The Unsettling Encounter

As the group tried to engage Sangwoo in conversation, they couldn't help but notice that his eyes seemed to be fixated on Jason. "So, what brings you to the mall?" Rage asked, trying to break the ice. Sangwoo's gaze never wavered from Jason as he replied, "Just needed to get out of the house for a bit. Jason, do you like it here in LA?" His voice was low and smooth, but there was something unnerving about the way he seemed to be drawing Jason into the conversation. The group exchanged confused glances. "Uh, yeah, I love it here," Jason stammered, trying to play along. Lacy tried to steer the conversation back on track. "So, Sangwoo, what do you do for a living?" Sangwoo's response was immediate, but his eyes never left Jason's face. "I'm a writer. Jason, have you read any good books lately?" He took a step closer to Jason, his piercing brown eyes seeming to bore into his soul. The group started to get uncomfortable, sensing that something was off about Sangwoo's behavior. Adapt tried to lighten the mood. "Dude, what's your deal? You're being super weird to Jason," he said, his voice laced with a mixture of amusement and concern. Sangwoo's expression didn't change, but he did raise an eyebrow. "Weird? I'm just trying to get to know Jason. He's very... interesting." His gaze lingered on Jason, making him feel like an insect under a microscope. Ron's brow furrowed. "Dude, that's not cool. Back off," he said, trying to intervene. But Sangwoo just chuckled, a low, husky sound that sent shivers down Jason's spine. "I'm not trying to be rude, I assure you. Jason, don't you think it's nice here in the mall?" He took another step closer to Jason, his eyes never leaving his face. The group started to get agitated, sensing that Sangwoo was crossing some kind of boundary. "Dude, seriously, what's going on with you?" Max asked, his voice firm. Sangwoo's gaze finally flickered to Max, but only for a moment. "I'm just curious about Jason. He's very... captivating." He smiled, a small, enigmatic smile that made Jason feel like he was in way over his head. The group's unease grew, and they started to exchange worried glances. It was clear that Sangwoo's behavior was not normal, and they needed to get Jason out of there before things escalated further. But as they tried to make a discreet exit, Sangwoo's voice stopped them. "Jason, don't go just yet. I was hoping we could talk some more." His eyes locked onto Jason's, and for a moment, it seemed like time stood still.