Secrets and Lies || Hoonki/Nikihoon

Chapter 6: Unspoken Connections

Ni-ki's heart sank as Sunghoon's arm stayed draped over his shoulders. Of all the people to bump into, why him? Sunghoon was one of those guys who always knew how to make Ni-ki feel small without even trying. His easy confidence and popularity made it seem like life was a breeze for him, while Ni-ki struggled just to feel like he existed.

Ni-ki shrugged off Sunghoon's arm, forcing himself to stay calm. "Yeah, well, here I am," he muttered, trying to sound indifferent.

Sunghoon smirked, his eyes scanning Ni-ki. "Didn't think you were the type to hang out at arcades. You always seem more... distant."

Ni-ki tore away from Sunghoon's gaze. "I'm not here alone."

Sunghoon chuckled, "Yeah, I see that. But they're not exactly by your side now, are they?"

"Does it matter?" Ni-ki asked, his voice coming out curter than intended.

Sunghoon's grin widened, "Maybe I just find you interesting."

Ni-ki shifted uncomfortably. "Or maybe you're just bored."

Sunghoon took a step closer, crossing his arms, "You think I'm that shallow, huh?"

Ni-ki raised an eyebrow, "You don't make a great case for yourself."

Sunghoon laughed softly, amused by Ni-ki's bluntness, "You've got more of a bite than I thought, I'm surprised."

"I'm not trying to impress you." Ni-ki responded, his voice soft but firm.

Sunghoon leaned in closer, his smirk never leaving. "Who said you were? I like that you don't try."

Ni-ki looked up to lock eyes with Sunghoon, "Look, if you're trying to mess with me, just stop. I'm not one of your games."

Sunghoon paused, his eyes narrowing in thought. "Mess with you? No... If anything, I'm curious. You're different, Ni-ki. That's what I like."

Ni-ki narrows his eyes. "What do you mean by 'different'?"

"Just that you're not like everyone else. It's refreshing, even if you don't see it." Sunghoon replied with a smirk.

Ni-ki sighed out of both, disagreement and annoyance. "Well, I didn't ask for your attention."

Sunghoon's smirk softened into a playful grin. "Aww, did I make you angry? How adorable~"

Ni-ki was taken aback as he scrambled to find the right words, "I... will you stop treating me like a child!"

Sunghoon chuckles at Ni-ki's flustered reaction, "You're just so cute when you're all riled up. I can't help it."

Ni-ki looked down and sighed, avoiding eye contact, "Find something else to distract yourself with, Sunghoon. Leave me alone."

Sunghoon took a step closer to him. "Why? You're fun to mess around with."

Ni-ki finally locked eyes with him. "I don't like it, so stop."

"You don't like me?" Sunghoon started as he leaned in closer. Their faces inches apart, catching Ni-ki off guard. Ni-ki's face flushed into a deeper shade of red. Sunghoon chuckled lightly at this, "You're really easy to read." he teases with a smirk. "All it takes is a little attention, and you're already uncomfortable."