Blue & Grey

Seok Matthew

Yujin initially met Matthew, just like most of the other members, on Boys Planet. The atmosphere was tense, with the Master's expectations gradually diminishing with each performance before Matthew's, creating an increasingly stressful environment. Even Yujin himself did not know what to expect until Matthew came out on stage.

It was like a dormant spring suddenly awakening after a long, harsh winter. As Matthew stepped under the spotlight, an unexpected warmth flooded the room, carrying with it a wave of relief that seemed to bloom within Yujin's chest. Despite the tension, Yujin couldn't help but notice how effortlessly cute Matthew appeared, radiating an aura that transcended the stress. His endearing charm seemed to soften the edges of the rigorous competition, infusing the atmosphere with a touch of lightheartedness. Matthew's mere presence not only dispelled the tension but also brought forth a sense of hope, akin to the arrival of spring after a bleak season.

Matthew's big smile was infectious, effortlessly coaxing a smile from Yujin too. Matthew's occasional stumble over words, likely due to the language barrier, only added to his endearing charm, making him even cuter than before. Yujin was brimming with anticipation for Matthew's performance, but his excitement turned to surprise when he learned it was Jay Park's 'All I Wanna Do'. Yet it was the perfect match for Matthew.

Matthew took the familiar beats and lyrics and effortlessly made them his own. The way he infused his style, adding subtle nuances and unexpected twists, transformed the song into something entirely fresh and captivating. Yujin was awestruck as he witnessed Matthew's creativity unfold on stage. Each move, each note seemed purposeful, as if Matthew was weaving his own story through the borrowed melody. Despite the familiarity of the song, Matthew's rendition felt entirely new and unique. He didn't seem to be alone about it either.

At this point, it was more than just a performance. He didn't merely sing the song - he owned it, turning what could have been a limitation into a showcase of his talent. Yujin found it not just cool, but downright impressive how Matthew had taken a hit song and made it resonate with his own individuality, leaving the audience and the masters very satisfied.

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They later on ended up being on the same team during the Artist Battle. Yujin sensed Matthew's struggle, the weight of which mirrored his own insecurities, yet neither could find the words to offer solace. It was a silent understanding between them, born from their shared uncertainties, a bond forged in the crucible of their ambitions.

But as time passed, the vibrant rays that once defined Matthew's spirit dimmed, fading away like the setting sun. Yujin watched helplessly as the effervescent charm that defined Matthew slowly waned, leaving behind a shadow of its former radiance. It was as if the sunset stole away the warmth, leaving only a haunting echo of what used to be. The lingering pain in Yujin's heart reflected a remorseful realization, they had unwittingly shattered an innocence that Yujin couldn't help but feel that he failed to protect.

Yujin empathized with Matthew's perspective, yet he also saw validity in his older members' standpoint. Clearly, their message could have been delivered more thoughtfully to avoid hurting Matthew's feelings. Despite comprehending the necessity behind their actions, Matthew seemed hurt by the hyungs' words, even though Matthew understood their underlying intentions.

As days passed following the misunderstanding, Yujin found solace in giving Matthew the space he seemed to need. It wasn't an easy choice, but seeing Matthew gradually return to his cheerful self made it feel like the right one. The first time Yujin glimpsed that familiar sunshine smile reappear on Matthew's face, a rush of relief washed over him.

Yujin's heart swelled with happiness seeing Matthew's genuine joy resurface, as if a weight had been lifted, and the unintentional distance between them was slowly bridged.