Chapter Text
The warm hum of the café was a comforting sound for Sungho. The soft clink of mugs, the hissing steam from the espresso machine, and the familiar smell of freshly ground coffee beans filled the air. He wiped down the counter as the sun started to set, casting a golden glow across the cozy interior. It was the perfect time to work—quiet, peaceful, and devoid of the usual hustle and bustle. The cafe was never too busy, mostly filled with regulars that Sungho had gotten to know personally but occasionally there was someone new who would come in, and a few times after that to then just disappear. But it’s okay because Sungho, being an introvert, liked it.
Sungho had gotten this job as a last-ditch decision thing, having been unexpectedly fired from his past job after a mean old couple had reported him to the boss saying he did stuff to them even though they knew they were lying, and they only disliked him because of his hybrid features.
Hybrids weren’t uncommon in their world, but they were still quite rare. Out of his whole life he had only met another hybrid and that was his mom, so it doesn’t really count.
Sungho is a fox hybrid. He has glowy pale skin with soft, doe-like amber eyes. His hair is a dark brown, and he has soft looking fox ears sprouting from atop his head and he has a fluffy fox tail that comes from his lower back, swishing and twitching as if it's intune with his emotions (it is). People often commented on his features, calling him pretty and asking if they wanted to hang out, but Sungho had gotten used to declining, knowing that they just wanted the liberty of saying they were dating a hybrid or just wanting to know what it's like to feel hybrid parts. And as weird as that sounds, Sungho has had people touch or pull his ears and tail out of nowhere before - much to Sungho’s discomfort.
Because of this, he'd taken to pinning his ears into his hair so they are unnoticeable and wrapping his tail around his thigh when he was anywhere except his own home.
But on this particular Sunday evening, something felt different. The wooden door jingled as a new customer walked in, and Sungho glanced up, his fox-like ears flicking in slight surprise.
"Good evening!" The boy’s voice was bright and friendly, and his smile seemed effortless, like it was something he wore all the time. Sungho’s tail twitched under the counter, a reflexive movement he quickly tried to suppress.
"Evening," Sungho responded, offering a soft smile as he leaned against the counter. His eyes lingered on the boy for a moment longer than usual. There was something about him—something that felt...different.
The boy didn’t seem to notice Sungho’s hesitation, as he made his way to the counter with an easy stride. "I’ll have an iced caramel latte, please."
"Sure," Sungho replied, his fingers quickly moving to prepare the drink. He felt the boy’s gaze follow him as he worked, and though it wasn’t overt, it made him a little self-conscious. Most people didn’t pay him that much attention. But something about this boy—Taesan, as he’d introduced himself—made Sungho’s heart race just a little bit faster than usual.
As Sungho slid the drink across the counter, Taesan's smile widened. "Thanks! I’ve seen you around a few times, right? I’m Taesan, by the way."
"Yeah, I’ve worked here for a while," Sungho replied, tapping the counter. "Sungho."
"Nice to meet you, Sungho. Pretty name by the way - I swear I’ve seen you around... but you always seem so focused. It’s like you’re in your own little world."
Sungho chuckled softly, blushing a little at the compliment and he’s a little unsure how to respond. "I guess I am. I like the quiet."
Taesan took a sip of his latte, humming in approval. "It’s good. So, are you from around here?"
"Yeah. Just… keeping to myself," Sungho said, trying to keep his response vague. His fox hybrid identity was a secret he’d guarded fiercely. The last thing he wanted was for people to start asking questions he couldn’t answer.
"Well, you should come out of your shell more," Taesan said with a grin. "This place has some of the best coffee in town, but you’ve got to get to know the people who come here too. Maybe I’ll see you around more often?"
Sungho nodded, a small, reserved smile tugging at his lips. "Maybe."
As Taesan walked away to find a seat, Sungho couldn’t help but watch him for a moment. There was something magnetic about the boy, an ease that Sungho couldn’t quite place. It was as if Taesan didn’t see the world the same way as others, as if he wasn’t focused on what was hidden beneath the surface. Sungho wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or not.
The evening passed, filled with regulars and a few stragglers, and as the café began to empty out, Sungho found himself cleaning up the counter when the sound of the door jingling sounded again. Sungho looked up from where his gaze was fixed on the counter so see Taesan standing in the doorway, his head slightly tilted. "I hope I’m not interrupting, but you wouldn’t mind talking for a minute, would you? I’ve got a few questions about your coffee brewing technique."
Sungho raised an eyebrow, but the curiosity in Taesan’s expression made him pause. "Uh, sure. What’s up?"
Taesan stepped inside, his hands shoved into his jacket pockets, and leaned against the counter casually. "Well, I’ve been thinking about this for a while… You know, when you serve drinks, you always seem so serious, but there’s something about you that’s kind of… different."
Sungho’s tail twitched involuntarily at the word "different," and he quickly wrapped it tighter around his thigh.
"What do you mean by 'different'?" Sungho asked, trying to sound nonchalant.
Taesan grinned, as if something about Sungho’s reaction amused him. "I don’t know… You just seem like you’re hiding something, like you’ve got some secret. Maybe I’m just imagining things."
Sungho froze for a moment, the hair on the back of his neck standing on end. Hiding something ? It was an unsettling thought. He worked hard to keep his secret hidden and he wasn’t planning on letting it be revealed any time soon.
"I don’t think I’m hiding anything," Sungho said, his voice slightly guarded. "I’m just here to work."
"Yeah, I get it," Taesan said, his tone light and teasing. "I’m not trying to pry, though. It’s just… You’re not like the other baristas here. You seem a bit more... intense, I guess."
Sungho could feel his fox ears trying to twitch, but from where he had pinned them to his head all it was was an unnoticeable ruffle of his hair, and he quickly turned away to finish wiping down the counter, trying to steady his nerves. Intense wasn’t exactly what he was going for, but it was the best way to keep people from getting too close.
"Anyway," Taesan continued, sensing Sungho’s discomfort with the current topic, "I’m part of a group called BoyNextDoor. We perform around here a lot, so if you ever want to drop by our show, let me know. I’m sure you’d enjoy it."
Sungho looked up at him, surprised by the offer. "A performance? I don’t know… I’m not much into crowds."
"I get that," Taesan said, chuckling softly. "But if you change your mind, I’m always around."
With a final smile, Taesan waved and walked out of the café, leaving Sungho to ponder the strange encounter. There was something in the way Taesan looked at him that made him wonder if maybe, just maybe, he could trust him. But how much can I trust him? Sungho thought, his gaze lingering on the door as it closed softly behind Taesan.
Sungho went back to wiping the counters just to see a piece of paper folded up neatly below him. He picks it up, his eyes scanning the paper before he unravels it quickly, secretly curious and excited to see what it was. When he opened it fully he found a phone number written in messy but somehow neat handwriting, and he could only come up with one person who would pull this.
Taesan.
The evening was calm as Sungho walked back to his apartment after his shift at the café. The crisp air nipped at his skin, but it wasn’t enough to shake the thoughts that had been swirling around in his mind ever since Taesan had left the café. His goofy smile, that easy charm, and most of all, his offer to attend a concert. Sungho’s fingers brushed against his pocket, the slip of paper with Taesan's phone number still tucked inside. I could just toss it out, he thought as he walked, but something stopped him. Maybe it was the warmth in Taesan’s voice, or the way he hadn’t even flinched when Sungho had tried to distance himself.
The apartment was as quiet as usual when Sungho stepped inside. His small space, with its minimalist décor and neatly kept corners, felt more like a refuge from the world than a home. He gently unpinned his ears, letting them stand up straight and there the bobby pins somewhere on his floor, knowing he’d be looking for them at some point but he was honestly too tired to care. He unwrapped his tail form where it was winded around his thigh, letting it swish with the sway of his emotions. He kicked off his shoes and headed to the kitchen to prepare something for dinner. The familiar routine of chopping vegetables, heating the pan, and seasoning the food grounded him, but the thoughts of Taesan never truly left. It was as if his presence had seeped into the walls of the apartment, and every corner seemed to echo with his cheerful voice.
As the vegetables sizzled in the pan, Sungho leaned against the counter, trying to shake off the lingering thoughts. He wasn’t one to dwell on people—especially not on humans. The whole idea of letting someone in, letting them get close, felt...dangerous. He had worked so hard to build this quiet, solitary life, and Taesan’s sudden interest was unsettling, to say the least. Why would someone like him, someone so... carefree, want to befriend someone like me?
But Taesan had been different. He hadn’t pried too much, he hadn’t asked questions that made Sungho feel uncomfortable. Instead, he had just... offered an invitation, a simple gesture. Maybe that’s just his nature. He’s too nice for his own good, Sungho reasoned as he flipped the vegetables in the pan.
He scooped the cooked food onto a plate, the aroma filling the air, and sat down at his small dining table, taking a moment to eat in silence. The quiet wasn’t enough to clear his mind. Every bite felt like an effort, his thoughts drifting back to Taesan’s smile, the way his eyes sparkled when he mentioned the concert.
What if I went? Sungho found himself wondering. He hadn’t attended a concert in ages. He didn’t even really know what it would be like, but the thought of seeing Taesan again made his heart beat a little faster. Would he even enjoy the performance, or would he end up feeling awkward, standing on the sidelines? No, I’m not one to go to these kinds of things.
But the idea stuck with him. The way Taesan had offered, so casually, with no expectation or pressure. It was almost... refreshing. And yet, Sungho couldn’t bring himself to take the next step. The human world was complicated enough as it was. He couldn’t afford to let someone like Taesan get too close. After all, there were secrets he couldn’t share. The last thing he needed was to draw attention to himself.
As he finished his meal, Sungho cleaned up quickly, putting the dishes away with the same practiced ease. When everything was in order, he changed into comfortable clothes, washed his face, and prepared for bed, but still, Taesan’s goofy smile lingered in his mind. It was only when he turned off the lights and crawled into bed that he allowed himself a moment of weakness—his thoughts swirling around that smile, the kindness in Taesan’s eyes.
What if I went?
The question repeated in his mind like a drumbeat, keeping him awake longer than he’d like. He rolled over onto his side, staring at the dark ceiling. His fox ears flicked back against his head, and his tail curled beneath the covers. The more he thought about it, the harder it became to ignore the pull of curiosity that tugged at him.
Taesan had been so different from everyone else he had met. Sungho had spent most of his life hiding who he truly was, blending in with the human world. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to form connections, but rather, that he couldn’t. Not when he was different in ways people couldn’t begin to understand. The risk was too great. And yet... Taesan didn’t seem fazed by it.
He squeezed his eyes shut, wishing the thoughts would go away, but they didn’t. They only grew stronger. Maybe just one night, he thought, rolling over onto his back, staring at the ceiling. Maybe I’ll go to the concert. Just to see what it’s like. Nothing more.
Sungho’s heart raced, and he cursed himself for even considering it. He wasn’t like other people. He didn’t get to have normal relationships, normal friendships. It was too dangerous. And yet, despite his rational thoughts, the seed of doubt had already been planted. The boy with the goofy smile had made an impression—one that Sungho wasn’t sure how to shake.
As the quiet night stretched on, Sungho finally drifted off to sleep, his mind still tangled with thoughts of the concert, of Taesan, and of the part of himself he so desperately wanted to keep hidden.
The next morning, Sungho’s alarm blared, pulling him from his sleep. He groggily turned it off, rubbing his eyes as he sat up in bed. The events of last night—his thoughts, his confusion—still clung to him. He stood and stretched, shaking off the drowsiness, and went through his usual morning routine.
But as he stared at his reflection in the bathroom mirror, one thought persisted. Should I text him?
The question lingered like a whisper, and Sungho couldn’t shake it. Would Taesan even expect him to respond? Should he just let it go? But the more he thought about it, the harder it became to ignore.
The day stretched ahead of him like any other, but his mind kept returning to Taesan, that goofy smile, and the simple invitation that had thrown him off balance. Sungho had always lived a careful life, always avoiding the messiness of real human connections.
But maybe—just maybe—this time, he could afford to take a risk.
The morning light filtered softly through the blinds of Sungho’s apartment as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes. He hadn’t gotten much rest, his mind still preoccupied with thoughts of Taesan and the lingering question of whether he should take a risk and attend the concert. But as the day began, he fell back into his usual routine. He stretched, brushing the lingering doubts away like stray hairs, and made his way to the bathroom.
His reflection stared back at him, eyes a little more tired than usual, but he straightened himself out and began preparing for the day. He carefully grabbed bobby pins from his drawer, pinning his ears back in his hair to where they were unnoticeable. He pulled on his usual uniform—dark jeans - wrapping his tail around his thigh and settling it in a comfortable position, a simple shirt, and his apron to wear at the café. His hair was still a little messy from sleep, but he ran his hand through it avoiding his fox ears since they happen to be sensitive, through it and quickly pulled it into a neat, tousled style. His sharp, almost fox-like eyes caught the slightest of changes, but he didn’t care. He had done this routine hundreds of times.
Before leaving, he adjusted the collar of his shirt, making sure it was presentable enough because you never know what you could encounter during the day. He pulled his long sleeves down, rolling the cuffs just a bit, and slipped on his shoes. Stepping out the door, the crisp morning air greeted him, and Sungho set off for work, walking the familiar scenic route that had become almost second nature to him. The path was lined with trees, their vibrant green leaves dancing in the breeze, and the smell of fresh coffee from the nearby café blended into the cool air, a constant reminder of the place he’d worked for years.
Despite the beautiful surroundings, Sungho couldn’t shake the sense of monotony that seemed to hang over him today. As he entered the café, the bell above the door jingled, and the smell of fresh pastries and brewing coffee enveloped him. The usual crowd of regulars had already arrived, occupying their usual seats with their familiar orders. Sungho quickly fell into his rhythm, greeting them with practiced smiles, preparing their drinks, and serving their food with efficiency. But as the minutes passed, the day felt like it was dragging on. Nothing out of the ordinary, just the usual.
Fortunately he had been able to keep his mind off of Taesan and his offer, and it brought him some sort of piece not having to think about it
A few hours later, when the rush had finally settled down, Sungho found himself with a rare moment of peace. He had cleared his orders, and everything was calm—until he saw the opportunity to step outside for a short walk to clear his head. With a sigh, he grabbed his jacket and headed for the door, hoping the fresh air would help him shake the lingering thoughts of Taesan.
The moment his feet hit the pavement, he took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the air fill his lungs. He was a fox hybrid, after all, and nature always had a calming effect on him. Sungho made his way down the familiar streets, his mind drifting—until he suddenly froze in his tracks.
In the distance, he spotted a familiar face. It was Taesan. The same boy who had somehow wormed his way into Sungho’s thoughts. And, to Sungho’s surprise, Taesan wasn’t alone.
"Hey! Sungho!" Taesan’s voice rang out, bright and cheerful, cutting through the quiet. He waved, his smile wide and effortless. Sungho felt his heart beat a little faster, and for the first time in a long while, a wave of nervousness hit him. He hadn’t been expecting to run into Taesan outside the café, much less while he was in the middle of his break. He felt his fox ears twitch slightly under his hair, but he forced himself to stay composed.
Just behind Taesan was one of his bandmates, Leehan. He had seen him around the café a few times, always hanging back and watching Taesan with an air of amusement. The two were a dynamic pair—Leehan’s slightly sarcastic and cool demeanor in contrast to Taesan’s easy going warmth. But it was Taesan who had Sungho’s attention now.
"Hey," Taesan continued, not noticing Sungho’s brief hesitation. "I didn’t expect to run into you here! How’s work going?"
Sungho’s mouth went dry. He’s being so casual… so normal. He didn’t know how to respond. The idea of engaging with Taesan, of speaking to him in such an open way, felt so foreign. Sungho quickly glanced down at the ground, trying to avoid looking too awkward. He could feel the heat rise in his cheeks, and his fox tail twitched involuntarily. I have to get out of here.
"I—uh... I need to get back to work," Sungho stammered, his voice betraying his discomfort. He felt his ears flatten slightly, a reflex he couldn’t control. "I... I’m sorry."
Taesan blinked in surprise, then offered a soft, understanding smile. "Oh, alright. Well, maybe we can catch up later. Don't work too hard, okay?"
Sungho gave a tight, embarrassed smile before nodding. "Right. See you..." He turned quickly, avoiding eye contact, and nearly hurried back toward the café.
As he made his way back, his heart was pounding. That was stupid. He cursed himself mentally. He should have been more relaxed. But instead, he felt like he had just blown a chance to be friendly. There was no reason for him to shy away, to run. He wasn’t even sure why it had happened. He had gotten so used to keeping his distance from everyone that now, when someone made an effort to connect, he didn’t know how to handle it.
Once he was safely back inside the café, he quickly retreated to the staff room, where he could have a few minutes of quiet. He let out a deep breath, his nerves still rattling. I can’t believe I acted like that...
It didn’t take long for his break to come up, and Sungho retreated to the small, secluded corner of the café where he always sat. He leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples. He wished he could just turn off his thoughts. Why is it so hard? he asked himself. He had always been good at hiding his true nature, hiding his feelings from others, but now Taesan was making him feel... seen. It was an unfamiliar and unsettling feeling.
And when the break ended, Sungho couldn’t help but glance toward the door, half-expecting Taesan to walk in, even though he knew that would never happen. He wanted to shake off the unease, to calm his racing heart. But somehow, everything seemed more complicated now.
For once, the day felt like it was dragging on—and it was all because of Taesan.
Sungho sat at the small table in the corner of the cafe , the hum of the café in the background barely registering as his thoughts swirled around him. The nervous tension in his chest hadn’t eased, and the image of Taesan’s face as he waved goodbye kept replaying in his mind. Why did I act so weird? Sungho thought, tapping his fingers against the side of his coffee cup.
He couldn’t shake the offer from Taesan, the simple suggestion of going to the concert. What’s the worst that could happen? Sungho asked himself. It’s just a concert. I can leave if it gets uncomfortable, right?
But the more he thought about it, the more uncertain he became. A part of him didn’t want to go. He wasn’t sure how he’d handle being in such a crowd, or being around so many strangers. And then there was the issue of his hybrid identity—what if people found out about these fox features? How would they react? How would Taesan react?
Yet, despite all that, a small part of him felt the pull, the desire to take a chance. He’d spent so many years hiding and staying on the fringes. Perhaps it was time to stop running. For once, he wanted to experience something without worrying about all the things that could go wrong.
With a deep breath, Sungho pulled the crumpled piece of paper out of his back pocket. It was the small scrap Taesan had given him the other day—his number, neatly written in Taesan’s handwriting. Sungho hesitated for a moment before unlocking his phone and opening a new message.
He stared at the screen for a few seconds, fingers poised above the keyboard, unsure of how to begin. ‘ What should I say?’ he wondered. ‘ Should I sound casual? Or more polite?’
Finally, he typed out a short, simple message:
Hey, Sungho here. Just wanted to check where the concert is and what time I need to be there?
He stared at the message for a moment longer before hitting send, the nervousness rising in his chest once again. ‘ What if he thinks I’m weird? What if I sound too eager?’
The minutes felt like hours as he waited for a reply, his heart pounding in his chest. And then, finally, the notification popped up.
Taesan:
Ahhh, I’m so glad you’re coming!! 😄🎉 The concert’s at The Echo Arena! It starts at 7 pm, but we usually get there early, around 5 to meet some fans and get ready. It’d be awesome if you could come hang out!
Sungho couldn’t help but smile at the message. Taesan’s excitement was so obvious, and despite his usual hesitation, something about it made Sungho feel... warm. ‘ He’s actually happy I’m going’ , Sungho thought, feeling a flicker of relief.
But then, another message popped up from Taesan, this time a bit more unexpected.
Taesan:
Also, are you going to the fan-meeting afterwards? We’re doing a meet-and-greet thing, and it would be really cool if you could make it!
Sungho froze, his fingers hovering over the screen. The fan-meeting? he thought, his heart suddenly racing. What does that even mean? He could already feel the pressure building in his chest. The idea of being in a meet-and-greet setting, surrounded by Taesan’s fans, was enough to make him reconsider the whole thing.
I can’t do that. What if they find out I’m not just a normal guy? Sungho’s mind spiraled as images of fans crowding around him, staring at his ears, and whispering about his fox hybrid nature flooded his thoughts. His tail could easily give him away, no matter how well he tried to hide it.
He felt his anxiety building, but then, as quickly as it came, he pushed it down. I can’t overthink this, he told himself. I’m going for the concert, not for the fan-meeting. I’ll figure it out later.
So, Sungho did the one thing he knew would quiet the overthinking: he ignored the fan-meeting message. He didn’t respond, instead simply closing the conversation after Taesan’s last message.
He needed to make a decision about the concert first, and the fan-meeting was too much for him to think about right now. For now, he just needed to get there and experience the music. The rest, he would deal with later.
He placed his phone down, taking a deep breath to steady himself. Despite the anxious feelings still churning in his stomach, a sense of determination began to take hold. I’m going. I can do this.
It was a small step, but it felt big for him. For once, he was stepping out of the safe bubble he had created for himself.
And as he went back to his usual work routine, his heart felt lighter, his steps a little bolder. Tonight would be the night he took a chance. And maybe, just maybe, it would turn out to be the beginning of something he hadn’t expected.
For once, Sungho wasn’t running away. He was walking straight into the unknown, and that was something worth feeling excited about.
Sungho’s shift at the café felt like it lasted an eternity. Every minute seemed to drag, and no matter how much he tried to focus on the regulars or the monotonous rhythm of his work, his mind was always drifting back to the concert. He could already imagine the sound of the music, the crowd, and the light reflecting off the stage.
But it wasn’t just the concert that had his stomach in knots. It was the thought of being in a place full of strangers, surrounded by fans, and especially the fact that Taesan would be there. Sungho couldn’t deny that his thoughts were consumed by Taesan—the way he’d smiled that day, the excitement in his voice when he invited Sungho, and how natural Taesan seemed around him. It made him feel warm, but also a little exposed.
As the day dragged on, Sungho found himself looking at the clock more and more. Each tick of the hand felt like an eternity. He knew he had to start getting ready soon, but the idea of leaving work, stepping into the unknown, and facing what awaited him made his heart race.
Finally, the clock struck 5 pm, and the last of the customers trickled out. Sungho let out a long, shaky breath. Okay, this is it, he thought, quickly cleaning up his station and handing off his duties to the other barista. It’s time to get ready.
He hurried back to his apartment, his thoughts racing with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. As soon as he walked through the door, he tossed his keys onto the counter and took a deep breath, looking around at the quiet space that had always felt like his sanctuary. Now, however, it felt like the walls were closing in.
Sungho stripped off his work clothes, his movements quick and methodical, almost as though he was preparing for battle. He stared at his reflection in the mirror as he began to get dressed, adjusting his outfit several times. Should I look casual? Or more... put together? He ran his hand through his hair, thinking back to how Taesan had looked so effortlessly charming that day at the café.
What if I look out of place? What if I don’t look good enough?
He cursed under his breath, shaking his head at himself. Stop overthinking, he told himself firmly. He had to keep it simple. He pulled on a slightly baggy long white long sleeve hsit-knowing it would be cold that night and put on a dark grey star wars t-shirt on top of it that was also baggy. Next, he picked out a baggy pair of dark colored jeans, slipping them on and meticulously wrapping his tail around his thigh like usual, making sure it would stay hidden.
Next he moved to his head, unpinning his fox ears and letting them relax for a moment while staring at himself in the mirror, fishing his mind for the perfect hairstyle to compliment his outfit. Eventually, he decided on leaving it straight, waving the ends a tiny bit and blowing out the front pieces to give him a pretty hair look, then he grabbed his bobby pins once again and carefully pinned his ears in place - already looking forward to unpin them when he got back. He moved his hair around them, making sure his fox ears were covered so they were unnoticeable and grabbed his almost out bottle of hairspray, spraying just a little bit before setting the bottle down and smiling at himself in the mirror, feeling pretty.
Sungho picked up a pretty silver chain necklace, clasping it loosely around his neck, just to add a bit of flair to the outfit. He took a deep breath as he stared at himself in the mirror. Okay, this will do, he thought, feeling a small sense of pride. He looked good—really good, even if he was too nervous to fully enjoy the moment.
He went to the door, putting on his pair of Adidas Sambas.
The last thing he did was glance at his phone, remembering the message from Taesan. He’s probably already at the venue, Sungho thought. He quickly checked the time: it was already 6:15 pm. He was cutting it close.
I’m doing this, Sungho reminded himself, trying to steady his breathing. He wasn’t just going to the concert to watch—it was more than that. He was going because of Taesan. He was going because, for once, he wanted to feel a part of something bigger.
He opened his door, leaving before he could second guess his decision any more than he already has.
As he stepped outside, the cool evening air hit his face, and the city lights twinkled in the distance, welcoming him. He couldn’t stop the smile from creeping onto his lips, despite the nervous flutter in his chest. Here we go, he thought, taking the first step toward the concert.
The streets seemed familiar yet different as he walked his usual route, his mind constantly flashing back to the concert. But as he walked, he felt a strange sense of calm. The anxiety was still there, but it was no longer overpowering. He was finally doing something he had never done before: stepping out of his comfort zone, pushing aside the walls he’d built for himself.
Maybe this will be the start of something good, Sungho thought, making his way toward The Echo Arena.
The walk to the venue was both a familiar and new experience for Sungho. The city’s evening glow wrapped itself around him like a warm blanket, its cool, crisp air brushing against his cheeks as he walked through the quiet streets. The sounds of distant traffic hummed in the background, but it was the little things—the flickering of streetlights, the rustling of leaves in the nearby trees, the soft hum of a distant radio—that made the walk feel more personal, more intimate.
Sungho often took this route to work, but tonight it felt different. Each step seemed heavier than usual, yet also lighter. It was as if the city, which had always been a place of anonymity and solitude, had become something else. It felt like a bridge between his old, hidden life and the unknown possibilities that lay ahead.
As he walked, he found his gaze drifting toward the trees lining the sidewalks. The autumn leaves were just beginning to fall, their deep shades of red, orange, and gold swirling around in the wind. The air had a crispness to it, the kind that only comes with the changing seasons, as though the world was shedding the old to make room for something new.
This is a strange feeling, Sungho thought, watching a leaf twirl before it drifted to the ground. I’ve been here so many times, but today feels different. Today feels like a beginning.
He paused at the corner of a street, taking a moment to breathe in the fresh air. His chest tightened again, but it was no longer with dread. There was something calming about the simplicity of the world around him. The soft orange of the streetlights reflected off the wet pavement from an earlier rain, casting everything in a peaceful, muted glow. He could hear the chirp of crickets and the occasional bark of a distant dog, sounds that had always comforted him during his solitary walks.
What am I so afraid of? he wondered, walking across the quiet intersection. Why do I keep hiding? Why can’t I just let myself feel normal for once?
The thought of Taesan crossed his mind again—his face, his smile, the way he had invited Sungho so effortlessly into his world. Taesan didn’t seem to care that Sungho wasn’t like everyone else. He didn’t care about his hybrid traits, didn’t treat him differently. And that was the part that made Sungho feel both relieved and terrified.
He had spent so long hiding his true self, so long keeping his fox ears and tail hidden from the world. The people in his life had never known what he was, and it had always felt safer that way. But now, with the thought of going to the concert and meeting new people, the fear of exposure returned.
I don’t want to be seen as just the fox hybrid, Sungho thought. I want to be seen as me—Sungho. Not the guy with the ears and tail, but the person who’s just... normal. Just like everyone else.
The thought was liberating yet terrifying. What if he couldn’t hide it? What if someone noticed?
He took another deep breath, his thoughts racing once again, but he didn’t stop walking. The rhythm of his steps seemed to settle his mind, one foot in front of the other, as if each stride was taking him further away from his fears. The city had a way of feeling like a safe haven—its busy streets, its crowded corners, the anonymity it offered. But for once, Sungho was walking toward something new, something that might take him beyond the edges of his comfort zone.
As he neared The Echo Arena, the lights grew brighter, more vibrant. The crowd gathered outside, chatting excitedly, waiting in line to get inside. The energy in the air was palpable—electric, charged with anticipation. For a brief moment, Sungho felt a pang of doubt. Am I really ready for this?
But then he remembered Taesan’s smile, the way he’d looked at Sungho with genuine excitement and warmth, and suddenly the doubt faded.
I’m here. And I’m going to enjoy this, Sungho thought, pushing aside the last of his hesitation. This is something I’ve never done before. I’m not going to let my fears hold me back.
The arena loomed ahead, its large sign glowing brightly in the fading light. Sungho felt the air grow warmer with the excitement of the crowd, the buzz of anticipation palpable as he joined the line. He could feel the flutter of nerves in his chest, but this time, it wasn’t fear—it was excitement.
As he stepped into the venue, the sound of voices and music grew louder. The smell of popcorn and other snacks wafted through the air, mixing with the scent of fresh rain still lingering outside. Sungho couldn’t help but smile, finally feeling the thrill of something new.
Maybe tonight will be the night I stop hiding, Sungho thought as he entered the arena. Maybe tonight will be the night I let myself just... be.
Sungho’s heart raced as he made his way into the venue, carefully maneuvering through the excited crowd. The energy in the air was electrifying, and he couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement building up in his chest. The noise from the fans was deafening, and the flashing lights from the stage cast a colorful glow across the room. He stepped through the entrance, scanning the area for a place to stand.
Without hesitation, Sungho found a spot near the front, the first row, and he gently made his way through the crowd. People turned to glance at him but quickly returned their attention to the stage. He breathed a sigh of relief and stood there, silently waiting for the concert to start, his fingers lightly twitching with anticipation. His heart beat faster than usual, and the nerves crept back again, though it was an exciting kind of nervousness, not fear.
A hush slowly fell over the crowd as the lights dimmed. A murmur of excitement ran through the fans, and Sungho could feel the tension building as everyone waited for the show to begin. His eyes scanned the stage as the last few people took their positions. Then, the music started.
The lights flashed brightly, and the K-pop group BoyNextDoor walked up onto the stage. The crowd erupted into cheers. Sungho’s breath caught in his throat as he saw Taesan leading the group. His heart skipped a beat—Taesan looked incredible, his white outfit glittering under the lights. The other four members, Riwoo, Jaehyun, Leehan, and Wonhak, stood behind him, their flashy white outfits complementing Taesan’s, each holding a different colored microphone. They smiled and waved at the fans, and for a moment, everything felt surreal to Sungho.
Taesan… Sungho thought, his gaze fixed on him. The way he stood on stage, so confident and yet so effortlessly charming, made Sungho’s heart flutter. His goofy, radiant smile shone even brighter under the lights, and there was an undeniable warmth to his presence. The way Taesan looked at the fans, the way he moved—everything about him seemed so natural, so full of life.
Sungho couldn’t tear his eyes away. He was mesmerized.
The music started to play, the beat thumping in Sungho’s chest, and the group began to sing and dance with flawless precision. Sungho was transfixed by their movements, the synchronization so perfect it seemed almost unreal. The music surged through the speakers, and the crowd sang along, their energy amplifying with each note. But amidst it all, Taesan stood out to Sungho.
As Taesan sang, his voice filled the room, clear and smooth, and his movements flowed with the music. Sungho couldn’t help but feel like he was the only one in the room who could see just how incredible Taesan truly was. His presence was magnetic, and Sungho couldn’t help but admire the way he commanded the stage. Taesan was in his element, radiating confidence and charm, and Sungho felt his chest tighten with admiration.
Taesan’s POV
From the moment the concert began, Taesan was in his element. The energy of the crowd, the music blasting through the speakers, and the synchronized movements with his bandmates—it was all exhilarating. He felt alive, alive in a way he only did when he was on stage performing. The fans’ cheers and excitement fueled him, and every note he sang felt like magic.
But as the song began, Taesan couldn’t shake the feeling that there was someone in the crowd who had his attention more than the rest. He had always thought Sungho was intriguing. The quiet, mysterious aura Sungho carried with him was magnetic, and Taesan had found himself drawn to him more and more. And beyond that, Sungho was gorgeous. Taesan had always noticed how beautiful he was, and now, seeing him in the front row, Taesan’s heart raced a little faster.
As the performance went on, Taesan couldn’t help himself. He subtly glanced around, his eyes searching through the sea of faces, until they finally landed on Sungho. When their gazes met, Taesan’s heart skipped a beat. Sungho was staring at him with wide, curious eyes, those cute fox-like eyes, glistening under the stage lights. The way Sungho looked at him was so pure, so innocent, and yet, so full of admiration.
Taesan’s smile grew brighter, and for a moment, the world seemed to slow down. Sungho’s eyes sparkled with curiosity, and Taesan could tell how fascinated he was, his gaze not leaving him for a second. He looked adorable, standing there with his cute outfit, looking up at Taesan with a mix of awe and shyness.
Taesan’s chest tightened with affection. He could feel a warmth spread through him, a quiet yearning that had been building ever since he first met Sungho. And at that moment, he realized something he hadn’t allowed himself to fully acknowledge before. He was completely whipped for Sungho.
Taesan’s thoughts spun, but he quickly refocused on the performance, knowing he couldn’t get distracted. Still, he stole a few more glances in Sungho’s direction whenever he could, his smile widening every time their eyes met.
Sungho’s POV
Sungho couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Taesan, the boy who had captured his thoughts so many times, was standing on stage, singing and dancing with his bandmates. There was a grace to his movements, a natural elegance that Sungho couldn’t help but admire. His voice was incredible, smooth and rich, and it sent a shiver down Sungho’s spine. He had always known Taesan was talented, but seeing him like this, performing in front of so many people, only made Sungho respect him more.
But it wasn’t just the performance that had Sungho captivated. It was Taesan himself—his confidence, the way he lit up the stage, the way his smile seemed to stretch from ear to ear. Every time their eyes met, Sungho’s heart would race just a little faster. There was something so comforting about the way Taesan looked at him, as though nothing in the world mattered except for the two of them in that moment.
Sungho’s gaze remained fixed on Taesan, mesmerized by the boy’s every move. For once, he didn’t feel the need to hide. He didn’t have to worry about his hybrid nature or his fox ears and tail. All that mattered in this moment was Taesan, standing there with a microphone in hand, singing his heart out, and Sungho couldn’t tear his eyes away.
The concert continued, and Sungho’s senses were overloaded with excitement. The thumping beat of the music vibrated through the floor, and he could feel it pulse through his chest with each note. The lights flashed in different colors, illuminating the performers and casting shifting shadows on the crowd, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. His eyes were glued to Taesan, but the energy of the crowd around him was also infectious, making his heart race faster.
Sungho tried his best to focus, but his thoughts kept drifting back to Taesan. He was so captivated by him—by the way he moved, by the way he interacted with the crowd. Every time Taesan caught his eye, Sungho felt a wave of warmth spread through him, and his cheeks flushed. But there was also the constant reminder in the back of his mind of what he had to hide.
His fox ears, usually so sensitive to sound and movement, were carefully pinned down beneath his hair. He’d taken extra care today to conceal them, using bobby pins to keep them flush against his scalp. He couldn’t afford to let them slip out and be noticed—he didn’t want to be different, not in a crowd like this. His tail, too, was tucked tightly around his thigh, secured snugly with a little belt he’d fashioned to keep it in place. It felt uncomfortable, but it was necessary.
The last thing Sungho wanted was to draw attention to himself—especially not when Taesan was around. He wanted to be seen as just another fan, just another person lost in the music. But every now and then, he could feel his tail twitch restlessly in response to the rhythm, itching to move as it usually did when he was excited. He pressed his legs together tighter, trying to hold it still.
The performance surged on, and Sungho couldn’t help but get swept up in it. Taesan’s energy was infectious, his movements so fluid as he danced with the group. Sungho couldn’t stop watching him, mesmerized by the way Taesan commanded the stage. There was something so graceful about him, so confident, and it made Sungho’s heartbeat a little faster every time their eyes locked. It was like Taesan had the ability to see straight through him, and Sungho wondered if the other boy could sense his unease.
For a fleeting moment, Sungho couldn’t help but wonder what Taesan would think if he saw through the act—the pinned-down ears, the tightly wrapped tail. Would he still smile at him the way he did on stage? Would he still look at him with that warm, soft expression that made Sungho feel like he could almost let go of everything? He quickly shook the thought away. He wasn’t ready to let anyone into that part of his life. Not yet.
As the music swirled around him, Sungho finally let himself lose some of the tension that had been building up. His body swayed along with the beat, his feet tapping to the rhythm as he let the music guide him. He couldn’t help but smile a little—this was what he had come for, wasn’t it? To enjoy Taesan’s performance, to be a part of this experience.
But his smile grew even wider when he saw Taesan glance at him again. Their eyes met, and for a brief moment, Sungho felt as though the whole world had narrowed down to just the two of them. The noise of the concert seemed to fade, and all Sungho could hear was his own heartbeat and the soft whisper of Taesan’s voice in his head. It was like Taesan was singing just for him, the intensity of the performance heightening with every note. Sungho’s breath caught in his throat.
Focus , he reminded himself, but it was hard to.
Every now and then, Sungho’s attention would drift to the other band members—Riwoo, Jaehyun, Leehan, and Wonhak—but his thoughts always seemed to return to Taesan. He was radiant, a shining star in the spotlight. He danced effortlessly, his smile never fading, and there was an undeniable sense of joy in his every movement. Sungho couldn’t help but feel a pang of longing. Taesan looked so at home, so alive, and Sungho couldn’t remember the last time he had felt like that.
But even as the concert progressed, and the music pulsed through him, his nerves remained. The crowd was loud, the atmosphere electric, and yet Sungho felt himself retreating inwardly. He was always on the edge of being noticed, always holding back from letting himself truly enjoy the moment. His tail, pressed tightly against his thigh, still made him uncomfortable. He wanted to let it out, to move it freely like the others around him were moving. But he couldn’t. Not yet.
The moment was interrupted as the music shifted, the tempo slowing down, and the light on Taesan dimmed slightly, giving him a moment to catch his breath. Sungho took this opportunity to relax his grip on his tail, just for a second, but even that small change felt like a relief.
Taesan’s voice soared through the venue, full of passion, and the fans responded with fervor. Sungho’s gaze locked onto him again, and despite the swirl of anxiety inside him, he couldn’t look away. There was something about the way Taesan sang—something that made Sungho feel like maybe, just maybe, he could belong in this world too. Maybe he wasn’t so different after all.
He didn’t know how long he stood there, caught in the magic of the performance, lost in the music and the boy on stage. But when the final note was sung and the lights dimmed for the last time, Sungho realized he hadn’t just been watching Taesan perform. He had been living in the moment, experiencing it in a way he hadn’t allowed himself to in a long time.
And as the crowd erupted into applause, Sungho joined them, clapping along with everyone else, his heart a little fuller than before. His tail gave a small, pleased flick behind him, and though it remained tucked around his leg, Sungho didn’t mind it so much now.
This was what it felt like to truly connect with something—someone. Even if it was just for a moment.
The concert had ended too soon. The lights had dimmed, and the crowd was buzzing with excitement and the hum of whispered conversations, but all Sungho could think was how quickly the night had passed. The music, the energy, the connection with Taesan—it had all felt like a dream. But now, as the last echoes of the performance lingered in the air, Sungho felt a sense of disappointment settle in.
He pouted slightly, his lower lip sticking out just enough to make him look almost… cute. He didn’t want the moment to end; the thought of leaving and heading back to his ordinary life felt like a letdown. He was still lost in the afterglow of Taesan’s performance, replaying every smile, every glance, every beat in his head, when he heard it.
"Sungho!"
The sound of his name, shouted with unmistakable excitement, broke him from his thoughts. He knew exactly who it was. He turned, and there he was—Taesan, running toward him with that same goofy, infectious grin. Sungho’s heart skipped a beat as Taesan closed the distance between them.
Before Sungho could even register the motion, Taesan wrapped his arms around Sungho’s waist in a tight, enthusiastic hug.
Sungho froze, his body stiffening in surprise at the sudden contact. His fox ears, still pinned securely beneath his hair, twitched involuntarily, and his tail flicked nervously against his thigh. But despite the initial shock, he quickly relaxed. His arms gently encircled Taesan, returning the hug in his own soft, innocent way, a little unsure but not hesitant.
For a moment, everything felt warm and comforting, and the rest of the world seemed to fade away. There was something so simple, so pure about the way Taesan held him, and it made Sungho feel like maybe he didn’t need to hide after all.
"Hey, I’m so glad you came!" Taesan grinned as he pulled back, his hands resting on Sungho’s shoulders as he looked up at him, his eyes sparkling with joy. "Did you enjoy the concert?"
Sungho’s heart thumped in his chest, but he nodded softly. "Yeah, it was… amazing," he said, his voice a little quieter than usual. He smiled, though, his eyes betraying his feelings. "You guys were great."
Before he could say anything else, Taesan’s bandmates caught up to him, walking toward them with wide smiles. Sungho’s nerves started to creep up again. He quickly adjusted his hair, trying to make sure his ears stayed hidden. He didn’t want to draw attention to himself, especially not in front of these people.
"Hey!" Taesan called to them. "Guys, this is Sungho. He’s the one I told you about—the one I met at the café."
Sungho blinked, a little taken aback. "You—" He didn’t know what to say. He hadn’t realized Taesan had mentioned him to his bandmates, but it was oddly endearing to hear.
The group stopped in front of him, each of them giving Sungho a friendly nod and a warm smile.
"Nice to meet you!" Riwoo greeted first, extending his hand. "I’ve heard a lot about you already."
"Yeah, Taesan’s been talking about you," Jaehyun chimed in with a wink. "Good to finally put a face to the name."
Leehan gave Sungho a curious look, then smiled softly. "It’s always nice to meet new people," he said warmly.
Wonhak, standing just a little off to the side, offered a friendly wave. "Glad to have you here," he added with a casual smile.
Sungho’s heart raced in his chest, but to his surprise, the conversation was much easier than he’d anticipated. He was expecting to be a nervous mess, fumbling over his words, but instead, he felt oddly at ease. Each of the band members seemed genuinely kind and welcoming, and they didn’t treat him like some stranger or a fan who didn’t belong.
They made small talk, asking about his day, how long he’d been in the city, and even joking about the café where he worked. Sungho was surprised at how effortlessly the conversation flowed. He answered their questions shyly, his soft voice still betraying his usual quiet nature, but his nerves were beginning to melt away with each passing moment.
Taesan stayed close by, his presence steady and reassuring. Every time their eyes met, Sungho felt a warmth rise in his chest, and the tension in his body slowly faded.
"How’s the café business?" Leehan asked, leaning in a little, genuinely interested.
"It’s good," Sungho replied, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Pretty quiet most days, but I like it. It’s nice having a place to just… be."
"Sounds like a peaceful life," Riwoo commented, his gaze shifting to Taesan. "You should take him out to see the sights sometime. I bet he’d like it."
"Definitely," Taesan agreed with an enthusiastic nod. "We’ll all go! You should join us, Sungho."
Sungho nodded, though his thoughts were a little elsewhere. The idea of spending more time with them, especially with Taesan, was a bit overwhelming, but he was curious. Curiosity was something he hadn’t felt much of in recent years.
Taesan’s eyes sparkled as he continued to chat with his bandmates, but every now and then, his gaze would drift back to Sungho, and his smile would soften, just slightly. There was something about the way he looked at him that made Sungho’s chest flutter in ways he wasn’t prepared for. He had always felt like an outsider, hiding his true self from everyone, but with Taesan, he didn’t feel so alone anymore. Maybe, just maybe, this was the beginning of something new.
As the conversation continued, Sungho found himself thinking less about his pinned-down ears or his tightly wrapped tail. The tension that had held him captive for so long began to dissolve. For the first time in a while, he felt like he could just breathe.