The Space Between Us

Nut first notices it in the mirror of the practice room.

Hong stands just a little farther away than usual. Not far enough for anyone else to see — just far enough for Nut to feel it. The music is loud, their reflections sharp under fluorescent lights, but something fragile hums beneath everything.

They’ve shared years. Sweat, laughter, exhaustion, late-night noodles, whispered jokes in vans. Yet now, when Nut glances sideways, Hong’s eyes don’t meet his. And that absence feels louder than any crowd.

Nut doesn’t ask. He never does. Some things feel too dangerous to name.