ａｓｙｍｐｔｏｔｅ // guanho

Eighteenth

'Busy' was the first thing Guan Lin predicted to come out of Seon Ho's mouth when he approached him, once more failing to share a proper conversation with the junior.

For the past few days, Seon Ho had excused himself every time Guan Lin was near or tried talking to him. It was beyond evident that he was avoidant of any interaction with the older boy, Guan Lin having no answer why.

Seon Ho still sat next to the older during recess and lunch, also placing his bag next to Guan Lin during practice; These were normal since they are common occurrences in their daily life, but never did the younger stayed silent throughout, therefore the familiarity became the unusual.

Watching the younger pacing about the court, Guan Lin tried figuring out the problem that arose out of nowhere.

Was it because he found out I like him?

That was a plausible reason to explain for the way Seon Ho runs away just by seeing him, but he doubted anyone would have told the junior; Eun Hye isn't one to snitch, and Justin cared more about Hye Rin to concern over his personal affairs at the moment, so he knew it must have been for another reason.

It was unexpected for Seon Ho to walk home with Guan Lin given his avoiding and ignoring, but the awkward silence was no different from before, the junior only breathing with no words out of his mouth.

After all, Seon Ho was melancholic the whole day.

Today marked the last day of their pact; Since he couldn't help Guan Lin, he had to leave the older alone as promised.

Regardless, Seon Ho didn't want the day to end like this, words finally out of his sealed lips after a serious contemplation of minutes.

"Guan Lin-hyung," He called out as gently as he could without cracking, unable to look at the boy staring at him. "Did your family cook for dinner?"

Guan Lin found the question random, pondering over the younger's next words he has yet to hear. "... No...? I planned to buy takeaway for dinner."

Seon Ho sighed in relief, eventually turning to gaze at the senior. "Want to catch dinner together?"

He knew it wasn't a wise decision knowing how displeased his parents would be to know he ate out when his mother had cooked for him. Yet, he couldn't let this chance slip by when it is the last time they would be able to stand so close next to each other.

Calling his mother after Guan Lin agreed to his joy, Seon Ho's voice trembled as he spoke on the phone. Guan Lin heard it, thinking the boy is cute for being like this.

Once Seon Ho ended the call, a weight left his chest upon his mother's consent. Eyes on the older boy who did not look away from him, Seon Ho had his breath hitched once more, this time for another reason since his heart was pulsating differently, tinted cheeks full in view under the yellowed street lights casting beams. He noticed the older boy shifting his gaze to the ground, but he only stared at him harder, hoping his eyes could convey what he wanted because cowardice sewed his lips.

He knew he had to get words out no matter how strained his throat would be, even if he had to choke himself.

But, he still stayed quiet, Guan Lin taking the initiative for their sake.

"Where are we going?"

"I know of a good place." Seon Ho managed out after struggling to speak, looking away from the senior who only tagged behind him, limping slightly—Guan Lin was finally without his crutch, and he is glad. Seon Ho is happy for him too, perhaps more than he should be when Guan Lin has been cheerier than ever.