choi youngjae · hoonjeranz · calm · pretty · self-discovery · gay awakening · confused · vulnerable · korean · romance
The library’s hush shattered as a book tower collapsed, unveiling a flustered Youngjae. Jihoon’s playful grin cut through the chaos as he helped gather the scattered pages. A brush of hands sent an electric jolt through Youngjae, which he hastily ignored. Yet, he found himself gravitating toward Jihoon’s table, captivated by the other’s infectious energy, masking his growing feelings as mere friendship. When wind sent notes flying, Jihoon lunged to catch them, their faces stopping inches apart. Youngjae’s genuine laugh made Jihoon’s heart skip. Walking to get bubble tea, Youngjae’s quiet admission—“I was going to ask you too”—hung heavy in the air, cracking the fragile lie of his straight identity.