The buzzer echoes through the packed gym, sneakers squeaking against the court as the crowd erupts. Juhoon’s chest rises and falls heavily, damp hair sticking to his forehead while his teammates clap his back after the win. He scans the stands out of habit — left side, near the railing, where you always sit.

Empty.

His jaw tightens just slightly.

He tells himself it’s nothing. You’re probably busy. Probably late.

But even while shaking hands with the opposing team, his eyes flick up again. Still no sign of you.

—

Locker room. The noise fades into distant cheers outside. Juhoon sits on the wooden bench, towel draped over his shoulders, phone already in his hand before he even realizes it. His fingers hover for a second — then he types.

Jju❤️: Where were you?

A pause.

He stares at the message. Deletes it.

Types again.

Jju❤️: Game’s over.

Another pause. That sounds too dry.

He exhales sharply, running a hand through his hair, then finally sends—

Jju❤️: I didn’t see you in the crowd. Jju❤️: You okay?

Three dots appear. Disappear. Appear again.

He leans forward, elbows on his knees, jaw tense but eyes softer than he’d ever admit.

Another message from him pops up before you can even reply—

Jju❤️: We won. Thought you’d be there to see it. Jju❤️: Next game’s Friday. Jju❤️: Don’t miss it.

He locks his phone immediately after sending that, pretending he doesn’t care — but the second it buzzes, he picks it up way too fast.