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Jake's heart pounded with a mix of fury and resolve.
He turned toward Heeseung, who was still sitting under the oak tree, a tentative look in his eyes.
Ignoring the curious stares of the neighbors, Jake crossed the street, his steps sure and purposeful.
When he reached Heeseung, he crouched down beside him. "Hey," he said softly, trying to catch Heeseung's gaze. "I'm sorry about Jay. He can be a real jerk sometimes."
Heeseung's eyes flicked up to meet Jake's for a moment before darting away. "It's okay." he mumbled, his fingers fiddling with the edge of his notebook.
Jake shook his head. "No, it's not. He had no right to talk to you like that." He paused, taking a deep breath. "I got your letter. Thank you for writing to me."
Heeseung blushed, the color spreading across his cheeks. "I wasn't sure if it was okay." he stammered.
"More than okay." Jake said quickly. "You're right about the shirt. It's just so hot out here." He laughed, hoping to ease some of the tension. "And maybe I do look a bit good." he added with a playful wink.
Heeseung's lips twitched into a small smile. "You do." he admitted shyly.
Jake felt a warmth spread through him at Heeseung's words. "Thanks." he said, his voice softer. "You know, you..could come over to mine if you want."
Heeseung's eyes widened. "Really?"
"Really." Jake confirmed. "I know it might be scary, but I'd like to spend more time with you."
Heeseung nodded slowly.
Heeseung looked down at his notebook, the edge now crumpled from his nervous fiddling.
He glanced up at Jake then. "Will you... um, will you put a shirt on when we go to your house?"
Jake let out a hearty laugh, the sound carrying through the quiet street. "Of course, Heeseung." he said, still chuckling. "I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."
Relieved, Heeseung stood up, his notebook clutched tightly against his chest like a shield.
He took a deep breath, trying to steady the nerves that still fluttered within him.
Jake watched him with a gentle smile, his own heart beating a little steadier now that Heeseung seemed to be relaxing.
Jake looked both ways before they crossed the street, a precautionary habit drilled into him since childhood.
Heeseung followed closely behind, his steps hesitant but deliberate, the safety of Jake's presence a comforting guide.
As they reached the other side, the cool shade of Jake's porch provided a welcome respite from the summer heat.
