A Tale of J and L

I watched a K-drama recently, and I noticed a striking difference between the two MMCs

Let's start with L.

L is the epitome of "I’ve put in the work, therefore I am."

From his controlled expressions to the way he counts his steps, to the ridges and contours that define his body — He doesn't need to scream it's too clear to see the hard work and discipline that formed him.

You can see he fought from the bottom up with his nails torn and bloody and deals with demons as the aftermath. He doesn't give his heart freely and does so in a way so subtle and noticable only to the one he has found a way to care about.

L was misunderstood — and while I admire such complexity, it’s never an excuse.

He had what he wanted in his hands… but didn’t know how to keep it.

Now let's talk about J

J is as soft as five-star hotel sheets.

He’s never had to learn how a scar should heal. He was probably raised to embrace life and all it has to offer. J's demons give lovetaps that serve as reminders paling in comparison to L's that throw punches that leave burgundy scars on his lips

He gives his heart freely and isn’t afraid of the wounds that may follow. He wears it proudly on his sleeve.

Some may call it weakness.

I call it the most audacious thing a man can do.

J would treasure what L let slip away.

And what can L do?

L never learned how to keep nice things.

I haven’t finished the drama, so I wonder:

Will L let his demons consume him, or will he take a few steps back and reflect on his mistakes?

And as for J, will he be able to convince her that he’ll never make her relive L’s transgressions?