Mingi sighs loudly, interrupting the chatty pair in front of him. Yunho and San give him a confused look. He's having a bad week and is at the point where everything annoys him. In fact, nothing is annoying him at the moment, he just wants to go home. But it's only noon and he has another two hours of lectures in 20 minutes. "What's wrong Min?" Yunho asks, concern displayed on his face, making Mingi feel (slightly) guilty for ruining the mood curse you and your puppy eyes he thinks.

"Nothing in particular, but you two are annoying me".

San pouts "we aren't doing anything! Just holding hands"

"Hyung, you're being extra moody today" Jongho butts in, looking up from his phone and Mingi throws a glare in his direction.

"Sorry, I'm just not feeling very enthusiastic today and seeing happiness makes me want to throw up". He says, head in hands.

"Woah there, what's wrong?" San says. "I'm just dreading going to the lecture, two whole hours! Should I just skip?" Mingi groans.

Yunho rolls his eyes "You can't skip, you haven't attented a single lecture this month! Don't you remember what your father told you two days ago?" Mingi sighs once more, he definitely remembers, it's what made his mood go sour ever since then. "I know I can't keep skipping lectures, but maths just makes me mad all the time". His friends give him a defeated look.

Mingi's situation is an unfortunate one. His father being the head of the university but not alloing him to pursue his dream and forcing him to do a maths degree instead of a music one. He's tried multiple times to prove to his father that he's passionate and very good at music, but in the end his father won and Mingi was forced to do maths, because it's more important than 'silly music' and 'how would it look if the head's son studied music?'. It used to make him really mad thinking about it but now, two years later, he's just accepted the fact that there's nothing he can do about it.

Besides, he's found a way to still pursue his dream in secret. Though, it's still a work in progress but he has hope. His friends are very supportive of him and his 'rebelling' against his father. Although, he's slowly becoming more strict with with Mingi, which has caused them to also try and convinve him to actually behave.

"Mingi come on, just attend- you don't even have to focus, just sit at the back and watch a movie" Yunho says, not wanting his friend to get in trouble with his dad once again.

"I know, I just don't like the atmosphere, you guys will just be studying away next to me which is annoying". Mingi frowns.

"Hey, we've got to somehow stay studying here". Yunho says. It was true, the only reason Mingi gets away with not attending class and failing assignments is because he's the head's son. Anyone else would have been expelled after the first year. Mingi is in his third year now and due to graduate, which is the reason why his father is becoming more strict with him. "I know exactly what you need" San says with a knowing look.

"What..." Mingi is already unamused with whatever he's about to suggest.

"You need to get laid!"

"Absolutely not"

"Oh come on! I'll have you know it's a very good stress reliever, just look at me and Yunho, we're always happy"

Mingi grimaces. "I don't need to know about your sex life thank you very much".

"I think it's worth a try, you'll get to release some steam, a distraction. It's good to change up things once in a while" Jongho adds and Mingi glares at him. "Shut up you virgin".

Jongho pouts, "I am not a virgin!"

"Whatever, you guys know I have no interest in one night stands. I hate taking random people to my house. Besides, there are many other ways to release stress, like Pilates or hanging out with you guys". Mingi gestures to the three next to him "my wonderful friends", he says with a fake smile.

"Yeah well, these wonderful friends are getting second hand stress from you" Yunho says, and Mingi's smile turns into a playful glare.

"Whatever, we are not discussing this anymore. We're running late for the lecture" He says, quickly rushing out of his seat.

The rest of them glance at each other amusedly, never having seen mingi rushing to attend a class, but quickly follow him to make sure he's not actually running away.

***

A few tables away, Yeosang is typing away on his laptop. Wooyoung, who is sitting opposite of him watches with an entertained grin. "You're putting way too much effort into something that is worth like 2% of your grade".

"Any percentage is crucial when you're a scholarship student Wooyoung." Yeosang says sternly, not even looking up from the screen.

Wooyoung nods, he knows this. "Besides, why do you have written assignments anyway, you're a music student" Wooyoung complains. These stupid assignments were making Yeosang too busy to hang out with him.

This time, Yeosang pauses "just because you're a dance student and don't have to write, doesn't mean that other arts subjects don't have them". Yeosang is always having to write up proposals or create portfolios with large amounts of writing. He understands the logic behind the reason why they have to do these write-ups, he just prefers the practical aspect much more.

"Hey, I do have writing assignments!" Wooyoung says, he just doesn't care as much as Yeosang. Although, the other does actually have a good reason to put in a lot of effort. As a scholarship student, Yeosang has to maintain a high grade, otherwise he resides getting his place here revoked. Luckily, Yeosang is very talented, hence why he got the scholarship in the first place.

Even then, Yeosang still gets overwhelmed with the amount of work they pile on him. That stress makes him a disorganised and chaotic mess sometimes. "Shit, I said I'd meet with Hongjoong hyung 20 minutes ago" Yeosang jumps out of his seat, having lost track of time and Wooyoung follows him. The pair rush out of the cafeteria the same time another group of people leave, causing Yeosang to collide with someone, nearly dropping his laptop. He glares at whoever nearly broke his prized possession but the other did not ever look back. Instead, they carry on walking.

"Are you okay?" Wooyoung asks, and Yeosang is about to respond when he hears an 'ow!' The person who bumped into him is being dragged towards him by his friend. Yeosang raises his eyebrows when it registers that the person is Song Mingi.

"Hyung, I know you're in a bad mood but you can't go around pushing people, they'll think you're an asshole" He says quietly, but Yeosang hears it all anyway. Mingi rolls his eyes as if to say 'I don't care what people think', but tilts his head down briefly anyway. "Sorry" he says to Yeosang and immediately turns to walk away, not even waiting for a response.

The friend bows his head politely, "Sorry about him".

Yeosang smiles just to be polite "it's okay". The other nods and walks away, leaving Yeosang to frown at them. His glare is broken when Wooyoung suddenly grabs his shoulder tightly, making Yeosang wince.

"Don't you know who that guy is" he says and Yeosang frowns at him.

"Who, Song Mingi?"

"No, the other one, he's that cute guy I've been eyeing!" Wooyoung says, sounding a little too happy.

"That was Choi Jongho? I didn't know he was buddies with the head's son, didn't you say he's a year below us?" Wooyoung has been crushing on Jongho for months now, ever since the guy joined the dance society he's in. He's just so shy and cute, it makes Wooyoung just want to hug and kiss him. "Yeah, I knew he's friends with that guy but look, he's much nicer than him!" Wooyoung says, as if he's trying to get Yeosang's approval. "He's so pretty, now that I know he's nice, I'm even more attracted to him" Wooyoung gushes.

Yeosang side eyes him, "You mean to tell me that you've never talked to him before? Do you just stare at him like a creep, does he even know who you are?"

"No- I mean, I just have never gotten the chance to talk to him, he's always surrounded by his tall friends" Wooyoung complains.

"You're a textbook extrovert, talking to him and his friends shouldn't be hard for you"

"Yeah well, it's different when you're trying to get into a guy's pants" Wooyoung pouts, making Yeosang grimace.

"Okay, thats enough of this conversation" Yeosang quickly walks away, now even more late for meeting up with Hongjoong. They quickly make their way to Hongjoong's studio, their friend that helps Yeosang with his music projects. "Sorry we're late hyung"

Hongjoong waves at them, "its alright, I'm here all day anyway". They take a seat and Yeosang immediately goes back to working on his assignment.

"When will Seonghwa hyung get here?" Wooyoung says, bored since Hongjoong and Yeosang are busy working. Hongjoong doesn't even look up from his computer "he's just out getting lunch".

Seonghwa arrives ten minutes later and Wooyoung cheerfully greets him, happy for the company. They continue like this for a couple of hours, Yeosang and Hongjoong quietly working while Wooyoung and Seonghwa chat and play games. Yeosang is busy reading his emails when a particular one catches his eye. It had 'urgent' written in it and was sent by the head of the school.

Yeosang widens his eyes and opens it, reading quickly.

Dear Mr Kang Yeosang,
                            Apologies for the urgency, but I'd like to have a quick meeting with you today. I'll be in my office until 5pm today so please drop by when your classes are over.
Thank you,
Prof. Song, Head of Cheongyang University

"What the fuck" Yeosang says, making everyone turn to him. "What?" Wooyoung says, looking at his laptop. He scans the email then gasps, "guys, Yeosang's got a meeting with the head!"

Hongjoong and Seonghwa makes a noise of confusion. "I didn't know the head has meetings with students" Seonghwa says. "Are you sure it's not fake? It doesn't even say what the meeting's about" Hongjoong adds.

Yeosang shakes his head. "It's definitely his email, and it's already 4pm, I need to go right now- I don't even know where his office is!"

"Yeosang calm down, I'll go with you, I'm sure its nothing serious" Wooyoung says. He can tell that his best friend is starting to panic. In his defence, it is a strange letter to receive, it's short and surprisingly informal to have been sent by the head of the university, and he was given barely any time to come se him. There should have been a scheduled date and time. So he understands why Yeosang is weary and thinking of the worst. The reason for the appointment isn't even hinted at. "It's okay, you're a good student. This is definitely a good meeting".

Yeosang nods, he's never broken any rule and all his grades are fantastic, so logically thinking, he shouldn't be worried that he's in trouble. But that doesn't stop his heart from racing when he reaches the corridor where the office is.

Wooyoung pats his back "It's going to be okay, I'll be waiting here for you" Yeosang gives him a small smile and hesitantly knocks on the door.

A man in a black suit immediately steps out, "do you have an appointment? Students aren't allowed to have private meetings with the head. If you have an a complaint or need help, please take it to student services in the building across the road".

Yeosang blinks, waiting for the man to finish his speech. "I- um, got an email from Professor Song to see him".

The man raises his eyebrows. "Is that so? Well, what's your name?"

"Kang Yeosang" He shuts the door for a moment and Yeosang glances at Wooyoung with a shrug. The door is opened once again and the man is stepping aside to let Yeosang in.

The office is huge with a desk at the back and two sofas facing each other. On on is who he assumes is Professor Song "Ah, Mr Kang am I correct? Thank you for coming in such short notice". He gestures for Yeosang to take a seat, which he does very cautiously. "You must be confused as to why I called you here, apologies for the vague email, its because the reason I've called you here is sort of... a personal matter".

Yeosang furrows his eyebrows, trying too to make too much of a reaction. What the hell could I be of help for a personal matter he thinks.

"I'm sure you know that my son is currently attending this university, a third year student not unlike you". Yeosang nods, there's not a single student who doesn't know about Song Mingi. "Yes... well although he's my son, he's not doing a very good job at maintaining my reputation".

"Sorry?" Yeosang says, confused as to where this was going.

"His grades are terrible" Professor Song says and Yeosang mouths a small 'oh', wondering what thats got to do with him. "I'd like you to tutor my son".

"Me?" Yeosang says, as if this isn't the whole reason why he was sent to the heads office. "But, I'm doing a music degree, your son is not on my course" Yeosang isn't sure of what Mingi studies but he's certain it isn't music.

"He does maths and you happen to be the only one to get 100% on the math portion of the entrance exam". Yeosang looks down, trying not to frown so obviously.

"I understand, but I don't think that makes me fit to tutor your son, I think an actual maths student would be more suitable". He says nervously, wondering why he suddenly got so brave and hopes that he doesn't get offended.

"Of course I've tried that Mr Kang, I've got the top maths students and other professional tutors but my son is a rebel. He doesn't listen to a word I say and pays them triple of what I offer, or just drives them crazy so that they quit on their own".

Yeosang gulps. What the fuck? This guy sounds like a maniac. Yeosang really does not want tutor him. "And unfortunately its my son's last year and I can't have him graduating at the bottom of the course. Or worse, failing and not graduating at all". He looks at Yeosang with an expression that causes the hairs on the back of his neck to stand. "I'm sorry to tangle you up in this Mr Kang, but I know you're capable and I know you can't back out because of your scholarship".

Yeosang widens his eyes. There's no way he's using my scholarship against me right now.

"I'll make sure my son behaves too, don't worry. I just need you to get his grades up. And no amount of bribing will get you out of this if you want to keep your place here".

Yeosang's stomach boils in anger. He has worked endlessly for the past two years. He'd put all his blood sweat and tears to get that scholarship just for it to fall in the hands of some random spoilt brat who can't do maths? Yeosang is fuming, eyes threatening to go glossy. "I understand, I'll try my best" he says through clenched teeth.

Professor Song smiles, "Thank you Mr Kang, I'm putting all my trust in you, and you have my support- if my son is giving you a hard time, just let me know" Yeosang nods, he's in his final year and studying for himself is already hard enough, and now his fate depends on someone else's grade. "Now then, if thats all, you may leave"

Yeosang stands up, bowing before heading to the door. "Oh and Mr Kang-" Yeosang stops, turning to him. "Please keep this arrangement confidential. If this spreads around the school, I'll know". Yeosang gives him a tight lipped smile and nods, finally heading out of the door.

Wooyoung runs to Yeosang when he hears the door shut, grabbing his arm. "Well?" Judging by Yeosang's upset expression, Wooyoung is afraid to hear whatever news Yeosang has.

"I have to tutor his son"

Wooyoung gasps. "That Song Mingi guy?" He says so loudly it echoes through the hallway.

"You heard me. And he's using my scholarship against me so there's no way I can back out". Wooyoung gasps even louder.

"That's fucking messed up! Wait, he doesn't even do music does he?" Yeosang shakes his head. "Maths, something about me getting the top score on the entrance exam. I don't even want to talk about it." Yeosang frowns, and Wooyoung pats his back. "Oh Yeosang, what an unfortunate situation you've been dragged into, and Song Mingi of all people, I've heard he's a jerk".

Yeosang groans. "I have a feeling it will be more of a babysitting job, his father told me that he's driven other tutors crazy till they quit, and I've got no way out" he sighs, internally cursing Song Mingi.

"He's definitely a spoilt brat who doesn't listen to his parents. Remember when he pushed past you and Jongho had to force him to apologise? Yeah that man has no regard for other people. He probably thinks of us as peasants".

Yeosang groans, he doesn't want to think about it anymore. The mere thought of Song Mingi is giving him a headache. How the hell am I supposed to improve the grade of someone who hasn't been attending classes for two years...

***

"No way" Mingi says, arms crossed.

"Mingi, I'm not asking you, I'm telling you. You will go for tutoring" His father yells.

"You know that it never works out! Whoever you've forced, they'll quit after the first session!"

Mingi's father scoffs. "Not this time, nothing you do will deter this one"

"Are you threatening them with their life or something?" Mingi jokes but to his surprise, his father shrugs "More or less"

Mingi groans "I dont care what you've threatened them with, im still not going".

"Mingi, you're due to graduate this year. Your grades are embarrassing and the only reason you're still enrolled here is because you're my son. I'm trying to fix this for you"

"Well don't! I don't give a shit about my stupid degree"

"And I don't care whether you hate it or not, you will not make a fool out of me"

Mingi rolls his eyes, as if I care about your reputation. "I'm going to make this clear one last time, you will attend tutoring sessions. At least until I see improvement. Then you don't have to go. I've got a reliable tutor who will also be working hard, so you do your part otherwise I'll be bringing bodyguards to follow your every step and make sure you attend class and come straight home".

Mingi widens his eyes. "You can't do that!"

"Oh yes I can, and I will if I hear any complaints from your tutor". Mingi's hands clench out of instinct, there's really nothing he can do about this situation. "Fine" he says, storming out of the room.

~

"He's making do tutoring again?" San says with a frown and Jongho laughs. "Hyung, all that effort to get rid of the other tutors was a waste, your old man will always find a new one". 

"So what's the plan to get rid of this one, bribing?" Yunho asks, but Mingi shakes his head. "I don't think I can get rid of this one. I think they're a student here so my father's most likely threatening to kick them out or something".

Yunho shakes his head "Poor student, having to deal with both you and your father, who is it anyway?"  He asks, and Mingi shrugs "Didn't ask, don't care".

San sighs "Mingi, maybe you need to start to take these sessions seriously, if you don't graduate, you'll be stuck here next year without us".

Mingi scoffs, "I will graduate. My father's probably going to find a way to forge my grades, though that is very hard to do and a last resort, which is why hes desperate for me to get my grades up". As outrageous as that sounds, it's true. Mingi knows his father is ready to do absolutely anything to maintain his good reputation. Mingi has already made him look bad by being a bad student at his own university. He isn't a bad person, he doesn't bully or fight at all, he just isn't a good student.

Unfortunately, people usually pair bad student and bad person together and think Mingi is an unapproachable, cold monster that will beat you up if you look at him the wrong way. People seem to be scared of him a lot, whether it's because of his icy stare, his father, or his bad student reputation. He's basically just his father's worst nightmare of a son. And that is disregarding the fact that he want's to pursue music instead of maths as a career. "I've got not choice anyway, my father's threatening me with bodyguards if my grades don't improve".

"To watch your every move?" Jongho gasps and Mingi shrugs. He knows that his father can get anything he wants, he's learnt to accept it from a young age.

Mingi and Jongho are still in Yunho and San's dorm when his phone buzzes with a notification. It's a text from an unknown number.

xxx-xxx-xxx
Hello, I'm Kang Yeosang, your new tutor. Your father gave me your number so I hope you don't mind me messaging you first.
We've got a lot of work to do so I hope we can meet soon. Please let me know when you're free so we can schedule a time for our sessions.

Mingi stares blankly at the screen. "What the fuck, what's up with the essay". The others hover around him to read the message.

"Aw omg he sounds so full of hope" San says with a pout.

"I wonder how long this one will last" Yunho says.

"With that long message, he's either underestimating Mingi hyung's stubbornness or will actually try his hardest until the end" Jongho adds.

Mingi sighs, leaving him on read and putting his phone away, his friends looking at him in confusion. "What? You're not going to reply?" Yunho says and Mingi shakes his head. He hasn't decided yet if he will go through with the tutoring or if he'll try and push his father's buttons a bit more.

"You're a brave man Mingi, I'll tell you that" San says, patting his shoulder.

~

Later that night, when he's about to sleep, Mingi makes a decision.

I'm free on Wednesdays only.

He's about to put his phone away but another message pops up right away.

xxx-xxx-xxx
Okay, I'll see you next Wednesday then?

Sure

Mingi scoffs, he can already tell that this person will be an annoying and stubborn tutor who will actually try to teach Mingi. He seems too enthusiastic for someone who's most likely been threatened to tutor him. He adds Yeosang's number, saving him as 'Annoying tutor', and goes to sleep.