it is used to refer to someone within the family or someone with whom they have a close relationship, or when given permission by the person themselves. In cases where the other person is an older classmate at school, university, workplace, etc., it is more common to use the term “sunbae” “senior”.

[3]       A three-line poem based on the name Jang Jaeyoung, as it is not possible to construct a sentence using the name “Jang Jae-young” in Thai.

   The translator, therefore, used letters from each syllable instead, such as “J-JY.” while trying to preserve the original meaning. That is, “Suddenly, heavy rain is so annoying” another meaning is misleadingly cursing Jaeyoung as “heng sri” he escaped forever.

      SMNTCERR CHAPTERS HOME

SMNTCERR, Chapter 11 <10> #4.

   On Wednesday, there are two consecutive classes of “Contemporary

   Culture and Cultural Theory”. Although it is a challenging subject, it is the only elective course in the humanities that he takes during this period. In the lesson plan, there is academic vocabulary like “Frankfurt School”[1] or “Cultural Anthropology”[2] appearing throughout. Pre-reading the lesson material in advance is not easy at all. It seems to be a difficult subject, especially for students majoring in science and engineering. If he needs to worry about being disturbed by the troublemaker, he won’t understand anything for sure.

   Sangwoo squinted his eyes as he entered the classroom before the class started for 19 minutes. It had to be right there, but he didn’t want to see that disgusting backpack. However, when he lifted his gaze, the image in front of him was clean, and the seats were perfectly arranged as if no one had sat there before.

   ‘What is it?’

   Sangwoo was so surprised that his heart pounded. He quickly rushed to sit on a chair as if sitting on a throne. At first, he felt satisfied, but he also worried because he didn’t know what else Jang Jaeyoung would do.

   Sangwoo opened his book to read ahead of what he would learn today. He sat in the correct position where he didn’t have to see the red color nearby, making him feel like he was back in class again. While he was reading the book, a white cloth bag emerged from the table next to him. Sangwoo was so shocked that he took a deep breath.

   “Why are you sighing for this early in the morning?”

   The unexpected sound made him raise his head to look. It wasn’t Jaeyoung and just that alone made Sangwoo very happy, but this girl with a dark green bomber jacket looked familiar to him.

   “I am Jihye, the person you helped lift the box before and we ended up eating together.”

   The girl cheerfully said and then sat down after reading Sangwoo’s face. At that moment, Sangwoo remembered Jihye. He couldn’t remember her because she didn’t tie her hair like she did now. Jihye turned her body to find Sangwoo and invited him to chat.

   “Are you taking this course too? Interested in philosophy? I’m taking this course because I’m interested in French thinkers like Lacan[3] or Foucault[4].”

   “I’m not interested at all. I’m here just because I have to study.”

   “Oh, really? In fact, I also have to take a computer course. By the way, someday I’ll come and ask you about easy subjects. I heard there’s a difference between Information Processing Theory and basic knowledge about computer science…”

   Fortunately, the class started just in time, which made her quiet down.

   Professor who arrives on time, prepared learning materials, and complete seats. Even though there were people nearby who seemed to be able to talk nonsense all day if left alone, Sangwoo considered this to be excellent.

   Suddenly, he thought that he hadn’t seen Jang Jaeyoung today, of course, that side probably hasn’t given up and something must have happened. But no matter what, he felt like he could breathe a little easier.  return 0;

   “…Therefore, we can see that the world is divided into two parts, the privileged upper class and the powerless general population. It’s an idea that the high class manipulates society.”

   “That’s not really true. If so, why hasn’t the different viewpoint that praises the people been abolished before this?”

   “Well, I’ve already told you that the problem isn’t black or white. How can we understand social theories by making right or wrong judgments?”  Sangwoo discussed today’s class material with Jihye as they walked along the hallway in the Humanities building. When he didn’t see the piercing red color. Sangwoo felt as if he had been startled to the point where he didn’t expect Jihye to appear more alert than he had seen.

   ‘This is just normal life.’

   After enduring hardships for two days, just a moment of normal life made him ecstatic. Although he sat next to Jihye throughout both classes, she didn’t disturb him like some other people. What’s more, after the class ended, she even helped explain things that Sangwoo didn’t understand, it was like a stroke of good fortune.

   “Where are you going for the next class?”

   “I don’t have a class anymore.”

   “I’m so jealous.. I still have two more classes to attend, what should we eat for lunch?”

   Jihye said that if they sat in class together, they should go eat together as well. Although Sangwoo was puzzled about how they were related, he had to go to the cafeteria anyway, so he didn’t argue with her statement.

   Sangwoo felt restless walking around the university, not knowing where his enemies might appear. He looked left and right, causing Jihye to ask what was wrong. Just as he was about to answer, Sangwoo saw people streaming out of the Humanities building, and the only advantage of the bright red down jacket was that it stood out even from a distance.

   “Come on, let’s hurry.”

   “Why?”

   “Quickly.”

   Sangwoo ran until he reached the cafeteria and quickly joined the line at the Korean food corner. Jang Jaeyoung was walking amidst a crowd of people, which meant he had just finished attending the large lecture. It seemed like he had to take the course ‘Hankuk University Student Personality Test’ again, and what bothered Sangwoo wasn’t because their class schedules coincide for sure.

   ‘At least by Wednesday, I might be able to catch a breath.’

   Sangwoo lifted the food tray with a sense of satisfaction. Before he could walk over to his usual seat, an idea popped into his mind. Instead of heading to his usual corner, he turned and walked towards a more crowded area, scanning the cafeteria and noticing a table with only two available seats. Sangwoo and Jihye quickly went to occupy the seats, closing the opportunity for Jaeyoung to intrude.

   “You look happy.”

   “Hmm.”

   After that, Sangwoo started eating his meal without saying anything. While eating, his gaze wandered to the food servers, where a person in a red duck jacket was queuing up. Moreover, they were fidgeting just like Sangwoo.

   Suddenly, Jaeyoung was pushed into the cafeteria by the crowd, and his eyes landed on Sangwoo. Sangwoo put on a smiling face, while Jaeyoung wore a strange mocking expression before walking away. It wasn’t a big deal, but Sangwoo felt immensely pleased.

   “Are you going back home after eating?”

   “No, I’m going to the library.”

   “Then, before you go, let’s stop by the convenience store. I’ll treat you to a drink.”

   “No.”

   “Why not?”

   Sangwoo paused for a moment, realizing that explaining why the convenience store had no drinks he could consume would be too complicated.

   “It may sound strange, but right now I’m being harassed by a crow.”

   “Huh?”

   Jihye was so shocked that Sangwoo had to cover her mouth to silence her.

   “Really sunbae? How? If it’s true then that is serious.”

   As Sangwoo remained silent, she seemed to imagine something terrifying.

   “Even if I don’t know who is behind this, the university has resources for counseling. There’s the police station, and there are plenty of people in this world who can help. Don’t worry.”

   Sangwoo felt even more uneasy, so he returned to Jihye’s initial question.

   “That person bought all the coffee that I drink, so the store ran out of drinks for me to buy.”

   “Oh? Were you keeping it for profit? Like in Haesung-Jeon[5] right?” Jihye looked incredulous and burst into laughter.

   “What’s wrong? You can just ordered it online, a whole box, and it will be delivered in one day. I don’t see any problem.”

   “…”

   Sangwoo felt shaken as if he had been hit on the head, like a “black hole.” Not only did it affect sales at the university store, but his genuine hair was obstructing him. Sangwoo wasn’t a bad person, but once his thoughts were confined within a framework, he couldn’t easily break free from that mindset.

   In the past, when his intelligence was measured at the temple school, the results were very low. The teacher explained that if only logical and computational intelligence were taken into account, Sangwoo would be considered a genius. However, his average scores were lowered due to his lower intelligence in reasoning, application, and human interaction.

   Sangwoo looked at Jihye with different eyes. “You are very intelligent.” Jihye giggled.

   “And how about being harassed by crows? Tell me everything.”

   “… It may sound strange, but during class, I have a designated seat, and I can only concentrate when sitting there.”

   “Oh! I’ve seen that in American series. I don’t know if it works, but is it that,

   Obsessive Thinking Disorder[6]?…”

   “The professor said it’s not abnormal and that person likes to reserve seats beforehand, which prevents me from sitting there. The farther away I sit from that spot, the more I lose focus. But I don’t want to sit close… no, near that person. I don’t know what to do.”

   “Hmm… then just sit next to them. And use a partition. We used that back in elementary school.”

   “Accept being close, but block the line of sight. This method seems flexible and usable. Sangwoo began to trust Jihye’s flexible thinking more and more.”

   “And when at the library, that ass shake their legs and open books with loud page flips. It’s annoying…”

   “You can use earplugs for that. They’re not expensive.” Jihye laughed. Sangwoo laughed along.

   “Thanks. I’ll treat you to a meal next time.”

   “Really? I’ll wait!”

   That day, Sangwoo decided to go shopping instead of going to the library. After finishing his meal, he stood up before turning to see Jang Jaeyoung sitting and eating in the midst of his friends in another area.

   “Oppa, I haven’t finished eating yet.”

   Sangwoo walked excitedly, quickly placing his tray at the tray return point and drinking water hastily before leaving the cafeteria with hopeful emotions.  “Come on, let’s go!”

   He heard Jihye’s voice chasing after him as she ran towards him, her hair fluttering and her cheeks rosy. Her outfit made her look like a peculiar green creature.

   “Why though?”

   “Huh?”

   “Why are you calling me?”

   “No, it’s just… well, we can just go the same way. It’s good to go together.

   Besides, it feels awkward to eat alone.”

   ‘Hmm, that’s strange.’

   Sangwoo wondered, as he always ate alone but had never thought about it that way.

   “Then we don’t need to go to the convenience store. I have a class in the

   Humanities department. Come with me.”

   “Why?”

   Jihye spoke as if she were a young child being dragged around inappropriately for her age, making Sangwoo feel out of place.

   “It’s good for your health to take a walk after eating. If you don’t want to get sick, you should go for a walk.”  ‘Well, she’s right.’

   ________________________________________.

[1]       The Frankfurt School “German: Frankfurter Schule” is a group of social theory and philosophy scholars. It is not a physical school but a school of thought for social research.

[2]       Orientalism is the study or understanding of knowledge related to the Eastern world.

[3]       Jacques Lacan.

[4]       Michel Foucault.

[5]       “Ho Sangjeon” or “The Story of Ho Sang” is a novel set in the Joseon era written by Park Ji-won, which tells the story of the protagonist, ‘Ho Sang,’ who buys all the necessary items in the market to control prices.

[6]       Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder “OCD” is a condition where patients have repetitive thoughts that cause anxiety and respond to those thoughts by engaging in repetitive behaviors to alleviate discomfort.

      SMNTCERR CHAPTERS HOME

SMNTCERR, Chapter 10 <10> #3

   The next day, which was the second day of the new semester, finally arrived.

   Sangwoo left his apartment an hour earlier than usual and rode his bike without hesitation. Normally, he would get a full eight hours of quality sleep, but today he woke up abruptly due to a nightmare, so he only slept for four hours, leaving him physically drained. In the dream, there was a red fur coat.

   When he unzipped it, he discovered sharp teeth that were about to bite him.

   Even though he felt ridiculous after waking up, the dream was so scary that he had to run away.

   ‘Just endure for two weeks.’

   Sangwoo gnashed his teeth, feeling that his peaceful life was crumbling. It was an inexplicable anxiety that often overflowed, so he had to keep calm.

   He had no backup plan. Changing courses was not an option anymore (and Jang Jaeyoung followed him) And dropping out of school wasn’t an option either because bad luck didn’t work that way.

   When he entered through the main gate and looked down at the time, it was now 8:24 a.m. He arrived at the university earlier in the morning to reserve a seat. Not like yesterday. Sangwoo locked his bicycle in front of the library and headed towards the engineering building for today’s classes.

   As soon as he opened the classroom door, he was met with disappointment because there was a leather bag on the far-right desk of the fourth row. He didn’t know what time the other person reserved the seat, so he hurriedly went to examine the bag up close, but he still didn’t know the truth.

   ‘Or was it placed here since yesterday?’

   Sangwoo thought about the possible outcomes, realizing that person didn’t seem diligent at all. Instead of saying they woke up early to bring their bag, it would be more reasonable to say they left it behind since yesterday.

   Nevertheless, today Sangwoo felt defeated again. He had to sit farthest from that spot, where he couldn’t help. The classroom heaters hadn’t been turned on, so the air was cold like outside. He sat down without taking off his down jacket and scarf. Then drowsiness crept in. Well, because he didn’t get enough sleep last night, he opened a book to read and prepare for the lesson, but the words on the pages were blurry throughout.

   ‘It’s definitely worse if you’re sleepy during class.’

   So it would be better to doze off before the class started. He closed the book and used it as a makeshift pillow for the first time, pressing his cheek against the textbook and closing his eyes. Soon, his consciousness faded away.

   “…30 points for homework, and another 20 points from the final exam. My office and email are in the course compilation document, right? Students who need consultation can go to the assistant professor or send me an email directly. Alright, now let’s take a look at the exam paper.”

   When Sangwoo raised his head once again, he heard a smooth voice and saw a red color obstructing his vision. He was confident that he was sitting at least one seat away from the reserved spot, but Jang Jaeyoung was sitting there, smirking.

   Sangwoo quickly straightened his upper body and checked the time on his wristwatch. The class had started 14 minutes ago.

   Looking around, he noticed that other students were looking at a piece of exam paper, each with their own sheet. Jaeyoung was fiddling with an A4 paper sandwiched between his fingers.

   “That crazy guy…”

   Sangwoo glanced at other students but couldn’t find any leftover exam papers. It would be difficult to catch the professor’s attention and ask for another sheet. He felt uneasy that he had been silent until now. Sangwoo gritted his teeth, extended his hand towards Jaeyoung, and spoke softly.

   “Give it to me. My sheet.”

   “Throw it away or something. Here, take mine.”

   “Why aren’t you attending class, sunbae?”

   Jaeyoung looked down and flicked a few pieces of paper at the end of his fingers. Sangwoo reached out hoping to catch them, but Jaeyoung pulled the sheet behind him, preventing him from touching it.

   Jaeyoung folded the paper in half, then folded it again. Sangwoo watched anxiously as the other party acted restlessly.

   “If you want something, you should ask politely, shouldn’t you?”

   Jaeyoung, wearing a red shirt and displaying an untrustworthy demeanor, spoke softly. He looked like a demon as he folded the sheet that Sangwoo wanted into the shape of an airplane and held it between his index and middle fingers.

   “Just give it to me, please.”

   “Be more sincere than this.”

   “Just give it to me.”

   “The deadline is approaching.”

   While the teacher turned to the students to write on the board, a paper airplane gracefully glided out of the slightly open door.

   Sangwoo suppressed his anger that surged and stood up from his seat. He muttered, ‘Well then, asking Jang Jaeyoung for anything would be foolish.’ He pushed the tightly packed desk forward and grabbed a sheet from the stack on the front classroom stage. Just as the teacher turned back with a cool expression.

   “What are you doing, student?”

   “I’m sorry. I didn’t receive the document, but I was afraid of disturbing the class, so I didn’t inform you.”

   “It’s not like you have been asleep since the first period, right?”

   The teacher clicked his tongue and rubbed his face in frustration.

   “Go to the restroom first.”

   “Sir?”

   “Restroom.”

   Sangwoo took the sheet and walked out through the front door without understanding the situation. Although he wasn’t a student who received love from the teacher by raising his hand to answer in class or visiting the research room, he performed well and scored high on exams. By the end of the semester, he had gained the trust of the teacher through his diligence. This was the first time he had been appointed as a class representative since the first day. Furthermore, Teacher Cha Weoyang was an important faculty member who taught most of the subjects for fourth-year students. That was another reason.

   When he entered the restroom, Sangwoo almost screamed. The reflection of his face on the mirror looked strange and eerie. A dark black mustache was drawn under his nose. He hastily turned on the faucet but nothing changed.

   ‘I have to hurry back in…’

   Sangwoo lathered soap in his hands until it foamed, then rubbed it over the stained area above his upper lip. The black lines gradually disappeared bit by bit, but it was still too slow. Sangwoo couldn’t believe that he would waste time studying such meaningless things.

   “As a child of sin, you’re venting your frustration through painting. Beast.”

   19 minutes flew away into thin air. When he finally returned to the classroom, he found that there were only 5 minutes left. Now, all that awaited him was being scolded by the teacher.

   ‘What did I do wrong, huh?’

   Suddenly, Sangwoo felt a surge of unfairness. He had to handle everything by himself and could only tell the teacher the truth. Jang Jaeyoung might not think it was unfair for himself, but when you carefully examined the situation, it was clearly an undeserved fate for someone who hadn’t done anything wrong to have to sit outside the classroom like this. It was truly cruel.

   “Hey, ERROR, you fucking ass!”

   Sangwoo uttered the most offensive words he could think of Error. There are several types of errors. If it’s just a typo or a formatting mistake, it can be easily corrected. But if it’s an Error in logic, even if you’re confident that the code is complete, it still remains an Error. And even if you go through the entire code to find the mistake, you won’t find this Semantic Error, just like Jang Jaeyoung who suddenly appeared and disrupted Sangwoo’s daily life.

   When the class ended, the students dispersed. Sangwoo walked to his seat to pick up his bag, glancing to see a red duck feather jacket, but he didn’t care and left the classroom. Jaeyoung’s goal was to make Sangwoo angry, so he didn’t want to show any reaction to the other side.

   Losing one’s composure is like playing the game Jenga[1]. You pull out a piece, causing it to collapse completely. In class, an algorithm. Sangwoo sat in the far-left seat in the second row, obscured by a pillar, making it difficult to see the professor’s face. He sat there absentmindedly throughout the class. It would have been better not to attend rather than sitting in this place. But he couldn’t do that because this was a computer science class, and he wanted to sit as far away as possible from Jaeyoung, who took the best seat.

   After that, his life went on as usual. Sangwoo went to the cafeteria to get food and sat at a table in a secluded corner. Meanwhile, Jaeyoung walked past many seats and sat right next to Sangwoo, eating his meal in silence.

   He picked up his food tray with a feeling as if the food wasn’t digesting. Then he went to the convenience store, but of course, they didn’t have the coffee that Sangwoo wanted. As for going out for a walk, it was also ruined because of those drama club people.

   Finally, he managed to sit at the reserved seat in the library. Sangwoo was exhausted. The teasing had only started two days ago, how would he endure the mental attacks from that madman for two weeks?

   “Today, I’m determined to study, hubae.”

   Jaeyoung appeared with a borrowed book. Today’s novel was a fantasy. He just sat there, without any regard, and quietly opened his book. But Sangwoo couldn’t take his eyes off him. Just seeing the other person’s face made his heart boil with anger.

   “Where can I file a complaint?” [Charge:

–     Wearing a red shirt improperly (Not illegal.)

–     Occupying a seat (Not illegal.)

–     Sitting next to someone (Not illegal.)

–     Shaking legs (Unclear offense.)

–     Swinging a pen (Unclear offense.)

–     Causing coffee to sell out (Not illegal.)

–     Offenses of filling a trash can full (Not illegal.)

–     Offenses of not providing sheets (Not illegal.)

–     Offenses of writing on the face (Guilty.)

–     Offenses of existing, (Not illegal.)

–     ……..]

   The more offenses the other party counts, the more Sangwoo feels agitated, like a villain with a brain who doesn’t speak rudely and doesn’t use force to get caught. The fact that the other party revolves in Sangwoo’s thoughts is not a big deal for others, but he chooses to do only things that Sangwoo dislikes and makes Sangwoo frustrated.

   ‘Hey, what a freaking bug [2].’

   Sangwoo read his book, glancing at Jaeyoung who laughed and made gestures. The other party leaned back comfortably, propping one foot on the knee, playing a big gesture. Sangwoo desperately wished to end it by throwing the dice hidden under the red hat with all his might.

   He was so focused on Jang Jaeyoung that he didn’t do anything for a while, but as time passed, the situation improved. The opponent who sat reading suddenly raised his head and accidentally hit his elbow on the water and snacks placed nearby. Luckily, the other party woke up peacefully. No growling. No biting or snapping.

   While the other party was sound asleep, his supposed friends came to laugh and secretly took pictures. Some female students walked around whispering, but they didn’t disturb anyone, which is why Sangwoo partially accomplished his purpose by going to the library.

   Two hours passed. Sangwoo packed his books and put the pencil box in his bag, being careful not to wake up Jaeyoung, but the moment he pushed back his chair to stand up, the other party woke up and accidentally spilled water on the snacks that someone had placed there.

   Sangwoo pretended not to know the other party and walked out of the library. He hurriedly walked down the stairs but was caught up instantly. From then on, the situation turned into a race, and they ran down to the first floor.

   “Sangwoo, are you annoyed?”

   “Sunbaenim, I don’t want to hear you’ voice. Please don’t try to talk to me.”

   “You’re the one who started it.”

   Sangwoo strode out of the building towards the bicycle parking lot.

   “I didn’t do anything wrong. Sunbae, you just act stubbornly and do things even elementary school kids wouldn’t do. I…”

   “Are you saying you didn’t do anything wrong, and I’m the crazy one? Shall we talk about that again?”

   Hearing that, Sangwoo felt that letting it pass wouldn’t work, so he stopped walking immediately.

   “What is my offense then? If you’re going to say it’s because I removed your name from the slide…”

   “Stop.”

   Jaeyoung cut his lines. Sangwoo turned around and found that the other party was standing closer than he thought. He thought that the other side would distance himself reluctantly, but what he saw was a serious face that he didn’t expect. Sangwoo’s eyes collided with Jaeyoung, who was wearing a red beanie against a dark and cloudy backdrop.

   “It may be hard to believe, but I want to get along with you.”

   Sangwoo closed his mouth abruptly. This wasn’t the first time he had looked at Jaeyoung up close like this, but he had never noticed before and hadn’t cared that the eyes behind the glasses were slightly lowered. Whether in formal attire or trying to look like a makeup artist, the nose remained straight, and the eyelashes and hair weren’t pitch black.

   “Humans are emotional creatures. If you don’t ignore me like that, I won’t pay attention to the slide presentations issue.”

   “Well then, if I apologize, will you stop?”

   Jaeyoung’s face turned incredulous, and he burst out laughing.

   “Are you crazy or is it because you’re an AI robot that you don’t understand human emotions?”

   “Sunbae, what are you talking about?”

   “If it’s such a simple problem, has it come to this point?”

   The veiled words of the other party felt more suffocating than any problem he had ever solved, as if looking into endless darkness. All Sangwoo heard were floating words.

   “Don’t talk to yourself like that. Sunbae, you are just a cancerous being, clown, and sadist.”

   Hearing that, instead of getting angry, Jaeyoung’s face brightened.

   “So, I heard compliments from you and I feel happy.”

   “Are you insane?”

   “Yes. You should go home too.”

   “You nerve-wracking jerk.”

   Sangwoo muttered under his breath and pedaled his bike, quickly riding away without looking back.  return 0;

   ________________________________________

[1]       Jenga is a tower-building game or block-stacking game. It involves using wooden blocks to build a tower, and players take turns removing one block at a time from the tower and placing it on top, without causing the tower to collapse. It can be played by multiple people, and whoever causes the tower to fall is considered the loser.

[2]       Bug or a flaw, a problem that occurs with a program due to the instructions within that program itself, causing the program’s operation to be incorrect. It has errors or is not as smooth as it should be. Apart from problems related to the program, it may also be a problem with the machine itself.

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SMNTCERR, Chapter 9 <10> #2.

   The library allowed seat reservations through a booking system, and Sangwoo would always make his reservation at midnight to avoid any seat clashes. He walked swiftly into the library and sat in front of a computer, entering the names of the books he needed and borrowing new ones from the shelves. Then, he proceeded to the reading room and sat down at the farthest table on the right that he had reserved in advance. That spot was located next to the Philosophy section, which rarely had many students, so it was not crowded and there were no disturbances because there were no windows.

   Sangwoo never sat anywhere else.

   Upon seeing a bag placed nearby, Sangwoo’s heart sank, but it lightened when he realized it was a white cloth bag. It wasn’t the backpack or leather shoulder bag that he had seen today.

   Sangwoo opened his textbook and began studying on his own. In the meantime, he got up and entered a restroom once. When he came back, he found a canned coffee placed on the table.

   “N = No, Y = Yes.”

   [1. Did we buy it? N.

2.    Did you see someone looking for something? N.
3.    Is it beneficial for us? Y, (Reason: It’s ‘Blackhole’).]

   After going through Algorithm 3 [1], he reached out his hand towards the can. Just as he was about to open the can to drink, he noticed a handwritten note stuck on it, with writing that could be called chicken scratches.

   [Jang Jaeyoung’s property.]

   Sangwoo frowned as if he saw a repulsive insect, and instantly a hand emerged from behind and snatched the coffee can away. Sangwoo’s eyes flickered and met the eyes behind the large glasses.

   “See you again.”

   “…”

   Jaeyoung placed his backpack and leather shoulder bag on the table. Then he moved the white cloth bag to hang it on the chair. Even though it was right in front of him, it was hard to believe that there was a crazy guy who carried three bags just to deceive one person. He took off his knit hat and placed it on the table before walking off somewhere.

   Sangwoo exerted too much force with his hand, causing the pencil to snap twice. The praying mantis was even more terrifying when seen up close than when it was in front of him. For Sangwoo, Jaeyoung was like that. Even if the other party wasn’t sitting beside Sangwoo at the moment, he couldn’t focus on reading the book because he was constantly worried about why the person left this red beanie here and went off to do something.

   Not long after, Jaeyoung returned with a book in hand—’The History of Sexuality,’ ‘The Nature of Ultimate Pleasure,’ ‘The Beauty of Naked Bodies.’ He held three volumes of books, leaned back in the chair, and flipped them open. When he opened to a picture, he would examine it closely.

   ‘That attention-seeking bastard…’

   Sangwoo tried not to look in that direction, but his ears could still hear the sound of pages flipping continuously. Moreover, the other party only kept shaking the table with their leg. If there were another student present, they could have joined forces to warn him. But at this moment, there was only Sangwoo alone. The table could accommodate eight people, but it was clear that the other party intentionally sat next to him to shake the table.

   [Showing anger = Losing.

   Being indifferent = Winning.]

   Back in high school, Sangwoo had dealt with similar situations where people demanded attention before and he knew well how to handle it. No matter how big the reason was, the minds of those people were no different from those who liked to show off, hoping to surprise the opposite side. What Jang Jaeyoung wanted was to make Sangwoo lose his cool, be defeated, get angry, and curse.

   However, despite knowing that, Sangwoo’s patience was diminishing with each passing moment. No matter what happened, he would endure it to the end. But the second the table shook and his pencil snapped, his legs moved automatically, propelling him to stand up. He collected his writing materials, closed the book, and forcefully stuffed everything into his bag. In that moment, Jaeyoung also grew weary and stood up. Then he followed along casually, as if it were a normal occurrence. At this point, Sangwoo no longer felt surprised.

   Sangwoo made a firm decision to ignore the other party. But as he walked down the stairs, anger kept building up after nearly colliding face-to-face in front of the building. Sangwoo could no longer bear it and turned to confront Jang Jaeyoung.

   It was like a scene from the movie “My Darling Clementine [2].” If judging solely by appearances, Sangwoo with his scowling brows might seem like the villain, while Jaeyoung, who looked relaxed, appeared as the protagonist. But the reality was the opposite. Whenever Sangwoo faced the hostile group that constantly harassed him, it felt as if a gust of wind passed between them, just like in a video game. Sangwoo wanted to pick up a weapon like a character in an RPG game and strike back at the other party.

   “Are you crazy?”

   A weak attack couldn’t harm his opponent. Jaeyoung heard that and looked satisfied.

   “sunbaenim, so you’re a stalker, huh?”

   “What kind of stalker? My actions are too obvious.”

   Jaeyoung covered his yawning mouth and rummaged through his bag.

   “Everyone knows that you’re doing the same thing. In the same place, at the same time every day. Thinking that wearing a black suit will make you invisible or something. You’re attracting more attention than you think.”

   “How do you know my class schedule?”

   The other party pulled out a familiar notebook from one of the three bags and tossed it over. It was the notebook that Sangwoo had left in the meeting room, and inside it was his class schedule written. As Jaeyoung took two or three steps closer, their similar heights became even more noticeable.

   Sangwoo raised his head and stared defiantly at the other party.

   “sunbaenim, doing this won’t help you graduate, why waste your time?”  “Why would I bother with such annoying things? If you hadn’t meddled with me in the first place.”

   “What did you gain from harassing me?”

   “It’s just… a matter of feelings.”

   Jang Jaeyoung grinned like a true villain, so Sangwoo felt a chill down his spine. Or could it be possible that the other party was a rational human being? Should he have done something differently if the other party was just a sadist who enjoyed tormenting others? What should he do to make the senior stop?

   “What should I do for my senior to stop?”

   “I don’t know, I haven’t thought about it at all, at least for now. Maybe the prime minister is trying to act as if sleeping makes teaching easier, or maybe he regrets being rude before.”

   “Before feeling regretful, there must be a wrongdoing, right?” “If not, then you shall wait until I change my mind. I’m easily swayed.” “I thought it was just a bad habit, but it turns out it’s a good mental illness.

   That’s me.”

   “I hear that often.”

   Between them, the invisible sky appeared, and Sangwoo’s lips revealed a twisted smile.

   “Looks like sunbae you see me as a weakling, but you n misunderstood me. I have nothing to fear, ever since I was born. Whether it’s crazy people, bad habits, or attention seekers. I’ve dealt with it all. What you do isn’t a big deal to me at all.”

   When he saw the other person deliberately talking nonsense, Jaeyoung smiled happily.

   “When I hear that, it ignites a fire even more.”

   “Well, let’s see. sunbaenim, you are mentally ill.”

   “Hmm, there’s nothing else to do. Thanks, I live to annoy you.”

   Sangwoo turned around and walked towards the bicycle parked in front of the library. He tried to keep his back hidden so that Jaeyoung could sneak a look at what his bike looked like. When he unlocked the bike, he immediately got on it.

   ‘I guess he didn’t let the air out, right?’

   If the other side messed with his bike, he would immediately report it to the police, but the bike was running fine, and the only thing that happened was that Sangwoo returned home faster than usual.

   He locked the bike in front of the apartment and went up to the 4th floor. 

   When he unlocked the door and entered the room, his body and mind felt safe. 

   Sangwoo lay down on the bed without changing his clothes.

   ‘What just happened?’

   He had been disturbed all day, couldn’t focus on studying, couldn’t digest his food, failed at walking, couldn’t read in the library, and even though he talked to Jaeyoung like that, Sangwoo wasn’t sure. That guy named Jang Jaeyoung was different from the criminals he had encountered before. The other party was well-prepared, meticulous, smart. Didn’t leave any evidence for him to take back.

   ‘There’s only one solution.’

   That is to endure patiently until the other person gets tired and retreats on their own. Even if Jang Jaeyoung thought about it, he wouldn’t have a way to accept it. “Engineering Mathematics 2.” sigh, and even if he said he would attend class, he probably wouldn’t listen to subjects that were useless to him until the end, at most two weeks, because during the first two weeks, you could withdraw from the course freely, but after that, you couldn’t do it anymore.

   Two weeks. Although it was distressing, compared to a whole semester, it wasn’t that long. Just sleep through it for a little while, and sunny days will come.

   ‘But it’s still annoying.’

   Sangwoo felt an increasing sense of resentment, and it was a sorrow that couldn’t be expressed. Even though he didn’t have friends, no one could understand how stressful it was for him to have someone sit next to him after snatching his seat. That night, Sangwoo slept fitfully, waking up intermittently.

   return 0;

   ________________________________________

   [1] Algorithm, “Algorithm.” The process or sequence of processing steps in solving a particular problem that helps programmers see the programming steps more easily.

   [2]. My Darling Clementine (1946), a film adapted from the novel (Wyatt

   Earp: Frontier Marshal) (1931) written by Stuart Nathaniel Lake, an

   American writer, presenting the biography of Wyatt Earp, the sheriff of Tombstone, Arizona, and the legend of his gunfight with Newman Haynes Clanton, also known as Old Man Clanton at O.K. Corral.

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