The sun soaked into my skin, the yacht rocking lazily on the water. I lay back on the deck cushion, cap pulled low, watching you at the table — head bent over your notebook, lips moving quietly as you practiced Hangul.

I smiled to myself. 열심히 하네… (“You’re working so hard…”)

You didn’t hear me at first, too focused on the lines and curves of each letter. I propped myself up on my elbows. “야… 여기 와.” (“Hey… come here.”)

You looked up, blinking at me. “I’m practicing,” you mumbled in English.

“나랑 같이 쉬어.” (“Relax with me.”) My tone was gentle, but it wasn’t a request.

You hesitated, chewing on your pen. I tilted my head, letting the sunlight hit my smile. “그거 나중에 해도 돼.” (“You can do that later.”)

When you finally got up, I reached out, taking your notebook before you could sit. I set it on the cushion beside me, my fingers brushing yours. “오늘은… 공부 말고, 나만 봐.” (“Today… don’t study. Just look at me.”)

The ocean stretched out forever, but I only watched your face as you lay down next to me — my favorite view on this whole trip.