𝐈𝐌 𝐓𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐃

𝟎𝟎𝟕

Later that night, after the laughter and chatter of dinner had faded, the members of ENHYPEN settled into their respective spaces around the apartment. Some drifted off to their rooms, while others played video games in the living room. The atmosphere was relaxed, a stark contrast to the weight Jake had been carrying in the back of his mind.

Jake found himself restless, unable to shake off the unease that lingered even after a fun evening. He wandered into the living room, where Sunghoon sat on the couch, engrossed in a game. The glow of the screen illuminated Sunghoon's focused expression, his brow slightly furrowed as he concentrated on the game.

"Hey," Jake said softly, taking a seat beside him. Sunghoon glanced up, his face lighting up with a smile.

"Hey! You want to join?" Sunghoon offered, pausing the game.

"Nah, I'm not really in the mood for that," Jake admitted, a hint of vulnerability creeping into his voice.

Sunghoon turned to face him fully, concern replacing the playful demeanor. "What's on your mind?" he asked gently.

Jake hesitated, weighing his words. He felt a mixture of relief and fear at the prospect of opening up again. "It's just... everything feels a bit overwhelming," he finally admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

Sunghoon nodded, his expression understanding. "I get it. It can be a lot, especially with the pressure of being in the spotlight and everything else. But you don't have to face it alone, you know?"

"I know," Jake replied, running a hand through his hair. "I just don't want to drag everyone down. You all seem so happy, and I don't want to ruin that."

"Jake," Sunghoon said firmly, "you're not ruining anything by being honest. If anything, it makes us stronger as a group. We're all here for each other. It's okay to lean on us."

Jake looked into Sunghoon's eyes, the sincerity in his gaze cutting through the fog of doubt that clouded his mind. "I appreciate that. I really do. It's just hard to let go of the feeling that I have to be strong all the time."

Sunghoon reached out, resting a comforting hand on Jake's shoulder. "You don't have to be strong all the time. Sometimes, it's okay to be vulnerable. It's part of being human. And I promise, I'll be right here with you every step of the way."

Jake felt a warmth spread through him, the tension in his chest easing slightly. "Thank you, Sunghoon. I don't know what I'd do without you."

"Let's just take it one day at a time," Sunghoon said, his voice soft but resolute. "And if you ever feel overwhelmed again, just come talk to me. We can face it together."

A comfortable silence settled between them, and Jake leaned back against the couch, feeling grateful for Sunghoon's unwavering support. He knew he had a long way to go in addressing his feelings, but having someone like Sunghoon by his side made the journey feel a little less daunting.

"Can I ask you something?" Jake said after a moment, breaking the silence.

"Of course," Sunghoon replied, turning his full attention to Jake.

"Why do you care so much? I mean, it's not like you have to take on my problems too."

Sunghoon chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Because you matter to me, Jake. You're my friend. We're a team, and that means supporting each other through thick and thin. I wouldn't have it any other way."

Jake felt a rush of gratitude, his heart swelling with emotion. "You're right. I just... sometimes it's hard to believe I deserve that kind of support."

"You do," Sunghoon said firmly, his gaze steady. "You deserve all of it. And I'll be here to remind you of that whenever you need it."

Jake smiled, feeling a flicker of hope ignite within him. "Thanks, Sunghoon. I think I really needed to hear that."

Sunghoon grinned back, his playful demeanor returning. "Now, let's get back to the game! I need my partner to help me beat these guys!"

Jake laughed, the weight on his shoulders lifting just a little more as they dove back into the game. The lighthearted banter and camaraderie filled the room, and for the first time in a long while, Jake felt a sense of peace settle in. He wasn't alone in this, and that made all the difference.