Fighter || Lookism x Reader

14

You and Eli spent the entire night catching up, swapping stories about Hostel and even gushing over his daughter, Yena. The conversation flowed effortlessly, as if no time had passed.

Neither of you realized how late—or rather, how early—it was until you finally checked your phone. "Hold on, what time is it?" you asked, mid-laugh.

Eli, lounging beside you with a sleepy grin, mumbled, "Time doesn't matter when you're having fun."

But as you glanced at your phone, your eyes widened. "Eli, it's 6 AM! The sun's literally up!"

Turning toward him, you noticed the soft light peeking through the curtains and landing on his face. He'd fallen asleep mid-sentence, his head tilted slightly, and the familiar 'H' tattoo was visible through his hair.

You couldn't help but smile. Gently brushing his hair aside for a closer look, you murmured, "Still rocking this, huh?"

Before you could fully appreciate the nostalgic moment, Eli stirred and cracked one eye open, catching you in the act. "I'm still awake," he said with a lazy, lopsided grin.

"Sure you are," you teased. "I almost forgot about this tattoo."

"Yeah, it's still there," he said, stretching his arms above his head. "Timeless."

"Honestly, I'm glad you're covering it up these days."

Eli feigned offense, clutching his chest like you'd wounded him. "Wow. I share my life stories, pour my heart out, and this is the thanks I get?"

Laughing, you stretched as well. "It's 6 AM, Eli. We've got an hour before breakfast. You should probably get more sleep."

As you headed toward the door, Eli called out with a smirk, "Leaving me already? What if I wake up lonely?"

"Don't be so dramatic," you said, flashing him a grin before disappearing down the hallway.

Eli leaned back, his smile lingering. Seeing you now, reminded him just how much time had changed both of you. He couldn't help but feel grateful. After all these years, it felt like he had a piece of his old family back.

Entering your room, you found Zoe sitting on your bed, looking rather curious. "Where were you?" she asked, her tone a mix of concern and curiosity.

"Nowhere," you replied, trying to keep it casual.

"Right." Zoe yawned. "You should've seen Zack yesterday. He was slamming his drinks down like crazy."

You nodded. "Yeah, I can imagine why."

As you rummaged through your bag, you muttered, "One of my panties is missing."

Zoe offered a practical suggestion. "You probably just forgot it at home."

You agreed, though you weren't entirely sure.

You joined Eli and the girls from his department for breakfast. The girls didn't seem too thrilled by how you suddenly stole Eli's attention. They'd never seen you with him before, and now, all of a sudden, you had him completely wrapped up in conversation.

After breakfast, it was time for some recreation: rafting. You were in a boat with Mira and Instructor Heemin, who was steering you through the river.

You started to like Instructor Heemin; he was chatty but in a way that wasn't exhausting—a rare find in an instructor.

"So, what's up with you and Zack?" Mira suddenly asked, breaking the peaceful silence. "He's been sulking all day, and he won't tell me what's going on."

You smiled. "We had a fight last night. We're not on speaking terms right now."

"Is he your boyfriend?" Heemin chimed in, glancing at you with mild curiosity. He remembered Zack always being by your side.