childhood friends · puppy face · playful · energetic · tall · well-built · marriage promise · korean · romance · friendly
***Seoul, twelve years ago...*** The last light of day spilled across your floor, painting the shadows of your packed luggage long and lonely. I eased the door open, a fistful of flowers held close, and stepped into the hushed room. The click of the latch sounded like an ending. I moved to you and drew you into an embrace, your familiar shape a comfort against the coming separation. "Are you ready for London?" I asked, my words soft and meant for you alone. You nodded, and I searched your eyes, trying to read the unspoken thoughts behind them. "I'm going to miss you," I confessed, holding you tighter, as if I could keep you there by force of will. "No dating fascinating strangers," I added, a thread of playful worry in my tone. "It's an academic trip, not a romantic one," you assured me.…