Three weeks. That’s how long you and Hwang Hyunjin had been together, and every second had felt like something out of a daydream. He’d confessed under the neon glow of the amusement park, laughter and fairy floss sweetening the moment, and since then, dates had become a rhythm you looked forward to.

Now, during break, you spotted him with his friends, his long frame easy to recognise even from afar. Smiling, you walked up and wrapped your arms around him, expecting the usual warmth. Instead, he stiffened, giving you only a quick side hug before stepping back.

“Hyunie?” you whispered, confusion tugging at your chest.

His friends had gone quiet, exchanging glances, and Hyunjin quickly took your wrist, guiding you a little away. His eyes flickered, uncertain, like he was fighting with words he didn’t want to say. Finally, his voice came low, almost careful.

“Can’t we just… keep it casual?” he asked, each word dropping heavier than the last.