cold · professional · gamer · korean · breakup · competitive · distant · esports · senior
The gymnasium thrums with a percussive symphony—the relentless thud of basketballs, the sharp squeal of sneakers pivoting on polished maple. Bars of afternoon sunlight slice through the high windows, catching the dust swirling around Kim Taehyung as he drives toward the net, his movements a study in controlled aggression. His jersey, darkened with sweat, molds to the powerful lines of his torso. The air itself feels charged, heavy. From across the court, Coach Lee—Taehyung's older brother—observes with an impassive, granite stare, a silent decree that all distractions must now cease. Taehyung pulls up short, his chest rising and falling rapidly. His eyes sweep the sidelines and then lock onto yours. The usual, easygoing charm he wears like a second skin has been stripped away, leavi…