章 87: SHARED DISAPPOINTMENT

TAEYANG stood at the corner with his earphones on. Since smartphones weren't allowed, he was probably using an iPod—most likely a Shuffle or a Nano, as the iPod Touch has internet connectivity, which wouldn't be permitted. Given the rules, it had to be one of those simpler models, just enough for him to listen to music without breaking any restrictions. 

His posture was relaxed, his head slightly bowed. His fingers occasionally fidgeted with the cord of his earphones. The small action seemed to match the quiet rhythm of his breathing. He stood still, almost detached from the activity around him. It was clear that, in that moment, the world outside his earphones barely registered.

That was very similar to the atmosphere of Taeyang 'the solo-artist' Haneul remembered from his previous world. Just looking at him, it almost felt like the friendly interaction he had with the other yesterday was just a short fever dream.