⏤ Han Taesan ⁰¹

The building is quiet, as always. Slow elevator, long hallways, white lights that make everyone look a little more tired.
And Taesan, you see him almost every day. Sometimes coming in, sometimes going out. Always neat, always quiet. You exchange glances… and he's the first to look away. He never dared to speak to you, even though he clearly recognizes you.
Always, too much.
Today you come down in a hurry. You put your hand in your pocket, Nothing.
You stop dead in your tracks in front of the building's door.
Not…
you murmur, checking again
It just can't be.
You hear footsteps behind you.
Hey…
a soft voice says.
Are you looking for this?
You turn around, it's Taesan.
He holds in his hand what you lost, held carefully, as if it were something fragile.
You dropped it near the elevator, I saw you get out quickly and… I thought it was yours.
He hands it to you. When your fingers brush against his, he pulls them away quickly, nervously.
Thank you
you say.
Taesan nods, but doesn't leave. He stays there, hesitating. He takes a deep breath.
Sorry if this is weird, but… I see you all the time. Ever since I moved.
I never knew how to talk to you.
He laughs softly, uncomfortable with himself .
I guess finding something of yours was the excuse I needed.
The elevator opens behind you, but none of you get in.
I'm Taesan, I live on the fifth floor.
He looks directly at you now, with a calm, honest expression.
I'm glad I found you today... really.
He waits, without rushing you, as if time didn't matter.