Through my eyes||Dino

-9-

The villa was quiet, save for the gentle hum of crickets outside and the occasional rustle of leaves in the night breeze. Everyone had turned in for the night after a long day of fun, the music from the karaoke fading in the background, as each member retreated to their rooms. But Sara couldn't sleep, she had barely gotten a moment to herself since arriving--between the group's antics, playing volleyball, and singing karaoke--her head was still buzzing with the energy of the night.

She slipped out of her room quietly, not wanting to disturb Taylor who was snoring softly on her side of the bed. As she stepped outside to the patio, she was surprised to see S.coups, sitting by himself on one of the lounge chairs, nursing a drink.

'Can't sleep either?' Sara asked, walking over the edge of the patio. S.coups looked up with a soft smile. He had that older-brother vibe that Sara found oddly comforting. Growing up as an only child--she always wanted to have siblings. She had become really close to the group in the last few months. He gestured to the empty seat beside him.

'You know, the first few days of a break are always the hardest. So many things to think about.' S.coups said, his tone a little more thoughtful than usual. Sara nodded, taking a seat. The two of them sat in silence for a few moments before S.coups spoke again.

'You know,' he began, his voice calm and sincere,'I just wanted to say thank you for being there for Chan. He's been a lot happier since you've come around.' Sara wasn't sure how to respond, so she shrugged, trying to play it off lightly. 'I'm just being a good friend. He's cool to be around with.'

S.coups studied her for a moment, a knowing smile tugging his lips. 'It's more than that though,' he said gently, his voice lowering just a fraction,'I don't think he see's you as just a friend.'

Sara felt a sudden warm rush to her cheeks. She didn't know what to say. She had been so used to keeping things lighthearted and casual with Chan, not thinking too much about it. But now, hearing S.coups say that, it made her suddenly self-conscious.

'I-well, I don't know about that,' she stammered, avoiding his gaze for s moment. 'He's just been nice. It's not a big deal.' S.coups chuckled, but there was a softness in his expression. 'You're not good at this, are you?' Sara hesitated before nodding. 'I guess not. I mean... I've never been in a relationship before. Never had anyone show interest like that.'

The words slipped out before she could stop them, and suddenly, she felt exposed. She looked down at her hands, unsure on why she had said so much. It was strange to be vulnerable like this, especially with someone she had just met. But Seungcheol... he felt like a big brother, and she was beginning to trust him.

S.coups didn't make it awkward, though, instead, he leaned back in his chair, giving her space. 'You're not the only one. It's tough out here, you know? The guys can be a little overwhelming, but you're doing fine. And whatever happens with Chan, you'll always have a place with us. You're like family now.'

The sincerity in his words made Sara's heart feel lighter, and for the first time in a long time, she didn't feel so alone. She managed a small smile and looked up at him. 'Thanks Seungcheol. I'm glad you're here.' They sat in a companionable silence for a few minutes, the soft click of Coup's drink only between them. But neither of them noticed Chan, who had woken up to get a glass of water. As he passed by the open door, he froze when he saw them sitting together, laughing quietly, the two of them looking a little too close for his liking.