The morning sun streamed through the curtains, painting Min's room in a soft golden hue. He stretched lazily, but his heart was already beating faster than usual. Today was the day of the autumn festival—a day he had been quietly anticipating, though he would never admit it aloud.
Airi had stopped by early to remind him, chattering about which stalls she wanted to visit first. Once she left, Min finally sat by the mirror, fussing over his hair and clothes far more than usual. Every adjustment felt like it mattered.
Just as he was about to smooth down his collar for the third time, the door creaked open. Kei leaned casually against the frame, his dark eyes glinting with quiet amusement.
"You're taking longer than usual," Kei remarked, his tone even, though the corner of his lips lifted ever so slightly.
Min turned quickly, flustered. "I-I just don't want to look messy. It's the festival, after all."
Kei stepped closer, his gaze steady as always. Without a word, he reached out and brushed something invisible off Min's shoulder. The simple touch made Min freeze. Then Kei's hand moved to straighten Min's collar with a deliberate gentleness.
"There," Kei said, voice low. "Now you look fine."
Min swallowed hard, his ears burning. "Y-You didn't have to…"
"But I wanted to." Kei's eyes lingered for a moment longer before he pulled back, as calm as ever. Then, almost as if it were nothing, he added, "Don't let anyone else look at you like this tonight."
The words struck Min's chest like a drum. His mouth opened, but no reply came out—only a nervous laugh that barely masked his racing heartbeat.
Kei turned toward the door, his usual composure unshaken. "I'll wait outside. Don't take forever."
Left alone in the quiet room, Min pressed a hand over his chest, cheeks warm. The festival hadn't even begun, yet he felt like something had already started between them.
To be continued....