Morning arrived with a soft drizzle, tapping gently against the apartment windows. The sky was a muted gray, the kind of quiet, reflective weather that made the world feel small and contained—almost safe. Inside the living room, Seo Jin sat on the floor with his laptop open, a mug of warm tea beside him. He was reviewing a few work emails, the gentle rhythm of typing blending with the sound of rain.
Li Ran stood in the kitchen, leaning against the counter as he watched Seo Jin. He had made breakfast earlier—simple toast and scrambled eggs—but he hadn't eaten much. Not because he wasn't hungry, but because he couldn't stop glancing at Seo Jin.
Not after yesterday. Not after Wen An.
A reminder that people wanted Seo Jin. That they could show up at any moment. That they weren't afraid to try.
A reminder that Seo Jin could be taken.
Li Ran clenched the cup in his hand.
