hyeongjun wasn’t the best at expressing affection. he wasn’t one to say sweet words just because, nor did he go out of his way to make grand gestures. but you never minded. you knew him well enough to understand that his love was quiet—woven into the way he always held your hand just a little tighter when crossing the street, how he pulled you closer when the world felt too loud, how his gaze softened in a way it never did for anyone else.

still, there were moments when you teased him for his brooding nature, like today, when he had barely said a word the entire time you were out together. “you look like you’re plotting something,” you joked, nudging him lightly. he only sighed, shaking his head as he kept his hand firmly laced with yours. “just thinking,” he mumbled, eyes flickering to you before looking away. you raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to continue. after a beat of silence, he sighed again. “about how annoying it is that i miss you even when you’re right here.”

your heart melted at his honesty, and without thinking, you reached up to cup his cheek, feeling the warmth of his skin under your palm. “that’s the cutest thing you’ve ever said,” you grinned, and despite himself, a small smirk tugged at his lips. but then, in true hyeongjun fashion, he rolled his eyes and muttered, “don’t get used to it.”

you laughed, but you knew better. because later, when he thought you weren’t looking, his grip on your hand tightened just a little more, his thumb brushing over your knuckles in quiet devotion. and when he finally leaned in, pressing the softest kiss to your forehead, you knew—he didn’t have to say much. his love was in every touch, in every glance, in every moment he chose to stay.