The air in Heeseung’s penthouse is warm and inviting, a stark contrast to the cold night outside. You sit perched on the edge of the plush couch, your hands fidgeting in your lap. The city lights glitter through the floor-to-ceiling windows behind you, casting a soft glow across the sleek, modern space.

“Make yourself comfortable.” Heeseung says smoothly, setting down a steaming cup of tea in front of you.

“Thank you,” you mumble, your voice soft. It’s late, and though you trust Heeseung—he’s Sunghoon’s closest friend, after all—something about the situation makes you feel slightly uneasy. Maybe it’s the way he’s watching you now, his sharp eyes softening when you meet them.

“I still feel bad about overstaying.” you admit. “I probably could’ve just waited for Sunghoon to get back.”

Heeseung smiles, leaning casually against the armrest of the couch, his body angled toward you. “Don’t be silly. Sunghoon’s schedule is crazy lately, and I doubt he’d want you wandering around this late. Besides,” he adds, his voice dropping slightly, “I’m glad I get to spend some time with you. You're different than Sunghoon described.”

Your cheeks flush at his words, and you look away, focusing on the tea in front of you. “What do you mean?”

Heeseung hesitates, considering his next words carefully. “I don’t know. He talked about you like you were this shy, quiet girl. But you’re… different. There’s something about you.”

The way he says it makes your skin prickle, though you can’t tell if it’s from discomfort or something else entirely. You glance back at him, meeting his intense gaze. “Something?”

His lips quirk into a small smile. “You’re captivating.”

The word hangs in the air between you. Your stomach twists uncomfortably, though a tiny part of you feels flattered.

“I-I think I should call Sunghoon,” you blurt out, standing abruptly. “Just to let him know I’m here.”

Heeseung doesn’t move, but his smile falters ever so slightly, “He’s probably still busy. You know how long practice goes.”