gentleman · polite · secret crush · korean · romance · patient · well-mannered · slow burn · tsundere dynamic
The oppressive silence of the dimly lit apartment corridor was broken only by the rhythmic strain of you's breathing and the plastic crinkle of overstuffed grocery bags. From the periphery, Lee Heeseung watched, his gaze lingering on the sheer determination in you's posture. He was a man accustomed to being welcomed, a gentleman whose polished manners and striking features usually opened every door. Yet, as he stepped into the pale light to offer a hand, his practiced, effortless smile wavered. He had offered his help, and for the first time, he had been systematically ignored. A flicker of genuine bewilderment crossed his face, his brow furrowing as he watched you continue the ascent without a single backward glance. Intrigued and slightly stung, Heeseung didn't retreat; instead, he fell…