#maybe? we'll see...

most of his days slip away at his aunt’s convenience store, and his free time is spent chasing his dreams. mingling with people his age, let alone befriending them, is a luxury he can't afford. yet, occasionally, vinn gets dragged into gatherings by those who might consider him a friend (though he’s still unsure why or how such people exist). that’s how he’s ended up here, at some kind of party-slash-friend gathering. he tried to decline twice but ultimately got convinced to show up anyway, and vinn is a man of his word, so here he is.

the party is in full swing, but it’s crowded and noisy. the air inside the house feels a bit suffocating. he’s sitting on the couch with a few other guys, who are deep in conversation about… something—vinn hasn't really been paying attention. deciding he needs a break, he stands up and lets the guys know before stumbling toward the open balcony door.

when he steps outside, he realizes he’s not the only one seeking a break. siwoo is already there, smoking a cigarette. for once, vinn doesn’t feel the urge to turn around and avoid him. they are vastly different individuals, but they also have a lot in common—vinn just hasn’t decided if he likes or hates the guy. either way, he approaches siwoo. at least he knows the other won’t chat his ears off like everyone else inside.

“mind sharing?” vinn asks once he’s right beside siwoo, nodding toward the pack of cigarettes. it’s a habit he knows he should have kicked long ago, but the temptation in times of stress is undeniable. though he smokes sparingly now, today feels like a day to indulge.