EVERYTHING THAT WE LOST - Squid Game - Thanos

Chapter 7 - Stick together.

You glanced over at Se-Mi, who was still working on her triangle. She met your eyes briefly and gave a tight nod, her determination evident. Moments later, with a final delicate tap, she broke her piece free, perfectly intact.

A wide smile of triumph spread across her face as she whispered, "I did it!"

A guard gestured for both of you to leave the room, and you followed closely, passing by the others who were still stressing over their shape. The quiet crackle of breaking candy was now accompanied by the muffled sobs of those who knew their time was running out.

As you walked back toward the dormitory, the reality of the game hit harder than ever. Even though you and Se-Mi had made it through, the weight of what lay ahead hung heavy in the air.The dormitory was filled with a strange mix of relief and despair. Players huddled in groups, some staring blankly at the walls while others whispered in hushed tones. Se-Mi collapsed onto one of the beds.

You scanned the room, your eyes finally landing on Thanos. He sat on a lower bed, leaning back with his arms crossed and a smug grin plastered on his face. His eyes caught yours, and he gave a slight nod, as if to acknowledge what had passed.

Se-Mi noticed your lingering gaze. "You're not seriously looking at him, are you? "

You shook your head quickly, trying to play it off. "He helped me, that's all. The lighter... I wouldn't have made it without it."

Se-Mi raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. "Helping you doesn't mean he's not trouble. Be careful with guys like him."

You bit your lip and nodded. "Yeah...I don't know what to say honestly..."

Moments later, Thanos stood and sauntered toward you, his smirk firmly in place. "The star survives," he teased, stopping just a foot away. "I guess I'm owed a thank you, huh?"

You crossed your arms, trying not to let him see the faint blush creeping up your cheeks. "Don't push your luck."

Thanos chuckled, tilting his head slightly. "Push my luck? Nah, I think I've got plenty to spare. You're welcome, by the way."

You rolled your eyes, refusing to give him the satisfaction. "Fine. Thank you, oh great hero of the dalgona game," you said sarcastically, your tone dripping with mock reverence. "Happy now?"

He grinned wider, clearly enjoying your defiance. "Getting there," he said, his voice laced with amusement. "But you could add a little sincerity, maybe a 'Thanos, you're my savior,' just for effect."

You opened your mouth to retort, but Se-Mi's voice cut through the tension. "Na-Ri, we should rest. There's no telling what they'll throw at us tomorrow."

You glanced back at Se-Mi, who was already stretched out on one of the beds, watching the exchange with a knowing smile. Turning back to Thanos, you stepped back and put some space between you. "I think I've had enough of your nonsense for one night."

Thanos shrugged, his smirk never wavering. "Suit yourself, star girl. But don't forget—you still owe me." He turned and sauntered away, his hands casually tucked into his pockets.You let out a breath you didn't realize you were holding, your heart pounding in your chest.

Se-Mi's voice was teasing when she spoke again. "He's trouble, Na-Ri. You should keep your distance. Trust me."

"Trust me," you muttered, sitting down on your bed. "I know."

But even as you sat back down, you couldn't shake the lingering feeling that Thanos, for all his arrogance, was someone you'd have to watch closely—not just because he was trouble, but because something about him intrigued you in ways you couldn't quite explain.