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┈┈∘┈˃̶ ＳＥＯＮＧＨＷＡ ˂̶┈∘┈┈
" 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞'𝐬 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐡𝐢𝐦."
As I watched Hongjoong sleep, a sense of warmth filled me. There he was, curled up and serene, clutching the pillow close as if it were a cherished companion. His breathing was even and gentle, a stark contrast to the usual energy he radiated. Observing him in such a tranquil state, his hair tousled and his features softened in rest, brought a smile to my face.
It was rare to see Hongjoong so vulnerable and at ease. Usually bustling with energy and always on the move, here he was now, completely at peace, as if he had not a single worry in the world. The trust he showed, allowing himself to fall asleep so deeply in my space, was not lost on me. It spoke volumes about the depth of our friendship and the comfort he found in my presence.
Quietly, I put aside the notepad filled with party plans. The urgency to continue planning paled in comparison to the contentment of this quiet moment. Instead, I took the time to simply appreciate the calmness that enveloped the room. The soft light from the window cast gentle shadows, enhancing the peaceful ambiance. Every once in a while, Hongjoong would shift slightly, a soft sigh escaping him as he nestled further into the pillow.
As I gently moved Hongjoong's hair away from his eyes, I was careful to keep my movements soft so as not to disturb his peaceful slumber. He looked particularly endearing in this state, his face relaxed and a hint of vulnerability showing through the usually energetic facade he maintained during the day. The glasses that often gave him a studious, slightly geeky look added to his charm, resting awkwardly askew on his face.
Carefully, I reached for the glasses, gently lifting them off without jostling him. He shifted slightly, a quiet sigh escaping his lips as if in appreciation for the small comfort. I folded the glasses neatly and placed them beside the bed, ensuring they were safe and within easy reach when he awoke.
Settling back down, I rested my head on my arm, allowing myself a moment to just observe him. My finger absentmindedly traced the line of his nose, marveling at the simplicity of the moment. It was rare to see Hongjoong so still, so serene, and the sight brought an unbidden smile to my face, one I struggled to hold back.
As the evening's calm shattered with the opening of my bedroom door, my heart dropped. My father's stern voice filled the room, his gaze fixed disapprovingly on Hongjoong, who had just blinked awake. "I think it's time for your friend to go," he said, his tone cold and authoritative.
"Dad, stop it," I murmured, my voice a mix of frustration and embarrassment. Hongjoong quickly sat up, fumbling slightly as he reached for his glasses, his movements tense under my father's scrutinizing eyes.
"I told you before, do not make me repeat myself," my father continued, his eyes narrowing. "You're not meant to surround yourself with people of lower status." His words were harsh, slicing through the previously warm atmosphere like a cold blade.
