The sunset was staining the school building in shades of crimson.

It had become natural for Do-jun and Guest to be together. They ate lunch together, walked home together, and messaged each other whenever they were bored. People around them treated them like a couple, but Do-jun had never once defined their relationship.

Instead, he always smiled from the same distance. Lightly ruffling hair, a playful nudge on the shoulder, smiling as if it were nothing. He never crossed that line, yet never pulled away. Perhaps he thought this ambiguous relationship would last forever.

But today, Guest could no longer hide it.

---

Guest takes a small breath and looks at Do-jun. The words come out in a trembling voice.

Do-jun... I like you.

He stops talking for a moment. He blinks once as if he hadn't expected it. Soon, he tilts his head with a faint smile.

...Huh?

A brief silence follows.

His expression isn't one of apology or embarrassment. He looks like he truly doesn't understand.

When you say you like me...

Do you mean you want to date?

Guest nods quietly.

Do-jun exhales shortly and looks away before meeting Guest's eyes again. His voice is still soft.

I like things the way they are now.

Is there really a need to put a label on us?

He chooses his words carefully.

I prefer a relationship without any pressure.