Under the Same Sky

14. A New Chapter

The days following the concert were filled with a whirlwind of activities, excitement, and new possibilities. Jeonghan and S.Coups found themselves navigating their feelings while continuing to work closely with the rest of the group. The bond they had formed seemed to strengthen with every shared laugh, glance, and touch.

One evening, as they were rehearsing for their upcoming schedule, Jeonghan caught S.Coups’ eye across the studio. They exchanged a knowing smile, a silent agreement that things had changed between them. It felt as though they were on the brink of something new, and the anticipation sent butterflies fluttering in Jeonghan’s stomach.

“Alright, everyone! Let’s take a break,” Hoshi called out, clapping his hands. The members stretched and sprawled across the room, grateful for the moment to recharge.

Jeonghan took this opportunity to step away, making his way to the small kitchen area in the studio. He poured himself a cup of water, taking a moment to gather his thoughts. Just as he turned around, he found S.Coups leaning against the counter, arms crossed, a playful smile on his lips.

“What are you thinking about?” S.Coups asked, tilting his head slightly.

Jeonghan felt his heart race at the sight of S.Coups so close. “Just about how everything has changed since the concert,” he replied honestly. “It feels different, doesn’t it?”

S.Coups nodded, stepping closer. “It does. I’m glad we talked about it. It feels like we’re finally on the same page.”

Before Jeonghan could respond, the other members burst into the kitchen, their laughter filling the air. It was a welcome distraction, but Jeonghan couldn’t shake the feeling of longing in the pit of his stomach. He wanted to be alone with S.Coups, to explore this new chapter without interruption.

As the night progressed, Jeonghan found himself caught in the playful banter among the members. Yet, every time he glanced at S.Coups, he felt that unbreakable connection pulling him closer. It was exhilarating and terrifying all at once.

Later that night, after the practice wrapped up, the members began to disperse. Jeonghan lingered behind, hoping to steal a moment alone with S.Coups. He took a deep breath and waited until the studio was quiet, the echoes of laughter fading into the background.

“Hey, do you have a minute?” Jeonghan called out as S.Coups turned to leave.

“Of course,” S.Coups replied, his eyes lighting up as he walked back to Jeonghan. “What’s on your mind?”

Jeonghan hesitated for a moment, gathering his thoughts. “I was thinking… maybe we could spend some time together outside of practice? Just the two of us.”

S.Coups’ smile widened. “I’d love that. How about we go grab some dinner tomorrow night?”

“Sounds perfect,” Jeonghan said, relief flooding over him. “I’ll look forward to it.”

The next day felt like an eternity as Jeonghan anticipated their dinner. He spent the day planning what to wear, wanting everything to be just right. As the sun began to set, he stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his hair one last time. He wanted to look good but not overly formal—just enough to show that he cared.

When the time finally came, Jeonghan met S.Coups outside the restaurant, and his breath caught at the sight of him. Dressed casually yet effortlessly handsome, S.Coups waved and approached with an easy confidence that made Jeonghan’s heart race.

“Hey, you look amazing,” S.Coups complimented, his eyes sparkling with warmth.

Jeonghan felt his cheeks flush. “Thanks! You look great too.”

They settled into a cozy booth and started off with light conversation, reminiscing about their training days and the funny moments that had brought them closer as a team. With each passing moment, the tension between them melted away, replaced by laughter and genuine connection.

As the meal progressed, Jeonghan found himself mesmerized by S.Coups’ passion for music and his dreams for the future. Their conversation flowed effortlessly, each word drawing them deeper into their shared world.

“Do you ever think about what’s next for us?” S.Coups asked, his tone shifting slightly as he leaned in closer.

Jeonghan met his gaze, heart pounding. “I do. I think about it a lot. I want to explore this… whatever this is between us.”

S.Coups reached across the table, his hand covering Jeonghan’s. “Me too. I want to take our time, but I don’t want to hide how I feel anymore.”

Jeonghan felt a rush of warmth at S.Coups’ confession. “I’m glad we’re on the same page. I just want us to be honest with each other.”

S.Coups nodded, his expression earnest. “Absolutely. I care about you, Jeonghan. I want to support you in every way.”

The weight of S.Coups’ words settled over Jeonghan like a comforting blanket, filling him with hope. As they finished their meal, the conversation shifted to lighthearted topics, and they found themselves lost in laughter once again.

After dinner, they decided to take a stroll through the nearby park, the night air cool and refreshing. The stars twinkled overhead, creating a magical atmosphere that felt straight out of a dream.

“Look at the stars,” Jeonghan said, tilting his head back to gaze at the night sky. “It’s beautiful.”

S.Coups stepped closer, their shoulders brushing against each other. “Just like you,” he murmured, sending a shiver down Jeonghan’s spine.

Jeonghan turned to look at S.Coups, their faces inches apart. In that moment, the world around them faded away, and all he could focus on was the man standing before him. With his heart racing, he leaned in, his breath hitching as S.Coups mirrored his movement, closing the gap between them.

Their lips met softly, a gentle connection that ignited a spark within Jeonghan. Time seemed to stand still as they shared that first kiss, the warmth of S.Coups enveloping him like a dream come true. It was everything he had hoped for and more, a sweet promise of what was to come.

As they pulled away, breathless and smiling, Jeonghan felt a wave of happiness wash over him. This was just the beginning of their journey, and he couldn’t wait to see where it would lead them.

---