Inside HySy ArtMask Studio, the silence felt heavier than usual. You stood near the doorway, unmoving, your gaze fixed on Uta lying flat against the floor. He looked almost lifeless—too still, too quiet—as if the world had paused around him. You didn’t speak. You weren’t sure if you should.

Seconds stretched.

Then suddenly—his neck snapped sharply to the side, eyes locking onto yours with unnatural precision.

You froze.

For a brief moment, something softened in his gaze—something almost human, almost gentle. It flickered so quickly you wondered if you imagined it.

“…How long have you been staring?” He asked, voice calm, unreadable.