Archive of Our Own

“One, two, three… nine, ten, fifteen… eighteen-nineteen-twenty ! Ready or not, here I come!”

Gunwook heard the words and stiffened in an excited shrill. He shoved his finger under his armpits so his elbows didn’t dig uncomfortably into the harsh wood. The darkness only let in so much light, making it hard to see outside, but his imagination did all the work instead.

Hide and seek is the perfect game for so many reasons! For one, it’s like a treasure hunt where you’re the treasure. Gunwook loves the thrill of it all, the way his heart skips when he hears the seeker counting. It’s almost like magic! When the seeker calls out “Twenty!” he feels a rush of excitement, like he’s about to embark on an adventure.

He loves that it’s not just about hiding, but also about being clever, like a ninja! Like the ones with those cool bandanas that he wakes up so early every morning just to watch on TV. He sets his alarm clock, and when the alarm beeps, he wraps himself in his favorite blanket, the one covered in colorful stars, and tiptoes around the house so he doesn’t wake up his parents or his older brother.

He makes sure to walk softly, careful not to let the floor creak beneath his feet. It feels like a secret mission, sneaking past the rooms, clutching his blanket like a superhero’s cape. Once he reaches the living room, he plops down on the couch, all snuggled up, and turns on the TV.

Watching those ninjas jumping and spinning on the screen fills him with energy and ideas for his own games. Where would the seeker look first? Behind the slide? Under the swings? But he’s found the best hiding spots that no one thinks to check. The hollow tree stump is his favorite because it’s cozy and secretive. It makes him feel special, like he’s part of a secret club.

Gunwook loves chasing his friends too, running fast like the wind. It’s all about fun, friendship, and the silly faces everyone makes when they finally spot each other. 

Every time he plays, he feels happy and free, like he’s floating in a cloud. That’s why hide and seek is not just a game for Gunwook; it’s his favorite way to be a kid!

Gunwook listens closely to each and every one of his friends being found in their hiding spots, trying to keep his giggles quiet.

“Found you, Taerae!” Hanbin calls out with a triumphant grin. “You always hide behind the same bush!”

“Ugh! I thought it was a good spot!” Taerae whines, stomping his feet as he trudges toward Hanbin. His face is scrunched up in frustration, pout in full force. “Next time, I’ll be sneaky!”

Hanbin chuckles, shaking his head. “You say that every time. It’s like you’re waving a flag! I know exactly where to look.”

Gunwook, hidden nearby, can’t help but smile as he listens. The faint sound of another squeal pulls his attention. “Found you, Hao! You’re supposed to hide, not sit on the swing!” Hanbin says, his voice filled with teasing affection.

Zhang Hao giggles, the sound light and carefree as his hair bounces with every movement. “But swinging is so much more fun!” he says, getting up from the swing with a playful shrug.

Hanbin ruffles Hao’s hair with a grin. “It’s okay. You can swing later. We’ve got a game to finish.”

Gunwook stifles a laugh from his hiding spot, amused at the way Hanbin treats Hao so gently. From a few feet away, Taerae’s indignant voice cuts through. “Hey! You didn’t say that when I got found!”

Hanbin glances at Taerae and just smirks, not bothering to respond. Gunwook snorts under his breath. Hanbin really has a soft spot for Hao, he thinks.

Just then, Gunwook hears Taerae’s voice call out again. “Found you, Jiwoong! Behind the bushes? Classic move!”

Jiwoong groans, brushing off leaves as he steps out from the greenery. “I really thought it’d work this time,” he mutters, flicking a stray twig from his shirt as he trudged back toward the group.

Not long after, Hanbin shouts, “Yujin! I see you! Behind the slide again?”

Yujin stands up, trying his best to look innocent. “What? I was just checking out the swings,” he says, though his bright pink shirt – courtesy of his mom – gives him away every time.

Gunwook giggles softly. Yujin always tried to blend in with the playground equipment, but that neon shirt wasn’t doing him any favors.

Suddenly, a loud crash interrupts the game, followed by laughter and playful shouting. “Hey! I saw it first!” Gyuvin yells, his voice laced with mock indignation.

“No way! I was totally here first!” Ricky snaps back, his tone rising in annoyance.

Gunwook rolls his eyes, already knowing how this would go. Gyuvin and Ricky had been bickering about who found the hiding spots for as long as Gunwook could remember. It was like a tradition at this point, half the fun was watching them argue over nothing.

After everyone else is found, the whole group unites to search for Gunwook. He can’t help but cover his mouth with his hand to stifle his excitement.

“Where is he?” Jiwoong asks, scanning the area with a puzzled expression. “He’s always so hard to find!”

“I don’t know! He must be hiding really well this time,” Yujin says, looking under the swings, even though he knows Gunwook's hiding spot is always clever.

They search high and low for almost ten minutes, peeking behind trees and crawling under slides. Gunwook can hear their voices getting louder and their laughter ringing through the park, but he stays perfectly still, grinning to himself.

Finally, they start to tire, their laughter fading as frustration creeps in. Gyuvin wipes his forehead dramatically, his shoulders slumping. “I give up, Gunwook is the king of hide and seek. He’s always impossible to find.”

“I know, right?” Zhang Hao adds, plopping down on the grass with a huff, his energy drained. “No matter how many times we play, he always manages to hide in the best spots. It’s not fair!”

Yujin shakes his head with a weary smile. “It’s like he has a secret hiding manual or something. How does he do it? I’m tired of looking.”

Gunwook, still tucked away in his cozy spot, puts his hands on top of his bent knees and wrings them together, feeling a knot of guilt forming in his stomach. He knows his friends are getting upset, and it doesn’t feel as fun as he thought it would. 

Just then, the school bell rings, echoing through the park and signaling that the snack break is over. The group scrambles to gather their lunch box and head back inside. Hanbin calls out loudly enough for Gunwook to hear from his hiding place, “You won again, Gunwook! We have to go back inside now!”

As the others start to walk away, Gunwook can’t help but sigh, bumping his forehead gently against the tree trunk. 

With a heavy sigh, Gunwook finally decides to leave his hiding place. As he wiggles out, his limbs ache a little from staying still for so long. He stretches his arms over his head, trying to shake off the stiffness.

He follows after them.

– 

It’s not like Gunwook doesn’t enjoy winning, alright?

In fact, there was a time when he absolutely lived for it. The thrill of being the last one found, the rush of popping out from his hiding spot after his friends had exhausted themselves searching – it was his moment of glory. He could still remember their startled gasps, wide-eyed and breathless, as he’d leap out with a triumphant grin. 

Gunwook, the king of hide and seek, the unbeatable, the almighty!

He’d bask in it. The victory felt sweet, and the bragging rights even sweeter. His friends would groan and roll their eyes, but he could tell they admired his skill. No one could hide like Gunwook. He was a master of the game, slipping into the smallest, darkest corners where no one thought to look. He could almost hear the cheers now, ringing in his ears from those glory days.

But as much as he loved being crowned the king of hide and seek, something had changed over time. The excitement started to fade.

It gets tiring after a while.

Being the last one left, crouched in the same old hiding spots, listening to his friends laugh and call out each other’s names, it began to feel… different. He used to love the thrill of outwitting them, but now, as he sat hidden away, he couldn’t help but feel a pang of loneliness. Hearing all their laughter, the way they celebrated when someone got found, their teasing and playful banter, it all made his heart ache just a little. He wanted to laugh with them, to share in the fun.

But he couldn’t. Not without giving away his hiding spot, and wasn’t that the whole point of the game? To stay hidden? To win?

Except winning doesn’t feel much like playing anymore.

He missed the shared joy of being caught. The shouts of triumph that echoed through the park, the squeals of glee when someone was discovered, the way they’d all chase each other and run breathlessly through the playground. He missed being part of that. The longer he stayed hidden, the more distant he felt from the fun.

It wasn’t just the laughter he missed, though. It was the connection. The joy of being found, of running back to the group, all of them laughing and panting, basking in the shared excitement of the game. But now, all he heard was the sound of his friends slowly giving up on finding him. He could hear it in the way their voices grew softer, in the way the game seemed to slow down as they moved on to something else.

It wasn’t that they didn’t care; it was just that he was too good. Too good at hiding, too good at disappearing into the shadows where no one could find him. And that was the problem. He wasn’t really playing anymore – he was just waiting. Waiting for them to give up. Waiting for the game to end.

The loneliness crept in.

What’s the point of being the king if you’re alone?

He thought about the old days, when being the last one found felt like a victory. But now, it felt more like isolation. The title of “king” didn’t mean much if it left him on the sidelines, watching his friends enjoy the game without him. Sure, he was still the best at hiding. But what did that matter if he couldn’t share in their excitement?

After all, being found wasn’t the worst thing in the world. In fact, maybe it was the best part of the game.

The classroom buzzes with playful banter and raucous laughter, the noise bouncing off the walls like the echo of a playground on a sunny afternoon. Kids shout across the room, their voices mixing with giggles and the soft thunk of paper balls being hurled from one desk to another. The atmosphere is electric, brimming with a carefree joy that’s impossible to resist.

Gunwook grins as he watches the chaos unfold, feeling the infectious energy lift his spirits. Whatever lingering sadness had been weighing on him earlier fades into the background, replaced by the lightness of the moment. With a mischievous glint in his eyes, he grabs a crumpled paper ball and hurls it straight at Jiwoong, who’s too busy laughing at something Ricky said to even see it coming.

The paper hits its mark, bouncing off Jiwoong’s arm. He spins around, ready to retaliate, his eyes gleaming with playful intent. But just as Gunwook braces for the inevitable counterattack, the classroom door swings open with a creak, and in walks the teacher. Her presence alone is enough to stop everyone in their tracks.

She clears her throat, a sound sharp enough to slice through the noise, and the room falls into a sudden, awkward silence. It’s like someone hit the pause button on all the fun.

Students scramble to sit down, the squeak of chairs against the floor filling the quiet as they straighten up and face forward. The teacher, standing tall with her arms folded, peers over the tops of her thin glasses, her expression a mix of stern authority and barely concealed exasperation.

“Is this really the first impression the class wants to make to the newcomer?” she asks, her voice steady, each word carefully measured.

Only then does Gunwook notice the boy standing beside her, partially hidden from view until now.

The new boy looks up at her, his expression caught somewhere between confusion and curiosity. His round, dark eyes blink wide with uncertainty, as if trying to make sense of the tension in the room. And then, just as quickly, his lips break into a smile, a grin so bright and genuine it almost seems to lift the weight of the moment. Gunwook’s gaze lingers on him, taking in the details. The boy’s grin reveals a missing tooth, giving him a goofy, almost cartoonish charm. A colorful band-aid clings to his chin, the kind with little stars and rockets that he’d been refusing from his mom lately, insisting they were too childish for him, but somehow, on him, it fits perfectly. 

His black hair is a bit too long, falling just below his eyebrows, messy and untamed like he hadn’t bothered with a comb this morning. The way it frames his face, a tousled curtain of strands. Gunwook could feel an itch in his own eyes just looking at it, he always thought hair that long looked like it would get in the way.

At that moment, as the boy’s smile radiates warmth, Gunwook swore the sun had just come out inside their classroom.

Gunwook's heart thumped strangely in his chest, making the boy furrow his brow. Was he getting sick?

As the teacher began to introduce the new boy to the class, Gunwook found himself sitting up a little straighter.

The teacher adjusted her thin glasses with a practiced gesture, pushing them up her nose with her index finger as she surveyed the now quiet classroom. “Class, please welcome the new exchange student, Seok Matthew,” she announced in her firm yet approachable tone. “He’s from Canada, and while his Korean is still a bit limited, I expect all of you to be welcoming and help him feel at home.” Her eyes softened as she stepped aside, giving Matthew the space to introduce himself.

The boy shifted his weight, fidgeting nervously with his fingers. Gunwook’s sharp eyes couldn’t help but notice the cute band-aids that adorned them as well. They covered his knuckles like tiny badges of honor, each one different, some with stars, others with cartoon characters. 

The teacher gave Matthew a gentle nod of encouragement, and he took a deep breath, gathering his courage. When he looked up at the class, his round, expressive eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and anxiety, but there was something about his determination that shone through, despite the uncertainty.

“H-Hello, I am Matthew,” he began, his voice shaky but filled with hope. His accent was heavy, and his words came out slowly, as if he was trying to piece together the right sounds. “I born Vancouver, but my family… we move back to Korea for dad’s job.” He stumbled a little over the phrasing, his pronunciation not quite perfect, but it was clear he was trying his best. “Please... take care for me,” he finished, bowing slightly, his cheeks flushing with the effort.

The classroom was dead silent as his words hung in the air, everyone processing his introduction. Gunwook felt the tension, the quiet stretching on a little too long for comfort. He could see Matthew’s smile falter slightly, his fingers still fidgeting, as if bracing for something, anything, from his new classmates.

The pause felt like forever, and Gunwook’s heart gave a little tug. He could feel the boy’s nervousness radiating across the room.

Then, with a single, loud clap, the teacher broke the silence. “Thank you, Matthew, for that lovely introduction! Now, please take a seat beside Hanbin, there’s a vacant spot just over there.” She motioned toward the empty chair with a smile, trying to ease the awkwardness.

Gunwook watched as Matthew’s eyes darted around the room, finally landing on Hanbin, who waved at him with an easy grin. The sight of Matthew heading toward that seat made Gunwook’s heart sink a little, suddenly wishing there was a vacant seat beside him too. There was something about this new kid that made Gunwook want to know more.

What’s it like in Canada? Gunwook wondered, his mind racing with questions. Do they have cool parks? Do they have different games? His eyes drifted to one of the band-aids on Matthew’s hand, catching a glimpse of a familiar figure, Pokémon. His heart skipped a beat. Oh man, they totally have anime in Canada!

Suddenly, Gunwook’s curiosity felt like it was about to bubble over. He needed to talk to Matthew. Maybe they could bond over Pokémon, or maybe Matthew could tell him about all the cool things they watched on TV over there. The more Gunwook thought about it, the more he wanted to reach out, to say something, anything.

Gunwook watches as Hanbin leans over to say something to Matthew as he sits down, a polite smile on his face. Gunwook can’t help but notice the way Matthew's eyes light up when he talks, the enthusiasm in the way his hands move as he gestures back to Hanbin. The soft laughter between them seems to amplify in Gunwook’s ears, standing out amidst the quiet murmur of the classroom.

As the teacher busies herself unpacking materials from her bags, Gunwook's gaze drifts to Matthew. He notices how Matthew's hair bounces slightly with each avid nod, spilling over his eyebrows like a curtain of soft black waves.

He wonders what they're talking about.

The lesson passes as quickly as it came, but Gunwook feels rather distracted today for some reason. His mind drifts as the teacher explains the math problems on the board, and his gaze wanders to the side without him even noticing. He’s probably just curious, he guesses. It’s not every day their class has a new student, especially one from outside Korea.

His thoughts swirl – What’s it like there? What does Matthew miss? Does he like Korean snacks?

Matthew’s laughter still rings softly in his ears from the talk he had with Hanbin earlier, and Gunwook can’t help but glance over once, or maybe twice.

When Gunwook finally realizes what’s happening around him, he blinks away the distraction and sees that everyone is already packing their bags, laughter and chatter filling the classroom as they talk about their school day and prepare to leave. He lifts his head from where it had been propped on his hand, feeling a little disoriented as he glances around at his friends.

His gaze lands on Hanbin, who is already up, animatedly chatting with Matthew. His hands waving as he explains something that makes both boys laugh. Matthew listens intently, his bright smile never fading, his gaze fixed on Hanbin as if they’ve been friends forever.

Before Gunwook can even process it fully, the moment is gone. Hanbin gives Matthew a nod and a casual wave, and just like that, Matthew turns and begins to head for the door. By the time Gunwook hastily puts his belongings into his bag, excitement bubbling within him, he glances back to where Matthew had been standing – only to find that the boy has already walked off. 

Gunwook finally puts his hand down from where it had been propped up without his consent as he stands there, bag barely slung over his shoulder. He turns to his side, catching Hanbin staring at him with a funny expression, eyebrows raised and a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes.

“What?” Gunwook asks, his voice slightly defensive.

“Nothing,” Hanbin replies, shrugging, but he adds with a teasing glint in his eyes, “Just noticed you didn’t pay a lot of attention in class today. You normally do.”

Gunwook huffs in response, grumbling internally. Was Hanbin seriously calling him a nerd? It’s not like he was one– he just worked hard! He just had a lot on his mind anyways. The image of the new student kept drifting through his thoughts, pulling him away from the lesson.

“What were you two talking about, anyway?” Gunwook asks, trying to keep his tone casual.

“Oh, nothing much,” Hanbin replies, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “I invited him to play with us tomorrow. It must be hard being in a new school with no friends. Imagine being in a whooole new country.”

Gunwook liked the idea more than he wanted to admit, but he kept his expression neutral. “Sure, I guess. If he wants to join, that’s cool,” he says, shrugging his shoulders as if it didn’t matter. Inside, though, a flicker of excitement sparked at the thought of spending some time with Matthew.

Hanbin grinned knowingly, sensing Gunwook’s hidden excitement. “See? You’re already warming up to him. I think he’ll fit right in with us.”

“Maybe,” Gunwook says, rolling his eyes but unable to suppress a small smile. “If he's better than you guys at hide-and-seek, that’s more than I could hope for.”

Hanbin bursts into laughter, playfully nudging Gunwook with his shoulder. “Don’t worry, I’ll make sure to show him all your best hiding spots. Your reign as the king of hide-and-seek is coming to an end!”

Gunwook feigns a gasp, clutching his chest dramatically. “You wouldn’t dare! My reign is absolute!”

“Oh, we’ll see about that!” Hanbin teases, and their playful banter continues as they head out of the classroom with their friends, both eager to finally walk home.

Gunwook wakes up the next morning with a flutter of excitement in his chest. The morning sun filters through his curtains, casting a warm glow on the room, and he can’t help but grin as thoughts of meeting Matthew again flood his mind. The idea of making a new friend always feels thrilling, and the prospect of welcoming someone fresh into their group sends a surge of anticipation through him.

After brushing his teeth and splashing cold water on his face to shake off the last bits of sleep, Gunwook rummages through his closet, searching for something to wear. His eyes land on a slightly oversized shirt, one of his older brother’s old graphic tees featuring a popular band. His brother had outgrown it, but Gunwook had always thought it looked effortlessly cool, and he’d claimed it for himself. Slipping it on, the fabric hanging a bit loosely on his frame, and admires how it makes him feel a little bit older. He thinks it will make a good impression.

As Gunwook walks to school, his mind buzzes with anticipation, each step in sync with his excitement. He imagines how the day might unfold, how Matthew, the new kid with the bright smile and messy hair, would join their group during recess. 

They’d all run to the playground like they usually did, with Hanbin leading the charge, shouting about how they only had so much time before the bell rang again. Gunwook can already hear the laughter and clattering footsteps as they all race to the playground, with Hanbin charging ahead like always, shouting something about how they only have so much time before the bell rings again.

He wonders how Matthew would fit in. Maybe he’d hesitate at first, unsure of how to jump into their game. But Gunwook would be right there, nudging him into action, maybe even offering to help him find the best hiding spots. Maybe Matthew would smile, that same wide, genuine smile from yesterday that had instantly brightened up the classroom. Gunwook finds himself smiling just thinking about it.

Gunwook tries his best to focus on the lecture this time, determined not to let his mind wander as much as it did yesterday. He sits up straighter in his chair, nodding along with the teacher's words and even answering her questions with the usual confidence that comes so naturally to him. His hand shoots up every now and then, earning approving nods from the teacher.

But no matter how hard he tries, Gunwook’s attention keeps drifting to the new boy beside him. There’s something about the way Matthew sits, slightly hunched over his desk, his long hair falling in front of his face, that seems to draw Gunwook’s gaze almost magnetically. Every time he sneaks a glance, he notices something new—how Matthew nervously taps his fingers against the edge of his notebook, or how he absentmindedly twirls his pencil, the motion constant, like he’s trying to channel his nerves into something quiet. He even bites his lip when concentrating, his brow furrowed, lips pressed together in thought.

Gunwook watches as Matthew struggles to follow the teacher’s lesson. Sometimes his face shows a flicker of confusion when the teacher speaks a bit too fast, his eyes darting from the board to his notes as if trying to catch up. The quiet determination in his expression makes Gunwook wonder how difficult it must be for him, being in a completely new place, in a classroom where the language is still unfamiliar, trying to understand things that others don’t even think twice about.

Gunwook finds himself wondering how hard it must be for Matthew to follow along with the lecture. Sitting in a room where everything is in a language that isn’t fully familiar yet, how exhausting must that be? Gunwook frowns, feeling a little guilty as he watches Matthew struggle to keep up. It’s something he’d never even thought about before – how easy it is for him to understand everything without a second thought. 

For Matthew, every word probably feels like a puzzle, each sentence missing pieces here and there, some parts clear, others shrouded in confusion.

Gunwook imagines how exhausting it must be to sit there and try to piece it all together, day after day.

Gunwook shifts uncomfortably in his seat, feeling a twinge of embarrassment at the thought that sneaks into his mind. What would Matthew think if he offered to help? If he suggested Matthew sit closer, just close enough that a light tap on the shoulder could break the barrier between them, a silent request for help with a tricky word or how to pronounce something.

Would Matthew appreciate it, or would it seem too forward? Gunwook isn’t sure. Maybe he’d be relieved, grateful even, to have someone nearby to guide him through the language hurdles. But what if it made things weird, like Gunwook was pitying him instead of genuinely wanting to help? 

The idea of their desks pushed together, Matthew's brow furrowed in concentration as Gunwook leaned over to quietly explain, feels oddly personal, almost too intimate for a classroom. The thought sends a strange warmth to his cheeks and he quickly looks away, fidgeting with the edge of his sleeve.

They hadn’t even talked to each other yet, what is Gunwook even thinking?

Gunwook messes up his hair in embarrassment, his fingers running through the strands as if trying to untangle the thoughts swirling in his head. He hunches over his desk a bit, scribbling furiously in his notebook, determined to capture every word the teacher says. 

Each stroke of his pen becomes a desperate attempt to get his head back in place, a way to refocus on the lesson instead of the fluttering anxiety about Matthew and what could be.

The bell rings stridently, cutting through the air like a sharp whistle, and all his classmates spring to their feet, their chairs scraping against the floor in a cacophony of noise.

They rush to grab their lunchboxes, eager to escape the classroom and dive into the chaos of recess. Laughter and shouts echo as they dash for the door, but the teacher's voice rises above the din, reprimanding them for their rowdiness. "Settle down! You’re still in school!" she calls, but her words barely register amid the excitement.

Gunwook watches from the corner of his eye as Matthew springs from his chair, his movements quick but tinged with uncertainty. The new boy hesitates, his hands nervously fidgeting with the colorful band-aids that wrap his fingers like badges of honor. Gunwook can’t help but notice how Matthew's round eyes flicker around the room, taking in the bustling classmates as they chatter and rush past him.

As expected, Hanbin, always the first to welcome someone new, greets Matthew with an easy smile. He places a reassuring hand on Matthew’s elbow, gently guiding him toward where Zhang Hao and Ricky are sitting, the group’s usual spot. Gunwook watches as Matthew follows Hanbin, his steps a little unsure but steady.

 Gunwook smooths down his shirt, trying to calm the strange mix of excitement and nerves bubbling in his stomach. He gets up from his seat and casually walks over to the group, his heartbeat picking up with each step. As he approaches, he catches bits of the conversation – Zhang Hao and Ricky bombarding Matthew with playful questions, their voices filled with the usual curiosity they reserve for newcomers. 

Matthew tries his best to keep up, his words tumbling out in a slight jumble as he searches for the right ones, tumbling out in slightly tangled Korean. The others seem to pick up on it too, their smiles warm and patient as they let him take his time.

“What’s the weather like where you're from? Do you guys have snow all the time?” Zhang Hao teases, his tone light as he leans in, obviously intrigued by the foreignness of Matthew's world. 

The question hangs in the air, and Matthew hesitates for a moment, clearly caught off guard by the sudden attention.

“Oh, um, no, not all the time!” Matthew stumbles over his words, his round eyes wide with a mix of surprise and determination. “It… it really hot sometimes too, like… like summer here! But, yes, we have snow in winter. It really fun!”

He beams, his enthusiasm breaking through despite the stumbles in his speech. “We make snowmen! And snowball fight! But sometimes, I not see snow for long time, too!”

Gunwook’s heart pounds in his chest as he steps forward, his nerves making his hands twist the hem of his shirt. “Uh, hi! I’m, um, Gunwook,” he stammers, his voice barely steady. “It’s… nice to meet you, Matthew.”

Matthew's face lights up instantly. “Hi!” he responds, his voice bubbling with excitement. His eyes flicker to Gunwook’s shirt, widening with recognition. “Oh! You like The Beatles?” Matthew asks eagerly, his curiosity unmistakable. “Are you fan? Love their music! It’s so... so good!”

Dammit.

Gunwook freezes. His eyes drop to the shirt. He realizes he’s walked right into a conversation he’s totally unprepared for. He glances down at the shirt, suddenly feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over him. He had taken it from his older brother, thinking it looked cool and would make him seem a bit more interesting. But standing here, with Matthew’s hopeful gaze fixed on him, he feels a sinking realization: He doesn’t know a single thing about The Beatles. Why did he have to wear this shirt today?

He should've never had put that on, dammit. 

“Um, y-yeah, I like them,” Gunwook says, his voice faltering as he scrambles for words. The confidence he tried to project vanishes as quickly as it came. “Their songs are… good?” It comes out more like a question than a statement, and his face heats up in embarrassment.

Matthew’s eyes widened with delight. “Yes! So good!” he exclaims, oblivious to Gunwook’s uncertainty. “Do you have… favorite song? Mine ‘Hey Jude’! Makes me happy!”

Gunwook’s eyes go wide at the mention of a song he knows nothing about. Panic surges within him as he glances around the circle, desperately trying to escape the situation. Why did he have to wear this shirt? 

He feels trapped, like he’s in the spotlight with nowhere to hide. His heart races, and he suddenly feels the heat creeping up his neck. What if Matthew asks him more questions? What if he tries to sing a part of the song?

Before Gunwook can spiral further, Gyuvin appears, his timing perfect as always. He strides over with his signature playful grin, a knowing twinkle in his eye. He places a hand on Gunwook’s shoulder, ruffling his hair affectionately. “Don’t mind this guy, Matthew,” Gyuvin says with a teasing laugh. “That shirt isn’t even his. I saw his older brother wearing it the other day. He probably just grabbed it to look cool or to impress someone or something.”

As Gyuvin's words hang in the air, Gunwook hears stifled snorts and muffled laughter from the surrounding boys. 

His stomach twists in knots as he steals a glance at Matthew, who stares at them with wide, confused eyes, clearly unsure of how to interpret the sudden shift in atmosphere. The awkwardness feels thick, suffocating, as his friends fail miserably at keeping quiet.

Just when he thinks it can't get any more awkward, he stumbles over his words, attempting to say something, anything, to break the tension. Instead, all that comes out is an embarrassing squeak.

Gunwook can feel the heat rushing to his cheeks, turning his face a deep shade of crimson. It's as if someone flipped a switch, and the embarrassment floods in all at once. His hands start to shake, a nervous reaction to the attention and the weight of their laughter. Why did he have to get caught up in this?

He wishes he could shrink into himself.

Damn all of them!

Gunwook can almost hear the unspoken thoughts swirling in Matthew's mind: What a loser, trying to look cool in someone else's shirt.

The silence hangs thick in the air, heavy with lingering laughter, until Matthew breaks it. Gunwook looks up at the boy’s face so quickly that he hears his neck crack, and for a moment, everything feels still.

Matthew’s round eyes shine with sincerity as he stumbles over his words, his enthusiasm cutting through the awkwardness. “Y-you look cool in shirt!” he declares. “I like! Is… good!”

Gunwook blinks in surprise, his heart racing for an entirely different reason now. The unexpected compliment washes over him like a refreshing breeze, momentarily drowning out the stifled laughter around them. He feels a flicker of hope spark in his chest, battling against the embarrassment still clinging to him.

“You think so?” Gunwook asks, his voice a mix of disbelief and curiosity. He searches Matthew’s face for any hint of insincerity, but all he finds is earnestness.

Matthew nods vigorously, a bright smile spreading across his face as he pushes the hair that had fallen in front of his eyes behind his ear. “Yes! Very cool!” he insists, his excitement palpable. The way his eyes light up makes Gunwook feel a warmth spreading through his chest, easing the tightness that had settled there moments before.

Gyuvin rolls his eyes, a playful smirk on his face. “I think he got what he wanted anyway,” he quips, glancing at Gunwook with a knowing look. “Let’s go play already, guys.”

With that, he gestures for everyone to move along, and the tension in the air dissipates, replaced by the familiar buzz of excitement as they head toward the playground. Gunwook can’t help but feel a sense of relief wash over him.

As they walk, he sneaks a glance at Matthew, who is now animatedly chatting with Hanbin and Zhang Hao.

Hanbin gathers everyone on the playground, standing tall with an air of authority that makes Gunwook smirk. He clears his throat dramatically, drawing the attention of his friends, and begins to explain the rules of hide and seek with a seriousness that feels almost comical.

Hanbin steps forward with exaggerated flair, gesturing wildly as if about to make a grand announcement. "Alright, everyone, listen up!" he calls, commanding the group’s attention. The usual laughter dies down as the kids focus on him, eager to hear what comes next.

“This is serious business!” Hanbin continues, his voice a playful mix of drama and authority. “We all know how this goes, but let’s set some ground rules to make sure the game is fair!”

The others lean in slightly, eyes wide as Hanbin continues with his ‘official’ tone. “First, the seeker counts to twenty by the big tree– no peeking! ” He throws a quick glance at Ricky and Gyuvin. “And don’t even think about hiding in the same place again. I’m looking at you two!” He points at them, raising an eyebrow, and the others chuckle.

Hanbin scans the group, making sure everyone is paying attention. “And if you’re caught, you’re not done! You gotta help the seeker find the others. No whining, no crying, we’re all friends here, so be cool about it!”

While Hanbin’s laying down the ‘rules,’ Gunwook shifts closer to Matthew, noticing how intently the boy is watching Hanbin’s every word as if this is the most important game of his life. Gunwook can’t help but smile, there’s something incredibly endearing about the way Matthew’s eyes light up with curiosity, like he’s soaking up every detail.

Lowering his voice so he doesn’t interrupt, Gunwook leans over to Matthew. “Hey,” he says, “have you ever played hide and seek before?”

Matthew turns to him, his expression softening from concentration to surprise. He thinks for a moment, then nods. “Um, yes! But… not here,” he replies. “In Canada, we play outside too! It is fun!”

Gunwook straightens up, feeling a surge of confidence. “Well, I’m the best at hide and seek here,” he says, trying to sound nonchalant but hoping to impress Matthew. “I always find the best hiding spots.”

The thought of showing off his skills makes his heart race with excitement. 

Matthew's eyes widen, filled with awe and a hint of admiration. “Really? Best?” he asks, his voice tinged with admiration, and Gunwook feels a swell of pride. “I l-learn from you!”

“Yeah! I’ll teach you all the tricks,” he replies, trying to sound cool and collected. “We’ll find the best hiding spots together. You’ll be a pro in no time!”

Gunwook’s heart races at the idea of sneaking around the playground with Matthew, picking out the perfect spots and laughing quietly as they hide from the others. “Just follow my lead,” he adds, his voice steady with confidence, “and I promise you’ll have the best time.”

Gunwook’s excitement comes to an abrupt halt when Matthew ends up on the shorter end of the stick, literally.

Matthew reaches into Hanbin’s closed fist and pulls out the tiniest, flimsiest stick of all – a pathetic excuse for a twig that barely qualifies as one. “Looks like you’re it, Matthew!” Hanbin teases, ruffling Matthew’s hair as if it’s some big honor.

Gunwook’s heart sinks a bit. He had wanted to be by Matthew’s side, showing him the ropes and making sure he had fun, but now it looks like he’ll be stuck hiding while Matthew searches for them.

Matthew doesn’t seem fazed at all. In fact, he beams, his missing tooth having an entrance again. He holds up the flimsy stick triumphantly, as if it were a prized possession rather than a pathetic excuse for a stick. “Look! I go to find you, I'm good in this!”

“Alright, you ready, Matthew?” Hanbin prompts, ready to get things started.

“Yeah!” Matthew runs toward the big tree, excitement radiating from him as he eagerly begins his countdown. “One… two… three…” His voice echoes across the playground, loud and cheerful. “Four… five… six… um... seven! Oh, um, eight… no, wait– nine!” He stumbles a bit, his brow furrowing in concentration as he tries to recall the numbers in Korean. “Ten! Uh, eleven… um, twelve?”

He can hear the rustling of his friends as they scramble to conceal themselves, laughter mingling with the sound of their footsteps. Gunwook decides to return to his previous hiding spot inside the hollow of the tree, since no one had found him there last time.  He crouches low, nestling himself within the cool, dark space, the scent of damp earth and leaves surrounding him.

Gunwook stifles a giggle at the sound of Matthew stumbling over some of the higher numbers. “ Ah! Forget it! seventeen! ” Matthew finally calls out in English, his voice filled with a mix of frustration and amusement. He takes a deep breath before continuing, “ eighteen! nineteen! Twenty!”

"Ready or not, here I come!" Matthew finally shouts, and Gunwook holds his breath, pressing his back against the rough bark. He peeks through one of the holes to watch Matthew sneakily.

Gunwook listens quietly to the sounds of footsteps on the grass, the soft thud of shoes against the ground as Matthew walks around the playground. Gunwook can picture him exploring the area for the first time, taking in all the familiar hiding spots that they’ve used countless times before. 

He can hear Matthew murmuring to himself as he passes the Gunwook’s tree, a mix of English and Korean, his voice laced with curiosity. “Where… where are they hiding? ” Matthew mutters, peeking behind the swings and glancing around the jungle gym. The sound of rustling leaves and shifting branches fills the air as he checks under benches and behind the big blue slide.

Suddenly, Matthew approaches the slide, and Gunwook can see the wheels turning in his mind. “Hmm…” he murmurs, crouching down to peer underneath. A moment later, Gunwook holds his breath as Matthew's eyes widen in realization.

Gunwook watches in amusement as Matthew spots Gyuvin, curled up and trying hard not to giggle.

“There are you!” Matthew exclaims, a triumphant smile spreading across his face. “Found you!” Gyuvin’s laughter finally spills out as Matthew tags him.

Gyuvin bursts out, “Aw, man! I thought I was going to be the last one this time!” He scrambles to his feet, brushing off the dirt from his clothes while Matthew grins, clearly proud of his discovery.

“I told i’m good at game!” he declares, puffing out his chest in delight. Gunwook can’t help but chuckle at the sight.

“Yeah, yeah, let’s find the other ones, buddy!” Gyuvin encourages, nudging Matthew forward. The two of them start their hunt, moving with a blend of excitement and eagerness.

“Come out, come out, wherever you are!” Gyuvin calls.

Gunwook can see the rest of them peeking behind bushes and climbing onto small structures, their silent laughter as they try not to get caught. The way Matthew's eyes sparkle with excitement reminds Gunwook of the thrill he felt when he first played this game. It’s a moment he wishes he could share with them, but for now, he stays hidden, watching as they work together to find the others.

Matthew's eyes light up as he crouches down behind the slide and spots Ricky hiding, a huge grin spreading across his face. “Found Ricky!” he shouts with glee, pointing dramatically at his friend like he just uncovered a secret treasure.

Ricky lets out a half-hearted groan as Gyuvin pulls him up, laughing and tossing an arm around his shoulder. “Only a few left!” Gyuvin announces, clearly enjoying himself, while Ricky playfully swats at him, muttering complaints under his breath.

With Ricky now joining the search, the group’s energy amplifies as they move together across the playground. Laughter bounces off the walls of the jungle gym, feet scuffle over the woodchips, and playful banter fills the air. Matthew walks proudly among them, eyes still wide with excitement, his face glowing from the thrill of the game. He’s having the time of his life, and Gunwook, watching from his hidden vantage point, feels a pang of warmth at seeing him so happy.

As they track down the last of their friends – Yujin hiding near the swings, Hanbin tucked away under the monkey bars – the group becomes a buzzing bundle of excitement, celebrating each new discovery. But as the minutes tick by and the search for Gunwook drags on, a collective groan rises from the group.

“Aw, come on! Is it only Gunwook again?” Yujin grumbles, exasperation dripping from his voice as he looks around the now nearly empty playground. His hands rest on his hips as he scans the area, eyes darting to every shadow.

“You should be used to it at this point! He’s practically a pro at hiding.” Zhang Hao smirks, a lollipop wedged between his lips. A present from Hanbin, most likely. “It’s like he has a sixth sense for finding the perfect spots.”

“Honestly, we should just wait for him to come out on his own,” Ricky suggests, crossing his arms. “You know we can never find him anyway.”

The group exchanges glances, all too familiar with this scenario. Gunwook is notoriously hard to find during their games, always managing to blend seamlessly into the landscape, no matter where they are.

“He's probably laughing at us from somewhere right now,” Gyuvin adds with a half-smile, peering up into the trees as if Gunwook might be watching them from the branches.

One by one, the group gives up the search, their playful frustration turning into casual conversation as they gather near the swings. A part of him, small but hopeful, had been wishing – just this once – that they would find him. That spark of anticipation dims, as it always does, replaced by the familiar disappointment. 

Gunwook's heart sinks as he watches Matthew scan the playground, his eyebrows furrowed and mouth set in a cute pout. The confusion on his face is evident, and Gunwook can't help but feel a pang of guilt. 

Is he annoyed? he wonders. Matthew had put so much effort into this game, and now he was left standing awkwardly while the rest of the boys had already given up and sat down.

Gunwook sits in his hiding spot, a wave of uncertainty washing over him. He glances toward the group and sees them all lounging around, chatting and laughing, seemingly forgetting the game entirely. Maybe I should just give up , he thinks, his heart sinking. No one is even looking for me anymore.  

Matthew hadn’t even sat down yet, still waiting for Gunwook to appear, and that made it all feel worse.

Gunwook shifts in the tree, ready to give up and climb out when a voice rings out, loud and clear, cutting through the silence.

"Don't get out! Keep hiding!" Matthew calls, his tone firm, echoing across the playground.

Gunwook freezes in place, his heart skipping a beat. He’s still looking for me?  

Matthew’s voice carries again, this time with more determination. "I will find you!"

That’s the first time Matthew had spoken with such full conviction and confidence, not hesitating or stuttering in the slightest. He hesitates for a moment, almost forgetting his original plan to emerge from hiding. But something about that voice, about Matthew’s resolve, makes him stop. Slowly, he sinks back down against the rough bark of the tree, letting the cool dampness of the earth seep into his skin.

The confidence in Matthew's voice leaves him momentarily speechless. He feels a rush of hope flicker to life within him, igniting a spark he thought had long extinguished. Maybe he wouldn’t have to hide forever. Maybe this time, someone was genuinely looking for him. He closes his eyes for a moment, letting the sounds of the playground envelop him.

The boys all stop talking, their attention drawn to Matthew as he strides confidently around the playground once more. He double-checks the spots he’s already scoured, his determination unwavering. Climbing the slides and maneuvering through the structures, he crawls under toys, his hands getting dirty and his uniform pants smudged with grass and dirt.

For the next fifteen minutes, he searches tirelessly, his enthusiasm palpable as he calls out for Gunwook, his voice ringing with optimism. But as time passes, the other boys start to lose interest, drifting over to the benches a bit farther away from the playground. They begin chatting amongst themselves, casually waiting for Matthew and Gunwook to finish their game, their laughter echoing in the background.

Gunwook watches from his hiding spot, feeling a mix of emotions swirl within him. He’s touched by Matthew’s unwavering determination but also acutely aware of the growing distance between them and the group. It’s almost like a dream – a moment where he’s both hidden and seen, connected yet still apart. He can’t help but wonder if this time will be different, if someone will finally find him, and it makes his heart race with anticipation.

Gunwook never felt more seen than at this moment. It was a bit ironic, considering he was tucked away in his hiding spot.

Each time Matthew called out his name, it was like a spotlight shining directly on him, piercing through the shadows where he usually felt so comfortably tucked away.

Gunwook’s heart beats a little faster. There’s something thrilling about being hunted this way, about knowing that someone wants to find him, someone who won’t give up until he does. He shifts slightly, trying to make himself even smaller within the hollow of the tree, but his heart is already rising to meet the moment, the anticipation making it hard to stay still.

For the first time, he didn’t just feel like the quiet kid hiding in the background. In Matthew's eyes, he was someone worth searching for. The world around him faded, leaving just the sounds of Matthew’s pursuit, and in that moment, Gunwook felt as though he mattered, hidden or not.

Matthew huffed, feeling tired from the endless pursuit. He plopped down on the grass momentarily, catching his breath, his chest rising and falling rapidly. With a determined sigh, he brushed his long bangs away from his forehead, revealing a glistening sheen of sweat that shimmered in the sunlight. Gunwook’s heart stuttered in his chest at the sight.

As Matthew sat there, resting, Gunwook’s mind raced. He could almost hear the boy’s thoughts, wondering how far he would go to find him, how hard he would try just for the sake of a game. It made Gunwook feel special, like he was more than just another player hiding in the playground; he was the one Matthew was striving to discover.

Matthew’s sharp eyes raced through the playground, analyzing each and every spot he had already searched while mentally mapping out where he could look next. Gunwook couldn’t help but feel a rush of adrenaline at the intensity of his gaze. 

He made himself small, pressing his back further against the rough bark of the tree, knowing he wasn’t in plain sight but feeling oddly exposed under Matthew's scrutiny.

Gunwook held his breath, heart pounding as Matthew’s gaze swept past the tree, lingering for just a moment longer than necessary. Time seemed to freeze, and Gunwook's thoughts raced, wondering if this would be the moment he was discovered. Just as he thought he might be in the clear, Matthew's eyes slowly returned to the tree. 

Gunwook's instincts kicked in, and he quickly shoved a hand over his mouth, stifling any sound that might escape him. His heart thumped loudly in his chest, each beat echoing in his ears, and he couldn't help but wonder if Matthew could hear it too.

To an outsider, this was just an ordinary tree. Large and sturdy, with thick, gnarled roots that dug deep into the earth and branches that stretched high into the sky. The trunk was broad and solid, the kind you could lean against without worry, and the leaves were full and vibrant, catching the light in a way that gave the tree a gentle glow. It stood proudly, as if it had been there for decades, quietly overseeing the playground.

To the trained eye, though, the magic of the tree revealed itself in subtle ways. Along the side of the thick trunk, hidden among the grooves and moss, was a small, nearly invisible entrance. If you knew where to look and dared to squeeze through, the space inside would unexpectedly expand, opening up just enough to fit someone comfortably. It was like stepping into a secret world, tucked away from the noise and chaos of the playground outside.

Matthew slowly rose to his feet, brushing the dirt from his pants with a calm determination. His eyes were locked on the tree now. Gunwook’s heart pounded furiously in his chest, each beat growing louder and faster, like it was trying to escape from his body through his mouth and race ahead to meet Matthew. Every nerve in Gunwook's body was alive with anticipation, as if Matthew was about to uncover more than just his hiding spot.

Gunwook squeezed his eyes shut, holding his breath, willing himself to stay perfectly still. He could hear the faint rustling of leaves, the soft scrape of fingers against bark, as Matthew explored the tree with an almost tender curiosity. When Matthew's hand brushed through the leaves, it felt almost like he was touching Gunwook's hair. Gentle, deliberate.

Silence wrapped around him, thick and heavy, pressing against Gunwook’s senses. He wanted so badly to open just one eye, to peek and see where Matthew was, but he resisted.

The silence was broken by a soft, tender voice. It trembled through Gunwook’s entire body, sending a shiver down his spine. a simple, “Found you,” Matthew whispered.

 It wasn’t loud or boastful, just a simple declaration, but it felt like it echoed in every corner of Gunwook’s chest.

Gunwook’s breath caught in his throat, and he opened his eyes, immediately locking onto Matthew's gentle gaze. His eyes were large, round pools of deep black, deep and rich like melted dark chocolate. The sunlight filtering through the leaves danced in them, making them glimmer with flecks of gold. There was a softness in his stare, a kindness that seemed to wrap around Gunwook like a comforting embrace.

Gunwook found himself mesmerized, his heart stuttering again, not out of embarrassment or fear this time, but from the quiet beauty he saw in Matthew's eyes. They were the kind of eyes that could see through layers, both the hidden and the obvious. For the first time, Gunwook felt like someone was truly seeing him, not just looking at him, and it made his chest tighten in a way he hadn’t expected.

"You found me." 

Gunwook whispered, his voice barely audible, as if speaking any louder might shatter the fragile moment.

"Come," Matthew said softly, extending his hand toward Gunwook.

Gunwook hesitated for just a moment before slipping his trembling hand into Matthew’s, feeling the warmth of his soft grip as he was slowly pulled out of the tree.

Gunwook stumbled slightly as he emerged from his hiding spot, feeling the cool air hit his face. Matthew’s grip stayed firm, steadying him until he regained his balance.

As he stood there, their hands still joined for a brief moment, Gunwook felt a mix of relief and embarrassment. “Thanks,” he mumbled, glancing down at their hands before quickly pulling his away. His face flushed again, but this time, it wasn’t just from nerves.

Matthew smiled. "You... good at hiding," he said with that same bright enthusiasm, never dull. "Almost... didn’t find."

Gunwook couldn’t help but smile back, feeling lighter than before. "I told you I was the best." He tried to keep his voice steady, but the way Matthew looked at him made his heart stutter once again.

Across the playground, the others were already sitting on the benches, chatting and laughing, waiting for them to join. Gunwook wasn’t in a hurry, though. For a moment, it felt like it was just him and Matthew, the game still lingering between them.

Matthew's hands reached up to touch Gunwook, and for a brief second, Gunwook almost flinched away. The instinct to retreat was strong, but he forced himself to stay put, to hold his ground. He felt Matthew's small hand rest on his shoulder, warm and firm, as it brushed against him gently.

"You're... okay?" Matthew asked, his voice soft and filled with genuine concern, his eyes searching Gunwook's for any hint of discomfort. The way he spoke, his brows furrowed slightly in concentration, made Gunwook's heart race even faster.

“Y-Yeah, I’m okay,” Gunwook stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. He couldn’t believe how such a simple touch could send sparks of warmth racing through him.

 “Cool shirt had d-dirt on it… cleaned all up.” 

“O-oh, yeah, t-thanks.”

“Suits you,” Matthew said. “Like rock star!”

He glances at Matthew, who’s still smiling, and feels a rush of determination. “I, um, I like your band-aids! They’re, uh, really cool.” His cheeks flush slightly, but the compliment slips out before he can overthink it.

Matthew gasps, his round eyes widening with delight as he raises his hands for Gunwook to see them better. “You like? Look!” he exclaims, excitement bubbling in his voice. “I have Pokémon band-aids! Do you… know Pokémon?”

His enthusiasm is infectious, and Gunwook can’t help but smile as he nods, feeling a rush of relief that they’re already connecting over something fun. “Yeah, I know Pokémon! I freaking love it!”  Gunwook replies, his earlier nervousness fading away a bit.

Matthew's face lights up, and he starts to wiggle his fingers, proudly displaying the colorful band-aids adorned with Pikachu and other Pokémon characters. “See? Pikachu! And Squirtle!” He giggles, clearly thrilled to share this little piece of himself. “Got it from mom! Knows I like it lot.”

“Those are awesome!” Gunwook says, genuinely impressed. “I wish I had Pokémon band-aids. Mine are just plain.”

His mom used to buy him colorful ones too, but that stopped after he’d complained, saying he didn’t need ‘kid stuff’ anymore.

“You have some mine!” Matthew offers eagerly, his eyes sparkling. “I have whole big box! Can… share with you, okay?”

Gunwook’s heart swells at the thought of sharing something as small yet personal as band-aids. “Really? That would be cool, thanks man!”

Matthew beams at him. “We trade! I give you something of mine, you tell about favorite Pokémon, okay?”

“Okay!” Gunwook agrees, feeling a sense of warmth spreading through him.

Maybe... he could ask his mom to buy those fun band-aids again.

As Gunwook and Matthew sat by the slides, their conversation flowed easily, excitement bubbling up between them as they talked about Pokémon. They forgot about everything else – the game, the other boys, the world around them – lost in the fun of discussing their favorite characters and moments on the show. Every now and then, their shoulders brushed, but neither of them seemed to notice, too engrossed in sharing their stories.

From a distance, Yujin noticed them first. He started to call out so they could join them. But before he could finish, Hanbin gently placed a hand on his shoulder, stopping him.

“Let’s leave them alone for a bit,” Hanbin said, his voice soft but firm.

Yujin looked back, confused. “Why?” he asked, glancing between the boys and Hanbin.

Hanbin simply smiled, his gaze thoughtful as he watched Gunwook and Matthew. “They’re having a good time. No need to interrupt.”

The other boys exchanged looks, puzzled, but they agreed. Slowly, they moved away, leaving Gunwook and Matthew to their own little world, uninterrupted.

Matthew's eyes light up as they continue talking about Pokémon, and he leans closer to Gunwook, lowering his voice as if about to share a great secret.

“First time… I saw ‘Pikachu’s Goodbye’,” Matthew begins, his words stumbling a little, “I cry… big cry. Pikachu, he almost leave Ash!” He gestures wildly, his hands painting the air as he explains seriously. “I get so, um, sad that I run… run to find my mom. But I trip–” Matthew suddenly mimicked a comical fall, his arms flapping wildly, “I fall… flat… on face.”

Gunwook watches, his eyebrows raising as he tries to hold in a snort of laughter.

Matthew continues, his smile wide despite the story. “Then I cry… even more!” he says, his voice higher pitched, making fun of his younger self. “Mom, she thinks… I'm crazy! I cry for Pikachu, then cry… for my face!”

“Like this,” Matthew demonstrates, scrunching up his face, puffing his cheeks, and sticking out his lower lip to mimic his younger self’s crying face.

Gunwook can’t hold back anymore, bursting into laughter at the mental image of a little Matthew running and tripping over his feet, sobbing even harder because of it. He clutches his stomach, shaking his head.

“That’s hilarious!” Gunwook says between laughs, wiping at his eyes. He can almost see it– an even smaller Matthew with his wide eyes brimming with tears, face red and scrunched up.

Matthew grins, happy that Gunwook finds it funny. He shrugs, the memory still vivid in his mind. “Yeah… very, um, embarrassing. But,” he pauses, his expression softening as he looks at Gunwook, “Pikachu stay, so… happy end!”

Gunwook nods, finally catching his breath, and he smiles at Matthew, "I can see why you're always full of band aids then, so clumsy.”

Matthew’s cheeks puff out slightly as he pouts, pretending to be offended. “Hey! Not… always clumsy,” he defends, though the smile pulling at his lips betrays his amusement. “Just… sometimes!”

Gunwook chuckles, leaning back slightly as he grins at Matthew. "Sure, sure," he teases. "But I bet you tripped at least once this week, huh?"

Matthew huffs, crossing his arms. “Only… two times,” he admits, eyes twinkling with humor.

Gunwook laughs again, shaking his head. “You’re like a walking magnet for trouble, huh? No wonder the band-aids are your best friends.”

Matthew shrugs, finally letting out a giggle. “Guess so,” Matthew leans in close, his voice dropping to a soft whisper as he says, “Tell you… secret?” Gunwook’s heart jumps, the sudden intimacy of being trusted with something personal making his chest tighten. He nods, listening closely, his breath caught in anticipation.

“The reason i… like the Beatles whole lot,” Matthew begins, his eyes bright with sincerity. “Especially… ‘Hey Jude.’ Dad sing to me when I fall… get hurt or cry. To… cheer me up.” Matthew pauses, a gentle smile forming as he recalls the memory. “He… still sing it. Even now. So… makes me happy, when I hear. Feel very grateful all the time”

There’s a tenderness in the way Matthew talks about his dad, a vulnerability that catches Gunwook off guard. It’s like he’s sharing a part of himself that’s usually tucked away, and it makes Gunwook’s heart soften in response.

“That’s… that’s really nice, Matthew,” Gunwook whispers back, a smile tugging at his lips.

Matthew’s smile widens, and for a moment, the two of them sit in a comfortable silence, the world around them fading as they share this quiet moment together.

And before Gunwook can stop himself, before he can second-guess the thought, the words stumble out of his mouth. “Would you… sing it for me? If you want to, of course,” he stammers, his face flushing with sudden shyness under Matthew’s gaze. He doesn’t know why he asked – maybe it’s the way Matthew spoke about the song, or maybe he just wants to hear something that means so much to him. Either way, he can’t take it back now.

Matthew blinks, surprise flickering across his face, his wide eyes growing even rounder for a moment. For a second, Gunwook wonders if he made a mistake asking. But then, Matthew tilts his head, looking a little unsure but curious. 

“You… you understand? It’s… uh, English,” he says, his voice soft and hesitant, like he’s worried Gunwook might not get it.

"I know a bit of English actually, in fact, I'm the best in my class!" Gunwook declares, puffing his chest out slightly, trying to impress Matthew. In truth, his class wasn’t exactly top-tier when it came to English, but Matthew didn’t need to know that little detail. 

Matthew's eyes widen with admiration, his lips parting in an excited gasp. "Wow!" he exclaims, clapping his hands together in awe.

“Even then…” Gunwook’s bravado fades slightly, his voice growing softer. He runs a hand through his hair, feeling a little embarrassed now. “Even if I don’t understand every word… I think I’d get it if it’s you singing. You know…?”

Matthew stares at him with his big eyes for a second, making Gunwook gulp nervously. Then, a small smile spreads across Matthew’s face. “I understand.”

Gunwook’s heart flutters, excitement mingling with a deep warmth as he realizes that Matthew is really going to do it.

“Okay! I sing!” Matthew sits up straighter, his eyes sparkling with determination now, the nerves from before melting away. 

Gunwook leans in, anticipation swirling in his chest, his gaze fixed on Matthew as he prepares to sing. He feels the world narrowing down to just this moment

He takes a deep breath and closes his eyes. “Hey Jude, don’t make it bad. Take a sad song and make it better.”

Matthew’s voice fills the air, soft and sweet.

Gunwook didn’t know how to explain it; he definitely wasn’t a professional by any means. His high-pitched voice betrayed the fact that he was clearly just a child singing. But to Gunwook, it was the most beautiful sound he had ever heard. Matthew’s voice had a sweet innocence, a pure quality that resonated deep within Gunwook’s heart. It was as if each word was a brushstroke painting a vivid picture.

The joy, the nostalgia, and even a hint of sadness woven into the melody. It was a raw, unfiltered expression of who Matthew was, a glimpse into his world that made Gunwook feel honored to be included, allowed in.

“ Remember to let her into your heart, then you can start to make it better .” Matthew continued, pausing briefly to catch his breath before picking up again.

 “ Hey Jude, don't be afraid. You were made to go out and get her . The minute you let her under your skin, then you begin to make it better.”

As Matthew continues, Gunwook feels a warmth spreading in his chest, a mixture of admiration and something deeper– something special that made him feel connected to the boy beside him. Matthew's voice trembles with genuine emotion, and Gunwook can almost see the memories behind those lyrics.

He watches as Matthew's expression shifts, lost in the song, and for a moment, it feels like they’re the only two people in the world. Gunwook leans in a bit closer, hanging on every note, wishing he could remember this moment forever.

“ And anytime you feel the pain, hey Jude, refrain, don't carry the world upon your shoulders. For well you know that it's a fool who plays it cool by making his world a little colder .”

Gunwook doesn't really understand everything, save for a word or two, but he thinks that there is certainly something undeniably magical about hearing someone speak in their mother language. After spending the whole day hearing Matthew struggle to express himself with unfamiliar words to him, he still thinks he understands him better now then he did the entirety of the day.

“ So let it out and let it in, hey Jude, begin, you're waiting for someone to perform with. And don't you know that it's just you, hey Jude, you'll do, the movement you need is on your shoulder …”

Matthew finishes the song, his voice trailing off into the soft rustle of the leaves above. He keeps his eyes closed for a few moments, allowing the gentle breeze to wash over him, embracing the peacefulness of the moment. Gunwook watches him intently.

Matthew’s face is relaxed, framed by his slightly tousled hair, and there’s joy radiating from him that makes Gunwook's cheeks feel warm besides the cold wind. The sunlight catches the glint of his eyes as he opens them, and for a brief moment, it seems like time stands still.

“You, like it?” Matthew asks, a shy smile creeping onto his face, his cheeks flushed from the performance. His voice is still soft, as if he’s not quite ready to break the spell of the moment.

Gunwook nods vigorously, almost forgetting to breathe as he tries to find the right words. “I loved it! It was like, wow !” he says, a bit lamely, feeling a bit silly for his enthusiasm but not caring in the slightest.

Matthew giggles, clearly delighted by Gunwook’s reaction. “ Wow , huh?” he teases playfully, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “ Really big… compliment!”

“Yeah, it is!” Gunwook insists, still trying to regain his composure. “I mean, I didn’t know you could sing like that! It felt… magical.”

“...Magical?” Matthew echoes, his grin widening. “ Wow , I like that!”

Gunwook chuckles, shaking his head in disbelief. “And you said that I was the rockstar!”

Matthew beams at him, “Next time, make a… concert just for you!”

Gunwook's heart flutters at the thought, the idea of another private concert filling him with an unexpected thrill. “I’d love that,” he replies, his voice softening as he looks into Matthew's shining eyes.

“Me too, Goowook!”

Gunwook's own smile falters for a split second, “Wait… who?”

Matthew,  completely oblivious to the mix-up, beams at him. “You! You’re Goowook!” He giggles, his excitement bubbling over.

Gunwook stares at Matthew, feeling a mixture of amusement and disbelief. “It’s Gunwook, not Goowook!” he corrects gently, fighting back a laugh.

“Goonwook” 

“Gunwook,” Gunwook replies.

“Then… Goowoonk?”

“Gun-wook!” 

“...Guewook?”

“It got worse!” Gunwook splutters, laughing now. His cheeks ache from grinning so hard.

Matthew giggles at Gunwook’s reaction, “Why funny? Trying to… say your name!”

“It’s okay! You can keep trying,” Gunwook chuckles, shaking his head. 

“Maybe I’ll get it right next time! Geomwuk!” Matthew declares with confidence, and the two boys burst into laughter.

“That one gotta be on purpose!” Gunwook says, playfully nudging Matthew, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

“Never!” Matthew protests, his innocent expression not fooling Gunwook for a second.

“Maybe it would be easier for you to call me a nickname instead?” he offers, trying to sound casual.

Matthew’s eyes light up instantly, and he nods eagerly. “Yeah! Good idea!”

But as soon as the words leave his mouth, Gunwook’s stomach flips. The thought of Matthew giving him a nickname feels so personal and intimate. What would it be? Would it be something silly?

“Uh, what would you call me?” Gunwook asks, trying to sound nonchalant, but his voice trembles slightly.

Matthew pauses, his brow furrowing as he thinks, his lips pursed in concentration. “How about… Wook?”

Gunwook’s face heats up instantly, a deep crimson blooming across his cheeks at the sound of the nickname. He absolutely wasn’t prepared for this– his heart races, and he feels like he’s just dug his own grave with this one.

“Wook?” he repeats, almost breathless, the nickname rolling off his tongue feels foreign yet oddly perfect. “Y-You really think so?”

Matthew nods enthusiastically, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “Yeah! Wook is cute!”

Gunwook can’t help but squirm a little, feeling shy and flattered all at once. “I, um… thanks, I guess?” he stammers, his voice barely above a whisper. The warmth spreads further across his cheeks, and he fights the urge to hide his face in his hands.

He calms himself down almost by force as he looks over at the boy beside him. Matthew gazes back, his eyes sparkling through his too-big bangs, he tucks a lock of hair behind his ear with fingers decorated in cute band-aids, a bright smile stretching across his face, revealing that adorable missing tooth. Gunwook finds himself starting a sentence that he has no idea how he will finish. 

“Hey, Matthew…” 

Matthew’s eyes widened slightly, leaning in as if urging him to continue, an eager look on his face. “What is, Wook?”

“I–” 

Brrrriiiing!

The boys jumped in alarm at the shrieking of the school bell, the sudden sound slicing through their conversation like a knife. They exchanged wide-eyed glances, momentarily startled, before the realization sank in.

Jiwoong waved a hand at them from a distance, his voice carrying over the playground. “Hey! Come on, you two! It’s time to head back to class!” His tone was light but firm, a reminder that their fun had to come to an end.

“We’re going, just give us a second!” Gunwook called back, his voice bright despite the impending return to class. Matthew waved back at him, even if he didn’t quite grasp the words Jiwoong had said from that distance. 

He didn’t want to leave him hanging, though. 

Gunwook felt a flicker of annoyance at the interruption, but deep down, he recognized that it might be for the best. He really had no idea what kind of weird thoughts he was about to vocalize, and now he wouldn’t have to worry about it.

He stood up, extending his hand to Matthew, mirroring the moment when Matthew had helped him down from the tree. “Come,” he said, offering his palm with a reassuring smile.

Matthew looked up at him, eyes bright and trusting, and took Gunwook’s hand. The warmth of their connected hands felt steadying, grounding him as they both stood up.

As they walked back toward class in silence for a while, Matthew glanced sideways at Gunwook, a playful grin spreading across his face. “Hey, Wook, you think that… You wear shirt like a true Beatles fan… now that you know, one single song?” He giggled, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

“Hey! I thought you said it was cool?!”