The studio was alive with music and creative energy as Jisung, Changbin, and Chan immersed themselves in their latest project. Their fingers danced over keyboards, and the soundboard was a labyrinth of buttons and switches, each press contributing to the intricate sound they were weaving.
Just then, the door creaked open, and Minho's cheerful voice filled the room. "Hey, guys! I thought I'd drop by and see what magic you're creating."
Changbin exchanged a quick glance with Chan, their expressions subtly tense. Jisung continued to focus on his work, his heart beating a little faster at Minho's presence. They had been trying to navigate around Jisung's feelings, and maintaining some distance had been their silent pact.
Chan managed a warm smile, masking the underlying concern. "Minho, it's great to see you, but we're really in the zone right now. Maybe next time?"
Minho's enthusiasm dimmed slightly, but he nodded in understanding. "Oh, okay. No worries. I'll just hang out for a bit."
As Minho lingered near Jisung, Chan's concern escalated. He knew that separating Minho from Jisung was crucial, even if it meant employing unconventional tactics. He glanced at Jisung and then suddenly embraced him in a tight hug, creating an obstacle between Minho and Jisung.
Jisung blinked in surprise, caught off guard by Chan's unexpected action. He gave Chan a puzzled look, silently questioning his friend's sudden embrace.
Chan held onto the hug for a moment longer than necessary, glancing over at Minho with an apologetic smile. "Sorry, Jisung. I just really needed a hug right now."
Minho's eyebrows furrowed, a mix of confusion and disappointment in his eyes. He hesitated for a moment before offering a small smile. "No problem, Chan. I'll catch you all later then."
As Minho left the room, the atmosphere seemed to shift. Changbin and Jisung exchanged a glance, both feeling a sense of guilt over the situation.
Jisung finally broke the silence, giving Chan a quizzical look. "What was that about?"
Chan shrugged, his eyes meeting Jisung's with a mix of regret and concern. "I know it's not ideal, but we're just trying to give you some space."
Jisung sighed, his gaze falling to the ground. "I appreciate it, really. I just wish it wasn't like this."
Changbin chimed in, his voice gentle. "We're here to support you, Jisung. And who knows, maybe things will change with time."
Jisung managed a weak smile, his gratitude for his friends' understanding evident. They returned to their work, the music becoming a welcome distraction from the complexities of unspoken feelings and the careful dance they were performing.
——-
The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the group of friends gathered at the park. Laughter echoed as they enjoyed each other's company, sitting on picnic blankets and sharing stories. Minho was animatedly engaged in conversation, but his eyes kept stealing glances at Jisung, who sat a few feet away.
Determined to get some alone time with Jisung, Minho excused himself, giving his friends a casual smile before making his way over to Jisung. As he approached, Jisung looked up and smiled, a hint of nervousness in his eyes.
Before Minho could speak, Changbin intervened, sliding onto the blanket next to Jisung and throwing an arm around his shoulder. "Hey, Jisung, I was just telling Chan about that hilarious thing that happened last week."
Jisung chuckled awkwardly, exchanging a glance with Minho, who was now standing nearby. Minho tried to suppress his disappointment, nodding along with the story as his friends continued to talk.
