A Distraction // Bangchan

Chapter Twenty-One

The rest of the afternoon passed in a comfortable haze. After Felix's unexpected visit, Lauren and Chan had spent a few more quiet hours together, just enjoying each other's company. They kept things easy—talking, laughing, and occasionally stealing a kiss when the moment felt right. But as the sun began to dip lower in the sky, Lauren knew it was time for her to head home.

She stood by the door, gathering her things, Chan standing nearby with a soft smile on his face. The coziness of his sweatshirt still lingered around her, and she couldn't help but feel a little sad at the thought of leaving. Despite her initial nervousness earlier, the day had been perfect—filled with warmth and connection. The kind of day that made her realize how deep her feelings for him had already grown.

As she zipped up her bag, Chan cleared his throat, his expression turning slightly more serious. "Hey, so... before you go,"he began, his voice soft but steady.

Lauren looked up, immediately sensing that something was on his mind. "What is it?" she asked, her heart giving a little nervous flutter.

Chan rubbed the back of his neck, glancing down for a moment before meeting her eyes again. "I'm going to be pretty busy for the next few days," he admitted. "Work's getting crazy—rehearsals, meetings, and we've got some promotional stuff lined up. I don't think I'll be able to see you for a bit."

Lauren felt a small pang of disappointment, but she nodded, understanding the reality of his schedule. She had known from the beginning that dating someone like Chan would come with its challenges—his packed schedule being one of them. Still, the thought of not seeing him for several days stung a little, especially after how close they'd gotten.

"That's okay," she said softly, trying to keep her voice light despite the sinking feeling in her chest.

Chan's eyes softened, and he took a step closer to her, his hand reaching out to gently cup her cheek. "I promise, as soon as things calm down, I'll make time for us." he said, his voice filled with sincerity.

Lauren smiled at his words, her heart warming at how thoughtful he was. She knew this wasn't easy for him either, balancing his career and their growing relationship, but the fact that he was already thinking about when they'd see each other next made her feel reassured.

"I'll miss you," she admitted quietly, leaning into his touch.

Chan's thumb gently brushed against her skin, his eyes never leaving hers. "I'll miss you too," he whispered. "A lot."

For a moment, they just stood there, wrapped up in each other, the weight of the upcoming days hanging between them. Then, slowly, Chan leaned in, pressing a soft, lingering kiss to her lips. It was tender, filled with all the unspoken emotions they couldn't quite put into words—the connection they'd built, the longing that was already settling in at the thought of being apart.

When he pulled back, his forehead rested against hers, his breath warm against her skin. "Text me, okay?" he whispered. "Even if I'm busy, I'll find a way to check in."

Lauren nodded, her heart full. "I will."

With one final kiss, Chan stepped back, letting his hand slip from hers as she turned to leave. Lauren walked out of his apartment, the warmth of his presence still lingering with her as she made her way to the elevator.

As the doors closed behind her, she leaned against the wall, her mind swirling with a mix of emotions. The day had been perfect—everything she'd hoped for—but the thought of not seeing Chan for a while left a dull ache in her chest. She reminded herself that this was part of the deal, part of what came with dating someone whose life was as hectic as his. But still, it didn't make the distance any easier to bear.