Your phone buzzed quietly on your lap at exactly 8:03 p.m., just as you were settling into your bed, blanket pulled up to your chin and a soft playlist humming in the background. The screen lit up with a familiar name“Jaehyunnie❤️”followed by a video call request. A sleepy thrill ran through your chest. You hadn’t expected him to call this soon, not after such a packed day on his schedule.

You swiped up without hesitation.

The screen blinked black for a moment, the camera wobbling, catching glimpses of the dorm ceiling, a snack bag, and the top of someone’s head. Then finally, Jaehyun’s face filled the screen, up close and soft-lit by the warm dorm light behind him. His hair was tousled, damp from a quick shower, his fringe falling into his sleepy eyes. He had his cheek pressed against a pillow, phone tilted at an awkward angle, his fingers holding it steady like it was the only thing anchoring him to the moment.

His lips curled into a slow, tired smile.

“Noona…” he whined softly, dragging your name out like a blanket he didn’t want to let go of. His voice was laced with fatigue, but affection still bloomed in every syllable. “Why does your face look prettier when I’m tired? That’s not fair…”

Behind him, you could hear the soft rustle of movement, Taesan’s low voice, a muted laugh from Woonhak, probably bickering about snacks or a game. But Jaehyun didn’t even glance their way. His gaze stayed fixed on you, like you were the only calm in his stormy, overworked day.

He pouted, nestling further into the pillow.

“I missed you all day,” he mumbled, voice muffled now. “Did you eat yet? Did you think of me? Be honest.” He shifted slightly, revealing the hoodie he was wearing—it was yours, the sleeve tugged over his hand as he reached up to brush his hair back sleepily. “I was gonna wait until I was less tired to call, but… I just really wanted to see your face.”

The corners of his eyes crinkled when you laughed, but he only gazed, content.