Hush, It's Love

P05

Taeyang awoke to the soft chime of his phone, blinking groggily as the early morning light filtered through his curtains. He reached for his phone on the bedside table, expecting the usual array of notifications. Instead, he found a text from Sangwoo.

"Good morning, Taeyang! I was wondering if you'd like to watch the sunset with me later today. What do you think?"

Taeyang couldn't help but smile, a small, involuntary gesture that took him by surprise. He sat up, staring at the screen and realizing he was smiling over a text. Feeling a sudden rush of shyness, he glanced at the mirror across the room, catching his own reflection.

"Why am I smiling? It's just a text from Sangwoo," he muttered to himself, his cheeks warming with a blush.

His fingers hovered over the keyboard as he crafted a response, trying to keep his tone casual despite the butterflies in his stomach. "Good morning, Sangwoo! That sounds nice. I'd love to join you."

As he hit send, Taeyang's smile widened, and he couldn't help but shake his head at his own reflection. "Get a grip, Taeyang," he said, chuckling softly.

The day at work passed in a blur. Taeyang found it hard to concentrate, his thoughts drifting back to Sangwoo's invitation. Jisoo noticed his distracted state and couldn't resist teasing him.

"Someone's got a secret admirer," she whispered with a grin, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

Taeyang chuckled, trying to play it off. "Just a friend. We're hanging out later."

Jisoo raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Uh-huh. Sure."

Throughout the day, Taeyang caught himself glancing at Sangwoo. Each time, he was greeted with a flurry of thoughts that made him smile.

"Wonder if Taeyang likes sunsets. Maybe I should bring some snacks too."

"Should I bring a blanket? It might get chilly."

Taeyang felt a warmth spread through him. Sangwoo's genuine care and thoughtfulness were hard to ignore.

As the workday came to an end, Taeyang's anticipation grew. He met up with Sangwoo outside the office, and together they walked to a nearby park known for its stunning views. The sun was beginning its descent, casting a golden glow over the city.

Sangwoo had come prepared, carrying a small backpack. "I brought a blanket and some snacks," he said with a shy smile. "Thought it might make things more comfortable."

Taeyang's heart swelled with affection. "That's really thoughtful, Sangwoo. Thanks."

They found a quiet spot on a grassy hill, spreading out the blanket and settling in. As they watched the sun dip below the horizon, the sky erupted in a riot of colors—pink, orange, and purple blending seamlessly.

For a while, they sat in companionable silence, simply enjoying the view. Then, Sangwoo turned to Taeyang, his expression soft. "I've always loved sunsets. There's something magical about them."

Taeyang nodded, feeling the same sense of wonder. "Yeah, it's like the world slows down for a moment."

Sangwoo's thoughts drifted towards Taeyang, filled with a mixture of admiration and hope. "I hope he feels the same way. This moment feels perfect."

Taeyang's heart raced. He wasn't sure what to say, but the unspoken connection between them was palpable.

As the last rays of sunlight disappeared, Sangwoo reached into his bag and pulled out a thermos. "Hot chocolate?" he offered with a grin.