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The hallway outside the vocal rooms was quiet, the usual hush that settled over the company building in the late afternoon. Only the faint buzz of the overhead lights and the distant echo of a piano from somewhere deeper in the halls remained.
Han stepped out first, the heavy door clicking shut behind him. A worn notebook was tucked securely beneath one arm, its pages filled with scribbled lyrics and melody notations he'd spent the last hour polishing under his vocal coach's sharp but encouraging eye. The tune still lingered somewhere in the back of his mind, looping gently like a half remembered dream.
He started down the hallway at a slow pace, sneakers scuffing lightly against the floor. The day's long hours were beginning to catch up to him, a quiet tiredness settled into his shoulders, making them feel just a little heavier, while a faint growl of hunger twisted in his stomach. He hadn't eaten much since lunch, too focused on hitting those tricky high notes without straining his voice. The thought of raiding the dorm fridge later brought a small, weary smile to his lips, but for now he just kept walking, letting the cool air of the corridor brush against his flushed cheeks.
"Hani!"
He didn't even have to look up. The voice was too familiar, bright and teasing in that unmistakable way.
"Woongki hyung." Han replied softly, his steps slowing as he finally lifted his gaze.
Woongki was already making his way toward him from the opposite end of the hall, hands clasped casually behind his back like he was hiding something. That smile played across his face, the one that always meant trouble was brewing just beneath the surface, playful and teasing.
Woongki came to a smooth stop right in front of him, close enough that Han could see the mischievous glint sparkling in his eyes. His eyebrows raised just a fraction, lips curved in that lopsided grin that screamed he was up to no good but wasn't about to admit it yet. He rocked back on his heels once, clearly enjoying the way Han's posture stiffened in anticipation.
Han sighed, shifting his notebook to the other arm as a familiar mix of fondness and wariness washed over him. "What did you do?"
"I didn't do anything." Woongki said innocently, though the grin only widened, showing a flash of teeth.
"Yet." Han added dryly, already feeling the first hints of nerves prickling at the back of his neck.
Woongki's grin grew even more, bright and dangerous in the dim hallway light. Han was beginning to feel a little scared, the kind of feeling that came with knowing his hyung's schemes usually ended in either chaotic laughter or extra practice hours. Or both. But even as the tiredness tugged at him and his stomach grumbled again, he couldn't help the tiny spark of curiosity that flickered to life. Whatever Woongki had planned, it was probably going to make this long day a whole lot more interesting.
Instead of answering right away, Woongki simply held out his left hand with a dramatic little flourish, palm facing up like he was presenting the world's greatest treasure.
A cheap pink plastic ring sat snugly around his ring finger, the kind of thing you might win at a carnival or grab from a street vendor for a few coins. The print had already started fading around the edges, but the tiny picture of Bo Peep from Toy Story was still perfectly visible, her shepherdess dress and cheerful smile staring back at them in all its glossy, childish glory.
Han blinked slowly, his tired brain taking a moment to process the sight. The faint hunger in his stomach and the lingering ache in his shoulders from vocal practice suddenly felt very far away. "What's that?"
Woongki's smile somehow widened even further, eyes crinkling with pure delight as he tilted his hand a little to catch the hallway light.
"I saw them yesterday." He began, his voice warm and full of that excited storytelling energy he always got when he latched onto something silly. "I was walking around the park with Zhangshu, after schedules. We were just wandering around, then we stumbled on this whole row of little stands selling all sorts of cheap stuff! And there were these two vendors right next to each other with trays full of these plastic rings. And I couldn't help it. They looked so cute!"
Han titled his head. “They?”
"They came in pair." Woongki nodded after a beat, his tone turning just a touch more playful.
Only then did he reveal his other hand, which had been tucked behind his back the whole time. Resting in his open palm was the matching ring, bright blue this time, with Woody printed boldly across the top, hat and all, looking every bit as cheerfully plastic and nostalgic as its pink counterpart.
Han stared at it. Then at Woongki. "I'm not putting that on my finger."
"I didn't even ask yet!" Woongki protested, though his eyes were sparkling with laughter he was barely holding back.
"You were about to."
Woongki puffed out his cheeks in that exaggerated pout he always pulled when things weren't going exactly his way. "You're mean."
"And yet you're still talking to me." Han replied, a small, tired smile tugging at the corners of his lips despite himself.
"Because you're my Woody!" Woongki said sweetly, the words soft and affectionate as he held the blue ring out a little closer, like an offering he already knew would be impossible to refuse forever.
The casual possessiveness in that simple phrase hit Han with a sudden warm flush creeping up his neck and into his cheeks. It made his heart do a silly little skip, leaving him flustered in the quiet, embarrassing way he could never quite hide around Woongki.
He shifted on his feet, trying to play it off even as the tiredness in his body mixed with this new, fluttering feeling.
"I'm not Woody."
"You literally dressed as Woody at the fansign!" Woongki shot back without missing a beat, clearly enjoying himself far too much.
"Because I was forced to."
"But you looked so cute though!"
Han scoffed. "I looked ridiculous."
"You looked ridiculous and cute!" Woongki corrected, his grin turning impossibly fond.
Han rubbed a hand over his face, letting out a long, defeated breath as the memories of that fansign came rushing back in vivid color. "Can we stop talking about that?"
"Only if you put this ring on!" Woongki took another step closer, extending the second ring toward him with eager insistence. "Come on, just say yes!"
Han stared at Woongki’s pleading face, taking in the wide, hopeful eyes and the way his hyung’s shoulders leaned forward just a little, like the whole world might tilt if Han said no. He almost caved right then, the combination of exhaustion and that earnest expression pulling at something soft inside his chest.
"Hyung..."
"It'll be fun!"
"For who? For you–"
"It'll make me happy." Woongki interrupted gently, his voice dropping into that sweet, coaxing tone that always worked a little too well with Han.
The younger looked at him fully then, caught in the gentle pout of Woongki’s lips and the steady, affectionate stare that seemed to see right through every excuse he could've made in that moment.
That simple statement, paired with the way Woongki’s eyes held his without wavering, made him feel weak in the knees. He finally relented with a quiet sigh, shoulders slumping in surrender.
"For how long?”
Woongki jumped a few times happily, his whole face lighting up like a kid who had just won a prize. "Just today."
Han let out a quiet breath through his nose, a mix of amusement and lingering tiredness softening the sound as he gave in to the inevitable. He reached out slowly, his hand moving almost on its own.
"Give it here."
Woongki squealed so brightly that the sound echoed down the quiet hallway, drawing curious glances from a couple of staff members walking by in the distance. Han pretended not to notice, keeping his eyes fixed firmly on the ridiculous blue ring instead of the growing embarrassment warming his cheeks.
Carefully, Woongki took Han's hand in his own. His fingers were warm, gentle in a way that made Han's pulse skip just a little as they wrapped around his. The plastic ring slid over Han's fingertip with a little resistance, snug and unyielding at first.
"Hm." Woongki frowned, tilting his head as he examined it closely. "It's... a little tight."
"Yeah, 'cause they're for children under 10 years old." Han muttered, though there was no real heat behind the words.
Woongki ignored him completely and gently twisted the ring over Han's knuckle with patient care, his touch light and focused.
"There!"
Han flexed his fingers experimentally, feeling the cheap plastic settle against his skin. The Woody print sat neatly at the top of his finger, bold and cartoonish under the hallway lights. He glanced over at Woongki's hand, where the matching pink Bo Peep ring gleamed back at him. They really were matching, silly and obvious for anyone who bothered to look.
"Happy?" Han asked softly, his voice carrying a hint of fondness.
"Very!" Woongki replied, his smile bright and unwavering.
Han shook his head, unable to hide the tiny, helpless smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "You're stubborn."
"I know."
A beat passed, comfortable and quiet in the empty hallway.
The ring felt tight on his finger, pressing uncomfortably against his skin in a way that started to incommodate him. It was a constant, slightly annoying squeeze that reminded him with every small movement just how cheap and unyielding the plastic was. Han reached to take the ring back off, giving it a casual tug.
It didn't move.
He frowned, brow furrowing as he pulled a little harder.
Nothing.
Woongki tilted his head, watching with innocent curiosity. "What?"
"It won't come off."
The smile slipped from Woongki's face in an instant. "What? You said you'll wear it for a day."
Han ignored him, trying again, twisting his hand and pulling more firmly this time. The ring stayed exactly where it was, stubborn and unmoving. He looked up slowly, a flicker of unease settling in his chest.
"I think..." He tugged once more, harder. "...it's stuck."
Woongki blinked, eyes widening. "No way."
"You can try."
Woongki immediately grabbed Han's hand with both of his own, his hold warm and careful. "Okay, don't panic."
"I'm not panicking."
"You're panicking." Woongki said softly, because he could feel the slight tremble in Han's hands, the subtle shake that betrayed his growing worry even if his voice stayed steady.
He pulled. Twisted. Tried lifting it carefully over the knuckle with focused determination.
It was in vain.
Han pulled his hand back gently and tried himself a few more times, fingers working at the stubborn plastic with increasing frustration, turning his hand this way and that under the hallway lights.
"Oh."
Han looked up. "Oh?"
"Mine won't come off either…"
Sure enough, Woongki was now struggling just as much with the Bo Peep ring, his own fingers pulling and twisting at the pink plastic with a look of dawning surprise on his face.
For several minutes, the two of them stood right there in the middle of the company hallway, tugging at each other's fingers and trying every possible angle they could think of, their movements growing more frantic as the cheap plastic refused to cooperate. Neither ring budged even a little.
Then–
"Hani! Woongki!"
Steven's voice echoed down the hallway, clear and surprised.
"There you are. Dance practice starts in two minutes. What are you two doing?"
Han and Woongki froze on the spot.
Slowly, they looked down at their joined hands, still tangled together from all the struggling. Then they looked at each other, eyes wide with the same dawning realization.
"Don't say anything." Han muttered under his breath, cheeks already heating up.
Woongki bit his lip, clearly failing to suppress the grin that wanted to break free. "I wasn't going to."
"You were."
Steven slowed to a stop a few paces away, his practice bag slung casually over one shoulder as he took in the scene with a raised eyebrow.
"What's going on?"
"Nothing!" Han answered immediately, a little too fast to sound believable.
Steven looked between them, thoroughly unconvinced, his gaze sharp and curious. "Right..."
He took another step forward, adjusting the strap of his bag.
"Practice starts in–"
His eyes drifted downward.
To their hands.
Han reacted almost instinctively, curling his left hand into a tight fist and shoving it behind his back in a desperate attempt to hide it.
Too late.
Steven's eyebrows lifted high. "Are those matching rings?"
Woongki beamed, unable to hold back his excitement any longer. "They're Toy Story rings, hyung!”
Han wanted to disappear into the floor, the heat of embarrassment crawling steadily up his neck as he stood there exposed under Steven's amused stare.
Steven blinked once. Then twice. "Why?"
Woongki held up his hand proudly, the tiny image of Bo Peep catching the fluorescent lights and gleaming with childish innocence. "Because Han was Woody at the fansign."
"I was forced to be Woody." Han muttered for what felt like the hundredth time that week, his voice low and tired.
"And he looked adorable!" Woongki gushed over the memory, his eyes sparkling with genuine fondness.
Steven let out a quiet laugh, shaking his head in disbelief. "So... you bought matching rings."
"They came in a pair!" Woongki said, as though that explained everything perfectly.
Han sighed deeply, shoulders slumping under the weight of the day's exhaustion and this new ridiculous situation. "They're stuck."
Steven frowned, stepping a little closer. "Stuck?"
"We can't take them off." Woongki nodded solemnly.
"We've tried to take them off for ten minutes."
Steven looked at Han's finger, then at Woongki's, his expression shifting from confusion to barely contained amusement. "Seriously?"
Han merely held up his hand in silent defeat, the blue Woody ring sitting stubbornly on his finger like it belonged there.
Steven couldn't stop the grin that spread across his face. "I've got to admit… that's kind of funny."
Han stared at him flatly. "It isn't."
"It'll be funny later when the rest of the boys see it." Steven added with a knowing look.
Woongki nodded enthusiastically, clearly thrilled at the prospect.
Steven chuckled again before clapping both of them on the shoulders, warm and encouraging. "Come on. If we stand here any longer, the others are going to come looking for us."
Han's expression turned mildly horrified at the thought.
Woongki and Steven started walking ahead together, chatting lightly as they headed down the hallway toward the practice room. Han stood there for one second longer, staring down at the ridiculous ring on his finger with a mix of resignation and quiet panic fluttering in his chest, before he let out a small breath and hurried after them, sneakers scuffing softly against the floor.
The practice room was already buzzing with energy by the time they arrived, the air thick with the familiar mix of sweat, excitement, and the faint scent of floor cleaner. Music poured loudly from the speakers, filling every corner of the space with a pulsing beat that made the walls seem alive. Some of the members were stretching near the mirrors, their reflections copying every bend and reach, while others sat scattered on the cool floor, chatting and laughing between themselves in easy voices.
Han's first priority was simple. Hide.
He kept his head down and quietly slipped toward the back of the room, moving as casually as he could manage. His left hand stayed tucked deep into the pocket of his oversized hoodie, the fabric warm and safe around his fingers. He tried to make it look natural, like he was just adjusting something or resting his arm. If nobody noticed, everything would be fine. Just fine.
"Hani!"
Han looked up, his heart giving a quick, nervous jump. Woongki was waving him over with a bright smile, his arm moving happily through the air. With his left hand. The one that had the Bo Peep ring shining clearly on his finger, catching the light from the overhead lamps every time it moved.
Han stared, a rush of heat creeping up his neck. Please stop moving your hand. The words echoed loudly in his head, but he couldn't say them out loud.
Woongki waved again, even more enthusiastically this time. "Hani, come here!"
Han swallowed hard and walked over anyway, forcing his feet to move even though every step felt too heavy. He kept his left hand hidden as best he could, hoping the hoodie pocket would be enough to keep things secret for a little longer.
But then, the choreographer called everyone into formation before anyone could ask questions, his voice cutting through the chatter like a command. For the first twenty minutes, Han almost allowed himself to believe they had gotten away with it. The music took over, the steps pulled his focus, and the worry faded into the background of sweat and breath and rhythm. Almost.
Until there was a short break.
As soon as the music stopped, the room filled with the sound of relieved sighs and shuffling feet. Everyone scattered toward the water bottles lined up neatly against the wall, grabbing them with tired hands and chatting again in small groups.
Han reached for his own water bottle, his fingers brushing the cool plastic.
So did Woongki. At the exact same time.
Their hands bumped together in a clumsy little collision, skin brushing against skin for a brief second. Woongki laughed, bright and easy, like it was nothing at all. Han muttered a quiet apology, his voice barely above a whisper as he pulled his hand back quickly, trying to hide it again.
And that was when Shuaibo noticed.
"Hold on."
His voice came from a few feet away, cutting through the light chatter around them. Heads turned almost instinctively, curious eyes shifting toward the two of them.
"What are those?" Shuaibo asked, his tone full of surprise.
Han froze on the spot, his heart suddenly pounding hard in his chest.
Woongki looked down at his hand with an innocent expression. "What?"
"The rings!" Shuaibo said, pointing.
Silence fell over the group, thick and heavy.
Juwon stepped closer, squinting as he leaned in for a better look. "Wait." His eyes darted from Han's hand to Woongki's, back and forth. "Are those matching?"
Han felt every muscle in his body tense up, a wave of nervousness washing over him as he stood there, exposed. His left hand suddenly felt too heavy.
Woongki, meanwhile, looked positively delighted, his face lighting up with a big, happy smile.
"They're Woody and Bo Peep!”
There was a beat of silence, then laughter broke out, filling the practice room with loud, cheerful sounds.
"Oh my God." JL said, his voice full of amusement.
"No way!" Jeongwoo added, shaking his head with a grin.
"Whose idea was this?" Shuaibo asked again, still staring at their hands.
Woongki raised his hand without a shred of shame, his face bright and proud. "Mine."
"Should've known." Daisuke snorted with a small smile, crossing his arms.
Chihen leaned in for a closer look before bursting into laughter. "Hani hyung actually agreed?"
Every pair of eyes in the room landed on Han at once. His ears burned hot with embarrassment. "I made a mistake…" He mumbled, wishing the floor would swallow him up.
Woongki gasped dramatically, placing a hand over his heart. "You did not! You made my day!"
Han looked anywhere but at him, his cheeks feeling warmer by the second. The room dissolved into teasing, the members throwing playful comments back and forth like it was the best entertainment of the day. Daisuke joked that they looked like elementary school best friends. JL asked, with genuine curiosity, if they were planning to exchange friendship bracelets next.
Woongki laughed along with everyone else, clearly enjoying every moment.
Han buried his face in one hand, trying to hide. He could feel the Woody ring pressing lightly against his finger, a constant, impossible to ignore reminder. He stole the briefest glance toward Woongki.
He was still smiling. Bright enough to light up the entire practice room.
At least one of them was enjoying this...
Han looked away before anyone could catch him staring.
The choreographer clapped his hands loudly, his voice cutting through the laughter and chatter. "Alright, break's over! Back into formation, everyone. Let's pick up where we left off."
The music started again, filling the room with its steady beat, and the members quickly moved back to their spots.
Han felt a wave of relief wash over him. He was so thankful for the distraction, for the way the dance pulled everyone's attention away from him and the rings. He threw himself into the steps, letting the rhythm carry him and push the embarrassment to the back of his mind.
After that, practice dragged on for almost two hours more, sweat and exhaustion mixing together until everyone was worn out. By the time it ended, Han's left ring finger had turned a concerning shade of pink, the skin looking tight and irritated under the plastic ring.
He stared at it quietly as they filed out of the practice room, the cool air of the hallway brushing against his heated skin.
"I think it's getting tighter." Han said softly, approaching Woongki as they started the walk back to the dorms.
The older man had been humming happily for most of the walk, his mood light and cheerful. He immediately reached for Han's hand without hesitation. "Let me see."
Han didn't pull away. He let Woongki take his hand gently, feeling the warmth of the other boy's fingers.
Woongki turned Han's hand over in his own, his brows knitting together in concern as he looked closely. "Oh. It really is."
"I told you." Han replied with a small sigh.
"I'm sorry." Woongki said, his voice soft and genuine.
Han sighed again. "It'll come off eventually."
They resumed walking side by side, their shoulders brushing every now and then whenever Woongki drifted a little too close. Neither of them mentioned the teasing from practice, the playful words still lingering in the air between them. Han caught Woongki glancing down at their hands more than once, a quiet smile playing on his lips.
They finally arrived at the dorm after what felt like a long ride, the familiar building lights welcoming them as the group shuffled outside the vans, tired but still buzzing from the day.
The dorm was louder than usual, filled with the sounds of laughter and clattering plates. JL had ordered fried chicken, the savory smell drifting through the air and making the whole place feel warm and comforting. Juwon was already arguing with Daisuke over which sauce was better, their voices rising in playful debate, while Shuaibo wandered into the kitchen looking for a drink, opening cabinets with a tired yawn.
Han barely registered any of it. The noise felt distant, like it was happening to someone else.
"I'm going to the bathroom." He muttered, keeping his head down as he slipped away from the group.
Woongki nodded, his eyes still soft with concern. "Need help?"
"With washing my hands?" Han replied, a hint of disbelief in his voice. He disappeared into the hallway before Woongki could stop him or say anything more.
Han let out a long breath. He felt a little bit annoyed with everything that had piled up today. The teasing from practice still echoed in his head, making his cheeks warm with leftover embarrassment. The rigorous dance practice had left his muscles aching, and the long vocal lesson before that had made his throat feel raw and tired.
On top of it all, the pain in his ring finger was getting worse, throbbing steadily now like a constant reminder. The skin was red and swollen, and every small movement sent a sharp twinge through his hand. All of it was building up inside him, heavy and overwhelming. Right now, all he wanted was to get the ring off already, to have one less thing pressing down on him.
The bathroom door clicked shut behind him, closing off the noisy chatter from the rest of the dorm and leaving him with nothing but the quiet for company. He turned on the tap, letting the warm water run gently over his hands, the steady stream soothing against his tired skin. He reached for the soap and gave it one pump, then another, working carefully around the stubborn ring. His fingers moved slowly, twisting the plastic little by little, trying to loosen its tight grip.
"Come on..." He whispered under his breath, his voice full of frustration.
The plastic shifted just a bit. Han's eyes widened with hope. He tried again, more determined this time. Twist. Pull. Twist again. Another tiny movement forward. The ring fought him, but he kept going, his breath held tight in his chest.
"Almost…"
One last tug, and the ring slipped free so suddenly that Han nearly dropped it into the sink. He caught it just in time, his wet fingers closing around the small Woody band.
"Finally." He breathed out, relief washing over him like the warm water.
He let out a long breath, rubbing absentmindedly at the deep indentation circling his finger. The skin there was red and sore where the plastic had dug in, marked clearly from the long hours of wear. It throbbed a little, but the worst of the pressure was finally gone.
A soft knock sounded at the door, gentle but clear in the quiet bathroom.
"Hani?"
It was Woongki. Han reached over and opened the door, letting him step inside. The older boy immediately looked down at Han's hand, his eyes full of concern.
"It came off?" He asked softly.
Han held up the ring between two fingers, showing it clearly. "It came off."
Woongki smiled with visible relief. "Oh, thank God–"
"It was such a dumb idea." The words left Han's mouth more harshly than he meant them to, before he had time to soften them. He was still staring at the angry red mark on his finger, the skin sore and indented from the long day.
"It got stuck, everyone laughed at us, and my finger still hurts." He sighed, the tiredness and annoyance from the whole day weighing heavy on him. "Next time you buy kids rings, don't involve me."
Silence filled the small space between them.
Han finally looked up. Woongki's smile had disappeared completely, replaced by a hurt expression that made Han's chest tighten suddenly.
"Oh." Woongki said quietly. "I..." He rubbed the back of his neck, looking unsure of himself. "I'm sorry."
Han blinked, the sharpness in his own words suddenly feeling heavier now.
"I just thought..." He let out a small laugh. It didn't sound like him at all, flat and uncertain. "I thought it'd make you smile.”
Woongki's face suddenly became pink with shame, the color rising quickly in his cheeks as he looked down, clearly hurt by the words.
Han frowned, the regret hitting him with full force. He didn't know what had come over him. The tiredness from the long day, the throbbing in his finger, and all the built up annoyance had made the words come out too sharp. He hadn't meant to sound so harsh, especially not to Woongki.
"Hyung–"
"It's okay." Woongki said, smiling again. This one looked practiced, like he was trying hard to make it seem fine. "I won't do stuff like that anymore."
Before Han could answer, Woongki reached over and gently took the Woody ring from Han's hand. Then he slipped his own Bo Peep ring off with a small grimace, wincing as it finally came free from his finger. Han watched silently, not sure what to say.
Woongki looked at the two little plastic rings resting in his palm for a moment. "They were cheap anyway."
He turned toward the small trash bin beside the sink. Han's eyes widened in surprise. "Wait–"
The rings landed with a tiny plastic clink at the bottom of the bin. Woongki dusted off his hands as though it were nothing.
"There." He smiled again. "Problem solved."
Han stared at the trash bin, then back at Woongki. Something twisted uncomfortably in his chest, a mix of guilt and regret that made it hard to breathe for a second.
"Why did you throw them away?" Han asked, his voice softer now.
Woongki shrugged without meeting his eyes. "They're just plastic." His voice was light. Too light. "And..." He swallowed hard. "...I'm sorry I'm so annoying sometimes."
Han froze, the words hitting him like a cold splash of water.
Woongki laughed awkwardly, staring down at the bathroom floor. "I know I can get a little carried away." He worried his lower lip between his teeth. "I just get excited." Another small shrug. "Sorry."
Seeing Woongki like that, looking so small and unsure, made his heart ache with guilt. He was such a moron. The harsh words from earlier replayed in his head, and he wished he could take them all back. Woongki had only been trying to do something fun, something sweet, and Han had ruined it with his bad mood.
His gaze drifted back to the trash bin, then to Woongki, who still wasn't looking at him. Han's heart sank even deeper.
"Hyung."
Woongki only shook his head slightly. "It's fine."
Han's voice came out firmer than he'd intended. "It isn't.”
Before Han could gather his thoughts, Woongki stepped past him, his movements quiet and careful.
The bathroom door clicked shut behind him, the sound gentle but final in the small space.
Silence settled over the room, heavy and uncomfortable.
Han didn't move at first. He just stood there, the warm air from the tap still lingering around him. His eyes drifted toward the trash bin once again. Two tiny plastic rings lay at the bottom, side by side. Woody and Bo Peep.
"Idiot…" Han whispered to himself. He wasn't sure which one of them he meant.
He crouched in front of the bin, the cold tile pressing against his knees through the thin fabric of his sweatpants. The dim bathroom light cast long shadows across the floor, turning the small space into something almost private.
For a second, he simply stared at the rings lying there among stray bits of trash. They gleamed faintly, almost accusingly, in the dark.
A quiet sigh slipped from his lips, heavy with everything he didn’t want to name. He reached in anyway, his fingers brushing against the cool metal of the trash bin as he picked them up. They felt lighter than he remembered, smaller somehow, like the weight of everything they once meant had worn away over time. Carefully, almost tenderly, he wiped them against the sleeve of his hoodie, the soft cotton catching on the faint scratches that marked their surface.
The faded prints looked exactly the same as before. Cheap. A little scratched. Nothing special. Just two ordinary rings that had somehow survived longer than they probably should have. Han turned the Woody ring over between his fingers, tracing the familiar curve of the design with his thumb. The motion was slow, thoughtful, pulling at something deep in his chest that he wasn’t ready to face.
Before he could think too hard about why, before the questions could crowd in and make him stop, Han slipped the rings into his pocket. The fabric settled around them with a soft weight. He stood up quickly, heart beating a little too fast, and hurried out of the bathroom without looking back.
He pushed open the bathroom door and stepped out into the hallway, the cool air brushing against his flushed cheeks. His heart was still hammering from the decision he’d just made, the two rings heavy in his pocket like a secret he couldn’t quite carry. Without thinking, he hurried forward, footsteps quiet against the wooden floor, movements quick and a little clumsy in his rush to catch up before the moment slipped away.
Halfway down the corridor, he spotted Woongki walking slowly toward the bedrooms. His hands were shoved deep into the pockets of his sweatpants, shoulders slumped just a little more than usual, carrying a quiet weight that made Han’s chest tighten. The dim lights overhead softened the edges of everything, turning the hallway into a private stretch of space between them.
“Hyung.” Han called out, voice softer than he meant it to be.
Woongki kept walking, as if he hadn’t heard.
Han frowned, a small crease forming between his brows. He picked up his pace. “Cha Woongki.”
Woongki turned around slowly, surprise flickering across his face like he hadn’t expected anyone to follow.
“Hani?” He said, voice quiet and uncertain.
Han closed the distance between them without another word, feet carrying him forward until they were standing close enough to feel the shared warmth in the narrow hallway.
His fingers curled tightly around the two tiny rings inside his pocket, the plastic warm from his body heat. He still wasn’t entirely sure what he was going to say. The words tangled up somewhere between his throat and his thoughts, messy and unsure.
He only knew one thing, clear and steady in the middle of the chaos. He couldn’t let Woongki go to bed thinking he was a burden. Not after being the reason that smile had disappeared from his face.
Woongki blinked at him, eyes wide and waiting. “What is it?”
Han opened his mouth. Nothing came out.
The silence stretched between them, soft and heavy, filled only with the muffled sounds of the other boys drifting from the living room. Someone laughed in the distance, bright and carefree. A cupboard door closed with a gentle click. The world carried on as though nothing had happened, while the two of them stood frozen in the dimly lit hallway, caught in a moment that felt far too big for words.
"I didn't mean it." He said at last, the words finally pushing their way out, quiet and rough around the edges.
Woongki offered him a small smile, the kind that didn’t quite reach his eyes. "Okay, Hani. I believe you."
But something in Woongki’s eyes told Han that it was a lie. There was a careful softness there, a gentle shield trying to hide the hurt still lingering underneath. Han felt it like a twist in his chest.
"No." Han shook his head slowly, stubbornness settling into his voice. "You don't."
Woongki’s smile faltered, slipping away like it had never been there at all.
Han drew a slow breath through his nose, the air cool in the quiet hallway as he searched for words that had never come easily to him. They felt heavy on his tongue, clumsy and unsure.
"I wasn't..." He frowned, brows pulling together. "It wasn't the rings. Or the idea of us wearing matching items. It was my finger."
Woongki looked at him quietly, confusion soft in his gaze. "Your finger?"
"It hurt." Han held up his left hand, turning it slightly so the faint red mark from the plastic ring was visible, still circling the base of his finger. "And I got annoyed." Another pause stretched between them, thick and uncomfortable. "And I took it out on you. I'm so sorry."
Woongki’s gaze lingered on the mark for a second, something unreadable passing over his face, before dropping back down to the floor. His shoulders seemed to curve in just a little more.
Han let out a quiet sigh, the sound small in the empty corridor. Why was this so difficult? Why did the right words always feel so far away when he needed them most?
"I..." He stopped again. The words refused to arrange themselves, tangling up uselessly in his throat.
Woongki rubbed at one eye with the sleeve of his hoodie, the motion tired and slow.
"It's okay, Hani." His voice was soft, almost too gentle, like he was trying to make it easier for both of them. "You don't have to explain."
"I do! I was an idiot!" Han barked, the words coming out louder than he meant, echoing slightly off the walls.
Woongki finally looked up.
His eyes looked suspiciously glossy beneath the hallway lights, shining with unshed tears he was clearly trying to hold back.
Han's stomach twisted painfully, a sharp ache settling deep inside him.
"Hyung…" Han said again, softer this time, like the word itself carried all the things he couldn’t quite say.
Woongki chuckled, though it came out uneven and a little shaky, the sound barely filling the quiet hallway. "I just wanted to do something fun."
"I know–"
"But I embarrassed you instead."
"You didn't, Woongki hyung..." The words came out shaky, almost pleading.
"I did."
"You didn't–"
"I always end up–"
"Stop."
Han's voice was firmer than either of them expected, cutting through the air with gentle authority. Woongki fell silent, lips parting slightly in surprise.
Han looked at him for a long moment, taking in the way Woongki’s shoulders stayed hunched and the glossy shine that still lingered in his eyes.
Words had never been his strongest way of fixing things, especially not when his heart felt this heavy. So instead, because he didn’t know how else to comfort Woongki, he stepped closer without thinking.
"Come here."
Woongki frowned, confusion flickering across his face. "Why–"
Before Woongki could finish or pull away, Han suddenly reached out and gathered him into his arms. He wrapped them around Woongki’s frame in one smooth motion, pulling him close until their chests pressed together. One hand settled gently against the back of Woongki’s head, fingers slipping into soft hair, while the other curled around his back, holding him securely.
The hug was warm and enveloping, full of quiet affection that Han didn’t try to hide. He tucked Woongki against him like he was something precious, chin resting lightly on top of his shoulder, breathing in the familiar scent of his perfume.
Woongki froze at first, body going still in surprise, but slowly, almost hesitantly, he melted into the embrace. His hands came up to clutch at the sides of Han’s hoodie , bunching the fabric between his fingers as if he was afraid to let go.
Han's heart was beating fast against his ribs, a soft, fluttering warmth spreading through his chest as he held on tighter, rocking them ever so slightly in the quiet hallway like the rest of the world didn’t exist.
He wasn't someone who hugged people often. Certainly not without warning. Certainly not like this, with his arms wrapped so carefully around someone who mattered this much to him.
The embrace felt awkward for exactly two seconds, both of them stiff and unsure in the sudden closeness. Then Han felt Woongki's shoulders sag, the tension melting away as a tiny, shaky breath escaped him, warm against Han's neck.
Han swallowed hard, his voice coming out low and fond. "You're impossible, hyung."
Woongki let out a tiny laugh against his shoulder, the sound muffled and soft, vibrating gently through Han's chest. "You hugged me just to insult me?"
"I wasn't insulting you." Han sighed, the sound long and quiet in the hallway. "I meant..." He hesitated, searching for the right way to say it. "You always think everything's your fault."
Woongki didn't answer, just stayed tucked against him, listening.
"And it isn't."
Silence settled between them again, comfortable this time, broken only by the distant sounds of the dorm.
Han's hand moved once, slowly, almost hesitantly, patting Woongki's back in gentle, soothing strokes, his palm warm through the fabric of the shirt.
"You bought those rings…"
Woongki sniffled softly. "Mhm."
"They got stuck."
Woongki nodded slowly against his shoulder, the movement small.
"Everyone laughed at us." Han's voice dropped even softer. "I'd still do it again."
Woongki went perfectly still in his arms, like the words had caught him completely off guard.
Han realized what he'd just admitted, the truth of it hanging in the quiet space between them. His ears immediately burned, a warm flush creeping up his neck as he held on a little tighter, suddenly very aware of how close they were.
"I mean–" He groaned quietly, the sound low and embarrassed as he hid his face against Woongki's shoulder for a second. "I mean… Forget I said that."
Woongki pulled back just enough to look at him, their faces still close in the soft hallway light. There was still a hint of moisture in the corners of his eyes, but he was smiling now. A real smile this time, small and warm and genuine, the kind that made the corners of his eyes crinkle gently.
"Really?" He asked, voice hopeful and a little shy.
Han looked away, cheeks heating up under the attention. "Maybe."
Woongki's smile grew, bright and sweet, lighting up his whole face like the sun breaking through clouds.
"You'd wear matching rings with me again?"
In that moment it wasn't even about matching rings anymore, Han realized with a quiet flutter in his chest. He'd do quite frankly anything just to keep that smile on his hyung's face, to chase away the sadness from earlier.
He muttered something completely unintelligible under his breath, the words too soft and jumbled to make sense.
"What?" Woongki asked, tilting his head adorably.
"I said..." Han reached into the pocket of his hoodie, fingers brushing against the plastic. "Hold out your hand."
Woongki blinked, eyes wide with curiosity. "Why?"
"Just do it."
Still looking adorably confused, Woongki extended his left hand between them, palm up and trusting.
Han placed the little Bo Peep ring carefully in his palm, watching as Woongki stared down at it.
"You got them back?"
Very carefully, Han took the pink ring from him and slid it back onto Woongki's finger. This time, much more cautiously. It stopped just before the knuckle, sitting far enough to stay on but loose enough to come back off without any pain.
"There." Han said softly, his voice warm with quiet affection.
Woongki looked down at it for a long moment, then back up at Han, eyes shining with something soft and wondering.
"Does this mean…”
Han sighed softly, the sound warm and content in the quiet space between them. He reached into his pocket and took out the Woody ring, slipping it onto his own finger with gentle care. This time he made sure it rested comfortably, not too tight, just enough to feel right against his skin.
He looked down at the two rings, simple and a little scratched, now sitting on their fingers like they belonged there. Then he lifted his gaze to Woongki.
For a moment, Woongki simply stared back, eyes wide and soft. Then the corners of his mouth curled upward into the brightest smile Han had seen all day. It spread slowly across his face, reaching his eyes and lighting them up with pure, unguarded happiness. And somehow, seeing that smile return made the ache in Han's chest disappear as though it had never been there at all. The tightness eased, replaced by a gentle warmth that settled deep inside him.
He didn't understand why one smile could make him feel so much. He only knew he never wanted to be the reason it disappeared again.
For a long moment, neither of them spoke. The hallway seemed unusually quiet around them, wrapped in a soft kind of peace. Even the chatter drifting from the living room had faded into little more than background noise, distant and unimportant.
Woongki was now looking at the ring on his finger, eyes tracing it with quiet wonder. His thumb brushed lightly over the tiny picture of Bo Peep, moving in circles before he laughed to himself, the sound small and happy, bubbling up like he couldn’t hold it in.
"You know… This kind of feels like a proposal."
Han's head snapped up. "What?"
Woongki lifted his hand between them, admiring the matching rings with exaggerated seriousness, tilting it this way and that under the hallway light. "You put the ring back on me yourself. You even held my hand! I think we're basically engaged now."
Han stared at him. Then he burst out laughing, the sound half fond and half embarrassed, spilling out before he could stop it.
"That's nonsense."
Woongki gasped dramatically, eyes wide with mock offense. "Am I not right? What do you mean nonsense? That's a proposal step by step!"
Han felt something loosen inside his chest, light and relieved. Good. He was the vibrant Woongki everyone knew and loved again, teasing and playful and full of life. Mission accomplished.
Woongki wiggled his fingers, making the plastic ring catch the light with a faint gleam. "And..." He said, voice light and mischievous, "If this really were a proposal..."
Han pinched the bridge of his nose, a fond smile tugging at his lips.
"You'd have to kiss me!"
Silence stretched for a heartbeat.
Woongki snorted. "I'm kidding." He was still smiling, clearly amused with himself, eyes sparkling. "As if you'd ever do it! You'd rather die."
Han's brows knit together. "I never said that."
"You didn't have to." Woongki laughed, bright and teasing. "I know you, Hani, and–"
Woongki didn't even get to finish his sentence.
Without thinking, Han leaned in quickly and pressed a soft kiss to his cheek. It was barely there, just a gentle brush of lips that lasted less than a second, warm and impulsive and impossibly sweet. He pulled back almost immediately, heart hammering wildly in his chest.
Woongki froze, eyes going wide as a deep blush bloomed across his cheeks, turning them a pretty shade of pink that spread all the way to his ears. His mouth parted in surprise, the teasing words completely forgotten.
Han's face burned too, heat rushing up his neck and into his ears as he stood there frozen on the spot. He couldn't move, couldn't look away, suddenly hyper aware of how close they still were and what he had just done without a single thought.
The hallway felt smaller, warmer, filled with nothing but the sound of their quickened breathing and the soft echo of that tiny, precious moment.
Woongki stared at him with wide, unblinking eyes, still frozen in place.
Han stared right back, his stomach doing funny little flips he couldn’t quite name. His heart was beating way too fast now, loud and unsteady in his chest like it was trying to escape. His palms felt a little sweaty, and there was this strange, fluttery feeling in his belly that made it hard to breathe normally.
"You..." Woongki whispered at last, voice barely there.
Han opened his mouth. Nothing came out. He blinked once. Twice. A shy, nervous laugh escaped him, and he had to fight the urge to look away.
Han opened his mouth, lips parting in search of words that refused to come. He blinked once, slow and uncertain, then twice in quick succession, as if the simple motion might reset the sudden chaos in his thoughts. A shy, nervous laugh slipped past his lips. He fought the burning urge to look away, cheeks warming as his gaze stayed locked despite everything in him wanting to flee.
"I..." He frowned, words catching in his throat like they always did when things felt this big and confusing.
Why did his chest feel so tight and warm at the same time? Why did seeing Woongki equally flustered made that fluttery feeling even stronger?
Woongki slowly raised a hand to his cheek. The one Han had kissed. His fingertips rested there gently, as though trying to convince himself it had really happened.
"You kissed me."
Han wished the floor would open beneath him and swallow him whole. He squeezed his eyes shut for a moment, the embarrassment flooding through him in waves, turning his face even hotter. His fingers twitched at his sides and that strange, bubbly warmth refused to settle in his stomach.
Another beat of silence stretched between them.
Until–
"Hani hyung?"
Both of them jumped.
One bedroom door swung open.
Chihen poked his head into the hallway, looking thoroughly confused.
"There you are."
His gaze bounced between them. Han standing much too close, Woongki still touching his own cheek, both of them with wide eyes and pink ears.
"What are you guys doing?"
Han's face immediately burned hotter, the flush even stronger, spreading all the way to the tips of his ears as he tried to ignore the way his heart kept racing for no reason he could understand. "Nothing."
"We–" Woongki began.
Han gently stepped on his foot.
"Ow!"
"We're going to sleep!" Han said far too quickly, the words tumbling out in a nervous rush.
Chihen blinked slowly, still looking a little lost. "Okay… Hani hyung, come here and help us with something please."
Steven's voice drifted from somewhere inside the room. "Did you find Hani?"
"Yeah!" Chihen looked back at them one last time, his gaze lingering with quiet curiosity. He gestured for Han to come with a small tilt of his head. The bedroom door closed again with a soft click, leaving them alone once more.
Silence returned, wrapping around them like a gentle blanket.
Han refused to look at Woongki, his cheeks still burning and that strange, fluttery feeling refusing to settle in his chest. His heart kept skipping in odd rhythms, and a shy warmth lingered everywhere, making him feel oddly light and overwhelmed all at once. Everything that had happened tonight, the rings, the hug, the kiss, left him feeling tangled up inside, happy and nervous and confused in a way he couldn’t quite figure out.
"I'll– Uh, I'll go.” He mumbled quickly, pointing towards his shared bedroom. “Good night, hyung."
Han turned so fast he almost walked straight into the wall, catching himself at the last second with an awkward shuffle before disappearing into his room. The door clicked shut behind him, and he leaned against it for a moment, letting out a long, shaky breath as the events of the night washed over him again. His fingers brushed over the Woody ring still on his finger, and a small, timid smile tugged at his lips despite the embarrassment still heating his face.
In the hallway, Woongki remained rooted to the spot.
His fingers were still pressed gently against his cheek where Han had kissed him. A slow, bright smile spread across his face, soft and full of quiet joy.
Then he buried his face in both hands, feeling giddy and warm all over as a tiny, happy squeal slipped out between his fingers, the sound muffled and sweet in the empty corridor.