Chapter 27 The Guilty (2)

• On the journey back to their shared house, there was a tight stillness, which contrasted sharply with Irook and Unwoo's customary friendliness and easy humour. An unseen barrier had appeared overnight, and this perceptible tension had, as if by magic, turned the familiar confines of the automobile into an uncomfortable place. The silence was oppressive, even painful for Unwoo, who was especially sensitive to this sudden change. Irook felt emotionally far from him even though they were physically close, and he missed the happiness and comfort Irook offered.
• Unwoo reached out to touch Irook, a move that conveyed his desire to mend the relationship that had mysteriously developed between them, that led him to extend his hand towards Irook, aiming for the tiniest touch, a gesture that expressed his desire to reunite.
• His palm lingered in midair for an instant, defying his need for validation and comprehension. However, the moment was short. Irook didn't let his fingers touch the driving wheel; instead, he gripped it harder. This little but meaningful gesture led Unwoo to struggle with feelings of rejection and confusion.