The infected

Chapter 11- Who's going to do the dishes?

Walking out of the room with Seungcheol, Chan was greeted by the sight of at least eight boys crowded in a small lounge room. It was filled with two green couches, a small TV with a PlayStation, and an old coffee table covered with plates and cups. There was a lot going on, with some boys bickering, some sleeping, and others just trying to enjoy a movie.

"I don't get why you can't do the dishes, you never complain," Seungkwan said, sitting on the couch, curled up with a boy who Chan thought had really nice eyebrows. The boy's eyes were glued to the movie being played.

"That's because I get in trouble when I do. I don't get why someone can't get off their ass," Mingyu, the tall guy who had been crying earlier, retorted, standing over Seungkwan.

"Watch your mouth, young sir," Jeonghan, who was sprawled out on a whole couch with a blanket, muttered sleepily. He looked like he was about to drift off.

"I'm like two years younger than you."

"Meaning you're still young and thriving and should be doing the dishes."

"Actually, I'm tired and sore from being chased by a fucking tiger," Mingyu said, pointing at Soonyoung, who was sleeping on the hard floor. Mingyu kicked him, making him grunt but stay asleep. Mingyu sighed, looking around to see Chan and Seungcheol watching them.

"Oh, hello," he said in surprise, bowing to Chan and walking over to greet him, but tripping over Soonyoung and falling on his face. This finally woke Soonyoung, who made a lot of noise as he woke up. Everyone in the room turned their eyes to the new arrival, looking at him with curiosity. Chan recognised most of them but noticed three new faces:

The first boy had a vibrant mix of blonde and brown hair that framed his face nicely, his eyebrows perfectly shaped, giving him an effortlessly stylish appearance. His expressive eyes sparkled with warmth, and he wore a relaxed outfit—an oversized graphic tee and comfortable tracksuit pants. His eyes were back to the tv after he glanced at Chan.

Next to him sat a boy with jet-black hair, styled neatly with sharp bangs that accentuated his chiseled features. He wore thick black glasses that gave him an intellectual vibe, and his focused expression revealed he was absorbed in his laptop. His outfit was simple yet refined—a fitted black sweater over dark jeans, projecting an aura of quiet confidence.

The last boy, who had been poking at the sleeping Soonyoung, radiated an infectious energy. He had a bright smile that lit up his face, his dark hair tousled playfully. His casual attire consisted of a colorful hoodie and faded jeans, which added to his approachable, cheerful personality. He glanced at Chan with amazement, clearly intrigued by the new arrival in their midst.

Joshua, sitting on the end of the couch where Jeonghan lay, greeted him. "Hey Dino, do you want to join us?" He pushed Jeonghan's feet, making him sit up, which earned a "Hey" from the sleepy man. Joshua then ushered Chan to sit next to him. Feeling a bit anxious with the amount of attention, Chan looked back at Seungcheol, who gave him a reassuring smile. As Chan sat next to Joshua, he noticed Mingyu slowly getting up. Chan was amazed when the bruise that had formed on Mingyu's head suddenly disappeared. So that's what Soonyoung meant, he thought.

"Okay, what the fuck is this?" Everyone's eyes moved to Seungcheol, who stood with his hands on his hips, signaling the dishes on the coffee table.

"It's Mingyu's turn," they all said in unison. Mingyu sighed, realizing he wasn't going to win. "Just remember, I'm not doing it tomorrow night," he pointed out as he collected the dishes from the coffee table and moped over to the sink. Seungcheol sighed like a disappointed father. "I'm going to bed. Make sure you make Chan feel welcome," he said before disappearing into a room near the kitchen.