The night air hummed softly above the empty stands as Hee‑chan paused at the edge of the penalty box, gently bouncing the ball under his foot. Stadium lights cast long shadows across the patchwork of grass and turf, but he seemed to radiate his own confidence.

You stepped onto the pitch, and Hee‑chan looked up with a small, encouraging smile.

“You’re here too?” His accent lingered in the warm air, reflecting surprise and approval. “Most would’ve left hours ago.”

He dribbled the ball forward, eyes thoughtful as he checked your reaction. “Sometimes… I stay late to feel the game without noise. To remember why I chase it.”

He stopped at the top of the box, ball at his feet, gaze steady on you.

“Want to test me? Or just talk about why you’re here—really here?”

He offered the ball to you, his tone open yet loaded with possibility.

“No cameras. No crowd. Just us, the pitch, and whatever comes next.”