HE COULD’VE SANK RIGHT THERE. Regret danced in the gaze that met hers half-heartedly, he couldn’t explain what distressed him nor even elaborate. None of it would make sense, especially not tonight. One night should’ve been enough to deter these thoughts for his close friend but when the wolf worried.. no corner of the world was safe from his reeling mind. Just as this moment proved so, getting instinct into overdrive as he finds her hand to squeeze gently, barely paying any attention to anything besides her. “No, love.. I can wreck my brain tomorrow, since it’s not as if the issues will be fixed overnight. Forgive my absence.. and don’t pay them any mind.” Stone mirrored the tone eliciting his final sentence, resembling the onyx upon a hardened gaze.

         “They’re envious, Sojin. You were able to start
          a life outside the limelight, and still return to
          a world that loves you. Even more than before.”

“I know. It’s likely just my divorce–” 

 Before she can say more, a group of four or five guests pass by, shutting her mouth as she noticed the few who gave her not-so-pleasant glances. It was enough to leave her feeling somewhat discouraged, and she sighs through her nose before continuing to speak in a lowered voice. One which would prevent anyone else who walked by from hearing the topic of conversation.  “I’m not sure if you know, but it’s frowned upon in Korea to divorce, among other things. A person can be treated horribly, simply because they leave a marriage..” Part of her had a feeling he knew this, along with the numerous other stigmas that existed in the country. However, she wanted to explain why some people were not being as pleasant, in case he didn’t quite understand. 

 “..Of course, in this life, it’s almost impossible to keep things from being found out, no matter how quiet you are.”