perfect actors|| hyunlix ❀

chapter 9

The morning of the shoot came with a buzz of excitement. Felix was already up, trying to shake off the butterflies in his stomach when Hyunjin finally walked into the kitchen. Felix had already poured himself a hot cup of coffee.

"Look who finally decided to get up," Felix teased, grinning as Hyunjin shuffled over to the coffee machine.

"Morning to you too, sunshine," Hyunjin replied, his voice dripping with playful sarcasm. "What's with the early start? Trying to outdo me today?"

Felix chuckled, leaning against the counter. "Please. If anyone's trying to outshine, it's you. I just like to be ready."

Hyunjin poured himself a cup and gave Felix a curious look. "Ready for what? To run away before the cameras roll?"

Felix rolled his eyes but couldn't help smiling. "As if. If anyone's running, it'll be you once you see how good I look on set."

Hyunjin laughed, sounding light and easy. "We'll see about that."

When they arrived at the studio, the place was buzzing with activity. Felix felt his nerves kick in but kept his cool as the crew greeted them warmly. This was it—their first time working together in such a public setting.

Hyunjin, as usual, looked completely at ease, charming everyone around him. Felix admired how smoothly he moved through the room, showing confidence with every step. Felix, on the other hand, felt the cameras watching him, but he pushed those thoughts aside. He had dealt with tougher situations before.

"Hyunjin! Felix!" The director called out with a big smile as he approached. "Glad to have you both here. Ready to make some magic?"

Hyunjin flashed a confident grin. "Always ready."

Felix nodded, matching Hyunjin's energy. "Let's do this."

As the director explained the shoot's idea, Felix focused on the task. This was what he did best—he just had to concentrate on the job and ignore the fact that Hyunjin was right next to him, looking annoyingly perfect.

The first few shots were easy, just some standard poses to warm up. Felix started to relax, gaining confidence as the camera clicked away. He caught Hyunjin sneaking a few looks his way, probably checking to see if he was okay. Felix couldn't resist throwing in a few extra smirks to show he was fine.

"Alright, let's get some interaction going," the photographer called, breaking the focus. "Hyunjin, put an arm around Felix. Felix, lean into it—make it look natural."

Hyunjin draped an arm around Felix's shoulders, his touch light yet reassuring. Felix smiled casually, letting their usual banter ease any tension.

"Don't get too comfortable," Felix whispered just loud enough for Hyunjin to hear.

Hyunjin chuckled softly, tightening his grip slightly. "Wouldn't dream of it."

As they continued posing, Felix found a rhythm that helped with his nerves.

"Hyunjin, lean in like you're whispering something," the photographer instructed.

Hyunjin leaned close to Felix's ear. "I bet you wish you could hear what I'm saying," he joked.

Felix held back a laugh, keeping a straight face for the camera. "Probably something about how not to trip over your own feet."

Hyunjin grinned, pulling back to meet Felix's gaze. "I'm more worried about you tripping over your ego."

The photographer snapped away, clearly enjoying the chemistry between them. "Perfect! That's the energy we need!"

When they finally wrapped up, Felix felt a wave of relief wash over him. The day had gone well, and he managed to hold his own despite a few jitters. As they left the studio, Hyunjin clapped him on the back, a playful smirk on his face.

"Not bad, Felix. You didn't look like you were about to faint once."

Felix shot him a mock glare. "I'm just worried about you falling in love with me on set."

Hyunjin laughed, the sound warm and genuine. "Trust me, I almost did. But you really did well today."

Felix felt his smile soften. "Thanks. You weren't too shabby yourself."

Stepping out into the cool evening air, Felix couldn't shake the buzz from the day. It felt good—not just to get through it, but to actually enjoy it. Hyunjin walked beside him, shoulders relaxed, and Felix found himself stealing glances, impressed by how easily he carried himself.

"Want to grab something to eat?" Hyunjin suggested, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "I'm starving after all that posing. I need fuel for my next masterpiece."

Felix laughed, shaking his head. "You mean your next attempt to outshine me? I'll pass on that ego boost for now."

Hyunjin pretended to be offended, hand over his heart. "Me? Outshine you? Never! I'm here to support your journey to greatness."

"Right," Felix replied, rolling his eyes but unable to hide his grin. "Supportive and competitive—what a combo."

They strolled down the street, the city lights twinkling like stars against the darkening sky. Felix felt a warmth growing between them, a friendship that had solidified over the day. It was more than just playful teasing; it felt like a real connection that made their moments together feel special.

"So what's the plan? Something fancy or just the nearest burger joint?" Hyunjin asked, playful.

Felix pretended to think. "Fancy would require me to wear something other than sweatpants, and we both know I'm not up for that tonight."

"Then it's settled! Burgers it is!" Hyunjin declared, pumping his fist in the air. "I'll even let you order first so I can judge your choices."

"Such generosity," Felix joked, shaking his head. "But you might want to brace yourself. I have great taste in food."

"Great taste? Sure," Hyunjin shot back, laughter bubbling between them.

"Okay, I have to ask," Hyunjin said between bites. "What's your secret? How do you manage to look so good while being such a dork?"

Felix laughed, nearly choking on his fries. "Dork? Excuse me? I prefer the term 'quirky.' And my secret? It's all about confidence, my friend."

"Confidence, huh?" Hyunjin raised an eyebrow, smirking. "I'll have to remember that next time I feel insecure about my hair."

"Eh, it's doable."

A/N: Sorry for the slow updates, but I'm keeping the focus on these two without adding any ships in this book.