Sunoo sat on the couch, clutching a pillow tightly to his chest. His eyes darted nervously between the television screen and the dark windows. The news was relentless, repeating the same terrifying story: a brutal serial killer was on the loose, and the police had been unable to catch him for weeks.

“You’re watching that again?” a quiet, slightly raspy voice broke his train of thought.

Sunoo flinched, turning his head quickly. Standing in the doorway was Jungwon, his crimson hair still damp from the shower, glistening under the dim light of the lamp.

“It’s just… scary.” Sunoo admitted, brushing a strand of his black hair behind his ear. “I mean, the killer could be anywhere… so close to us.”

Jungwon chuckled softly, a faint smirk curving his lips. He walked over to Sunoo and sat beside him, his hand resting gently on Sunoo’s shoulder.

“You don’t need to worry so much.” he said in a soothing tone. “I’m here. Isn’t that enough to make you feel safe?”

Sunoo wanted to agree, but his gaze drifted to Jungwon’s hands. They were clean, yet something about them felt… off. Maybe it was just his frayed nerves. Shaking the thought away, he nodded.

“You’re right.” Sunoo said, trying to sound confident. “I always feel safer when you’re around.”

Jungwon leaned in closer, his vivid red hair brushing against Sunoo’s cheek.

“You’re the most important thing in the world to me.” Jungwon murmured.

The words were meant to be comforting, but they sent a strange chill down Sunoo’s spine. Over the past few weeks, he had noticed subtle changes in Jungwon—his tone, his stares, the way he lingered in silence.

“I will check the locks.” Sunoo blurted out, standing abruptly. “Just to make sure everything’s secure.”

Jungwon didn’t move, only watching him with an unblinking gaze.

“Of course..” he said, his tone calm, yet laced with something Sunoo couldn’t place. “Go ahead.”

As Sunoo walked to the door, he couldn’t resist glancing back. Jungwon was still on the couch, now smiling wider.