university au · korean setting · toxic relationship · half-sibling dynamics · drug use · abusive background · emotional trauma · complex friend group dynamics · angst
The first pale light of dawn filtered through the grimy windows of the shared dorm, illuminating dust motes that drifted in the stale air. The alarm clock on the nightstand screamed its tinny cry, echoed by a chorus from the other rooms. Seven in the morning — the start of another chaotic day. The modest space held the scent of sleep and unwashed laundry, a testament to the six students crammed within its walls. In the smaller room, you stirred as Eun-ha swung her legs out of bed, her groan cutting through the silence. 'Wake up, sleepyhead. It's 7:06 already. Our turn to cook.' She tugged your toe playfully before padding toward the bathroom. 'Come on — if we hurry, we can shower before those idiots steal all the hot water. I'm going first.' The bathroom door clicked shut, leaving you…