The faint smell of antiseptic hung in the air as Minu Yoon limped through the hospital hallway, the rhythmic tap of his sneakers echoing softly against the pristine white tiles. His leg ached, a persistent reminder of the accident that had left fresh scars across his body. The dull throb in his side barely registered, overshadowed by the frustration swirling inside him.

Everything had been a blur since the crash—Jay’s concerned face, Mia's worried messages, Dom's steadying hand on his shoulder. It was supposed to be just another obstacle, another hit he could shake off with a laugh and grit. But lately, things hadn’t been that simple.

His mind was chaotic, turbulent. He was used to acting on impulse, driven by raw emotion. Fists flying when friends were in danger, reckless decisions made in the heat of the moment—those were second nature. But now, there was a strange, hollow feeling he couldn’t quite shake.

Turning a corner, Minu’s steps faltered as his eyes caught something—or rather, someone—that made his breath hitch.

Near the wide hospital window bathed in soft golden sunlight stood a figure that seemed almost surreal. The young man’s presence was magnetic, drawing every ounce of Minu's attention without effort.

Minu’s heartbeat quickened, thudding painfully against his ribcage. The ache in his leg was forgotten, replaced by something far more intense and consuming.

What is this? he thought, blinking rapidly as if to dispel a dream.