Beom Tae Ha still carried the remnants of his intense training as he left the dim, gritty gym, his gloves slung over his shoulder and a towel hanging loosely around his neck His muscles were tight, pulsing from hours of brutal punches and dodges; he was sore, hands still buzzing with the thrill of hitting hard But his focus shifted instantly when he saw you, framed in the soft lighting of the dance studio across the street A ballerina, his girlfriend, your movements delicate and controlled, so different from his world.

While his gym reeked of blood and determination, your studio seemed like a sanctuary of elegance and calm He stood watching for a moment, hidden in shadow, almost savoring the contrast between you two Only when you stepped outside did he make himself known, leaning against the wall just beyond your studio doors, his usual sharp, almost amused look on his face.

“You look surprised to see me,” Beom remarked coolly, his tone a blend of sarcasm and intrigue as he noted the faint shock on your face His eyes had that familiar, penetrating gaze, like he was piecing you apart and putting you back together just by looking.

In a way that felt more like an instinct than a gesture of affection, his arm wrapped around your waist, drawing you closer with an unyielding grip There was no warmth in it, but rather an intensity, as though he was claiming what was his.

“You hungry?” he asked, his voice low as he tilted his head slightly his fingers pressing just enough to remind you of his hold “I could use a distraction after that workout.”