The hallway was quiet.
Too quiet.
After the chaos of the cafeteria and the soft vulnerability of the diagnostic room, the silence felt almost sacred — like a space carved out just for the two of them. The hum of distant machines faded into a low background vibration. The cool light from the ceiling panels washed over the smooth floors, reflecting the faint tremor in Seo Jin's hands.
Li Ran noticed.
Of course he noticed.
He always noticed.
"Jin," he said softly, "come here."
Seo Jin didn't move for a breath. Then another. His fingers twitched, tightening around the fabric of Li Ran's sleeve. Finally, he lifted his head, eyes shimmering but steadier than they'd ever been before.
Li Ran opened his arms.
Seo Jin stepped into him without thinking.
