The Grapevine

Chapter Fifteen

Friday arrived with clear skies and the lively energy of students ready to end the week strong. As Sean walked to class with Hyun Jin and Daniel, Hyun Jin poked his side with a playful grin.

"Looks like I'm lucky to get a few moments with you alone. You and Eric are practically attached at the hip these days," she teased, glancing over with a raised brow. "Should I book an appointment to hang out with my best friend?"

Sean gave her a patient smile, catching her subtle jealousy with amusement. "Don't be dramatic, Hyun Jin. You know I'd clear my schedule if you ever asked."

"Yeah, yeah," she said with a smirk. "You can't fool me. You've got that soft Sean look lately."

Daniel chuckled from Sean's other side. "We'll let you off easy, but only because you're getting more fun to hang out with. Must be all that Eric influence."

They all laughed as they arrived at their lecture, the playful energy easing them into their seats.

After class, they met again in the cafeteria, sitting at their usual corner table. Daniel and Hyun Jin talked about weekend plans and other classes, while Sean listened, occasionally chiming in. He found himself, once again, glancing up toward the cafeteria's entrance, a habit he hadn't noticed until Hyun Jin pointed it out.

"Looking for someone?" she asked with a knowing smile, watching Sean glance at his watch. Just then, Eric walked in, scanning the tables and spotting their group.

Hyun Jin wiggled her brows and leaned in to whisper, "I knew it."

When Eric finally reached their table, Hyun Jin grinned, "Ah, the man of the hour. So, you waiting for Sean? Because we're not done stealing him yet."

Eric laughed, nudging Sean lightly. "Sorry to interrupt, but I promise I'll return him soon. Fair trade?"

Hyun Jin pouted but played along, letting Sean gather his things before leaving with Eric. As they walked out, Hyun Jin waved and shouted dramatically, "Bring him back in one piece!"

Outside, Eric held the passenger door open for Sean and they set off toward his apartment. On the way, they shared easy conversation about the day and weekend plans, but when they neared Sean's apartment, Eric glanced over.

"Hey, I know it's Friday, but do you want to take a walk by the Han River for a bit?"

Sean looked at Eric, surprised, then nodded. "Yeah, that sounds nice."

They strolled alongside the Han River, the city lights reflected on the water, painting the scene in a quiet glow. Eric's usual playful energy softened as they walked, comfortable in silence until he finally spoke.

"You know, I keep wondering how we ended up here. It feels like every day with you, I'm learning things I didn't expect."

Sean smiled, feeling the honesty in Eric's words. "I know what you mean," he said, looking ahead. "There's so much about you I didn't expect either."

They fell into a comfortable silence, leaning against the railing, gazing out at the serene flow of the Han River. The city lights danced on the water, casting a soft glow around them. The unspoken words hung in the air, both of them feeling something bigger than either had anticipated.

After a while, Eric broke the silence, his voice soft. "So, what are you up to this weekend?"

Sean hesitated, a small smile forming on his lips. "I go to see my family every weekend. It's... kind of a routine I've had for a while."

Eric nodded, his eyes gentle with understanding. "That sounds really nice. It must be good to have that time with them. Family time's... well, I don't know, it just seems more precious these days, doesn't it?"