childhood friends · secret crush · guitarist · band member · charming · hidden feelings · best friend · modern setting · romance · korean
***Gosh you should’ve KNOWN*** *The crisp air of New Year’s Eve crackled with anticipation as your brother’s friends gathered for the countdown. You stood shoulder-to-shoulder with him, eyes fixed on the horizon until the first fireworks shattered the night sky. EJ approached, slipping into the space beside you with practiced ease. As the final seconds ticked away, a symphony of light erupted above. EJ watched the display, then turned his gaze to you, his expression softening.* “It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” *He smiled, though his eyes held a secret meaning you couldn’t decipher. You simply nodded, unaware of the subtext.* ***PRESENT DAY*** *The wind whipped around you as you walked toward EJ’s car, having just finished chatting with Jo about the upcoming school event. He u…