Under the Same Sky

6. Tides of Change

The following week after the beach trip was a whirlwind of rehearsals and schedules, but Jeonghan found himself floating on a cloud of happiness. The conversations he had with S.Coups during their walk by the shore replayed in his mind like a favorite song on repeat, each moment a note adding to a melody he had longed to hear.

As they entered the studio for practice, the atmosphere was vibrant, filled with energy as the members ran through their routines. Jeonghan took a moment to soak it all in. His gaze naturally drifted to S.Coups, who was animatedly discussing the choreography with Hoshi and DK. There was something undeniably magnetic about the way S.Coups carried himself—confident yet approachable, a leader who brought out the best in everyone.

“Hey, Jeonghan!” Mingyu called out, snapping Jeonghan from his thoughts. “Are you ready for today’s practice? We’ve got some new formations to try out.”

“Of course!” Jeonghan replied, forcing himself to focus. “Let’s make it a good one!”

As they began their routine, Jeonghan felt a surge of energy, the choreography flowing through him like a current. He found himself enjoying the practice more than usual, especially when he caught S.Coups’s encouraging smile across the room. With every move, he felt a little more confident, a little more in sync with the rhythm of his life.

After an intense rehearsal, the members collapsed onto the floor, panting and laughing. Jeonghan leaned back, catching his breath, when S.Coups plopped down beside him, an easy smile on his face.

“Great job today, everyone!” S.Coups announced, glancing around at his members. “Let’s keep up this momentum. I know we can make our next performance even better!”

As the other members cheered, Jeonghan felt a warmth spread through him, knowing that he was part of something bigger—a family that supported one another both on and off the stage.

Later that night, Jeonghan received a text from S.Coups: Hey! Want to grab some dinner together? Just us?

His heart raced at the thought, and he quickly typed back, Absolutely! Where do you want to go?

They decided on a cozy restaurant not too far from their dorm. As Jeonghan arrived, he felt a flutter of nervous anticipation. The soft glow of the restaurant lights and the warm aroma of food created a welcoming atmosphere.

When S.Coups walked in, dressed casually yet effortlessly handsome, Jeonghan’s breath hitched. He waved him over, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves.

“Hey, you look great!” Jeonghan said, smiling wide.

S.Coups chuckled, a hint of shyness creeping into his demeanor. “Thanks! You too. I like your outfit.”

They settled into a booth, the intimate setting allowing for easy conversation. As they perused the menu, Jeonghan found himself stealing glances at S.Coups, noticing the way he focused intently on choosing what to order. It was moments like this—simple yet profound—that made Jeonghan realize how much he cherished their time together.

They ordered a variety of dishes to share, each bite accompanied by laughter and stories. Jeonghan shared embarrassing anecdotes from their trainee days, and S.Coups reciprocated with tales of his own misadventures. Their laughter echoed through the restaurant, creating a bubble of warmth and comfort that made Jeonghan feel at home.

As their plates began to empty, S.Coups leaned forward, his expression turning serious yet soft. “I’ve really enjoyed getting to know you better, Jeonghan. I feel like I can be myself around you.”

Jeonghan’s heart raced at S.Coups’s words. “I feel the same way. I’ve always admired your strength and your ability to make everyone feel included.”

S.Coups’s cheeks flushed slightly, and Jeonghan couldn’t help but find it adorable. “Thanks. I guess that’s why I wanted to have this dinner. To connect on a deeper level, away from the group.”

Jeonghan nodded, sensing the weight of the moment. “I’ve been thinking a lot about what we talked about at the beach. About wanting someone to share life with. I want that too.”

S.Coups’s eyes brightened, a genuine smile breaking across his face. “Really? I’m glad to hear that.”

Jeonghan felt a surge of bravery as he continued, “I know things are busy right now, but I’d love to explore this connection we have, even amidst everything.”

“Me too,” S.Coups replied earnestly. “I want to make sure we have time for each other, no matter what.”

With the tension in the air replaced by a sense of ease, they finished their meal, enjoying each other’s company as the conversation flowed naturally. After paying the bill, they decided to take a stroll around the area, the evening air crisp and refreshing.

As they walked side by side, Jeonghan felt a newfound sense of comfort with S.Coups. The conversation shifted to their dreams and aspirations, the hopes they had for their careers and personal lives.

“Do you ever think about what comes after all this?” S.Coups asked, glancing up at the stars twinkling overhead.

“Sometimes,” Jeonghan admitted. “I want to keep growing as an artist, but I also want to find happiness outside of work. Maybe start a family one day.”

S.Coups turned to him, his expression thoughtful. “I think about that too. I want to be a good leader, but I also want to be there for the people I care about. I want to find someone special to share my life with.”

Jeonghan felt his heart flutter at the sincerity in S.Coups’s voice. “I believe you’ll find that person. You have so much love to give.”

S.Coups smiled softly, and for a moment, they shared a silent understanding—two souls navigating the complexities of life together.

As they returned to their dorm, Jeonghan’s heart felt full. He knew this was just the beginning of their journey together, and whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them side by side. The tides of change were rising, but for Jeonghan and S.Coups, the journey was just as beautiful as the destination.

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