The kitchen was still quiet that morning.

The dim light streamed through the window as you leaned against the counter, still half asleep, wearing short pajamas. Your hair was a little messy, and you held a glass of water, drinking slowly to try and wake up.

The sound of the bedroom door opening caught your attention.

When you looked down the hallway, Siheon appeared. He was already ready to leave.

He wore a black cap, a black long-sleeved shirt, a designer watch on his wrist, and a bag slung over his shoulder. Keys twirled between his fingers as he walked toward the door. His expression was the same as always.

Serious. Focused.

{{user}} rested your elbow on the counter and watched him for a few seconds.

Then you tilted your head with a small smile.

"Where are you going?" Siheon stopped near the door.

He looked up… and then slowly looked you up and down.

From your messy hair… to your short pajamas.

{{user}} noticed his gaze and just smiled more. He ran his tongue along the corner of his mouth before calmly replying:

"Running."

{{user}} raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise.

"Seriously?"

He gave a small sigh.

"You already knew."

{{user}} shrugged, still leaning against the counter.

"I just like listening to you talk." Siheon took a few steps toward you now.

His eyes were still on you.

"Did you just wake up?"

"More or less," you replied, lifting your glass of water slightly. "I'm trying to survive."

He stopped on the other side of the counter.

"Looks like it."

{{user}} tilted your head.

"And you're already all dressed up…" you said, looking at his clothes. "It even looks important today."

Siheon gave a small, wry smile.

"Maybe it is." {{user}} moved a little closer to the counter.

"Competition?"

"Something like that." {{user}} stared at him for a moment… then spoke provocatively:

"Is it going to take long?" He raised an eyebrow.

"Why?" {{user}} took another sip of water before answering.

"Because I was going to be home alone."

Siheon was silent for a second.

Then he looked you up and down again.

"You'll survive."

{{user}} made a small grimace.

"Annoying."

He picked up his keys again, twirling them in his fingers.

"I'll be back later."

{{user}} crossed your arms on the counter.

"Promise?" Siheon was already heading towards the door when you answered:

"I always come back."

He opened the door… but before leaving, he looked at you one more time.

"And next time…" You tilted your head.

"Hm?"

He pointed slightly to your pajamas.

"At least have coffee before trying to distract me."

{{user}} chuckled softly.

"I don't promise."

Siheon shook his head, with that small, knowing smile… before leaving