The Rules of Love

Hidden Emotion

Dohoon's apartment, late evening. The room is dimly lit, with only a few lamps casting a soft glow. Dohoon sits on the edge of his bed, staring out of the window at the city lights, lost in thought.

Dohoon's Internal Monologue: "Hanjin's confession caught me off guard. I thought I was hiding my feelings well, but maybe I wasn't as successful as I thought. I've been hiding my love for him for years, afraid of ruining what we have."

Dohoon picks up a framed photo from his bedside table, a picture of him and Hanjin from high school. He smiles wistfully.

Dohoon's Internal Monologue: "I've been so careful, always trying to maintain this 'just friends' façade. But every time he smiles, every time we share a moment, it's like my heart is shouting the truth I'm trying to suppress."

The weight of unspoken feelings seems to hang heavy in the room. Dohoon closes his eyes, letting out a deep sigh.

Dohoon's Internal Monologue: "I've kept my distance, been strict with Hanjin, not because I didn't care, but because I was scared. Scared of losing him, scared of what might happen if things went wrong. But maybe it's time to rethink everything."

 A bustling café, with a lively atmosphere and the clatter of dishes in the background. Dohoon and Jae-young are seated at a table near the window, engaged in conversation. Hanjin sits at a nearby table, pretending to read a book but clearly eavesdropping.

Jae-young: (enthusiastically) "So, Dohoon, I've been thinking we should hang out more. Maybe we could go hiking this weekend. I know you love the outdoors."

Dohoon: (smiling) "That sounds great. I haven't been hiking in ages. Let's do it."

Hanjin glances over, feeling a pang of jealousy and unease. He tries to focus on his book, but his mind is racing.

Hanjin's Internal Monologue: "Why does this bother me so much? Jae-young is just trying to spend time with Dohoon, but it feels like he's trying to come between us. Why can't I just let it go?"

As Jae-young continues to chat animatedly, Hanjin's anxiety mounts. He can't shake the feeling that something is shifting in their dynamic, and he's left feeling increasingly isolated.

Jae-young: (noticing Hanjin's discomfort) "Hey, Hanjin, you okay over there? You seem a bit off today."

Hanjin: (forcing a smile) "I'm fine, just a bit distracted. Enjoy your time with Dohoon."

Hanjin's attempt to sound casual is met with a curious look from Jae-young. The conversation continues, but Hanjin's discomfort lingers, leaving him feeling more anxious about his place in Dohoon's life.

A quiet park bench under a large tree, with the gentle rustling of leaves in the background. The sun is setting, casting a warm orange hue across the scene. Hanjin and Eun-ji are sitting side by side.

Eun-ji: (noticing Hanjin's troubled expression) "Hanjin, you've seemed really down lately. Is there something you want to talk about?"

Hanjin: (sighing) "It's just... everything feels so complicated. Dohoon's been distant, and I don't know what's going on. I feel like I'm on the edge of something, but I can't figure out what it is."

Eun-ji: (reaching out and placing a comforting hand on Hanjin's) "I'm here for you, you know that, right? It hurts me to see you struggling like this, but I want to support you however I can."

Hanjin: (looking at Eun-ji with a mixture of gratitude and sadness) "Thank you, Eun-ji. I don't know what I'd do without you. It's just hard to deal with these feelings, especially when I'm not sure how Dohoon feels."

Eun-ji: "Sometimes, the best thing you can do is talk things out, even if it's just with someone who understands. And if you ever need to vent or seek advice, I'm here for you. Just remember, your feelings are valid, and you don't have to go through this alone."

Hanjin nods, feeling comforted by Eun-ji's words. Despite the pain of seeing her hurt by his feelings, her support is a beacon of hope in his turbulent emotions.

Eun-ji: "Why don't we take a walk and get some fresh air? Sometimes a change of scenery can help clear your mind."

Hanjin agrees, and they begin walking through the park together. The quiet companionship and understanding help ease some of the weight on Hanjin's shoulders.

End of Episode 5***