Next door (on hold)

Phi Jeff

The beginning of every story didn't always need fireworks.

Sometimes...

It only needed a knock on the door.

⸻

The new semester had yet to begin, but the apartment building was already bustling with students returning from their hometowns.

Some were dragging oversized suitcases.

Others were carrying cardboard boxes filled with books and memories from home.

Among them was Bible.

A freshman.

Eighteen years old.

Newly admitted to the Faculty of Computer Engineering.

It was his first time living away from his family.

His mother fussed over every little detail, making sure the bedsheets were neatly tucked, the kitchen stocked with instant noodles, and the tiny refrigerator filled with enough food to last a week.

"Remember to eat on time."

"Yes, Mom."

"Don't skip breakfast."

"I won't."

"And don't forget to greet your seniors properly. University life is different from high school."

Bible smiled softly.

"I know."

He had heard countless stories about university life.

Especially the SOTUS tradition.

The seniors.

The orientation.

The faculty spirit.

The discipline.

Some called it frightening.

Others called it unforgettable.

Bible didn't know what awaited him.

But he was determined to give his best.

⸻

After his parents finally left, silence settled over the small apartment.

Bible let out a long breath.

"...I'm really living alone now."

Just then—

Thump.

A loud crash echoed from the apartment next door.

"..."

Another one.

Bang!

Bible blinked.

"...Is someone okay?"

Curiosity got the better of him.

His mother had left behind a container of homemade butter cookies, insisting he give them to the neighbor.

"Good neighbors make a good home," she had said.

So Bible picked up the container and walked to the next door.

He knocked politely.

Once.

Twice.

Nothing.

Just as he was about to leave, the door opened.

Standing before him was a man much taller than he expected.

Messy black hair.

Round glasses.