𝗛𝗢𝗧 | 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗵𝘆𝘂𝗰𝗸 || 𝗔𝗠𝗕𝗪

𝘽𝙪𝙧𝙣

A month later, Hope found herself in a whirlwind of rehearsals, interviews, and public appearances. The incident with the stalker had faded from the headlines, and life seemed to be settling into a new, albeit cautious, normal. However, the dynamics within her close-knit circle were far from ordinary.

Mark had become an integral part of her daily routine. Despite the initial tension and awkwardness, Hope had come to rely on his presence. Haechan, too, was ever-present, his playful nature providing a welcome distraction from the pressures of fame.

It was a rare day off when Hope decided to invite Mark and Haechan over for a casual afternoon. They gathered in her spacious living room, the large windows letting in streams of sunlight that danced across the hardwood floors.

"So, Hope," Haechan started, stretching out on the couch, "any plans for today besides lounging around?"

Hope laughed, tucking her legs beneath her as she sat in an armchair. "Honestly, I just wanted a chill day. Maybe we can play some games or watch a movie."

Mark, who was seated on the other end of the couch, looked up from his phone. "I'm game for anything," he said, his eyes flicking to Haechan with a slight smile.

Haechan returned the smile, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Alright, but if we're playing games, I hope you're ready to lose, Mark."

Mark leaned back, crossing his arms. "Oh, it's on. But don't cry when I win."

Hope rolled her eyes, laughing at their competitive banter. "You two are impossible. Alright, let's get started. How about some Mario Kart?"

As they set up the game, the atmosphere relaxed. They laughed and teased each other, the tensions and worries of the past weeks momentarily forgotten.

Halfway through their gaming session, Hope excused herself to grab some snacks from the kitchen. As soon as she left the room, Haechan took the opportunity to speak to Mark privately.

"You know," Haechan began, his tone more serious now, "I've noticed you've been more... involved lately."

Mark raised an eyebrow. "Involved how?"

Haechan shrugged, a small smile playing on his lips. "Just more present. Not just as her bodyguard, but... more than that."

Mark's expression softened, a hint of vulnerability peeking through his usually stoic facade. "It's hard not to care about her. She's been through a lot, and... I want to make sure she's safe."

Haechan nodded, his gaze thoughtful. "I get that. I care about her too. But... there's something else, isn't there?"

Mark met Haechan's eyes, the tension from their earlier playful exchanges replaced with something more profound. "Maybe there is," he admitted quietly. "What about you?"

Haechan's smile widened, but it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Yeah, maybe there is for me too."

Before the conversation could continue, Hope returned with a tray of snacks. "Alright, guys, snack time!" she announced cheerfully, oblivious to the undercurrent of the previous conversation.