Soul in the System: Chanjin

Researching Romance

The days following the big game were filled with a mix of routine and subtle changes that Chan couldn't quite define. He noticed it in Hyunjin first—the way he would sometimes glance at Chan a little longer than usual, the way he seemed more relaxed around him, and the quiet smiles they exchanged when no one was watching. Each day, Chan felt something new and strange building between them, something he didn't entirely understand but was beginning to crave.

For Chan, emotions were still a puzzle he was piecing together bit by bit. He had learned, through observation and experience, what it meant to care, to protect, and to be loyal. But he was realizing that his connection with Hyunjin went beyond friendship. It was deeper, more complex—a feeling that made him want to be near Hyunjin, to understand what made him happy, and to see him smile.

Unsure of how to proceed, Chan decided he needed to learn more. And who better to ask than two couples he saw every day?

During lunch one day, Chan spotted Changbin alone in the gym, lifting weights as part of his usual routine. Seizing the opportunity, Chan approached him, feeling a mix of anticipation and curiosity.

Changbin looked up, wiping the sweat from his brow and giving Chan a welcoming nod. "Hey, superstar! Need a workout buddy?"

Chan shook his head, glancing around to make sure they were alone before asking, "Actually, I wanted to talk to you... about something different."

Changbin raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What's up?"

Chan hesitated, gathering his thoughts. "I... wanted to know more about relationships. Specifically, how you show... care and affection. You and Felix seem close, and I thought you might have some insight."

A broad grin spread across Changbin's face, and he chuckled, clearly enjoying the unexpected question. "Oh, look at you, getting all romantic. This about Hyunjin?"

Chan felt a small warmth rise in his chest, though he didn't look away. "Yes. I want to understand how to make him feel... valued. Like you do for Felix."

Changbin nodded thoughtfully, setting down his weights and crossing his arms. "Alright, listen up. First thing is, showing you care doesn't have to be complicated. It's the little things, you know? Felix likes when I remember the stuff he likes. Like, if he's having a bad day, I'll bring him his favorite snack or just sit with him, let him vent. It's about paying attention, knowing what makes him feel appreciated."

Chan absorbed Changbin's words, nodding as he processed the idea of small gestures and attentiveness. "So... it's about knowing what matters to him. Being present."

"Exactly," Changbin replied, clapping him on the shoulder. "Hyunjin acts all tough, but he's a softie at heart. Trust me, just being there and showing him you care will mean more to him than some grand gesture. Start with that."

Chan nodded, his determination growing. "Thank you, Changbin. I think I understand."

Changbin grinned, winking. "Anytime, Romeo. Now go make your boy feel special."

The next day, Chan decided to approach Minho during practice. He waited until they were both taking a break from drills, and when Minho gave him a questioning look, Chan took a steadying breath and began.

"Minho," he said carefully, "I wanted to ask you something... personal."

Minho raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "This sounds interesting. Shoot."

Chan hesitated, unsure how to phrase his question, but pressed on. "You and Jisung have a close relationship. I wanted to know... how it started. How did you show him you cared?"