Solo Leveling: Banishment of the Anomaly

The days following Jake's accidental encounter with Sung Jin-Woo had been a whirlwind of awkwardness and lingering curiosity. Jake found himself thinking about the incident far more often than he cared to admit, with the image of Jin-Woo's impressive physique and the vivid memory of his boxers replaying in his mind like a persistent echo.

Get a grip, Jake. This is Lee Joo-Hee's instinctual response, he thought, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. I can't be feeling this way!

No matter how hard he tried to focus on his training and healing practice, his mind kept drifting back to Jin-Woo. Each thought sent a rush of heat to his cheeks. What is wrong with me? He could hardly believe he was feeling this way, and now he needed to visit Jin-Woo again.

Today was the day. Jake stood just outside Jin-Woo's room, heart racing as he hoped to further their growing bond. If I can make him feel indebted to me, he'll need me. That's the plan, he thought, determined to act normal despite the remnants of their previous meeting still hovering in the air like an unwelcome ghost.

Upon entering Jin-Woo's hospital room, Jake was greeted by the sight of Jin-Woo seated comfortably in a chair, looking relaxed. The room was quiet, bathed in soft, ambient light filtering through the curtains. Jin-Woo wore his usual hospital attire, but there was a sense of ease about him that Jake appreciated.

"Hi, Jin-Woo. How's everything going today?" Jake asked, trying to keep his voice steady.

Jin-Woo looked up, his warm smile instantly melting some of Jake's anxiety. "Hey, Ju-Hee. Everything's good. Just taking it easy, as always."

Jake took a seat opposite Jin-Woo, and they began chatting about various topics. The conversation flowed naturally, punctuated by laughter and the occasional shared story.

However, even amidst the easy exchange, Jake couldn't shake the memory of their previous encounter. Why can't I stop thinking about that day? I'm straight! How could I be feeling so... lewd? Ugh!

A slight whimper of frustration escaped his lips, and he felt a mix of confusion and discomfort with the new feelings swirling inside him. This isn't just awkward; it's maddening!

As he looked at Jin-Woo, he inadvertently let his gaze drift downward, his curiosity piqued by thoughts he desperately wished to dismiss. Is Jin-Woo still wearing those... old-man boxers today?

Caught in the moment, Jake found himself staring with unintentional intensity. Jin-Woo, sensing Jake's gaze, suddenly became self-conscious. He instinctively adjusted his position, pulling his shirt down to cover his hips, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

"Ju-Hee, you okay?" Jin-Woo asked, flustered. "You seem a bit distracted."

Jake snapped back to reality, his face burning with shame. "Oh! Sorry, I didn't mean to—just got lost in thought."

Jin-Woo chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "Don't worry about it. I guess it's easy to get distracted sometimes. I get distracted, too."

Jake couldn't help but let out a nervous laugh, but inside, he was in turmoil. How can I focus on the present when my mind keeps drifting?

As their conversation continued, Jake made an effort to shift the topic to more neutral subjects, but the lingering thoughts and inner monologue remained at the back of his mind. Despite the awkwardness, a warmth began to blossom in Jake's heart.

His friendship with Jin-Woo was becoming increasingly complicated. He admired Jin-Woo's strength and kindness, and the accidental moments of intimacy only made his emotions more tangled. Is this Joo-Hee's emotional remnants causing me to feel like this?

As the visit came to a close, Jin-Woo walked Jake to the door, still looking a bit bashful but genuinely appreciative. "Thanks for coming by, Ju-Hee. It really helps to have someone to talk to."

Jake smiled warmly, though his mind was still reeling from the earlier encounter. "Anytime, Jin-Woo. I'll see you soon."

As he exited the hospital, Jake couldn't help but replay the day's events in his mind. The mix of awkwardness, curiosity, and growing affection was confusing yet exhilarating. He knew he needed to navigate his feelings carefully, but he couldn't deny the deepening connection he felt with Jin-Woo.

The path ahead was uncertain, filled with potential pitfalls and awkward moments, but Jake was determined to support Jin-Woo and come to terms with his twisted emotions.

The journey would be far from straightforward, but he was ready to face it with humor, determination, and the unexpected thrill of complications as he continued pondering. Just don't mess this up, Jake.