Falling for the Omega Idol

"WE'RE at Yongdusan Park right now," Haneul said to the camera, turning it slowly to show the view.

Behind him, trees with thick green leaves lined the walking paths, their branches swaying in the breeze. The park sat high enough that glimpses of Busan's buildings and the distant harbor peeked between the foliage. Tourists clustered around the base of the iconic Busan Tower nearby. A few families spread picnic blankets on the grass, while couples leaned against the railings to take photos of the cityscape below.

Robin had handed him the camera earlier, saying he and the others should take turns introducing things around them. If it were always just Robin and Joonhyuk pointing out sights, viewers might think they were hogging camera time. Haneul didn't argue because he also agreed with the logic. With how closely fans analyzed every little moment on these shows, it wasn't far-fetched to think someone might twist it that way. Even if this footage ended up cut, it was better to play it safe.

"We're now going to have our lunch here," Haneul said, panning the camera over the food laid out on their table. He propped the phone against a soda can, angling it so the lens would catch them all eating.

"Okay, let's eat," Joonhyuk said, rubbing his hands together as he eyed the food.

The others laughed at his reaction, before reaching for the food.

Joonhyuk went straight for the tteokbokki, his lips turning red from the spice within seconds. Robin tore a piece of pajeon with his fingers, blowing on it before popping it into his mouth. Taeyang picked up a sundae skewer, examining it carefully before taking a small bite. Seongwoo chose a bungeoppang, cracking the crispy fish-shaped pastry in half to share with Soojin. Haneul watched them all for a beat, then grabbed a piece of odeng, the broth dripping onto the table as he lifted it.

The odeng was chewy and mild, the fishcake soaking up just enough of the savory broth. Next, Haneul picked up a chicken skewer. It was smoky and sweet from the glaze, with a slight char at the edges. He washed it down with a gulp of the cold fizzy soda.

A quiet burp slipped out before he could stop it. Haneul instantly clapped a hand over his mouth, eyes widening in embarrassment. His gaze then flicked to Taeyang at that exact moment and found the other already looking right at him. The amusement in Taeyang's eyes confirmed he'd definitely heard it. Heat rushed to Haneul's ears as he gazed away.

It's probably silly to be embarrassed about something so normal. With anyone else, he'd just laugh it off. But because it was Taeyang, his face heated up like he'd been caught doing something clumsy. He didn't get why he cared so much, just that he did. As stupid as that was.

It was ridiculous, really. He had touched Taeyang's hand without hesitation on the bus, but now he was flustered over something as small as a burp? What was wrong with him?

He shook his head. No, he wouldn't overanalyze this again. Every time Taeyang affected him like this, he'd spiral into pointless thoughts before deciding none of it mattered. It's better to just brush it off. At this point, the cycle was so predictable it was almost pathetic.

So Haneul focused on eating, keeping his eyes firmly on his food.

What he didn't know was that Taeyang had found his little burp adorable. Just like a kitten sneezing. The thought made the food seem even more enjoyable, improving his appetite as he kept eating.

***

After eating lunch, they headed to Busan Tower, just a short walk away from the park.

Busan Tower rose above them, its needle-like shape painted white against the blue sky. At 120 meters tall, it wasn't the most imposing tower, but the observation deck promised a full view of the city and harbor. This time, it was Seongwoo who talked to the camera to show everyone where they were currently.

They paid the small fee to enter, taking the elevator up to the deck. Inside, the space was simple, with polished floors, large windows lining every wall, and a few souvenir stands tucked in the corners. The real attraction was what one could see outside. The 360-degree view of Busan's jagged coastline, the clustered buildings, and ships dotting the distant harbor like toys.

Robin and Joonhyuk quickly made their way to two unoccupied coin-operated telescopes, the only ones left free among the rows of devices crowded with tourists. Seongwoo, who had been eyeing the telescopes as well, followed close behind Robin. He hovered nearby, waiting for a turn, likely planning to ask if he could use it next once Robin had finished.

Haneul moved toward the window too, but he picked a spot where fewer people had gathered. He stared out at the view, letting his eyes take in everything before him. Even without using a telescope, the sight was still amazing. The city stretched out below was so vivid, and he couldn't help but feel a quiet sense of wonder at what he's seeing.

His quiet moment was interrupted by the chatter of two women standing close to him.

"Is that Taeyang?" one of them asked.

"Taeyang who?" her friend said.

"You know, from that new idol survival show."

"Oh, that. I haven't watched it."

"What? It's super popular right now. The first two episodes are already on Vnet's YouTube channel."

"I'll check it out when we get back to Seoul. But why would that Taeyang guy be here?"

"Does it matter? Let's just get a photo with him. And maybe an autograph."

Haneul watched as the two women hurried over to where Taeyang stood. From his distance, he couldn't make out their conversation, but he could see Taeyang's face clearly. His jaw was clenched tight, lips pressed into a thin line. A slight sheen of sweat glistened on his forehead despite the cool indoor air. Every few seconds, Taeyang would swallow hard, his Adam's apple bobbing visibly. His shoulders were stiff, his posture rigid like he was holding himself very still on purpose.