Chapter Text
Soft rustle of leaves danced in the afternoon breeze, the wind gently cradling the sunlight as it tiptoed toward Hyuntak’s room. A slow, rhythmic hum came from the table fan, its metallic blades creaking at every rotation. Books were stacked neatly on the shelf, and a small photo frame added a quiet charm to the otherwise simple room with a picture of young Hyuntak holding a trophy from a taekwondo competition, grinning with pride.The door clicked and invited Hyuntak into his own room. He sighed, sitting down on his chair, then lazily stretching, eliciting a creak from the chair.
“Go Hyuntak!” He heard a shrill sound call out, and with a heavy and disinterested heart, Hyuntak got up again to drag himself to the noise. His feet shuffled over the antique wooden floorboard, which would always complain over stepping on it with a groan.
He followed the voice to the adjoining store, a small extension of their house that served as a modest eatery. Inside, his mother stood over the counter, hurriedly chopping onions, her brow furrowed in intense concentration. “I am here, Mom. What do you want me to do?” Hyuntak stretched, his hands reaching the roof of the store he was currently standing in.
His mother turned around, her eyes searching and then lighting up when she found what she wanted. Her fingers hastily picked up the two bags, filled with a big order and handed it over to Hyuntak. “Deliver it to the address written, and hurry back home. There is a lot left to do.”
She was curt with her words, but her face would always be wary with concern for her son. “Do this till you find what to do with your life. But don’t expect this to be your life, okay? I am giving you three months, don’t end up like me and find what you truly enjoy doing.” She hurried back to the kitchen, continuing what she would always do. Hyuntak swore he had her words memorised, word by word.
It had been four months since he graduated college.
Four months since he could step out into the real world and contribute to a bigger society. Somehow, though, he faltered. He reached the end of the cliff and was standing on the edge, contemplating, staring down the uncertain future, unsure whether to leap, turn back, or simply remain frozen.
“Still unsure?” He heard his father’s heavy voice boom in the small store. He was busy helping his wife, helping her prepare ingredients for the next order that would arrive. He signalled Hyuntak to sit in the chair in front of him, which Hyuntak did. “It’s okay to take your time, you know how Mom is. She is concerned for you, but remember, whatever decision you take after this, your mother and father will support it till the end, alright?” Hyuntak gave a slight nod, then rose to grab his scooter keys. As he stepped outside, the familiar chime of the store door echoed behind him.
Sun wasn’t too harsh, it too was waking up slowly, adorning a soft, shifting gray, a patchwork of heavy clouds that drifted lazily over the landscape. The air was warm and thick, clinging to the skin, laced with the faint scent of rain that hadn’t yet fallen. He started his vehicle, the ride responding with a grunt and rev before Hyuntak sat and rode through the small town, all the way to the newly built sports centre. It was in the talks for a while, if Hyuntak remembered correctly, laden with new equipment and better facilities. Hyuntak hadn’t seen a shooting arena in real life, so it wouldn’t be wrong to say, a part of him felt excitement creep from within.
When he parked his ride and headed to the mentioned location, he could hear commotion brewing. It seemed like everyone was busy trying to get the parties to break away from some kind of argument, meaning no one was their designated places. It was deathly silent inside and all the boards made it too confusing for Hyuntak to navigate. Luckily, he spotted a girl who seemed to be from here.
Perfect.
“Hi, do you know where the men’s shooting range is? I am new here.” He crouched down to level up to the girl.
Surprisingly the girl pointed to her ear, then to her mouth and then explained that she couldn’t hear or speak.
Oh.
Hyuntak hadn’t imagined that the impulsive “Sign Language for Dummies” course he took after binge-watching a show would ever come in handy. But here he was, scrambling to piece together broken signs and gestures.
He managed to sign man and shoot , but range had completely escaped him. He scratched his head, trying to dig it out of his memory. He swore he’d learned the sign for ground , but his brain wasn’t cooperating, as if it was hell bent to embarrass him today.
The girl’s eyes sparkled, and Hyuntak could see it, it was evident in the way he could see a glint in her eyes, planning a mischief behind those innocent eyes.
You are trying to shoot me?
The girl signed, stifling her amusement while being dramatically offended. Hyuntak was flustered, shaking his hands in denial. The kid smiled, her eyes glistening with amusement as she pulled out a small notebook and pen and handed it over to Hyuntak. He sighed, accepting his defeat and embarrassment as he wrote down his question and showed it to the girl, to which he showed the way, still extremely amused by Hyuntak’s embarrassing moment.
Hyuntak extended his hand, palm facing down and with his other hand, signed a thank you to which the girl bowed with her fist tight to sign goodbye .
As he walked in the building again, he was reminded of the old days. He could hear the students practising in different gyms, some having their lunches in the corner, chatting with their teammates while the door to their rooms were slightly ajar. It was like peeking into their life, which made Hyuntak think of his own life. Before all of this, before that accident, back when he knew exactly what he wanted to do with his life. Their laughs made something in Hyuntak’s chest twist. He rushed through the hallways before he ended up at the shooting range. It was a big hall, target shots placed within variable distance and only a single boy practicing. He lowered his hand and glanced at the pistol in his hand, trying to get his grip correctly. He seemed frustrated, like he wasn’t meeting his standard.
Hyuntak knew this feeling all too well. It would tug at his heart, every kick felt personal, and every unfulfilled goal was a label of his failure. He shook his head, hoping he would somehow forget all those memories. He walked up, only to be stopped in his tracks.
He couldn’t believe his eyes.
A boy walked in. But it wasn’t just any boy.
He looked like spring itself, soft sunlight in his smile, eyes the color of dark honey, and laughter as light as petals caught in the breeze. As if the world began spinning and living again every time he walked into a room. His tousled hair was like wind blown grass, his smile captured the warmth of the sun and it seemed to melt every icy barrier Hyuntak had placed in his heart. He waved his hand in front of the boy practising which caught his attention as he turned around.
You are doing so well
The boy with dull eyes sighed, and smiled weakly.
Thank you. You will be _____? Go.
His gaze drifted before finally landing on Hyuntak, catching him off guard. He gave a quick gesture, signing that he'd be right back. In response, the boy beamed, his eyes crinkling at the corners, his whole face glowing with joy. He bid adieu to the dull boy as he packed his bag and walked out of the arena from the back door. Hyuntak felt a sharp ache in his chest, as if his heart had split clean in two.
I swear, I'm going to pinch those cheeks.
Hyuntak thought as his eyes followed the little figure skipping his way out.
He was snapped from his daydreams by the boy in front of him who waved his hand in front of him. He pointed to the lunch boxes in Hyuntak’s hand and with a questioning look. Hyuntak scratched his head, as if he wasn’t already embarrassed enough, he was also distracted today. Just perfect.
He handed over the lunch box to his customer and signed a thank you which caught the other by surprise.
You can sign?
He enquired.
Hyuntak nodded before adding a small gesture to show, just a bit
His eyes lit up, or so Hyuntak thought before they returned to their tired, somber state.
How much?
Hyuntak searched through the package before fishing out the bill and handing it to the boy. He dug in his pocket and pulled out stray bills and handed it to Hyuntak before turning around. Like an instinct though, Hyuntak reached out to the boy, tapping on his shoulder to get his attention. This time, the boy looked pissed enough which intimidated Hyuntak a bit.
But he needed to know who that boy was.
With his heart practically trying to break free from his chest, he nervously closed his fist and moved them slightly to sign a hello. He received a confused look but was greeted back nonetheless.
Just now, that guy who left, is he an athlete too?
The boy tilted his head slightly, as if he couldn’t believe what Hyuntak just said.
No.
Hyuntak clasped his palms and clapped twice. Friend?
No. Why?
What’s his name?
The boy’s face changed instantly, almost defensive. He held out his pinky and wrapped his other pinky and brought them forward to sign;
Are you trying to flirt right now?
Hyuntak was flustered as he replied with his index finger pointing out and thumbs extended up, he shook them,
No, just..
How do you even explain ‘curious’?
He could feel the other staring so he just returned with a humble, What’s your name?
He pursed his lips before answering,
Sieun, but my face name is
He pointed at his face and circled at his face before poking his index finger on his cheek.
Are we done?
He huffed.
Hyuntak stopped him once again, this time throwing in a lazy smile as if that would compensate Sieun.
You have a pretty name.
I know. He could practically feel Sieun’s patience running thin.
What about.. him?
Hyuntak nervously asked.
Don’t flirt with two people at the same time, you creep.
Hyuntak was digging his own grave at this point. This conversation was not going the way it was intended to. At this rate he was starting to lose hope. His awful signing skills were not coming handy at all. He denied once again, this time looking a lot more embarrassed.
I am not trying to flirt with you. I just need his name.
He looked down, kicking his feet slightly and drowning in his own puddle of humiliation. He found Sieun’s hand calling out for him once again.
His name is Juntae. His face name is
Sieun parted his pinky and swooped his hand over his face diagonally.
Phone number,
Hyuntak shaped his hand to show a phone,
of your brother, can you give me his contact?
Hyuntak signed, hoping he didn’t come off as a douche to the boy in front of him.
He received a questioning look again, but this time there was a glint of amusement in them.
Go get it from him, yourself.
Idiot?
Hyuntak wasn't sure if he read that correctly but his suspicion was proven true after he showed a thumbs down, blowing raspberries to show his disappointment. Surprisingly, Hyuntak wasn’t offended at all. Instead, the possibility of talking to Juntae again made his heart flutter and skip a few beats. He turned around, almost twirling as he walked out of the gym, narrowly missing the rare smile on Sieun’s face.
⟢
The next time Hyuntak met Juntae was at the library, which was surprising because he was there to borrow a book on sign language. For Juntae.
For the past two days, all that Hyuntak could think of was the sweet spring boy who looked like he walked out of a perfume commercial. His smile, the way his eyes would light up when he was excited or the way his cheeks flared in soft red hues that only the keen would notice. It kept replaying in his head like it had intentionally been wired to show the exact thing, and each replay shot Hyuntak’s happiness meter to a hundred. He watched him bury his nose deep in books, occasionally signing something that Hyuntak could barely figure out. He would watch Juntae give a practiced smile, repeating the signs till he got them perfectly. His lips were pouted, trying to figure out a way to remember the signs correctly and Hyuntak resisted the urge to kiss them till they turned sore.
Hyuntak couldn’t help thinking like this.
Everything about Juntae made his heart flip countless times and Juntae wasn’t even trying. In fact, he wasn’t even aware of Hyuntak or his growing crush towards him. He tried hard to keep himself from walking over to the boy and sitting right in front of him as he didn't wish to scare Juntae away. But when Juntae started packing his bag and walking out, Hyuntak followed, almost tripping in the process. When he finally made it out, he noticed Juntae trying to start his scooter. He had a furrowed look on his face, mostly annoyed at the fact that his scooter wouldn’t cooperate.
That’s it.
Hyuntak had found his way.
He jogged slightly towards Juntae before waving his hand in front of Juntae’s face to grab his attention. Juntae blinked once, then twice before his face morphed to confusion.
Shit, you’re losing your chance, Hyuntak.
He closed his fist and shook them slightly while bowing down and Juntae caught on pretty quick.
Can I… look at it?
Hyuntak asked and was replied with a nod. Juntae stepped aside and Hyuntak inspected the scooter. It was evident that the scooter had seen its days and was in need of a few tweaks to run smoothly. Luckily, Hyuntak had been carrying a small notebook and a pen ever since he was at the sports center. It was the perfect time to use it. He pulled out his notebook and clicked his pen to scribble the problem down for Juntae. He pointed at the book and Juntae read it, his eyes squinting at some words as if he was trying to make sense of Hyuntak’s illegible handwriting.
He looked back up again and asked,
Will it take a lot of time?
Hyuntak scribbled once again, telling Juntae that it would take around 30 minutes at most but he would have to take the scooter to a mechanic. He could see Juntae grow wary, and then it clicked.
Are you in a hurry?
Hyuntak signed and Juntae nodded. The gears in Hyuntak’s mind shifted then stopped mid way as he finally scribbled again on his notebook.
You can take my scooter for now and I’ll take yours to the mechanic. We can meet again tomorrow and swap back, are you okay with this?
Hyuntak’s eyes were basically pleading. This was his chance. His chance to be Juntae’s knight in shining armour. At first, Juntae disagreed, quoting that Hyuntak would be busy, but after Hyuntak’s repeated attempts to convince Juntae otherwise he finally took some time to think over it, scratching his head before giving up. He grabbed Hyuntak’s notebook from his hand and wrote down his number, leaving a small note on the side.
Please contact me on this number now, I will save it.
Hyuntak couldn’t help but feel giddy. He bit his lips hoping that the force tugging at his lips to open into a wide grin would suppress. He pulled out his phone and dialed the number letting a ring pass before cutting the call. Juntae bowed down to say thank you.
Hyuntak was mesmerised to say the least. He gripped the strap of his bag, holding back the urge to pick Juntae up and run away. Just then, he saw Juntae’s eyes light up, like he remembered something. He waved his hand to get Hyuntak’s attention and signed hastily,
What is your name?
Hyuntak couldn’t believe his eyes. He had been waiting for this ever since he saw Juntae.
Slowly, Hyuntak answered back.
My name,
He showed a name tag sign near his chest,
is Go Hyuntak. And my face name is,
He rested his thumb on his cheek and motioned his index like he was clicking a picture on a camera. He saw Juntae smile again, this time because he was amused by Hyuntak . The fact alone made Hyuntak’s chest swell with pride.
Thank you
Juntae bowed once again. We will meet again tomorrow.
Hyuntak saw Juntae take his scooter and disappear around the corner, his heart still beating at hundred miles per hour.
⟢
“Suho-yah.” Hyuntak entered the garage with a kind of giddiness that would be identical to a kid getting a toy they had thrown a tantrum over. “Fix this for me. It should hardly take half an hour since we only have to fix a few things.” He handed over a coffee that he had grabbed on the way and proceeded to spread himself over the black leather couch, munching on some chips that were kept on the tea table.
“Where is Baku, by the way?” He said between the crunching and munching.
“Stop keeping your shoes on my precious sofa, you douche.” Baku pushed Hyuntak’s legs that rested on the sofa’s arm. He sat down beside Hyuntak, picking a few pieces and popping in his mouth.
“All of that is great, but where did you even get this? It’s really old. I could fix the seats too, parts of it are ripped on the side.” Suho was inspecting the bike, chewing gum to keep the smell of grease and oil out of his nose.
“You can do it right?” Hyuntak walked over to Suho and he responded with a prompt nod and “Of course, I can.”
“Anyways, Gogo, are you up for a basketball match today?” Baku got up to dust his fingers and then tossed an imaginary ball into the hoop. He turned around, holding the same position and letting out a whistle. He was expecting a yes and even if Hyuntak wasn't in the mood to play, he knew he would be dragged to the match nonetheless. Hyuntak sighed as he nodded, wondering if basketball would serve as a distraction from the ever distracting, absolutely adorable, Juntae.
It did not.
Every time he made a goal, all he could think was how Juntae would react to him. Would he cheer? Or would he flash his smile that would make even the strongest hearts melt? Would he run up to him and hug him tight, or give him a peck on the cheek af-
“Gogo, watch out!”
Before Hyuntak could even react to the situation, a spinning ball hit him right in the head. One swoop and it was a total knockout.
The next thing he could remember was him in a bed, the sun was already setting and Baku was hovering over him, as if he was ready to pounce over Hyuntak the moment he got up.
“You are up!” He yelled and Hyuntak just hoped that Baku would have some mercy on his ears. Suho shifted from sitting on Hyuntak’s chair to the edge of his bed, waving his fingers while holding a two in front of him.
“Hyuntak, what is this?” He asked as if he was genuinely concerned. He was just stupid.
“What time is it?” Hyuntak asked weakly.
“Stupid, I am holding two fingers.”
“What if he is actually not seeing two though?”
“Why do you always end up at our house?” Suho pushed Hyuntak to the side and reclaimed his position on his bed. Hyuntak, who was lying on the bed, staring at the blank wall above him, seemed to not mind Suho’s nagging. Baku squeezed himself on the small bed as well so as to fit all three of them.
“Don’t you have your own bed, Humin? ” Suho was practically seething.
“Well god forbid I want to spend some time with my friend, laying beside him. Aren’t I right, Gotak?” Baku turned to the side to face Hyuntak who was still lost in thoughts. He was unusually quiet, a miracle considering he would have blasted in rage with Suho and Humin laying on either side, bickering over him.
“Go Hyuntak.” Suho shook the boy beside him and that seemed to bring him back. “Don’t you also have your own bed? What are you even doing here? Go home.”
“Home feels like work and I don’t want to sleep in the place I work at.” He answered. “Just let me crash over here for a while.” He sighed, drifting back to his old thoughts.
“Dude,” Baku started. “Are you okay? Did you fight at home?”
“It’s not like that, it’s just,” Hyuntak fell silent. He glanced over at his phone and then sighed again, deeper this time. “It’s nothing.”
“Is this about the scooter person?” Suho sat up straight, now curious.
“What do you even mean?” Hyuntak shot up, this time horrified by the fact that his stupid friends had actually figured something out correctly. Was he that obvious?
“Is it a girl?” Suho teased.
“A guy.” Hyuntak admitted.
“Oh. Who’s the unlucky guy then?”
“What do you mean?” Hyuntak glared at Baku who passed the comment.
“You’d be lucky to even get him. That’s for sure.” Baku tried suppressing a laugh. He failed miserably.
“This is serious, Park Humin.”
“Ain’t nothing serious when an actual loser like you is a coward at confessing your feelings.” Baku mentioned. “Suho, do you remember? Back in middle school, Hyuntak’s first crush? And she ended up dating another guy because he was too late for a confession?” Baku remembered the day like it was yesterday and Suho’s brain cogs started turning slowly while recollecting the memory.
“ Humin. I thought we agreed not to talk about that.” Hyuntak gritted through his teeth.
“My point is, Go Hyuntak-s si, You need to stop beating around the bush and start making moves. Invite him on dates, take him out somewhere.”
“He’s right.”
Both Suho and Baku got closer, peering into Hyuntak's very soul. Hyuntak pushed off the blanket and walked to Suho’s desk himself, clearing well enough to walk perfectly fine and read the clock like a normal person would.
19:15
It blinked.
And so did Hyuntak.
He scrambled around, trying to find his phone which he miraculously found on the table even though he had already looked for it over there twice.
It lit up groggily, like it had just awoken from its slumber and Hyuntak wasted no time in texting,
Juntae
Hyuntak
Hey!
The cursor kept blinking, as if taunting him on his inability to text normally. He had made 3 attempts to draft a coherent and cool sentence but all he could come up with was a Hey .
He groaned, feeling the pressure mounting as Suho and Baku had rested their chins on either side of his shoulders, witnessing Hyuntak’s mental unravelling.
“What’s with the exclamation mark? You never type like this with us?” Suho remarked, still looking over Hyuntak’s shoulder.
“Who is this Juntae guy even?” Baku added.
“It’s the scooter guy, dumbass. ”
“Can you please, let me focus? This is really important to me.” Hyuntak let out a frustrated sigh and he started typing again.
Hyuntak
We met at the library today.
I lent you my scooter.
At what time should we meet tomorrow?
Hyuntak practically threw his phone across the room after the last message. It felt like a game, a wrong move and Juntae could have the wrong idea about him. He was not going to lose his chance over a stupid text.
Yet, his mind kept wandering. What if Juntae found it rude? Should he have added more exclamation marks? What if Juntae blocks him because he doesn’t remember Hyuntak.
He wouldn’t do that, right? They had just met in the morning, Juntae wouldn’t forget it, right?
21:30
The clock displayed proudly. It had been 2 hours 15 minutes and 50 seconds since Juntae left him on delivered . 51 now.
He had, by this point — reached home, ran a lap around his house, had his dinner and was now holding the book he borrowed from the library. His phone was absolutely dry, not a single message.
He had his hopes up once, when his phone rang while he was studying sign language but it turned out to be some promotional message from some pottery workshop. He sighed before picking his phone up again, hovering his finger over Juntae’s chat.
Hyuntak
Hi.
Are you busy?
By 10 o’clock he had lost all hope. His mind felt fried and he couldn’t stop thinking absurd thoughts like considering the possibility that he might have been scammed. It felt awfully wrong, but at this point, it seemed like the only possible explanation.
Hyuntak
Hi.
I don’t know if you have me blocked.
Or if this is a wrong number.
Or maybe the fact that I might have been scammed.
But please, let me know where to meet
So that I can give you your bike back.
He shut his phone off. He had enough mental drain for today. Somehow though, even in his dreams, all he could see was
Juntae.
⟢
Juntae
Juntae
Hi
Good morning!
I am sorry I was busy yesterday (｡ᵕ ◞ _◟)
And it totally skipped my mind to text you ; (◞‸◟)
If you don’t mind
Can we meet at the park near the library
At 10:00 am?
Hyuntak opened his eyes to a flood of messages and he felt his feet lift off the ground. He couldn’t believe his eyes. Juntae actually texted him back. It wasn’t a dream or a hallucination, he had pinched himself enough times to remind him that.
Just when Juntae couldn’t get any cuter, he uses keyboard emojis and that makes him a hundred times cuter than before.
Hyuntak was over the moon, an irony considering it was morning. He bit his lips in excitement as he texted back with a thumbs up, not wanting to waste anymore time.
He had to look good.
For Juntae.
But before that, he had a little surprise planned.
—
At the park, Juntae waited near the statue which would be visible from miles away, hoping that Hyuntak would notice him. He held his bag strap like his life depended on it, constantly looking around for some sign of Hyuntak, and then to his watch to note down the ticking time.
It was already a huge help yesterday with Hyuntak lending him his scooter at the right time so that he wouldn’t be late to class, but on top of that he had also offered to repair the old scooter. Juntae was beyond grateful for that. So, he prepared a small gift, hoping that Hyuntak would accept it. He wished he could do more, but money was tight and his time bounded classes rendered him no choices.
When he noticed a figure that had the same dimensions as Hyuntak, he immediately waved, high enough for him to spot and promptly enough, Hyuntak rode the bike and parked in front of the pair.
Hello
Juntae meekly opened the conversation.
Hello.
He replied back.
It was undeniable that the air between them was awkward. It was bound to be, considering they met only yesterday.
I truly thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
Juntae bowed while signing thank you.
The other vehemently denied, saying it wasn’t a big deal.
Ah, an also,
Hyuntak pointed at the scooter.
I cleaned your scooter up. It was dirty and I didn’t want you to take home a dirty bike so I cleaned it up.
The note on the seat read.
Juntae’s eyes lit up in surprise as he walked around his scooter, which looked nothing like how he was used to seeing. Fixed seats, sparkling handles, headlights clean and the bumpers washed perfectly.
I am truly thankful. I cannot believe this.
Juntae signed before he ran his fingers over the new seats.
Ah, how much was the repair cost?
The boy in front of him looked confused at first, but when he caught up, he shook his hands, denying any kind of payback.
It costs almost nothing.
He replied.
But still-
Juntae was interrupted, his hands held slightly to stop him from talking any further. For a moment, there was an unmistakable spark and Juntae wondered if he was the only one who felt it. He saw Hyuntak’s face grow increasingly red as he pulled his hand away and turned around.
Juntae could still feel his touch lingered and for a moment, he too, felt his heart beat a little faster than usual but he was quick to shake off the feeling.
At least then, please accept this.
Juntae pulled out a small box, wrapped in a ribbon and handed it over to Hyuntak, closing his fist to secure the gift. He could see Hyuntak eager to open it but Juntae was quick to stop.
Open it at home.
He saw Hyuntak nod and a part of him felt relieved.
He saw Hyuntak wave in front of him just a few minutes after, to get Juntae’s attention.
Can you,
Instead of money,
Give me something else?
He seemed nervous which made Juntae nervous, but if it meant he could repay Hyuntak back, he was ready to splurge a bit more.
Can we be friends?
He could notice a subtle shake in his hands as he signed. It wasn’t obvious but Juntae was known to be observant. When Hyuntak didn’t receive any reply, partly because Juntae was busy thinking about the details he noticed, he moved on to a different question.
How old are you, Juntae?
That snapped Juntae from his thoughts.
Ah, I am 26 years old.
Hyuntak’s eyes lit up.
Me too.
He smiled.
He actually smiled.
For the first time in Juntae’s life, someone’s smile made his heart trip a few beats. Juntae’s eyes widened as a small glowing aura surrounded Hyuntak. He shook his head, hoping to make those thoughts disappear but the moment he looked back again, the same would repeat.
It wasn’t until Hyuntak’s face morphed into confusion that brought Juntae back to Earth.
Sorry about that.
Juntae signed apologetically, hoping that the earth would swallow him whole at this point.
But I would love to be your friend!
He immediately got back on topic, praying and hoping that Hyuntak didn't find him weird. He threw in a smile as a last resort.
Hyuntak grinned again and he extended his hand for a handshake. Juntae moved his hand forward, returning the handshake shyly.
My name is Juntae.
My face name is,
He swooped his hand over his face, parting the pinky slightly and tucking his thumb in.
Hyuntak followed, repeating Juntae’s name again to confirm. Juntae nodded and Hyuntak smiled again.
That damn smile.
And his heart who refused to listen to anyone else but his feelings.
I met your brother at the sports centre. I got to know your name back then.
Hyuntak scratched his neck in embarrassment.
Sorry. I wanted to be friends with you. I hope you don’t mind.
Somehow, Juntae wasn’t annoyed. He was slightly taken aback.
It’s okay. Juntae closed his fist, only keeping his pinky open and tapped it lightly on his chin.
Nice to meet you.
Juntae glanced at his watch again. He was already running late. He signed a quick thank you and goodbye and waved at Hyuntak. As he was about to leave, he felt a soft pull at his sleeve which prompted him to look back.
Can we at least have coffee? To celebrate our friendship? Or a sandwich?
Hyuntak had this pleading look on his face, similar to when he was asking for Juntae’s number. Juntae couldn’t say no. Not to those eyes.
Fine.
Hyuntak buzzed with excitement as he ran to the nearest coffee shop to order some coffee. Meanwhile, Juntae kept pacing around, partly because he was a bit worried. He couldn’t afford to miss classes but at the same time, Hyuntak was extremely excited and he didn’t wish to be a killjoy. Hyuntak dashed to their place again, barely keeping the coffee from spilling. Juntae let out a quiet laugh. Hyuntak was, in a way, comical. Juntae would feel a small sense of relief around him. He wasn’t sure if that meant good, but it definitely felt that way.
In comfortable silence, they sipped their drinks, Juntae finishing a bit earlier than Hyuntak. He reached out to get some change but was immediately stopped by Hyuntak.
Don’t, please. It’s on me.
But Juntae wasn’t going to listen. He handed over the cash and turned around to throw the cups.
Take that as a treat from me. And I am accepting any takebacks.
He huffed. Hyuntak bit his cheek before smiling and then signing,
Fine, but the next time we hang out. I’ll pay.
He nodded slightly and smiled, confirming the request before turning on his brand new scooter and riding off into the distance with a smile tugging at his lips.
—
I want to travel with my brother abroad and assist him at the Olympics.
Juntae signed. He looked around to see the students signing an applause by shaking their open hands by the wrist and holding them up. He felt his heart swell up with pride as he shyly smiled. It was his goal, and he was ready to do everything to get Sieun to the Olympics. He had faith in Sieun, more than he had faith in himself and he believed in him more than anyone possibly could. Doing part time jobs and attending international sign language classes even though he would get tired beyond limits by the time he reached home, it was all for one goal .
Seeing Sieun compete at the Olympics .
By the time class ended, Juntae was already rushing to his part time job and as the night would settle, Juntae would drag his feet back home with a smiling Sieun waiting for him. That alone would boost his morale.
Wash up, I’ll prepare dinner.
Sieun signed and went into the kitchen, opening the fridge. Juntae replied with a tired nod before practically dropping his bag on the floor and instantly jumping to bed, completely surrendering himself to the comfort of blankets. He looked up, still laying as he saw a light flash near his bed, meaning Juntae was needed. He got up and dragged his feet to the kitchen, finding Sieun chopping up some fruits. He tapped on Sieun’s shoulder softly so as to not scare him. He turned around, then had his hand on his hips.
Who keeps texting you on your phone?
He did look annoyed, but Juntae knew it was because Sieun was concerned.
Tell them to send one long text because I cannot stand the phone lighting up with every notification. Last night was hell. You know my sleeping problems.
He booed to show his discontent. Juntae laughed, just a small giggle before apologising.
Sorry, I made a new friend yesterday. They were texting me. I will tell them to tone it down at night. Okay?
Juntae smiled which made Sieun melt and let go of his act immediately.
Did you wash up?
No.
Sieun stared back with dead eyes which urged Juntae to dash to the bathroom. He would see real hell if he was even a second late after that threat. He locked the door and looked at himself in the mirror. After ages, he finally had a proper look at himself. Tired eyes and dull face. He tried washing it away with water, but it was still the same. The light in his face had disappeared. He wasn’t annoyed by it, just disappointed.
No Juntae, you cannot think this way. All this hard work is for the greater good.
He slapped his face a few times to get back to work.
Juntae, you can do this.
With that, he walked out the door and into the living room where Sieun had already reheated dinner and chopped up fruits for a salad. Juntae signed a quick thank you before diving in.
Every bite tasted like heaven. After all, he had been hungry for a while now.
He felt a small pull at his sleeve which diverted his attention to Sieun.
Do you want some beer?
No, thanks. I don’t feel like drinking today.
Did something happen today?
Do you think I am an alcoholic? I can live without beer, you know?
Juntae pouted.
Kay, I believe you.
Ah, Sieun, please. You don’t look convinced at all.
It’s because I am not. You keep smiling randomly.
Can I not smile randomly anymore?
It’s not like that. You seem preoccupied.
Aw, does my Sieunnie not like that?
Juntae was the only one bold enough to pinch Sieun’s cheeks and make it out alive and he took every advantage of his privilege.
Fine. Don’t tell me. It’s not like I care anyways.
Sieun huffed, crossing his arms and then shifting his bowl away from Juntae’s.
Aigoo, my cute Sieunnie.
Juntae pouted even more and Sieun pretended that he didn’t like the attention.
I am your older brother. Behave.
Okay, hyung.
Juntae tried his best to hold his laughter. He would pull this trick every time things didn’t go his way and it was funny to witness it every single time.
Eat well, Juntae.
Mhm, you too.
Hyung,
Juntae tapped on Sieun’s shoulder to get his attention.
How was practice today? Did you walk home or take the bus?
My coach dropped me home. And practice went well.
Did you hit a lot of bullseye?
Juntae’s eyes were sparkling in curiosity. Sieun nodded.
I knew it! You are going to do amazing at tryouts. Trust me.
Juntae held his chin up, high and proud.
I’ll be grateful if I even pass. Reaching the Olympics is a dream.
You are going to do amazing, I keep saying it but you never listen.
Juntae huffed.
I close my eyes and ignore, instead.
Sieun cracked a smile which made Juntae feel a bit better.
_
Juntae
Hyuntak
Hey.
Did you eat dinner?
Was he being desperate? Probably.
But he couldn’t get Juntae out of his mind.
He kept thinking about him, from morning to night.
And this was the only way for his heart to finally settle.
“Hyuntak,” He heard his mother’s soft voice before opening the door to his room. He freezed, then processed the fact that his mom had entered the room after which ensued chaos with the phone slipping from his hand first, then him slipping over practically nothing and falling right on his chair.
“Oh.” was all that escaped from his mother’s lips for a while. “Well, I am sorry to bother you like this.”
“Oh. Oh no, mom. Look, I am completely fine. Totally.” He crossed his legs and sat uptight as if that would be enough to convince her. Or so he hoped.
“I was going to ask you to come out of your room for dinner, but I guess you are busy.”
“No. I am not busy at all.” He glanced at his phone once again. Luckily, nothing was broken but unfortunately he still didn’t receive a reply so it didn’t matter. “I’ll join.” He kept his phone on the table and walked to the table with his mother.
None of it mattered though. He kept thinking about Juntae.
“You didn’t touch your food, Hyuntak.” His father’s voice snapped him away from his thoughts. For the first time that day, he finally looked at his food. It had been hardly touched and he had hardly picked a grain of rice in his chopstick.
“Ah.” He couldn’t think of anything else and it was getting bad.
“Do you not feel well?” His mom enquired.
“Mom, if you don’t mind, I don’t feel too well. I’ll just call it a day. Just keep my leftovers in the fridge, I’ll eat it tomorrow.” Hyuntak got up from his seat and bowed before walking away from his chair.
“Hyuntak-ah, do you need any medicine?”
“No, I am fine, mom. Just a bit tired.”
“Sleep well, baby.”
“You too.” With that Hyuntak closed the door and rested his forehead on it. You are going crazy, Go Hyuntak.
He sighed deeply before settling in his bed.
Today felt nothing short of a dream. Hyuntak's eyes wandered to his bedside table where Juntae's gift sat.
Open it at home, he had said.
Luckily, Hyuntak was home, though his mind was far from grounded, lost in thoughts of a certain someone.
The box was neatly wrapped in soft pastel pink paper, tied with a red ribbon that added a charming contrast. Carefully, he opened it to find a small Kuromi keychain nestled inside. He recognized the character immediately but only because his cousin sister couldn’t stop gushing about Sanrio every time she visited. He closed his eyes, his lips pursed, holding a small smile that would’ve escaped his lips. He could imagine Juntae picking out between all Sanrio characters and then landing on Kuromi. Hyuntak was ecstatic. Not because Kuromi was his favourite character, but because Juntae thought of Hyuntak while picking this up.
That itself was enough.
A small laugh escaped him. Soft, surprised. It wasn’t just a keychain. It was him . Juntae.
His phone lit up with a notification, prompting Hyuntak to lunge toward the table and snatch it up with the speed and precision of a seasoned pickpocket.
Juntae
Juntae
Hi.
Juntae
Just had dinner
Juntae had dinner. So cute.
Juntae
Did you eat?
Eat well, okay?
See you soon!
Good night
Call this the first day of our friendship ◝(ᵔᗜᵔ)◜
Hyuntak
Mhm.
Goodnight!
See. Now that Juntae had asked him to eat well, he couldn't say no. He got up from his bed and dashed to the fridge. He saw his mom and dad situated at the TV watching shows that Hyuntak wasn’t going to bother himself with. He quietly slid open the fridge door and retrieved the plate of food, now cold but comforting in its familiarity. The rice had clumped slightly, and the side dishes looked a bit dull in the fridge light, but none of that mattered.
Juntae had told him to eat.
Hyuntak warmed the plate in the microwave, leaning against the kitchen counter as it whirred to life. He glanced over at the living room, his parents were absorbed in a drama, soft laughter and the occasional gasp echoing through the space. They hadn’t noticed him, or if they did, they chose not to interrupt. He was thankful for that.
The microwave beeped.
With the plate in hand, he settled back at his table, the warmth of the food now strangely paired with a warmth in his chest. Each bite tasted better than it had any right to. Not because the food had magically changed, but because someone had cared enough to tell him to eat.
He smiled to himself again. This time, it lasted a little longer.
After finishing, he rinsed the plate and placed it in the dishwasher, padding back to his room with light steps. He shut the door behind him and flopped onto the bed, staring at the ceiling.
Call it the first day of our friendship.
The words echoed in his head like a song stuck on loop.
He reached for the keychain again, holding it up to the light. Kuromi winked back at him, mischievous and oddly fitting. He dangled it in the air before setting it gently on his pillow, like it belonged there.
The conversation lingered like a lullaby, comforting and familiar.
Hyuntak placed the phone beside the keychain and turned off the lights. Darkness settled over the room, but tonight, it didn’t feel so heavy.
⟢
“This is for delivery, right?” Hyuntak was giddy. It was obvious. Every word that slipped out of his mouth felt like he was stepping on clouds, completely euphoric. His mother noticed it too. He wasn’t a teen to be having mood swings so she settled on the explanation that whatever was bothering him yesterday had been resolved. Out of the corner of her eye, she had seen Hyuntak turning on the microwave, and staring at the food rotating under the bright yellow lights with a smile on his face. He wasn’t acting like usual the past few days and she was sure something was up but as long as Hyuntak was happy, she didn’t feel the need to push him about it.
Instead she looked at her husband with an amused smile. He smiled back, nodded to confirm that he was thinking the same.
“I’ll be back by closing time, love you mom and dad!” With a quick bye and wide grin plastered on his face, he pushed the door, the familiar chime ringing again.
“He is acting strange right?” She remarked, her face slightly amused.
“Well, at least he is happy and helping around.” His father noted while separating the ingredients they needed for today.
“You are right.” She returned back to the kitchen before hearing the chime ring again, this time a huffing Hyuntak running into the store.
“Mom! I almost forgot.” He picked up the two separate packets that he had prepared after waking up early and stuffed it in his arms before rushing back.
“You think he found someone?”
“Whoever it is, I would like to thank them. I finally got to see Hyuntak genuinely happy after so long.”
His father hummed in agreement. “Ever since the, you know, accident. He had lost everything he dreamed of. I am glad he found some footing again.”
Meanwhile, Hyuntak had stuffed the orders in the back and the special packages in the boot of his scooter before driving off.
—
Juntae
Hyuntak
Have you eaten?
It took only a few seconds for Juntae to respond this time.
Juntae
Mhm
The classes just ended.
I am having a sandwich.
Hyuntak straightened himself up and typed back.
Hyuntak
You should eat well to grow up well.
Where are you now?
I am coming over.
Hyuntak got up from resting on his bike and wore the helmet he had hung over its handle. Just then, his phone dinged with a notification again.
Juntae
You don’t have to, Tak-ah ~
Tak-ah is the single most cutest nickname he had ever received. He bit his lips as a soft blush crept over his cheeks.
Hyuntak
Nope.
I am coming over.
Are you near the park again?
Let’s meet there.
He snuck his phone in his pocket and turned his key to start his scooter.
—
I don’t know what you like so I made all of these things.
Hyuntak scribbled on his notebook.
I like all of these.
Juntae had the most honest eyes, and right now they were twinkling which made Hyuntak’s heart swell with pride. He saw Juntae break the chopsticks apart and dig in, his mouth curling into a smile as he dug in, while Hyuntak’s eyes were completely fixed on Juntae.
Is it good?
Juntae simply nodded in response, his eyes crinkling at the side and his face glowing under the sun.
Thank you so much for this. I feel full now.
That’s good to know.
Juntae fished out some money from his pocket to settle the bill but Hyuntak refused. He sulked, feeling in debt by Hyuntak’s kindness and Hyuntak seemed to notice that.
I already received your payment.
Juntae was confused and Hyuntak pointed at his trousers. Specifically the belt area, when he had hung Juntae’s Kuromi keychain. His eyes lit up in joy as he asked with giddy,
Do you like it?
Hyuntak nodded with the same enthusiasm, a smile forming along with it.
I love it.
Juntae giggled and Hyuntak kept staring. Juntae glanced at his watch again and brought it to Hyuntak’s attention that he had to leave. He thanked Hyuntak once again but not before Hyuntak pulled him by the wrist and accidentally brought him closer than he intended too. In fact, Juntae was close enough to hear Hyuntak’s heartbeats that were running at lightning speed. He awkwardly let go, letting his embarrassment get the best of him before asking Juntae,
Can we hang out like this more often?
Of course! I would love to. But I have to leave now.
Juntae had that pout on his face again, and Hyuntak knew he had to let go.
See you later!
Juntae waved goodbye as he jogged around the corner, leaving Hyuntak’s heart in a mess.
⟢
Hyuntak’s phone dinged for the third time today. It was the same promotional message about a pottery workshop that he got a few days ago. As he was lounging in his bed, enjoying his time off for a while, the sound would irritate him. It made him hopeful . Every ring made Hyuntak scrambling to open his phone, expecting a message from Juntae but getting hit by the same promotional message.
“Hyuntak,” Suho shot up from his place, “I think I have an idea to get you and Juntae on a date.” Suho kept his manhwa aside and pulled Hyuntak to whisper an idea.
And so, the gears in his mind started moving.
He opened the link to the website and scrolled over the brochure about a thousand times. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to ask Juntae out on a date but he would turn into a mumbling mess every time he picked his phone up to text him about it.
Go Hyuntak-ssi, You need to stop beating around the bush and start making moves.
He couldn’t believe Humin’s voice was ringing in his mind at a moment like this. Nonetheless, he picked his phone up and drafted a message.
—
Juntae had just gotten out of a shower when he saw his phone light up with a message.
Hyuntak
Hyuntak
There's this pottery place near the bookstore downtown.
Want to go with me this weekend? I thought it might be fun...
We can try making mugs or bowls or… weird shapeless blobs…
My treat!
Juntae
Ah… I don’t know (,, ‸ ,, )
I will mostly be with Sieun hyung for practice.
Do you know, he scored perfect in his trial matches?
As he was typing, he felt a looming presence behind him. He turned around to see Sieun, looking over at the messages.
I was going to call you for breakfast but you seemed busy.
Sieun started. He paused for a while before continuing.
Is he bothering you by any chance?
Juntae shook his head in no.
He asked me for your name when we first met. Said he wanted to flirt with you. If he is bothering you, I'll kick him where it hurts.
Sieun was dead serious but Juntae was flabbergasted.
He is.. interested in me?
Sieun nodded.
Hyung, don’t joke around please.
I am serious.
Sieun’s eyes widened as if he took great offense in that.
Do you like him, Juntae?
Juntae was silent for a while. Even if Juntae didn’t say it, Sieun noticed – the way Juntae’s eyes would light up while texting back, the way his smile had changed ever since he met Hyuntak, like he was relieved. It was very obvious but he doubted if Juntae was aware of it himself.
Just then, Juntae’s phone rang which startled the both of them. It was a video call from Hyuntak.
Pick it up.
Sieun was serious. Juntae shook his head to show no but Sieun’s eyes stayed soulless which finally convinced Juntae to pick the call up.
Where is Sieun?
Hyuntak signed from the other side as he adjusted his camera. Juntae turned his camera to Sieun and Hyuntak smiled.
Congratulations, Sieun.
Sieun signed a quick thank you before turning the camera back to Juntae, while keeping his eyes on the screen and then something caught his eye.
Sieun turned the phone camera toward himself again after noticing a figure at the side, who was trying to look subtle while eavesdropping and was failing miserably.
Who is that? On your left?
Hyuntak shifted his gaze to the person and then nervously looked back into the camera.
Does he know I can see him or is he trying to be different?
Sieun was judging. And that was not good for Hyuntak. He cannot lose Sieun’s trust.
He is my friend. He came over to play.
Is he a child?
Great, the conversation was going worse than Hyuntak expected. Perfect.
Ask him to show his face.
Hyuntak turned his camera to the side slowly. The boy beside Hyuntak nervously moved forward to get a good look, then his eyes widened like he had seen some kind of treasure and then continued to wave a hi like some kid. He looked.. okay. He wasn’t an eyesore, that’s for sure. His horrible haircut wasn’t helping his case but his sharp features had Sieun stunned for a while. He saw the camera being turned to Hyuntak again and Sieun was sure he swore something nasty to Hyuntak in his mind. Nevertheless, Hyuntak didn’t seem to notice as he continued,
Juntae, what do you think about the message I sent you?
I don’t know..
Juntae was pouting again.
What happened?
Sieun tapped Juntae’s shoulder and signed.
Do you have plans with him?
Juntae shyly replied with a nod. Sieun thought over it for a while before replying,
If you want to, then go with him.
But what about y-
I can manage on my own.
Your lunch?
Hyuntak who had been seeing them, signed back,
I’ll send my friend over. He can deliver Sieun’s lunch. What do you say?
Hyuntak looked eager. Juntae found it hard to say no after that. He nodded, still a bit nervous and he swore he saw Hyuntak’s eyes light up like stars.
So… see you tomorrow?
Mhm, see you tomorrow.
Juntae smiled but Hyuntak grinned.
A small doubt still clawing in his mind, Juntae decided to ignore it.
This was one of the few times he was going to spend his free time doing something productive, if anything, he should be grateful. So he swallowed his feelings and kept the phone away, hoping that he could calm himself down.
He was going out with Hyuntak.
Like a real date.
..a date.
Juntae was already feeling fuzzy from within.
⟢
The next day arrived faster than Juntae expected.
He stood outside the pottery studio, his hands stuffed deep into his jacket pockets, trying to hide the fact that they were slightly trembling. He had changed outfits twice, debated whether his shoes looked too casual, and even re-did his hair three times. It’s not a date-date, he kept reminding himself. Just... two people spending time together. Making a pot or something.
The studio was tucked away in a cozy corner of the street, with little ceramic wind chimes hanging from the awning that sang every time the breeze passed by. The earthy scent of clay and the soft hum of an old jazz tune spilled out through the open door.
Hyuntak was already inside, seated by a worktable, sleeves rolled up and a clay-streaked apron around his waist. He looked so at ease, like he belonged here. Like this wasn’t his first time dragging someone on a date like this.
Hey
Hyuntak greeted, his smile immediate and unguarded when he saw Juntae walk in.
You're right on time.
He got up, suddenly, and walked over to the other side of the room to grab an apron only to walk back and hand the apron over to Juntae.
We are going to need this.
He signed.
Maybe it was something in the air, but Hyuntak looked different. The dim yellow lights highlighted the right parts of his face and his fuzzy cream coloured sweater hugged him at all the right places. His rolled up sleeves just looked like a ploy to make Juntae swoon over his arms and it was working. He couldn’t stop staring at Hyuntak’s very attractive arms. He still had the Kuromi keychain attached to his hip.
Everything about Hyuntak was making his heart do multiple flips.
He was snapped away from his thoughts after Hyuntak tried getting his attention.
The workshop will start soon. Do you need help with that?
Before he could say anything, Hyuntak slipped the apron over Juntae’s head with care, his fingers brushing lightly against Juntae’s shoulders as he adjusted the straps. He moved behind him to tie the strings at the back, fingers working with ease but not in a rush.
The air felt different. Still.
Juntae could feel his heartbeat in his throat, oddly loud in the quiet moment. Hyuntak’s presence behind him was warm, calm, and deliberate.
I’ll be right back.
Hyuntak informed them before disappearing somewhere and Juntae was left exploring the workshop by himself. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Hyuntak tapping on the instructor’s shoulder to get her attention and then, like he felt Juntae’s stare from a mile away, he turned to look at Juntae. A single eye contact, and Juntae was fumbling. He somehow managed to make himself look busy but his heartbeats were running at a rapid rate.
—
“Hi, I am Hyuntak, I registered for the workshop yesterday. I had also sent in a special request.”
The instructor turned around, her eyes lighting up as she remembered.
“Yeah you requested an instructor who knows sign language, right?” She recalled and Hyuntak nodded.
“Luckily for you, I happen to know how to sign. My daughter uses sign language too so I naturally had to learn. But don’t worry, everything will go smoothly. If you feel you need any help, then call me.” She smiled sweetly. “Also, this might be a little personal, but may I ask why you asked for such a request?”
Hyuntak looked at Juntae who had not dared turn around again after their last eye contact and the instructor seemed to catch on pretty quick with that hint.
“Is he with you?”
“Yeah..” Hyuntak breathed slowly.
The instructor followed Hyuntak’s gaze, her expression softening as it landed on Juntae.
Juntae stood a few paces away, absorbed in the delicate lines and gentle curves of a pale blue ceramic vase. The natural light spilling in through the studio windows bathed him in a quiet glow, outlining the soft slope of his shoulders and the way his hair, dark and slightly tousled, fell over his brow. His features were gentle. High cheekbones that didn’t cut sharply, a nose that curved smoothly rather than cut, and lips that held a certain thoughtful stillness.
His eyes, when he had briefly looked back earlier, had held a deep calm, almost shy in their quiet searching. There was stillness to him. Not the stillness of fear or detachment, but of someone who felt the world a little more carefully. Like the ceramics in front of him, he seemed shaped by quiet hands and patient time.
The instructor gave a knowing nod, her smile now tinged with something softer, understanding.
“I see,” she said gently. “You don’t need to explain. I’m glad you both are here.”
Hyuntak smiled faintly, a mix of relief and gratitude flickering in his eyes.
“He’s beautiful,” the instructor murmured to Hyuntak, still watching Juntae, though her tone was warm and respectful. “There’s a lot he doesn’t say out loud, isn’t there?”
Hyuntak looked at her, then back at Juntae.
“Yeah,” he said. “But I hear him anyway.”
She seemed content enough with that.
“Do you know, today is International Sign Language day?” The instructor changed the topic, hoping to get back to reality.
“Oh, really?”
“Yeah, so even without your special request, I would’ve taught in sign language today either way.” The instructor nodded slowly, folding her arms in a loose, thoughtful gesture. “This place is made for quiet souls,” she said. “And for hands that speak more than mouths do.” She gave a friendly smile once again. “So, don’t worry. Enjoy the moment. Okay?”
Hyuntak’s lips curved slightly at that.
Hyuntak bowed down to say thank you before slightly jogging back to Juntae. He tapped on Juntae’s shoulder slightly. Juntae looked back at Hyuntak and then at the instructor standing behind him.
The instructor smiled and gave a small wave, then slowly signed, Nice to meet you.
A tiny pause, then Juntae blinked and his expression changed, for a split second into confusion, and then returned back to normal to show he understood. His shoulders relaxed the slightest bit, and he gave a small nod in return. It wasn’t much, but it was everything.
The instructor clapped her hands gently, her voice lifting just enough to gather the room’s attention without breaking its calm.
“Alright, everyone,” she said with a cheerful softness, “let’s get started.”
The studio was warm and earthy, the air filled with the faint scent of clay and glaze. Shelves lined the walls, filled with half-finished mugs, vases, bowls, each with its own quiet personality. The long tables in the center of the room were already set: small basins of water, blocks of clay wrapped in damp cloth, wire tools and wooden shaping sticks arranged neatly like a painter’s brushes waiting for their first stroke.
Hyuntak touched Juntae’s shoulder gently, signing to him as they moved toward the workstations.
We’re starting. You okay?
Juntae nodded, his eyes briefly meeting Hyuntak’s. There was something steady in his gaze now, a silent assurance that he was ready, even if only just.
—
“We’ll start simple,” she said, crouching beside the wheel and gesturing for them to sit. “Just get the feel of the clay first. No pressure to make anything perfect. Pottery isn’t about perfection anyways, it’s about presence.”
Juntae watched her hands more than her face as she spoke, and when she realized, she slowed her gestures, subtly signing as she explained. The instructor was good. Natural in the way she moved between spoken and signed language, like it was simply another part of her.
Juntae dipped his hands into the water and then reached for the clay. His fingers hesitated at first, just lightly pressing into the cool, malleable mass. Then slowly, almost experimentally, he began to shape it.
Hyuntak smiled, watching him with quiet pride. His own hands moved to the clay too, working in sync beside Juntae’s. Their elbows brushed every now and then, grounding. Wordless.
The instructor moved between students, offering tips, encouragement, and sometimes just a nod of approval. When she returned to their corner, she watched Juntae for a moment, then smiled.
She signed gently,
You’re listening to the clay already. Look at you, mastering the basics so quickly..
Juntae glanced up, then signed with a small tilt of his lips,
It’s soft. Easy to talk to.
The instructor chuckled. “Exactly.”
They kept working, the rhythm of the wheel spinning beneath their palms, the sound of clay yielding and reshaping filling the space like a quiet heartbeat. Across the table, another student asked a question, and the instructor stepped away, giving them their moment.
Hyuntak leaned in closer to Juntae,
Do you like it?
Juntae looked down at the slowly forming bowl in his hands. Still lopsided, still uneven, but undeniably his.
He nodded.
Your bowl looks..
Juntae had a better look at Hyuntak’s “bowl” which was just a lump of clay because Hyuntak couldn’t figure out how to work on the wheel without making the clay run away.
..amazing.
You are the worst at lying
Hyuntak huffed.
But I guess that’s what makes you cute.
Juntae was caught off guard. He blinked once, then twice.
Did Hyuntak just call him cute?
He was acting like saying that was completely natural. Little did he know, Juntae could practically see himself at the ER with the heat he could feel rushing in his cheeks.
Can I help you?
Juntae signed.
Well, it looks like I need it.
Just follow me then.
He felt a soft grab on his arm which made him stop in his tracks. It was Hyuntak. He looked down to see how he had accidentally stained Juntae’s shirt with his messy hands and apologised profusely.
Can you just do it for me? I have been trying to follow, but I cannot understand a single thing.
Juntae stared at Hyuntak for a while before getting up from his seat and reaching out for Hyuntak’s arm with a ‘Can I?’ look. Hyuntak didn’t seem like he was still on Earth but he managed to let out a breathy ‘yes’. Juntae guided Hyuntak’s arm, holding it close enough to mesh them into one. He worked Hyuntak’s hand on the wheel like it was his own and would occasionally adjust Hyuntak’s fingers which were stiff for some reason. Once the “bowl” had started to resemble a bowl, Juntae let go of Hyuntak’s hands.
He would be lying if he didn’t admit that it made his stomach twist and turn. He could feel the butterflies in his stomach going rabid just at the mere touch of Hyuntak’s forearm against his delicate fingers. When he pulled away he realised that he too had made a mess out of Hyuntak by using his own dirty fingers while guiding. When Hyuntak noticed, he let out a small laugh.
I guess we are even now?
He signed, his hands still dirty from the wet clay. Juntae nodded in embarrassment.the instructor clapped her hands once more, her tone warm and gentle.
“Alright, everyone, that’s all for today,” she said with a smile. “Go ahead and label your designs with the toothpick provided. Be careful and use a unique label and then set your pieces on the drying shelves. Make sure to clean your stations before you leave. You all did beautifully.”
Around the room, chairs scraped quietly against the floor as students rose, stretching sore shoulders and admiring their creations. Imperfect, a little wonky, but full of care. There was a light, shared satisfaction in the air.
Hyuntak and Juntae stood together, both looking down at the bowls they had made. Juntae’s was a little uneven at the rim, but it had a shape that felt deliberate, gentle. It curved inward as if meant to hold something soft – tea, light, quiet moments. Hyuntak’s was wider, more structured, but clearly made with the same care. They placed them side by side on the drying rack.
Both of these are lovely!
She signed.
You’ll come back next week to glaze them?
Hyuntak nodded, then looked to Juntae, who offered a small but certain nod as well.
The instructor smiled.
Good. I’ll look forward to seeing you both.
As they gathered their things, the light outside had shifted. The gold of late afternoon casting long, honey-colored shadows across the floor. The studio felt quieter now. The pair walked out in the sun, it was tame enough to be enjoyed.
Where to go next? Do you want to eat?
Juntae’s expression changed. He frowned before keeping his hands on his hips, like he was annoyed.
Why do you keep asking me if I want to eat every time we meet?
Juntae pouted dramatically.
I can do many other things besides eating too, you know?
He crossed his arms and huffed again.
Hyuntak couldn’t help but let out a laugh.
So, what should we do?
Juntae thought over it before replying,
Should we roam around the lake for a while? The weather is nice.
Hyuntak nodded. He was okay with anything as long as it was with Juntae.
—
The walk wasn’t long. The world had quieted into that perfect in-between moment where the sky still held light, but the streets had grown still.They found a spot near the edge, where the grass sloped gently toward the water. A willow tree arched above them, its long branches trailing toward the surface like fingers tracing a secret.
Hyuntak swiped on the ground for them to sit. Juntae sat cross-legged, pulling his knees close, watching the light ripple over the lake.
Neither of them spoke for a while.
And they didn’t need to.
The wind carried the faint rustle of leaves, and a small group of ducks glided across the water, leaving soft trails in their wake. Everything about the moment felt slow and deliberate, like it had waited just for them.
Juntae leaned his head against Hyuntak’s shoulder without warning, just a gentle tilt, like a thought made physical. Hyuntak blinked, then slowly rested his head against Juntae’s in return.
They stayed like that, close and quiet.
After a while, Hyuntak lifted his hand and signed softly,
I like it here.
Juntae’s reply was simple.
Me too.
Hyuntak looked out at the lake, then back at Juntae, studying the way the soft light kissed his face, how peaceful he looked. Juntae got up after a while and looked at Hyuntak with determination.
We don’t know much about each other despite us being friends. So, let’s get to know each other!
Juntae smiled.
So, what do you want to know about me?
Juntae thought over it for a while before replying,
What is your dream?
Woah, that’s a …
How does one sign, ‘difficult’..
That’s an interesting question.
Hyuntak settled with that.
I had a dream. I wanted to be an athlete. But I can’t do that anymore. I honestly don't have a dream anymore.
Hyuntak confessed. Junate’s lips parted slightly in surprise but he shook his head and got back on topic.
So, you just do deliveries?
Hyuntak nodded in response.
Ah, that’s good too.
What about you? What is your dream?
I…
Juntae wandered in his thoughts for a while.
I want to see my brother compete in the Olympics.
But that isn’t your dream?
For me, nothing is more important than my brother. If he succeeds then I succeed too.
Hyuntak did not push much after that.
The silence between them was not awkward or heavy, it was gentle, like an exhale shared between two people who didn’t need any more conversations between them, their presence was enough. It wrapped around them like a worn blanket, soft and familiar, stitched from every quiet glance, every shared moment of understanding, every pause they’d never felt the need to fill.
Juntae shifted slightly, his shoulder brushing Hyuntak’s. He didn’t move away. He stayed.
But that was before Juntae’s phone started vibrating in his pocket.
I’ll be right back
Initially, Hyuntak was confused but he nodded in acknowledgement as Juntae walked away in a corner.
He picked up the call.
We are calling to inform you that Mr. Sieun has gotten into an accident, please reach to XXX Hospital as soon as you can.
Like that, the dreamlike date had shattered right in front of Juntae.