Haneul Choi, a 23 years old free-spirited photographer, burst into the gallery, camera in hand, chasing the perfect shot. Their eyes met, and Jihoon felt an inexplicable jolt.

“Excuse me,” Haneul said, flashing a disarming smile.

Jihoon's thought: “He's small…”

 “I'm looking for Director Lee. I need to speak with her featuring my work.”

Hanuel's impression of Jihoon gives an impact to his character. “Woah, he’s tall and looks fine. He looks older than me, is he a celebrity..?”

Jihoon's reserve faltered. “I'm Jihoon Kim, the event planner. I can introduce you to Director Lee. But first, do you mind if I ask what draws you to this exhibition?”

“Nice meeting you, Mr. Kim. I'm Haneul Choi, a photographer. I'm capturing the city's vibrant art scene for my portfolio. This exhibition is the perfect addition,” Haneul explained, his eyes scanning the gallery. 

“The way the artists blend traditional and modern elements. It's like a symphony of colors and emotions,” Haneul added, passion radiating from his voice.

Jihoon's thought: “He looks young yet he speaks well for his age. Attaboy.”

Jihoon smiled. “I know exactly what you mean. I've worked with these artists for months, and their dedication is inspiring just like yours, Mr. Choi.”

Haneul’s thought: “Whoa…What’s with this man? He's shining brightly. Is this how he usually talks? Oh no, what to do… he’s my type.”

“Haneul…” Haneul whispered, “Please drop the formality, Mr. Kim. You can just call me by my name if it’s just us. I’m not actually used being addressed like that.” Haneul’s trying to be careful on how he use his words, not offending Jihoon.

“Then, Haneul. Is that better?” Jihoon said, smiling at him.

Haneul looked away, trying to hide his face, blushing from calling his name. 

As they strolled through the gallery, Hanuel simply borrowed a glance to Jihoon’s face, still amazed by his face card. Jihoon led Haneul to Director Lee's office. The director, a poised woman with a warm smile, greeted them.

“Director Lee, this is Mr. Hanuel Choi, a photographer interested in featuring his work,” Jihoon introduced.

Director Lee's eyes lit up. “Oh my, and here I am wondering who this beautiful young man with my Jihoon’s side is,” intentionally teasing Jihoon. 

Hanuel’s thought: “She said, ‘my’… Are they in such a relationship?”

Jihoon forced his awkward smile. “Director, I told you to stop doing that everywhere, right? Please, take your job seriously this time.”

Director Lee just laughed in Jihoon’s words. Hanuel, who has no idea what’s happening between the two, keeps his posture and expression well so as not to obviously show any reaction.

Jihoon cleared his throat. “I’m sorry for seeing such a scene, Mr. Choi. Anyway, this is Director Lee who manages the exhibition.”

Director Lee leaned her hand, “I’d like to apologize as well, Mr. Choi. I’m the director of this exhibition. I heard earlier you’re interested in featuring your work, right? We're always looking for fresh perspectives. What inspired you to reach out to us, Mr. Choi?” 

Haneul got flustered in her long speech but was amazed at the same time because she delivered it clearly and understandable to him. He then immediately returned the handshake from the director.

“Hello, Ms. Director! I've been following your gallery's exhibitions, and I love how you blend traditional and modern art. My photography aligns with that vision,” Haneul replied, not even hiding his excitement from his tone.

Director Lee nodded cheerfully. “That's fascinating. We're planning a new exhibition showcasing Seoul's urban landscape. Would you be interested in submitting your work?”

Haneul's face lit up. “That sounds amazing, Director! I'd love to submit some pieces.”

Jihoon observed the conversation, impressed by Haneul's passion and Director Lee's warmth. 

As they discussed details, Jihoon learned about Haneul's love for street photography and his dreams of showcasing Seoul's hidden gems while he’s still studying.

Jihoon’s thought: “What a hardworking kid. Oh, to be so young like him…”

“I'd love to see his portfolio,” Jihoon said, sparking genuine interest. He's flustered with a sudden comment and realized it too late. 

“O-Oh, I didn't mean to intervene! Don’t mind me.” Jihoon added in a defensive tone, changing his glances to the both of them.

Jihoon's thought: “Idiot, Jihoon! Why did you say it out loud?!”

Haneul looked with dazzling eyes at Jihoon. “Really? I'd love to share my work with you, Mr. Kim!”

Jihoon's heart skipped a beat in a thought that it may lead Haneul to misunderstanding his words. But he’s thankful for Hanuel’s innocence that it’s impossible to happen.

 “I, I'd like that.” He agreed thoughtlessly.

Director Lee let out a teasing smile. “Then, I'll have Mr. Kim send you the submission guidelines, Mr. Choi. We look forward to reviewing your work.”

As the night drew to a close, Jihoon walked Haneul out of the gallery. “I’ll send you the details regarding your submission, Mr. Choi. Please check your phone. If you have concerns, just text the number on my business card.”

While Jihoon’s busy talking, Haneul who’s at the back of Jihoon was in his own thoughts and not listening at all. Haneul since the meeting ended keeps on thinking about the person beside him.

Jihoon stops walking as he realizes the silence and looks at his back and sees Haneul standing and lost in thoughts.

 “Mr. Choi?”

Jihoon walked near him, waving his hand in front of Haneul’s face. “Haneul, you okay? Did you hear what I’m saying?” 

Haneul heard his name and immediately returned to himself but to his surprise, Jihoon’s face looked directly close to his. He flinched and moved faster away from him, he felt the warm flowing through his face and hid it in his hand.

Jihoon, who's not aware, feels concerned for Haneul. “Ah, Haneul? Is everything alright?”

“I’m fine, Mr. Kim! I-I just need to go now, please excuse me!” Haneul without hearing the words of Jihoon immediately ran outside.

“Did I say something?” Jihoon murmured as he looked at the entrance.