The Follies of Youth

by ThePenguinlovestory

Summary:

Jung Jeongwon never thought much about Cho Inhwee beyond the usual: good-looking, seemingly confident, always surrounded by friends—and apparently the go-to guy for relationship advice. But something about Inhwee doesn’t quite add up. He talks a big game, but Jeongwon has seen the cracks.

So he asks Inhwee for help. For fun, at first. Just to see how long he can keep up the act.

But then the lessons get personal. Intimate. And Jeongwon starts to wonder if his interest in Inhwee means more—and if he’s not the person he always thought he was.

Chapter 1

Notes:

I read the manhwa, "A Secret Romance Between Us," and it left me dissatisfied. Then, I remembered that I LOVE writing and I could reimagine the story, give Jeongwon the 'rebel with a cause' washing, and so this fanfic was born. I hope y'all enjoy reading it. If you do, please do not hesitate to comment. I love communicating with people who enjoy the same type of media that I do.

Happy reading!

 

This story is set in an alternate universe, in an imaginary town and country, and during an ambiguous time period.

Idea 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzlcxmVBIFo 

 

 

“Wow... You’re really hot.”

Jeongwon, in the middle of taking a sip of his drink, set his glass down with an amused smirk. He laughed. He couldn’t help himself. 

It wasn’t that he was surprised, nor necessarily pleased—though he didn’t mind the comment; his beauty had always been the cynosure of his life. Nor was he taken aback by the comment because of who had made it. This was not the first time, and it had occurred in a similar environment.

He blinked slowly at the red-faced, clearly imbibed guy staring openly at him with reverent eyes. It was starting to become his drunken ritual.

“What?” Tilting his head, he watched his classmate with teasing eyes. His intoxicated classmate smiled too—it was languid, lacking inhibitions, and completely pure—and then he, literally, giggled. It was cute. His reaction made Jeongwon laugh harder.

“You really like how I look, huh?” Jeongwon mused, voice low.

Through the alcoholic haze, Jeongwon’s words registered, and suddenly Inhwee looked shifty and quickly blurted, “I mean, no homo, you know?”

“Oh?” Jeongwon lifted an eyebrow. His pulse fluttered.

“I’m not like other guys,” Inhwee tried to correct, sounding overly zealous. He swayed slightly in his seat, blinking at Jeongwon through heavy eyelids.

Jeongwon chuckled again; this time he successfully took a sip of his drink. His eyes never strayed from Inhwee.

The dim lights of the bar made the other man's fine features softer, his large, glassy dark eyes gleaming as he fixed his gaze on Jeongwon. He could tell his brain-to-mouth filter had officially given up when he said, “I’m Kim Inhwee. I’m basically an…” Jeongwon patiently watched Inhwee struggle to find the perfect word, frowning as his whole face moved while he thought. “Professional!”

“Huh?”

“I’ve dated a lot.” He sloppily pointed to his chest. “I just…” He squinted and unsteadily leaned toward Jeongwon, finishing his sentence. “I know my stuff.”

Jeongwon nodded. “Right,” he muttered, voice low, grinning openly at Inhwee. “You’re an expert, huh?”

Like a toddler, Inhwee cheerily nodded. The movements were jerky. He was cute. 

“I know it all.”

“Do you, now?”

He eagerly nodded again.

“Are you drunk, Inhwee?” Jeongwon asked softly, scooting closer to him.

“Huh?” he mumbled groggily, blinking slowly as if now recalling where he was and who Jeongwon was. 

Jeongwon had heard from other classmates from their department, and had also observed over the past year, that Inhwee was not a good drinker. He sometimes had a bit too much to drink and would black out. Typically, his friends would make sure he got home, as far as Jeongwon was aware, but tonight was different. Tonight, as he had done a few times before, Jeongwon was in charge of getting him home. 

He had volunteered to take care of Inhwee and get him home when their peers announced they were moving to a different bar and it appeared as if Inhwee had passed out on the table. He had been volunteering often. Jeongwon didn't mind the duty. In fact, he quite enjoyed their little ritual.

“Did I drink too much?” Inhwee mumbled to himself. It was clear he was thinking aloud and didn’t seem to register that Jeongwon was nothing but a few inches away from him and could hear him.

Swiveling his head, he looked at Jeongwon and asked, “Where did everybody go?”

Jeongwon laughed at the bizarre question. He couldn’t believe he had now realized that it was just the two of them left from their large party.

“They already left, remember?” Jeongwon stated calmly, cocking his head, his gaze tender.

He leaned in even closer, his chest softly bumping into Inhwee’s shoulder, their outer thighs meeting. He was warm, Jeongwon observed, and he smelled nice. Even though the bar was thick with the pungent scents of food—boiled pork laden with chives and onions, sizzling meats, and the sharp tang of alcohol—Inhwee’s scent still reached him, sweet and soft beneath it all. It curled around Jeongwon’s senses, delicate yet impossible to ignore.

Inhwee blinked innocuously at him, his face smoothing. Jeongwon found his reactions cute.

After a stretch of silence, Inhwee suddenly announced, “You even have nice eyebrows.”

Jeongwon doubled over, laughter bursting from his chest in waves that shook his whole body. His shoulders trembled, his head tilting back as the deep, rich sound escaped him freely, full-bodied and unrestrained. His entire being seemed to move with amusement, his knee knocking into Inhwee’s as he rocked slightly from the force of it. Inhwee watched him laugh with a droopy, pleased grin on his face, his eyes glued to Jeongwon, mesmerized.

Jeongwon basked in the look—the unfiltered admiration in Inhwee’s gaze. Despite the years of keeping his distance from people who fawned over him for his good looks alone, he couldn't help but like the way Inhwee was looking at him. He liked it a lot. 

Maybe too much.

He was cute—even when obscenely drunk.

Jeongwon, absentmindedly, reached out, touched his cheek, and wiped his flushed skin with his thumb as he said, “There’s something on your cheek.” 

“What?” He sounded out of breath as he froze under Jeongwon’s touch. Then he came to. He pulled back a bit—Jeongwon’s hand dropped—and touched where Jeongwon had been touching just a moment earlier, and stuttered, “Oh, thanks.”

Jeongwon simply smiled at him, quietly observing and pondering the question that had lingered in his mind since their first semester—was Inhwee gay, or were his reactions just a result of finding him nice to look at? It was clear that the high level of alcohol in his system was making it difficult for him to school his features and hide his true thoughts, which stood in contrast to their few but otherwise typical sober interactions. Still, Inhwee behaved with the same flustered manner.

He was a mystery and had captured Jeongwon's attention and fascination since their first class together. Both computer science majors in the same year, they hadn’t interacted much during the first semester, as Jeongwon had done his best to avoid most of the get-togethers organized by their seniors. But Inhwee had stood out the moment Jeongwon had found himself in the same class as him. 

Inhwee might not be loud, but he attracted a small, but rowdy crowd. That’s what had attracted Jeongwon’s attention to him, but that’s not what kept it.

Inhwee was known for having numerous girlfriends and casual relationships, but Jeongwon found it hard to believe. He didn’t seem like a player and certainly not the relationship expert he claimed to be. Inhwee was comfortable around the women in their shared classes and within their department, which was evident during department get-togethers, but not in the way he boasted. Jeongwon could tell. He was no Casanova—especially given how he’d act fidgety whenever Jeongwon smiled at him.

Jeongwon couldn’t quite place it at first, but he couldn’t shake the feeling that Inhwee was putting on a macho act regarding his whole “Cassanova” act—probably to hide something. He had been a bit too loud, a little too twitchy and jumpy, and a bit too red-cheeked when he was teaching, advising his faithful disciples on the act of “getting girls.” As Jeongwon sat in class day in and day out, he grew curious, wondering if he was the only one who had noticed. He wanted to discover what that something was. 

His eyes started following him, then he struck up casual conversations in passing and even started to attend department dinners just to watch and listen. Then Jeongwon began to pick up on how Inhwee talked to him versus how he spoke to their female peers, and something clicked and lit a tiny flame within him—a tiny twinge of… not curiosity, per se, but something. A something that Jeongwon couldn’t name, but that he felt every time he was around Inhwee, and which grew stronger the night he clung to him, drunk and unaware of his surroundings. That had been the first night he ended up taking Inhwee home, his friend Gangwoo ditching the party as soon as Jeongwon arrived.

That was when Jeongwon became certain—even if Inhwee wasn’t gay, he wasn’t straight.

As Jeongwon tried to get Inhwee to confirm his apartment floor and number, sitting in the stairwell, Inhwee tightly hugged him and whispered in his ear, mumbling something about his good looks, how jealous he was, how easy it must be for Jeongwon to get a girlfriend, and how he desperately wished for one. Jeongwon, who had barely been able to focus as his grip on him tightened, completely lost his focus. His lips touching his ear as he whispered utter nonsense had confirmed one thing for Jeongwon, too—he might not be gay, but he wasn’t straight, and he was interested in Inhwee. He had gotten hard as a brick from a hug. The next few days assured him that he was fully aware of his growing sexual interest in Inhwee, too.

He had almost kissed Inhwee then, in the dimly lit staircase, only for Inhwee to push his face away and innocuously say, “You’re too close.” Jeongwon had stared at him, his brain short-circuiting, flustered and confused as to why he was avoiding his kiss when Inhwee had made it obvious on countless occasions that he found him attractive. But then, Inhwee went on a tirade, gripping Jeongwon’s biceps to gain his balance: “You’re lucky…I’m so jealous. You’re super popular with the girls—dating must be a piece of cake for you. I want to date girls too,” he heartbreakingly mewled and drooped against Jeongwon. “I want to date.”

“So, you act like this with guys, too?”

Inhwee’s soft mumble jerked Jeongwon from his reverie. “Huh?”

“You’re really friendly,” he muttered, dropping his head, removing his gaze from Jeongwon’s smiling visage.

“Am I?”

“You’re so kind to me. You talk… Why aren’t you dating anyone?”

He gave him that appreciative lookover. Jeongwon laughed. It would be absurd for him to act bashful when, throughout his life, he had attracted attention for his good looks and then his figure—from both genders. Inhwee’s open admiration was not uncommon. The problem, if there was one, was that he thought Jeongwon was unaware of his attraction, and his refusal to act on it—and Jeongwon’s intensifying interest in Inhwee.

“Are we talking about our dating lives now?” Jeongwon said, reaching for the water pitcher.

“Well, the typical bar talk we have here is boring!” Inhwee blustered, looking away from a grinning Jeongwon.

“Alright. Here. Drink some water,” Jeongwon said, placing the cup in Inhwee’s hand.

Watching him accept the cup with both hands and nod shyly before he sipped his water, Jeongwon said, tone wistful, “I haven’t dated anyone since high school. First year. And that wasn’t anything serious.”

Inhwee’s interest was piqued. He swallowed his water and placed the cup on the table.

“What? Hi–high school?” he sounded surprised.

Jeongwon chuckled. “What?”

He shook his head and tried to collect himself. “For how long?” 

“Did I date?”

He nodded.

Jeongwon callously shrugged, watching Inhwee tear his gaze away and letting it roam the bar, refusing to look back at Jeongwon for longer than a few seconds.

“We dated for about a year and then ended up drifting away because of timing,” he finished softly.

Inhwee reached for his water, he almost tipped it over but steadied it in the last second, and took another sip.

“What about you?”

He choked a bit. He started coughing. Jeongwon reached for him. Inhwee flinched. Jeongwon’s hand stilled “Are you okay?”

Inhwee nodded, flushing a deeper shade of red.

“I’m great. Thanks.”

“Good,” Jeongwon muttered, retracting his hand, not touching Inhwee.

As if he recalled Jeongwon’s question, he sat up straighter in his seat and said, “I’ve dated.”

Jeongwon nodded. “Okay.”

He averted his gaze. “I…I last dated someone three months ago. But I generally like to keep things casual, you…”

“Oh,” Jeongwon muttered softly, lifting his eyebrows. Placing his elbow on the table, completely turning his body towards Inhwee, he casually placed his cheek in his palm. He watched Inhwee under the hood of his eyelids.

Flushing and blustering, Inhwee stuttered, “Whe—When was your first time? Doing it, I mean?”

Jeongwon let out a hearty guffaw.
“What?” Inhwee looked bashful, as if suddenly roused from a trance. Snapping his fingers, he amended quickly, “Oh, just so you don’t feel embarrassed—my first was with my girlfriend in my first year of high school…”

Jeongwon nodded, his smile steady yet unreadable. “Hmm… Well, for me…” Inhwee leaned in, his attention fixed on Jeongwon’s words. “It was back in high school, too; no, actually, the summer before my first year.”

Inhwee made a face and recoiled slightly. He reached for his beverage and drained the remainder before Jeongwon could interject.

“But it was just that one time. It was… weird. I was awkward.” Jeongwon scowled painfully.

“Oh.”

Jeongwon lowered his lashes, voice tinged with a subtle melancholy as he admitted, “Whenever I go out with someone, I can’t seem to take things to the next level.”

“Oh.”

Jeongwon nodded. “I… don’t really know how to kiss either.” He pushed the glass of water toward Inhwee. “I’m jealous of you.”

Inhwee’s jaw dropped.

“Drink more water,” Jeongwon encouraged, doing his best to hold back laughter, even though it tickled his throat. Watching his obedient classmate drink, Jeongwon added, “I feel like… you’d be really good. You have lots of experience, too. You’re an expert, right?”

Inhwee blushed. Jeongwon noticed his throat working as he quickly swallowed the water. He had a nice throat—long and smooth.

Inhaling sharply Jeongwon dragged his gaze away.

“I… Yes,” Inhwee muttered, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. “I… I’m a good kisser.”

“Any pointers?”

“I… Well,” he cleared his throat. “Just because you suck on someone’s lips doesn’t mean you’re kissing.”

Jeongwon nodded attentively, a small smile curling at the corner of his mouth.

“You have to caress everywhere around the lips, too.”

“Ah.”

Inhwee nodded, his face taking on a sobering expression.
“I wasn’t very good at first,” he slurred and wavered toward Jeongwon. “N-But, I got better when I followed my instincts.”
“Instincts, huh?”
Inhwee pressed his hands, palms down on the seat, squinting at Jeongwon. “I’m sure you’ll be able to kiss better…” He swayed more in Jeongwon’s direction. “—soon.” And then his wrists gave out. 

Jeongwon reached for him. “Inhwee! Are you okay?”

Grabbing his shoulders, Inhwee’s face rested snugly against Jeongwon's chest. They were silent.

Jeongwon breathed in Inhwee's delectable fragrance and admired the top of his head. His hair was a fine shade of inky black, shimmering under the bar’s light. It looked soft, and Jeongwon's fingers itched to run through the silky locks.

Inhwee breathed and reached out, grabbing Jeongwon’s sides with firm hands, fisting his fingers there, his forehead still pressing snugly into Jeongwon’s chest, he groaned in a small voice, “I have to pee.”

Grinning, Jeongwon said paternally, “Let’s get you home then.”

Grabbing his amusing classmate, Jeongwon maneuvered him out of the booth and helped his wobbling peer to the bathroom—helping him not kowtow into the urinal and reminding him to wash his hands when he tried to walk out of the bathroom with his jeans unzipped.

“Let’s drink in moderation, huh?” Jeongwon muttered, escorting Inhwee through the bar.

“I’m parked out back,” Jeongwon informed him in a soothing voice, pushing the door open and pulling Inhwee through the exit firmly by the elbow.

“You’re so nice,” Inhwee muttered, his speech more slurred now. He managed to pull himself free and walked out in front of him. “I’m going to go home.”

“Good. That's where we’re going.”

He followed after his unsteady peer, trying to lay a steadying hand on him. Inhwee pushed him off. The night air was dry.

“You’re so nice,” he said again.

“Am I?”

 “You’re handsome and nice.” He inhaled deeply. “You must have a girlfriend.”

Jeongwon laughed. “We already talked about that.”

Suddenly, Inhwee stopped and turned towards him. He squinted at him, looking pained. “If that’s… Do you… Gangwoo said you have a small…are you unable to get it up?”

Once again that night, Jeongwon couldn’t contain the laughter that erupted from deep in his chest, a full-bodied, uninhibited sound that took over him entirely. His shoulders shook, his head tilting back slightly as the rich, warm laughter spilled out of him, his eyes crinkling at the corners. His broad frame leaned forward instinctively, as if the force of his amusement was too much to contain. He clutched his stomach for a moment, his long fingers gripping his sides as if to steady himself, but it was useless—his laughter came in waves, rolling through him with an infectious energy.

When he finally caught his breath, he wiped at the tears gathering in the corners of his eyes, his grin wide and utterly unguarded. “God, Inhwee,” he exhaled, still chuckling, his voice warm and fond. “You’re—” he stopped when a bright headlight beamed in their direction threateningly. Jeongwon instinctively reached for Inhwee. “Come here, there’s a—”

“I’m being serious,” Inhwee said, taking a step back and stumbling. Jeongwon lurched for him, almost missing him. Grabbing his right wrist and his left elbow, he yanked the slimmer male to him. The irritable anonymous driver honked at them as the car drove by them.

Dragging Inhwee away to the side of the bar’s wall, holding him by the elbow, Jeongwon said, staring into Inhwee’s eyes, “Are you okay?”

Inhwee dropped his forehead to Jeongwon’s chest for the second time that night, as if his head was too heavy to hold upright, and laughed. “I don’t know. I…feel dizzy.” A few seconds passed before he said, “You smell good, too.”

Jeongwon stroked his elbow, chuckling. 

Inhwee tilted his head back and looked up at Jeongwon and reached up to grab Jeongwon’s strong biceps. He frowned and gave Jeongwon a pitying look. “Are you suffering from ere… blagh, dysfunction.”

“Huh?” Jeongwon frowned. 

“Your di—penis?”

“What about it?” he asked, his face breaking into a smile again.

Inhwee exhaled. His breath hit Jeongwon’s face. “Is that why you’re single?”

“My penis?”

Inhwee gave him a frustrated look. “You can’t get hard.”

Again, for what felt like the millionth time that night, Jeongwon started laughing. His grip on Inhwee tightened.

“How do you plan to help me, Mr. Expert?”

“I… I don’t know,” he said, sounding completely devastated. Which was so ridiculous, it only added to Jeongwon's mirth.

“I’m good.”

“Huh?”

He brought his face closer to Inhwee’s. Their breathing filled the air between them. Holding his gaze, Jeongwon said, “I can get hard. It works.”

Inhwee scowled, looking completely flabbergasted. “Then… is it small? Ganwoo—”

“Sounds very interested in my dick?”

Inhwee cracked a small smile. “He’s not. I… I.” He stopped and shook his head. “Then why are you single?”

Jeongwon lied. “Remember? I’m not a good kisser.”

“Oh.”

“I lack experience.” He continued running his fingers soothingly over the fine skin of his elbow. He felt the goosebumps that rose on Inhwee’s skin at the action.

“Right. Just one girlfriend, right?”

“Attentive. Right.”

“I’m sorry. But, you’re so ho—attractive.”

Bringing his face even closer to his, his teeth on display, Jeongwon felt possessed as he declared, “That’s something you can help me with?”

“I… I can?”

“You’re an expert, right?”

“I…” He dropped his gaze and swallowed. “Can I?” Jeongwon nodded, his head buzzy as he stared deeply into Inhwee’s eyes.

Inhwee swallowed again. Jeongwon heard the nervous sound. “How can I help?”

“Give me tips. Practice with me.” With each word he uttered, he brought his face even closer to Inhwee’s. His rugged breath fanned Inhwee’s slightly parted lips. His eyes widened. 

Jeongwon knew he was being ridiculous, but he felt powerless as he stared at his enraptured classmate, who looked at him as if he was being offered admission to heaven. He must really like him, Jeongwon thought as he tried to temper the excitement that thought stirred within him.

 “Can I?” Inhwee panted.

Jeongwon took the liberty and he kissed his right cheek. His skin was hot. “You’d be helping me out. Greatly.”

Inhwee nodded. The movement was soft. 

Smiling, Jeongwon moved his face, and their lips grazed. Asking against his lips, he said, voice low in his throat, “How was that?” 

He heard Inhwee’s loud heartbeat.

Though a chaste kiss, it had felt nice. Inhwee felt nice. He supposed a kiss was a kiss. Lips were lips. It didn’t matter which gender they belonged to. His lips were soft.

Inhwee blinked at him, his pupils overly dilated. 

Staring at Inhwee, with his longing etched nakedly on his face, electricity surged through Jeongwon, his chest suddenly tightening with the intensity of his desire. His pulse raced wildly. He almost lost control.

“I… To be a good kisser… tongue?” he stuttered, his chest rising and falling as he tried to regain his composure and sound expert.

“Right,” Jeongwon whispered sultrily, running his fingers up his arm, his fingers digging under his sleeve, caressing the soft skin there. Inhwee sucked in a deep breath; his visceral reaction told Jeongwon a shiver had cascaded down his back. At Inhwee’s reaction, Jeongwon’s spine tingled and his head felt fuzzy, though he was sober.

He wanted more. 

Jeongwon pulled back an inch and languidly opened his mouth, sticking his tongue out a bit. Inhwee looked confused. Mouth still open, Jeongwon smiled, the corner of his lips tucking up. He looked cute.

“Like this, Inhwee?” he stated, tone gentle.

His voice broke Inhwee from his trance. He nodded. “Uh. Yeah.” He didn’t move.

Inhwee still didn’t move. Jeongwon helped him out. He leaned in again and kissed him.

“Open your mouth,” Jeongwon instructed; Inhwee was good at following directions. 

Heat surged through Jeongwon like molten lava as his tongue slid against Inhwee’s, and he felt him shudder under his fingers. His reaction to the kiss made fire bloom in Jeongwon’s chest, coiling down his body, pooling low in his belly. 

He wanted so much more.

Slipping his hand from his arm to cradle Inhwee’s cheek, his fingers trailed slowly across his skin. Inhwee’s hands delicately rested on his waist. 

Pulling back, reeling from the kiss, Jeongwon asked, in a mischievous tone, “Should I suck your tongue?” He trailed his hands down his neck and arm, pressing Inhwee against the wall as he pushed his body into his. Inhwee gasped as he felt the full length of his desire.

“Ah…? Yes.” He sounded delirious.

Jeongwon captured his lips again, sucking on his tongue, kissing him like he knew he had never been kissed before. Jeongwon’s tongue brushed against his smooth one, sucking it. His spine tingled as Inhwee groaned underneath him. Electricity trickled down Jeongwon’s spine, and a heat wave washed over him.

This was nice. He liked kissing Inhwee.

Feeling him shudder uncontrollably underneath his fingertips, Jeongwon reluctantly parted their lips, letting Inhwee catch his breath. Jeongwon’s lips grazed the shell of his ear, trailing slowly down his neck with wet, open-mouthed kisses. 

Fuck.

His mind filled with cuss words. His hands dropped to Inhwee’s hips, and his fingers tightened there, pulling him closer, feeling the bulge in his pants. He was hard. That turned Jeongwon on even more. He massaged the supple skin of his hips and grinded into him and captured his mouth again. Inhwee jerked and gasped.

“You like that, Inhwee? Hmm?” he asked against his skin, feeling his bobbing Adam's apple.

“Ugh.” Inhwee’s hands searched for purchase on Jeongwon’s broad shoulders. He turned his face and freed his lips. “W–wait.”

 Jeongwon froze.

Inhwee stared at him, looking drowsy, his hands on Jeongwon's chest, his fingers practically cupping his pectorals. “What… are we doing?”

 

Chapter 2

Jeongwon’s lips spread into a slow smile. “Kissing,” he replied with a hint of mischief, leaning in closer.

“Huh?”

Jeongwon kissed the side of his neck. Inhwee’s breathing broke and got rougher.

He glided one large hand up Inhwee’s back, tracing his shoulder blades before slipping his other hand beneath the hem of Inhwee’s shirt. As his thumb slid up the small patch of bare skin there, caressing Inhwee’s spine, Inhwee trembled at the intimate contact. 

The warmth radiating from Inhwee overwhelmed Jeongwon. Bringing his face next to Inhwee’s, a smile tugged at the corners of Jeongwon’s lips as he calmly asked, a teasing lilt in his tone, “Did you forget again?”

Inhwee stammered, his eyes darting away. “U…uhh. I—I did?” The shame washed over him, and then he froze, his expression shifting from surprise to alarm. “Oh, shit!”

Jeongwon frowned, concern furrowing his brow. “Hey, are you okay?”

“I ate so much boiled pork,” he admitted, his eyes widening in horror. “My breath probably reeks of food and alcohol.” His voice was laced with worry.

Jeongwon pulled his face away slightly, feeling a flush creep into his cheeks. He was too cute, Jeongwon thought, his chest tightening as he watched Inhwee freak out in front of him. 

Jeongwon felt warmth flooding his face at the sight of Inhwee’s embarrassment. Misreading Jeongwon’s reaction, Inhwee hurriedly started to apologize. “Sorry. It must’ve smelled really bad, right?”

Jeongwon couldn’t help it; he took a step back and leaned over, resting one hand on his knee while the other grasped his head in laughter.

“You—you’re not throwing up, are you?” Inhwee asked, his voice tinged with anxiety.

Jeongwon stood up, still chuckling. “What a relief!”

“What?” Inhwee’s confusion was palpable.

“Oh, sorry. I didn’t mean to laugh,” Jeongwon replied, wiping a stray tear from the corner of his eye. Inhwee still looked confused. “I thought you were going to say it was a drunken mistake,” murmured Jeongwon, a nervous smile creeping onto his face.

Inhwee stared silently at him, his cheeks aflame, unable to articulate the swirl of emotions within him.

Jeongwon closed the gap between them once more, his voice softening as he confessed, dropping his eyelids in an attempt to appear bashful. “I want to be a really good kisser.”

“I can’t believe you!” Inhwee exclaimed, a mix of surprise and disbelief washing over him. “I know you want to practice, but it’s still kind of weird to practice with a guy.”

 Jeongwon’s gaze was intense, but Inhwee couldn’t meet it, feeling the weight of vulnerability pressing down on him.

Jeongwon stilled, watching Inhwee with a serious expression.

“Doesn’t it turn you off?” Inhwee asked, his voice clear but tinged with insecurity.

Grabbing Inhwee’s left arm, Jeongwon let his right hand rest on Inhwee’s hip, gently leaning into him, creating a bubble of intimacy. His voice earnest, he said, “No, not at all. Does it turn you off, Inhwee?”

“N–no,” Inhwee stuttered, caught off guard. “I just think explaining it in words would be enough.”

Holding Inhwee close again, caressing up and down Inhwee’s bare arm, Jeongwon spoke softly, “I’m slow, so I don’t know until I practice something for myself. But if that puts you in a tough spot, I won’t ask you anymore. My bad.”

Inhwee quickly shook his head, a spark of urgency in his voice as he exclaimed, “No! I’m the one who feels bad.”

A moment of silence hung in the air as they stood there, their eyes locked in a shared uncertainty. Jeongwon felt the confusion swirling inside him, unsure if he had just been turned down or if Inhwee was embarrassed and trying not to offend him. Yet, after months of observing Inhwee and finding him utterly fascinating, he was determined to understand these feelings, even if they were tangled and complex.

As Jeongwon stood there, contemplating his next steps, Inhwee suddenly began hiccuping, quickly covering his mouth in surprise. His eyes widened, and he looked utterly adorable.

“Oh, I have the hiccups,” he murmured, embarrassment flooding his features.

Jeongwon couldn’t help but smile, finding Inhwee’s nervousness endearing. Realizing that this moment had become a mix of awkwardness and affection, Jeongwon gently released his hold on Inhwee, taking his hand and saying soothingly, “Let’s stop.”

Inhwee nodded, looking relieved.

I guess I’m into him.

--------

Holding Inhwee’s hand, Jeongwon led him toward his parked car.

As they approached the vehicle, Jeongwon fished out his key and pressed the button to unlock the car. The sound of the car beeping echoed in the quiet surroundings, but Inhwee’s voice suddenly broke through the moment.

“You’re a good kisser, you know,” he blurted out, his cheeks flushing as he glanced over at Jeongwon, who had a wide smile spreading across his face.

Jeongwon looked at him, a mix of surprise and delight lighting up his expression. “Oh yeah? I guess I got better thanks to your help,” he replied, his voice teasing but warm. He rubbed the back of Inhwee’s hand with his thumb.

Inhwee cleared his throat awkwardly.

“All I did was follow your lead,” Jeongwon added, a hint of pride lacing his tone as he glanced at Inhwee, who was now looking a bit bashful.

Inhwee hesitated for a moment, then, with a determined look, he said, “I—I can probably help you…” He scratched his head nervously, the words tumbling out of him in a rush. “One more time.”

Jeongwon’s heart thumped loudly in his chest, the excitement coursing through him like electricity. He stopped in his tracks, tugging Inhwee to a halt beside him. Inhwee looked as surprised as he, felt. As if he couldn’t believe what had just come out of his mouth.

“Really?” he asked, incredulous, his eyes sparkling with hope and curiosity.

“Yeah… sure,” Inhwee replied, his voice barely above a whisper, but the sincerity was clear.

Jeongwon beamed at him, the joy radiating from his expression.

“Then can I take you up on that soon?” he asked, his anticipation palpable.

Heat flooded Inhwee's face, his cheeks burning furiously as he stuttered, “What…? Sure.”

Jeongwon's heart raced at the thought, excitement mixing with nerves as he realized the implications of what Inhwee was accepting. How far was he willing to go to maintain this facade, Jeongwon wondered? But he also wondered why he was encroaching on Inhwee's kindness and naivety.

They started walking again. In his customary fashion, as Jeongwon opened the passenger’s door to his car, Inhwee asked, “Are you gay?”

Jeongwon chuckled and said, “You’re not prejudiced, right?”

“Wha— No! I have a… I know gay people. Lesbians. Friends.”

Jeongwon chuckled. “Good.”

Jeongwon ushered him into his car. Reaching for the seat belt to strap Inhwee in, he said, “I’m questioning.” He shrugged and pulled back to close the door. “I’m open to both.”

“Oh,” was Inhwee’s response.

The car ride to Inhwee’s off-campus apartment was quiet.

Chapter 3

Notes:

This story is set in an alternate universe, in an imaginary town and country, and during an ambiguous time period.

Idea 10 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Ka_j1VWQO8&t=2039s  

 

“I’m listening,” Jeongwon said, letting out a long sigh as he rolled his head back against the cushion of his chair. The soft creak of the chair seemed to echo his weariness—a reminder of familial pressure that weighed heavily on his shoulders.

He paused for a moment, shifting his focus from the pile of notebooks and textbooks scattered across his desk to the conversation at hand. His mother. Talking to her on the phone would never get easier or less uncomfortable.

“Your grandfather misses you,” she said, her voice stern and heavy with expectation.

Jeongwon rolled his eyes—a reflexive gesture that revealed his frustration. His grandfather didn’t miss him. He was comatose and in hospice care. The truth was, his parents just wanted him under their control. They needed him close so they could chastise him for every single thing he did wrong. Which, according to them, was everything.

He had deliberately chosen a university three hours away from his parents, craving the freedom they had always stifled. As an only child, the pressure they placed on him was relentless and exhausting. They demanded perfection in every aspect of his life—his grades, his behavior, his future. To them, achieving that perfection meant obeying without question. They had a plan for his life, and he was expected to play his part dutifully.

It was suffocating.

Both of his parents were doctors, and they envisioned him following in their footsteps—taking over their practice and living a life they considered successful. They constantly reminded him how hard they had worked, how hard the entire family had worked. From humble beginnings, they had built a legacy: a generation where nearly everyone held college degrees and ran multiple businesses. Their medical practice was thriving—something his grandparents could have only dreamed of. He couldn’t afford to disappoint them. He would be letting the whole Jung family down. It was his filial duty.

They never respected his passion, especially for becoming a game developer—a dream that felt more distant with every conversation.

He recalled the heated arguments in high school—always about his weekends spent playing video games or working on coding projects instead of completing tasks they deemed worthwhile. The threat was always there, looming like a dark cloud: they would stop paying his tuition and rent if he continued to pursue his interests. They were willing to play along for now, but once he graduated, the expectation was clear—he would go to medical school. That was the only option. It was all about making the family look good. All about them looking good.

It was oppressive how much they cared about every single thing he did—or how he was perceived.

His parents didn’t even hide the pleasure they took in being the people who had birthed him, all because of how he looked. Appearance and reputation mattered to them more than anything. And with a family like the one he was raised in, he had always known how the world perceived him. He hadn’t been lying to Inhwee last night.

He had always been attractive, effortlessly drawing attention from girls and boys alike for as long as he could remember. It seemed everyone wanted to be near him—either to bask in his looks or to catch the eye of someone else. Girls, especially the bolder ones, had no qualms about making their feelings known, while boys often stared, their interest unmistakable. He turned heads wherever he went, but the attention had its downsides.

Friends had come to him for the wrong reasons, and over time, he grew disillusioned. The idea of forming genuine connections felt futile when so much of it seemed rooted in surface-level attraction. Some boys tried to befriend him just to get closer to girls, using him as a means to an end. As a result, Jeongwon kept to himself, often declining invitations to hang out.

He hadn’t lied to Inhwee about everything, though. He remembered the one time he ventured into a relationship back in high school, feeling the pressure to date because it felt expected of him. It ended badly after a few months when his girlfriend became needy, controlling, and possessive. The experience left him cautious, wary of intimacy. If even love—what he had hoped would be a safe space, something different from what he’d witnessed in his parents’ relationship—could turn sour, then what was the point? 

He hadn’t dated anyone since, but he wouldn’t claim to abstinence either. If the opportunity arose and he felt like it, he wasn’t one to turn it down. He had played the field, especially last year—his first year at university—when his parents’ pressure was at its peak. Those fleeting encounters offered a temporary escape from the expectations that haunted him. 

Jeongwon felt like he was constantly chasing the high that intimacy promised, but it always left him feeling empty and frustrated. His disinterest in romance—so unlike his peers—troubled him. He wasn’t asexual, far from it, but none of his encounters ever left him satisfied. He always wanted more . What that more was, he didn’t know. He couldn’t name it.

He found himself wondering whether he was even equipped to date anyone at all.

If he wanted a girlfriend, he knew he could find one easily enough. But the question loomed larger: did he really want that? Or would he just fall into the same patterns as before, like he had with his high school girlfriend?

He worried that he might bring out the worst in people, just as his parents had done to each other. The thought was unsettling, and he couldn’t shake the anxiety that clung to him like a heavy fog.

As he leaned back in his chair, the weight of reality settled over him—a quiet, persistent reminder that his feelings for Inhwee occupied a shadowy, uncertain territory. Lately, he’d been questioning his sexuality, especially as he caught himself watching Inhwee more closely, curious in ways he hadn’t been with others. 

“Your grandfather is sick, Jeongwon. Don’t wait until he’s dead to care.” His mother’s voice echoed in his mind, slicing through his thoughts like a knife.

He swallowed hard, stifling a sigh at yet another attempt to guilt-trip him.

“You owe everything to that man, Jeongwon. He’s the reason you’re able to attend one of the top schools in the country and live the life of luxury you do—something your father and I never experienced. You need to understand how important family is.”

Jeongwon pressed his eyes shut, refusing to let the mounting frustration drag him under.

“I can’t this weekend, ma’am. I have a group project due,” he replied, keeping his tone even and respectful despite the irritation simmering beneath the surface. “But I can come next weekend.”

Her disappointment was palpable through the phone.

“Jeongwon, sometimes it feels like—” she abruptly stopped. He heard her loud sigh before she said, “I have to go, Jeongwon. But I hope to see you soon.”

Jeongwon closed his eyes, breathing slowly as he tried to release the tension rooted deep in his chest. He loved his parents—he really did—but sometimes he wondered if they loved him. Not the idea they had of him. Not the expectations they projected onto him. Not the life they got to live vicariously through him. But him. The real him.

If he were anything but straight, he wondered, would they still proudly claim him as their son? And if he didn’t go medical school—which he doubted he would—would they still allow him to carry the Jung surname?

----------------

They made eye contact in the middle of the hallway as Inhwee walked out of his class. Inhwee turned bright red. Jeongwon didn’t need to be inside his head to know what he was thinking—or what he wanted to do. He wanted to flee.

Even his deer-caught-in-headlights look was cute to Jeongwon. He approached his funny classmate, raising a hand in greeting. “Hi.”

Inhwee nodded and waved back. He didn’t look at Jeongwon’s face for more than a few seconds.

“Are you okay? Did you catch a cold?” Jeongwon asked, eyeing Inhwee's flushed face with amusement.

Inhwee, looking flustered, parted his lips as if to respond, then hesitated. His expression flickered between uncertainty and embarrassment before he coughed lightly and muttered, “I—yeah. I had a wild weekend.” He coughed and let his gaze drift away from Jeongwon.

Jeongwon chuckled, tilting his head as he let his gaze drift over Inhwee. There were a few skin-colored bandages on his neck—small but noticeable. His lips quirked up in amusement. “That does sound wild,” he mused. Then, with a teasing glint in his eyes, he added, “But you're coughing. Are you sure you're okay?”

Inhwee visibly tensed, looked at Jeongwon, his hands clenching at his sides as he quickly averted his gaze. His face was burning up, and Jeongwon, unable to resist, stepped a little closer, invading his space just enough to provoke a reaction. As expected, Inhwee sucked in a sharp breath, his shoulders stiffening.

There’s no way he was straight. Jeongwon knew this reaction.

Jeongwon noted, with some amusement, that Inhwee still smelled as nice as he had on Friday night. Now that the cloying scent of the bar was gone, his fragrance was even more noticeable—subtle but undeniably pleasant. 

Before Inhwee could protest, Jeongwon reached out and pressed the back of his hand against his forehead.

“Inhwee, I think you have a fever,” Jeongwon said, brow furrowing, working hard to withhold the growing desire to laugh. It was so easy to tease him.

Inhwee jerked back, shaking his head almost too quickly. “No, I'm fine,” he insisted, punctuating the statement with another cough.

Before Jeongwon could call him out, a loud voice interrupted.

“What are you two doing? Are you guys dating or something? Hi Jeongwon.”

Inhwee jumped as if he'd been electrocuted. His head snapped toward the speaker—a guy with a wide, teasing grin. Jeongwon could only assume he was a friend. He didn’t recognize him.

Jeongwon waved politely at him. 

The guy didn’t wait for an answer from Inhwee before adding, “Fall in love or whatever. Anyway, I’m off.” He waved and smiled at Jeongwon, then winked at Inhwee. “See you later.”

Inhwee glared at him, clearly fuming, but the moment the guy left, his irritation melted into quiet mortification. He dropped his head and muttered, “I have to go to my next class.”

Jeongwon let out a soft laugh, clearly entertained by the way Inhwee was trying to escape. “We're in the same class, remember? It's canceled today.”

Inhwee blinked. “Oh.”

Jeongwon seized the opportunity. “Perfect,” he said smoothly. “Let's go to a café.” He casted a glance at Inhwee, throwing in a casual, “My treat.”

Inhwee’s face drained of color.

Jeongwon smirked, sensing his hesitation. “Since we have so many of the same classes, we can do homework together,” he added, trying to sweeten the deal. “I may not look it, but I get excellent marks,” he joked.

“Wha—what! I didn’t—”

“I’m joking,” he said, laughing at Inhwee's unfiltered reactions.

“Oh.” Inhwee’s face turned a deeper shade of red. He exhaled slowly, clearly resigned. After a moment, he nodded.

Jeongwon grinned. “Great. Let's go.”

“Oh. Yeah. Umm.” He fidgeted, dropping his gaze before it found its way back to Jeongwon’s sly, Cheshire Cat grin. “Actually, I wanted to thank you.”

“Oh. What for?” 

“Friday night.”

 “My pleasure.”

Inhwee looked at him, cheeks tinged red.

“Honestly,” Jeongwon added, falling into step next to him.

----------

At the café, they sat across from each other, laptops open, a quiet air settling between them. Jeongwon had gone to the counter earlier and returned with drinks and dessert—an iced coffee for himself and a steaming cup of herbal tea for Inhwee. It had been recommended by the barista as a good remedy for colds when he inquired about the menu, and though Jeongwon wasn’t sure how much it would help, he figured it was worth a shot. He didn’t mind playing along with Inhwee’s farce; it was entertaining.

Inhwee didn’t seem to mind the drink. He appeared touched as he wrapped his fingers around the warm mug and took a small, tentative sip. Watching him, Jeongwon dug into his dessert, the buttery crust of his tart crumbling under his fork.

He smirked. “Want a bite?” he asked when he noticed Inhwee watching him eat his tart, his own dessert untouched.

Inhwee's gaze snapped up, wide-eyed. He immediately flushed and shook his head. “No, I’m fine.”

Jeongwon raised a brow, his smile turning more mischievous. He forked up a small piece of the tart, making sure to get a bit of the filling and crust together. Then, without warning, he held it out toward Inhwee.

Inhwee blinked at him, stunned.

“Here. Try it.”

Inhwee simply stared at him, face a teasing crimson. He blushed so easily. Jeongwon quite liked it.

Inhwee’s brain seemed to have short-circuited. He started stuttering, “I—”

Jeongwon pushed it a little closer. His tone kind, he encouraged him, “Just try it. It’s good.”

“I—”

Jeongwon laughed, and it seemed to be the catalyst Inhwee needed. He glanced around, as if checking whether anyone was watching, before finally, reluctantly leaning forward. He took the bite directly from the fork, his lips brushing against the metal.

That small action did something to Jeongwon. A jolt of electricity sizzled down his spine. With his elbow resting on the table and his hand holding the fork flipped back so that his knuckles covered his lips, he intently watched Inhwee’s lips and throat work.

Jeongwon vividly recalled Friday night—the warmth and pressure of his lips and the silken planes of the inside of his mouth. He could almost feel it, and he could taste him on his tongue.

Inhwee chewed slowly. “It’s good,” he admitted after a moment.

Jeongwon grinned, coming back to earth. “Told you.”

Inhwee’s head bobbed up and down and he quickly picked up his own fork, stabbing into his untouched dessert, flustered beyond belief. Jeongwon chuckled under his breath but didn’t tease him further.

After a few seconds, Inhwee cleared his throat, grabbing Jeongwon’s attention before timidly asking, “You’re so…”

“Friendly,” Jeongwon finished for him, cocking his head, his teeth flashing in a grin.

Inhwee nodded, his smile softening. “You’re nice.”

“So you’ve said, but…I’m not.” He winked playfully.

“You are,” Inhwee insisted, his tone sincere.

“Okay. I’ll take it.” Sitting up straighter, Jeongwon prompted, “I interrupted. What did you really want to ask?”

Inhwee cleared his throat again. “Right. It’s just… aren’t you nervous? Not weirded out by others seeing you be so friendly with a… guy?”

Jeongwon chuckled. His reaction seemed to rattle Inhwee, so he quickly reassured him. “No.”

Inhwee frowned and looked like he wanted to say more, but he dropped his head and nodded, letting the issue go.

Jeongwon understood that Inhwee cared deeply about appearances and his reputation. There was a reason he projected himself as a Casanova, and Jeongwon knew he probably should care, too. But no one would look at them and assume anything beyond friendship. He hoped they would become friends soon—and, honestly, he didn’t mind if others assumed they were dating. Jeongwon had never cared much about what others thought, a trait his parents had always despised.

Though, ironically, he’d inherited his stubbornness from them.

He was tenacious, and what he wanted right now was Inhwee—and to figure out these feelings he evoked in him.

Still, Jeongwon scowled slightly, hoping Inhwee wasn’t bothered by him and his obvious interest. But there he sat, right in front of him—avoiding eye contact and turning bright red at the sound of his voice. He was definitely picking up on the fact that Jeongwon was flirting, right?

“I think you’re the nice one,” Jeongwon said.

Inhwee shook his head, swallowing the chewed food in his mouth.

“No. Don’t deny it.”

Inhwee chuckled. “Okay. If you say so.”

“And I do.” Jeongwon’s voice was smooth, his confidence unwavering as he leaned in slightly, holding Inhwee’s gaze. His eyes gleamed with something playful, something teasing, but there was sincerity beneath it. He was laying it on thick, fully aware of the effect he had on Inhwee.

Inhwee just smiled.

"I hope that we can be friends."

Inhwee blinked, looking taken aback.

"I think we are," Jeongwon added softly.

"I—" Inhwee paused and simply stared at Jeongwon, stupefied.

"Do you...not want to be friends?"

"What? No!" He protested.

"No?"

Inhwee laughed nervously. “I meant—me not not wanting to be your friend. I’d be honored,” he said, stumbling over his words. “I meant, you’re… nice.” His cheeks reddened, and he looked more self-conscious with each passing second.

Jeongwon gave him a satisfied look. "Good. We're friends now." Inhwee wordlessly nodded, his neck coloring.

Jeongwon's gaze flickered to the bandages on Inhwee’s neck. The small, barely-there coverings stood out against his pale skin. Without thinking, Jeongwon commented noncommittally, “You got hurt?”

Inhwee instantly choked on his tea, sputtering as the hot liquid went down the wrong way. He coughed violently, his shoulders shaking with each ragged breath. Jeongwon’s eyes widened, and he shot up from his seat, moving instinctively.

“Hey, hey—” Jeongwon reached over, placing a firm but gentle hand on Inhwee’s back. He rubbed slow circles, feeling the slight tremors racking his frame.

Inhwee struggled to catch his breath, his face turning even redder as he coughed into his sleeve. “I’m—fine,” he rasped out.

“Is it any better?” Jeongwon asked, concern laced in his voice.

Inhwee gave a weak nod. “I—it’s fine…”

Not convinced, Jeongwon let his hand travel up to his shoulder, his fingers pressing lightly into the tense muscle. A visible shudder ran through Inhwee, and a bright, intense fire lit within Jeongwon.

His touch turned meaningful: slow, deliberate, massaging along the line of Inhwee’s shoulder.

Inhwee sucked in a sharp breath. It did something to Jeongwon’s reasoning.

Leaning over Inhwee, he murmured, “I’m still bad at it.”

Inhwee blinked, his voice soft and thin. “What?”

Jeongwon gently tapped the bandage on Inhwee’s neck. Goosebumps rose along the other man's pale skin. He had a beautiful neck. And Jeongwon couldn’t help but remember the way he’d unapologetically marked him.

He wanted to do it again.

“I couldn’t control my strength,” Jeongwon admitted, his fingers tracing slowly down the length of Inhwee’s arm before he pulled back. His voice was low—almost teasing—but a note of genuine remorse lingered beneath it. “Sorry.”

Inhwee swallowed thickly as realization struck. His face flushed, ears turning pink as he stammered, “Uh… that’s okay. My skin’s always been a bit sensitive.” He gave a small, nervous laugh, scratching the side of his face. “I swell pretty easily. Don’t worry about it.” Meeting Jeongwon’s gaze, he attempted to lighten the mood with a joke. “I guess I gave you the intensive course.”

Jeongwon grinned, tilting his head slightly. “Okay then…” He paused, watching Inhwee’s reaction carefully before adding, “I better go easy—” Their eyes locked. His voice dropped. “—next time.”

Inhwee inhaled sharply. His fingers curled around his mug, gripping it tightly as he stared at Jeongwon. A visible shiver ran through him, but he said nothing.

Satisfied, Jeongwon smirked and finally sat back down. Inhwee, clearly rattled, quickly turned his attention to his tea, taking a sip as if it could ground him.

They worked in silence for a while, each focused on their laptops. Or pretending to be.

Jeongwon typed aimlessly, his gaze drifting again and again toward Inhwee. And every time, he caught Inhwee already looking at him. After the third time, Inhwee fidgeted and finally broke the silence. “Hey… are you okay?”

Jeongwon blinked. “I’m fine.” He took a sip of his iced coffee. “Why?” 

Inhwee hesitated. “No, it’s just… you’ve gone quiet.”

He fiddled with the rim of his mug, then glanced up again. “Did I do something wrong?” 

Jeongwon stared at him, caught off guard, then suddenly laughed, covering his face with one hand. Inhwee’s innocence was too much. Seriously, too much. It left him flustered in the best possible way.

“No,” Jeongwon said at last, lowering his hand. He met Inhwee’s wide-eyed gaze, a smile playing at his lips. “I just keep getting distracted.”

Inhwee frowned. “Huh?”

Jeongwon leaned forward slightly. “Can we practice again today?”

Inhwee’s lips parted, caught off guard. “Huh?”

“It’s okay if you don’t want to,” Jeongwon added casually, tilting his head.

“No!” Inhwee quickly denied, his voice rising slightly. Then, realizing how desperate he sounded, he cleared his throat. “It’s just…”

Jeongwon watched him expectantly. “What are you doing today?”

“After class?”

Jeongwon nodded.

“I have work.”

“Where do you work?”

“The Snug Bean Café.”

“Never been.” A slow smile spread across Jeongwon’s face. “Can I visit?”

Inhwee froze. His entire body tensed. “Huh?”

Jeongwon chuckled. “I want to go to your work. Today.”

Inhwee’s brain short-circuited. “Today?” he echoed dumbly.

Leaning in, Jeongwon lowered his voice, smooth and deliberate. “I have a car. I can give you a ride after work.”

“No, I couldn’t—”

“Can we practice again? Is that okay?”

Inhwee turned bright red.

 

Chapter 4

Notes:

This story is set in an alternate universe, in an imaginary town and country, and during an ambiguous time period.

Idea 15 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyUct2htiNk  

 

“Sorry, did I keep you waiting?” Inhwee asked, hurrying toward Jeongwon, who was leaning casually against the passenger side of his car, eyes fixed on his phone. Jeongwon looked up at the sound of Inhwee’s voice, his face breaking into an easy, warm smile.

“I just got here. Get in,” Jeongwon said, pushing off the car with effortless grace and reaching for the passenger door. “How was your shift?”

Inhwee flushed, hesitating for a second before stepping closer. “You didn’t have to…” he mumbled, eyes flickering to Jeongwon’s hand resting on the car door.

Jeongwon chuckled—a low, amused sound. “I wanted to pick you up.” He skillfully sidestepped Inhwee’s unspoken protest, opening the door wider.

Inhwee hesitated again.

“I was in the area,” Jeongwon appeased softly. Inhwee lifted his gaze, settling it on Jeongwon. He somberly nodded and stepped closer, mumbling, “Still, thank you.” Then he instantly perked up, as if recalling something he had almost forgotten. “Here,” he said enthusiastically.

Jeongwon looked down at his outstretched hand, his smile deepening. Inhwee was handing him a coffee, similar to what he had ordered earlier that day at the café. He was observant. Jeongwon’s chest warmed at the gesture. His gaze flickered up to Inhwee's face.

“I would have given you a ride for free,” he teased, accepting the iced coffee. And really, he was the one getting the most out of this interaction, given his goal, Jeongwon thought.

Inhwee simply laughed. It sounded like a giggle. Jeongwon's chest tightened. He liked the sound. 

Inhwee slid into the passenger seat, jolting Jeongwon from his daze. “Really. Thanks.”

“Happy to.”

“But I still owe you.”

“Huh?” Jeongwon blinked down at him, sipping his drink.

“For earlier.”

Jeongwon laughed. “I wanted to. Just like now.”

“Still—”

“I’ll take the coffee. You made it?” Jeongwon asked as Inhwee settled in, strapping on his seatbelt.

“It was nothing.”

He’s seriously too cute. Jeongwon’s smile was all infatuation and warmth. “It’s really good,” he shared, voice low and fond.

“Thanks,” Inhwee said in a small voice.

Jeongwon loved how nervous he made him. 

How did he hope to trick anyone when he was so honest, Jeongwon pondered, giving him one last affectionate smile before walking around his car to get in. Opening the driver’s side door, he asked, “Have you eaten?” He got in.

“Yeah, I did.” Inhwee paused, debating for a moment before glancing at Jeongwon. “Have you?”

Jeongwon had just reached for his door handle when Inhwee’s question made him pause. His lips twitched as he turned back slightly, eyes crinkling with amusement. “Not yet.”

Inhwee nodded slowly. Jeongwon fastened his seatbelt, his smile creasing the skin around his mouth, and started the engine.

Jeongwon noticed Inhwee relaxing in his seat, inhaling deeply before letting the breath out. “You have a nice car,” he remarked after a beat, his voice relaxed now.

Jeongwon laughed, tilting his head. “I hope it doesn’t smell bad.”

“What? No!” Inhwee blurted out, eyes widening in panic. Jeongwon barely stifled his laughter, shoulders shaking as Inhwee scrambled to clarify. “It smells really nice!”

That did it. Jeongwon laughed out loud, the sound filling the car and making Inhwee’s face heat up in embarrassment.

“What I mean is…” Inhwee fumbled, looking away as he muttered, “You have a very nice car. I’m jealous.”

Jeongwon shot him a teasing glance before turning back to the road. “Thank you, but… it’s not actually mine.”

Inhwee frowned, brows drawing together as he turned to Jeongwon in confusion. “Huh?”

Jeongwon smirked, keeping his eyes ahead. “My parents bought it, pay for it, and it’s in their name.”

“Oh.” Inhwee blinked. “But still, it’s yours to drive around.”

Jeongwon tilted his head slightly, considering. “I do pay for gas and maintenance.”

Inhwee chuckled, shaking his head. Jeongwon caught the way his eyes softened, the way his lips curled at the edges in that way that made something tighten in his chest. He might be down bad. If it wasn’t clear before, it definitely was now. His interest—whatever it was—was far from innocent.

“You said you lived behind the school, right?” Jeongwon asked after a moment. 

“Yeah.”

“In the alleyway with the Gu convenience store?”

Inhwee nodded, his fingers playing with the edge of his sleeve.

“Want me to play something?”

Inhwee shrugs. “Anything is fine.”

“Okay.” Jeongwon put on his playlist, letting soft music gently fill the car’s interior.

A comfortable silence settled between them as Jeongwon drove, the city lights flickering past in streaks of gold and white.

“How’s school?” Jeongwon asked eventually.

“Same as always.”

“Clarify.”

Inhwee chuckled, then he sighed, scratched his neck nervously and said, “It’s been good.” He glanced at Jeongwon. “You?”

“Alright.” Jeongwon smirked, moving his head to catch his gaze for a few seconds. “We’re in two of the same classes, you know.”

They were in the same Data Structures & Algorithms and Discrete Mathematics courses.

Inhwee gave a silent nod, eyes trailing over the passing scenery.

“Do you already have a partner for the DSA semester project?” Jeongwon asked.
Inhwee shook his head.

“Want to partner up?”

Inhwee turned to him, blinking in surprise. “Can I?”

“You’ll be helping me,” Jeongwon said in the same tone he used to ask him for “kissing lessons,” lips quirking.

Inhwee groaned dramatically, dropping his face into his hands. His elbows dug into his thighs as he muttered, “No, you’ll be helping me. You’re smart.”

“And so are you.”

Inhwee rolled his eyes, exhaling heavily before slumping back into his seat. “I’m not.”

“You are. I doubt you’d be here otherwise.”

Inhwee huffed, tilting his head toward the window. “I gave my all to get here, and… that’s all I’ve got.”

Against his better judgment, Jeongwon laughed. “ You’re smart.”

Inhwee gave him a small, friendly smile. “Okay, I won’t argue.”

“Good,” Jeongwon said, grinning. “Because I wasn’t going to relent.”

“So persistent,” Inhwee whispered under his breath, his earlier shyness creeping back, coloring his cheeks and neck again.

Jeongwon smirked endearingly but kept his eyes on the road. 

“You having a hard time?” Jeongwon asked after a moment.

“Huh?”

“This major. Computer science.”

“Well…” Inhwee hesitated, gaze dropping to his hands. “I don’t know.”

“You don’t know?”

“Well—” He huffed, ruffling his fringes. “Uni., this major, and…everything is harder than I thought.”

“Huh. I see.” And before silence could seep in and make Inhwee uncomfortable at his earlier vulnerability, Jeongwon asked, “Are you interested in tech?”

Inhwee bit his lip before answering, hesitating. “I wanted a major that seemed practical. I want to make money when I graduate and not struggle to find a job.”

They shared a laugh. 

Shaking his head, Jeongwon said, “You’re so funny.”

“I wish I were joking.”

“Relatable.”

“What about you?” Inhwee asked, tilting his head to openly study Jeongwon.

Jeongwon shrugged, slowing as the light turned red. He was driving at the speed limit—maybe even a little under. He wanted to talk to Inhwee more. Smiling slightly, he admitted, “I love video games.”

“Really?”

“You?”

“I dabble,” Inhwee admitted. “What do you play?”

“I’ve been playing a lot of Legend of Zelda and Minecraft lately.”

“Recommend?”

“I’d say so.” Jeongwon shrugged. “I like them.”

Inhwee hummed in thought. “Do you like tech?”

Jeongwon held his stare, his eyes swarming with mirth. “Touché.”

“So, if you want to be a game developer, why are you in computer science?”

Jeongwon hesitated, fingers tightening slightly around the steering wheel. He decided to take a safe approach. “You know. The same reason as everyone else.”

Inhwee’s gaze sharpened slightly, picking up on Jeongwon’s hesitation. “Parents?” he guessed sympathetically.

Jeongwon smirked. “Can relate?”

Inhwee looked briefly at him, his thick brows having a life of their own. His expression was comical—and completely heartstopping. “I… My parents? I don’t know.”

Jeongwon chuckled. Inhwee laughed too, and he asked, “Why are you laughing?”

Jeongwon shook his head, biting his bottom lip as he felt his heartbeat pick up. Being with Inhwee was fun.

Inhwee shifted in his seat. “Oh, turn here. It’s the third complex down.”

Jeongwon heard him. He just didn’t slow down.

Inhwee frowned as the familiar sight of the construction site loomed ahead. “Huh? This is the—” He stopped, realization dawning as his voice trailed off. “Oh.”

Jeongwon glanced at him, a knowing look in his eyes. It seemed Inhwee had momentarily forgotten what they had discussed earlier. Maybe he thought it was too soon. Maybe he thought Jeongwon would let him back out.

If this farce was going to be convincing, Jeongwon knew he had to ask—and they had to do it now.

Jeongwon slowed the car, pulling to a stop. Turning to Inhwee, he met his eyes and asked, “Did you change your mind?”

Inhwee inhaled sharply, his fingers gripping his sleeves. “What? No.” He shook his head quickly. “I… I promised.”

Without warning, Jeongwon unbuckled his seatbelt and leaned over, his presence looming over Inhwee. His movements were smooth yet deliberate, and before Inhwee could fully process what was happening, Jeongwon placed a firm hand on his chest and gently reclined his seat back. The sudden shift made Inhwee’s breath hitch, his eyes widening in shock. Jeongwon felt his pounding heart as his face neared his.

The anticipation in the air was thick enough to suffocate Jeongwon.

Just as Jeongwon’s lips were about to descend upon his own, Inhwee’s voice rang out, sharp and urgent. “Wait!”

Jeongwon halted immediately, pulling back just enough to meet Inhwee’s panicked gaze. His brows knitted in concern, his breath warm against Inhwee’s face.

“What?” he asked, his voice husky with restrained desire.

Blushing furiously, Inhwee struggled to form coherent words, his tongue feeling unusually heavy in his mouth.

“This position is a bit…” He trailed off, looking away as if the mere act of saying it aloud would somehow make the situation even more unbearable.

Jeongwon tilted his head, studying him before nodding in understanding. “Uncomfortable?” he supplied.

“Yeah… a little,” Inhwee admitted, his voice meek.

With a small, reassuring smile, Jeongwon pulled back a little, giving Inhwee some much-needed breathing space. The shift allowed Inhwee to settle his nerves, though his face remained completely flushed.

Inhwee hesitated before mumbling, “It’s just… I’m in the woman’s position right now. Shouldn’t it be the other way around?” His ears burned with embarrassment as he confessed his discomfort, feeling unreasonably exposed under Jeongwon’s steady gaze.

Jeongwon blinked before a teasing smirk tugged at his lips.  “Oh really?” he mused smoothly. “I didn’t think of that.”

“Yeah. It’s just… I am a man.” 

“Yes. A lip is a lip.” And he looked at Inhwee’s perfect lips with lascivious eyes.

Inhwee looked at him in surprise. “You’re—”

“Do you want to come on this side?” Jeongwon cut him off, motioning to his own seat, already reclining it back in invitation.

Inhwee hesitated, his lips parting as if to refuse, but then, to Jeongwon’s surprise, he gave a small, almost imperceptible nod. “Yeah…”

Jeongwon watched as Inhwee hesitantly climbed over, his movements stiff and uncertain. Jeongwon helped him with a firm, steady hand. Once he was settled, straddling Jeongwon’s lap with his legs folding neatly around his strong thighs, the air between them thickened once more. Inhwee felt unbearably warm, the close proximity sending a new wave of nervous energy coursing through Jeongwon.

He looked down at Jeongwon, confused and red-faced, clearly trying to make sense of his own actions. Jeongwon, however, was captivated by the way Inhwee’s scent seemed to intensify. He inhaled deeply, wondering if it was cologne or simply the lingering traces of his shower soap. The intoxicating mix made it difficult for Jeongwon to think straight.

Before Inhwee could second-guess his decision, Jeongwon lifted his upper body and pressed their lips together in a soft, exploratory kiss. Inhwee’s eyes widened in surprise, his body tensing at the unexpected sensation.

Jeongwon silkily murmured against his lips, “Better?”

 Inhwee swallowed thickly. “This position is… a bit weird too.”

Jeongwon chuckled, his breath ghosting over Inhwee’s flushed skin. He leaned in, ducking his head a bit, his lips brushing against Inhwee’s chin as he whispered, “Don’t overthink this.”

A shiver ran down Inhwee’s spine as Jeongwon’s hands found their way to his hips. The warmth of his skin seeping through Jeongwon’s palms sent a spark of electricity through him. 

Jeongwon lifted his head, parted his lips, and gently licked at Inhwee’s bottom lip, eliciting another involuntary shudder. He liked how he made Inhwee react.

Being like this was nice. Really nice.

“Teach me how to kiss softly this time, Inhwee,” Jeongwon murmured, his fingers massaging slow, languid circles into Inhwee’s waist.

Jeongwon felt Inhwee’s erratic pulse. 

“Stay still,” he instructed, his voice betraying his own instability.

Jeongwon hummed but didn’t move. Instead, he allowed his hands to roam lower, trailing down Inhwee’s back until they cupped the firm curve of his backside.

Inhwee gasped softly but didn’t pull away. Instead, he instructed, his voice thin, “Close your eyes?”

Jeongwon lifted an eyebrow, playful. “How will I learn?”

Inhwee held his stare, trembling on Jeongwon’s thigh. “Ki—kissing is done with the lips.”

“And mouth.” Jeongwon applied pressure to his back. Inhwee twitched. “And tongue.”

“Right. Now, shut it.”

Chuckling, he did as told.

There was a pause. Static blared inside Jeongwon’s head.

Then he heard Inhwee’s breath hitch, followed by the soft press of lips as Inhwee leaned down, capturing his lips in a tentative kiss. Jeongwon lost the battle of will and assertively rubbed his tongue against Inhwee's. Their tongues brushed together in a delicate dance—reactions Jeongwon found cute. 

He kissed him softly and teasingly, caressing his tongue, making Inhwee moan and shudder. 

Inhwee was a quick study.

Jeongwon wanted more. He hardened and shifted beneath Inhwee, his hips rolling in a slow, deliberate motion that bared his intentions. Inhwee gasped, his breath catching as he felt Jeongwon’s hard arousal press against him. His fingers clenched against Jeongwon’s chest.

“Hngh…” Inhwee moaned and tried to pull back. Jeongwon reached up, entwining the fingers of his left hand with Inhwee's right hand. 

Inhwee asked, incredulous, “Are you… hard…?”

Jeongwon dropped a lingering kiss on Inhwee’s slick lips. His free hand rested on Inhwee’s waist as he whispered, his voice thick with restraint, “Don’t worry about it.”

“I…” Inhwee stammered as Jeongwon shifted underneath him again, his hard cock digging into Inhwee's bum. He innocently squirmed on the bulge, rubbing himself against it. A shiver rumbled through them in unison. Jeongwon’s grip on Inhwee’s waist tightened, and a dizzying rush flushed through his veins. He was unable to completely stifle the soft, breathy sound that escaped his lips.

Inhwee looked down at him, wide-eyed and completely flustered by the sultry reaction.

Still steadfast, Jeongwon released Inhwee’s hand and cupped the side of his head, his thumb brushing against his heated skin.

“I’ll try this time,” he said, his tone almost reverent. And before Inhwee could react, Jeongwon kissed him again—this time deeper, more urgent. He snuck his tongue into his mouth, tapping the roof of his mouth and rubbing there.

Inhwee’s helpless moans in Jeongwon’s mouth were soon followed by a protest, “W–wait! Jeongwon…”

Jeongwon jerked against him, and Inhwee gasped, his grip tightening in response. 

Jeongwon grabbed the back of Inhwee’s head, his silky smooth hair tangled in his fingers. Jeongwon’s other hand, once resting on his waist, now clutched his butt cheek, pulling him closer, deepening their contact.

“Hngh…” Inhwee’s weak moan sent another jolt of pleasure through Jeongwon. His body burned, his blood turning molten. Then, suddenly, Inhwee pushed back, his hands bracing against Jeongwon’s chest. Panting, his lips glistening with Jeongwon’s saliva, he looked down at him with wide, startled eyes. “S–stop.”

Jeongwon blinked up at him, trying to calm his uneven breath through his nose, his body still thrumming with desire. He silently watched Inhwee, the heat between them still palpable, undeniable.

“Should we… get going?” Inhwee asked timidly, his fingers fumbling to dismount Jeongwon.

Closing his eyes, Jeongwon dragged his hands over his face and exhaled heavily. “That was…” He stopped, watching as Inhwee busied himself with sliding off him. Jeongwon instantly missed his warmth and weight. 

He silently watched Inhwee fuss over his seatbelt, clearly avoiding his gaze. Then he declared, adjusting his seat, “I want to do it.” 

Inhwee stilled and slowly turned to face him. “Huh?”

Jeongwon’s grin was too wide, and his cheeks hurt. “I normally don’t like kissing,” he confessed, leaning in his direction. “But doing it with you makes me want to keep going.”

Inhwee looked flabbergasted. “O—oh… really?”

Jeongwon nodded, sucking in his bottom lip, his gaze roaming over Inhwee’s face. His breath hitched slightly as he took in the details—the way Inhwee’s lips were still slightly swollen from their kisses, the subtle pink dusting his cheeks, the way his dark eyes wavered between confidence and uncertainty. He was beautiful. All soft features, smooth skin, and the faintest sheen of sweat clinging to his temple. And he smelled nice, too nice, something warm and faintly sweet that made Jeongwon’s throat feel dry.

Holding him felt just as appetizing as holding a woman. No, more. It was an entirely different sensation, something intoxicating in a way Jeongwon hadn’t fully processed until now. And he liked it. A lot.

Chuckling nervously, Inhwee blurted, “I'm really good, aren't I?” His voice was light, but vulnerable. “All the girls I've dated liked my kissing, too.”

The words hit Jeongwon like a splash of cold water, shocking his system into awareness. His stomach twisted, a sharp pang of guilt spreading through his chest. His fingers curled into fists at his sides as the realization settled in—what he was doing was wrong. It wasn’t just wrong; it was manipulative.

He had let his desires guide him, selfishly indulging in this, indulging in Inhwee, under the excuse of these so-called “kissing lessons.” He knew why Inhwee had agreed to this—probably because he felt threatened, because he feared the possibility of Jeongwon exposing something he wasn’t ready to face. Jeongwon had taken advantage of that, whether he wanted to admit it or not. He felt bad as he looked at a flustered Inhwee.

But at the same time…

Jeongwon swallowed, studying Inhwee’s reactions again—the way he couldn’t hold his gaze for too long, the way he nervously licked his lips as if trying to rid himself of the taste of Jeongwon but not really succeeding, the way his hands twitched, fingers flexing as if resisting the urge to reach out again.

Inhwee wasn’t unaffected. If anything, he was just as caught up in this as Jeongwon was.

Maybe—just maybe—Inhwee wasn’t only doing this out of fear. Maybe his first assessment of the situation was correct: Inhwee had a crush on him. He wanted him too.

“Yeah,” Jeongwon muttered, averting his gaze, his throat feeling oddly tight. “I don’t really get like this just from kissing…” he confessed, his voice quieter, almost hesitant.

Silence stretched between them, thick and heavy. Inhwee didn’t respond, but Jeongwon didn’t need him to. He saw it—the way Inhwee’s gaze flickered down, lingering just a second too long before he hurriedly looked away, his shoulders tensing.

Jeongwon’s heart started thumping hard against his ribs.

I really want him.

Jeongwon exhaled slowly, forcing his body to calm down. He needed to get a grip—needed to stop himself before they crossed a line neither of them could return from.

Reaching for his keys, he inhaled deeply, steadying himself. “I’ll take you home,” he simply said, his voice low.

Inhwee nodded, still avoiding Jeongwon’s gaze.

Jeongwon finished the coffee on the silent ride to Inhwee's apartment complex.

 

Chapter 5

Notes:

This story is set in an alternate universe, in an imaginary town and country, and during an ambiguous time period.

 

Jeongwon spotted Inhwee just as he was stepping out of the bathroom. 

Their eyes met, and Jeongwon’s face immediately brightened with an easy smile. He waved at him. The reaction was automatic, natural—seeing Inhwee made something warm settle in his chest.

Inhwee looked surprised, but he returned the greeting. His smile was a brilliant thing.

Jeongwon’s heart fluttered in his chest at the unexpected encounter.

He was at a popular local barbecue restaurant with Changjun, an old schoolmate he hadn’t seen since high school graduation. Changjun had just moved back to town and enrolled in a trade program nearby. He’d texted Jeongwon out of the blue, and Jeongwon had figured—why not? A catch-up over food sounded good. He needed a break from school, from his parents, and Inhwee hadn’t been texting him back as fast as he wanted. It had only been two days since their last lesson, but Jeongwon couldn’t seem to get him out of his head.

“Hey, Jeongwon, why did you stop?” Changjun’s voice was filled with curiosity as he turned to look at him.

“Hold on,” Jeongwon said, barely paying attention to Changjun now. His focus was completely on Inhwee, whose entire body had tensed the moment their gazes locked. He looked like he wanted to run.

Changjun followed his line of sight and asked, “You know him?”

But Jeongwon was already moving toward Inhwee, whose expression wavered between hesitation and mild panic.

“Hey, Inhwee,” Jeongwon greeted, voice warm, though there was an unmistakable eagerness behind it.

Inhwee blinked, eyes darting away. “H—hi,” he said, shoulders tight as if bracing for something.

“What are you doing here?” Jeongwon asked, too aware of how much he was smiling. He hadn’t expected to run into Inhwee, and he was surprised by how pleased he was about it.

“I’m here with a friend,” Inhwee said, shifting slightly.

Jeongwon frowned, curiosity piqued. “A friend?” He wondered which one of Inhwee’s loud, small circles it was.

“Oh, Gangwoo,” Inhwee said, raking a hand through his fluffy hair in a nervous habit. Jeongwon’s eyes followed the motion like a drowning man. He wanted to be that hand. “You probably don’t know him.”

“I do,” Jeongwon said, voice rattling deep in his throat, and he could hear the slight chill that crept into it. Inhwee picked up on it instantly.

Jeongwon didn’t hate Gangwoo, but he definitely didn’t like him. He was loud, crass, and always shot him glares whenever they were in the same space. Jeongwon could guess why. Gangwoo only ever seemed to care about drinking, partying, and hooking up. And lately, he’d been hung up on Jiwon, the department’s freshman heartthrob. He was attentively pursuing her, but it was obvious she liked Jeongwon. Not that it mattered—Jeongwon had rejected every single one of her advances. Jeongwon didn’t even entertain a fleeting encounter. Jiwon was pretty, sure, and she was nice enough, but being with her would have been nothing but a headache. “Your friend looks impatient,” Inhwee said, snapping Jeongwon’s attention back to Changjun, who had walked up to them with his usual lack of patience.

“Hey, what’s up?” Changjun said, instantly grinning at Inhwee as he extended a hand. “Changjun.”

Inhwee hesitated for a fraction of a second before shaking his hand. “Inhwee.”

“Have you already ordered? This place was highly recommended,” Changjun said, smirking at Jeongwon, who let out a quiet, exasperated sigh.

Inhwee shrugged, withdrawing his hand. “It’s okay.”

“Okay?” Changjun raised an eyebrow like that were a crime. “I don’t like the sound of that.” Hanging off Jeongwon’s shoulder, he looked at him. “Should we go somewhere else?”

Jeongwon shook him off. “No.”

Changjun looked openly at him, as if surprised he had given offense.

Jeongwon forced a polite smile. “Let’s go get a table.”

Changjun, ever the extrovert, said, “Can we join you? He’s your friend, right?” He looked at Jeongwon briefly before fixing his gaze on Inhwee.

Inhwee visibly hesitated, discomfort flashing across his face, but before Jeongwon could allow him to escape from complying with Changjun’s ridiculous suggestion, he nodded. “Sure. Hope you don’t mind my friend. He’s getting over a heartbreak.”

“Ay!” Changjun cheered. “Perfect drinking buddy. I need a stiff drink.”

Jeongwon and Inhwee shared a look. Their smiles were simultaneous. It was nice to see his genuine smile. It was beautiful. He was beautiful.

Fuck. I’m really into him.

Changjun walked ahead of them. They reached the table where Gangwoo was already looking three sheets to the wind. His smile was lazy, his posture slumped. But the moment he saw Jeongwon, his expression soured.

“You’re back,” Gangwoo mumbled, completely ignoring Changjun.

“Hi, I hope you don’t mind us joining you guys,” Changjun said, his smile bright and practiced, already sliding into a seat like he owned the place.

Inhwee shot Gangwoo an apologetic look, which irked Jeongwon more than it should have. 

Jeongwon paused from sitting; instead, he stared intently at Inhwee. So Gangwoo’s grudge against him was something Inhwee was aware of. Maybe they’d even talked about it—about him. The thought left Jeongwon feeling unsettled.

Their eyes met. Inhwee shrugged and gave him what appeared to be an apologetic look.

Jeongwon swallowed, offered Inhwee a reassuring smile, and sat down next to Changjun, positioning himself across from Inhwee.

They ordered food and drinks. Jeongwon nursed his beer while Gangwoo drank like he was trying to drown himself. The topic of conversation inevitably turned to Jiwon.

“What does she mean that she’s on a ‘different level’ from me?” Gangwoo slurred, his voice thick with self-pity and liquor.

Changjun, clearly reveling in the drama, leaned in. “What a bitch.”

Gangwoo’s gaze cut sharply to Jeongwon. “She likes you.”

Changjun nearly choked on his drink. “Of course! He’s always been popular,” he said matter-of-factly, smacking a stoic Jeongwon’s back. “Always been a heartbreaker.”

“I admit he’s good-looking,” Gangwoo grumbled, as if Jeongwon weren’t sitting right there.

Inhwee turned beet red. Jeongwon, sitting across from him, stretched his leg under the table and tapped his foot against Inhwee’s. He looked at him and gave an apologetic smile. Jeongwon hated that he felt uncomfortable and that he felt like he needed to apologize for his uncouth friend. But, he reminded himself, Inhwee and Gangwoo were friends. They barely knew each other.

“Don’t get hung up on it.” Changjun waved a hand, chuckling gleefully. “All my high school girlfriends wanted Jeongwon,” he lamented. “I was just the consolation.” He paused dramatically before continuing an octave higher, “But I still got ass!” He and Gangwoo high-fived, utterly unbothered.

Inhwee met Jeongwon’s gaze, his expression caught somewhere between mortification and secondhand embarrassment. He looked like he wanted to disappear. Instead, he reached for his drink and took a large gulp.

“Just wait until summer break,” Gangwoo continued, raising his glass. “I’m gonna date every girl I see. Piss off, Jiwon! I don’t need you.”

“Exactly, cuh.,” Changjun cheered, high-fiving him again.

Then Gangwoo’s bloodshot eyes landed on Jeongwon. “Why aren’t you dating anyone?”

Inhwee looked instantly on edge.

“I just didn’t have an opportunity,” Jeongwon replied simply, nonchalantly scratching his cheek.

“What about Jiwon? You know she likes you, right?”

Jeongwon sighed, already knowing where this was heading.

Gangwoo scoffed. “Then why aren’t you dating her, huh? You're too good for her or something?”

“Hey, you’re drunk,” Inhwee cut in, grabbing Gangwoo’s arm.

“Ugh! Let go of me.”

Jeongwon exhaled sharply. “Gangwoo, you’re wasted. Let’s stop.”

His intervention seemed to ignite something in Gangwoo.

“Ha! Don’t even! Hey, Jeongwon, you can’t get hard, can you?”

Jeongwon rolled his eyes in exasperation. “Are you gay?”

“Woo!” Changjun, ever the gleeful spectator, hooted and leaned back, watching like this was prime entertainment. Jeongwon’s patience was razor-thin.

“Gangwo—”

But Gangwoo wasn’t done. “That’s why you don’t date women! You’re such a liar!”

“Hey, Gangwoo! Calm down,” Inhwee demanded, grabbing him tighter.

“ Shit , let go of me!” Gangwoo snapped and shoved Inhwee. Hard. Too hard.

Inhwee lost his balance and crashed to the floor. The entire restaurant went silent.

Jeongwon saw red.

He shot up and grabbed Gangwoo by the collar, pulling him into a tight chokehold—his body moving faster than his thoughts. His fingers dug into the fabric of Gangwoo’s shirt, nearly lifting him off balance. A sharp gasp sounded from somewhere, the scrape of chairs against the floor as people tensed. The rush of blood in Jeongwon’s ears nearly drowned out everything else, but he caught the way Gangwoo’s hands trembled, hovering in the air, unsure whether to fight back or stay still.

That seemed to settle him. Jeongwon could feel it—the way Gangwoo stiffened, the sudden, wary submission in his eyes.

“Jeongwon—” Changjun had sprung up from his seat, but he hesitated the second Jeongwon sneered, his voice dripping with venom: “Stop minding my dick.”

Gangwoo tried to push him off, to no avail. He went limp in the face of Jeongwon’s threatening anger.

He stuttered, “I—”

 “What the fuck is your problem, dude! You hurt him,” Jeongwon snapped. Inhwee sat up.

“Let go of me, dude.”

Inhwee, still on the floor, reached up, placing a hesitant hand on Gangwoo’s shoulder. His eyes met Jeongwon’s—apologetic, pleading.

Changjun let out a dramatic “Ooh!” like he was watching a heated TV drama, his eyebrows shooting up in exaggerated amusement. He turned away from the brewing tension and bent down to help Inhwee to his feet.

Jeongwon was tense with aggression, his pulse thudding in his ears.

Gangwoo shifted, his breath uneven. “Okay.” His voice lacked its usual arrogance—it was meek, uncertain.

Jeongwon’s fingers curled tighter into the collar of Gangwoo’s shirt, his knuckles white. His jaw clenched, his entire body rigid, prepared to shove, to push, to do something—anything—to release the fury coiling inside him like a spring wound too tight. But then—

Inhwee placed his hand on Gangwoo’s shoulder.

Jeongwon’s eyes flicked downward, catching Inhwee’s touch—a light, grounding weight that shouldn’t have had any power over him, but it did. When Jeongwon looked at Inhwee’s face, he was met with the same apologetic eyes, soft and troubled. The tension in Jeongwon’s grip wavered. His hold loosened. That look—so gentle yet heavy with unspoken words—sent a wave of clarity washing over him.

Fuck .

He let go, stepping back abruptly, fists shaking at his sides. The heat of his own reckless anger still burned in his veins, but the shame of it came creeping in just as fast. He had lost control.

Gangwoo exhaled sharply and straightened his shirt, still avoiding Jeongwon’s gaze. “S—sorry for causing trouble. I’m going to go.” His voice was clipped, and he looked like he wanted to bolt.

Inhwee hesitated, his brows pinching together. “Uh, hey…” He seemed torn, his hand lingering in the air as if debating whether to reach out again. His friend looked shaken.

“We should go,” Inhwee suggested, his voice soft. Gangwoo started to haphazardly collect his stuff.

Inhwee’s eyes darted over Jeongwon, assessing. “Sorry,” he muttered.

Jeongwon frowned. “For what? I shouldn’t have joined y’all.” He quickly scanned Inhwee, his gaze landing on the spot where he had been injured earlier. “How’s your injury?”

Inhwee flexed his shoulder slightly as if testing it. “I’m good. I’m not hurt.” He glanced at Changjun. “Thanks for earlier.”

Changjun nodded, but his expression had shifted from playful to something more serious, his gaze flickering between Jeongwon and Inhwee.

Inhwee shook his head and took a step back, his body still tense. “He’s drunk. I have to…”

Jeongwon didn’t say a word. He only nodded stiffly, but inside, everything in him screamed to grab Inhwee’s wrist, to stop him from following after that wobbling mess of a guy. He hated it—hated watching Inhwee walk away, hated that he couldn’t justify stopping him.

As soon as they exited the restaurant, Jeongwon dropped into his seat, exhaling harshly. His head tilted back, eyes staring at the ceiling as if searching for something—an answer, maybe. His reflection in the glass nearby showed a man who had just acted like a crazed lunatic.

Fuck!

This is what a “crush” felt like.

He liked Inhwee.

 

Chapter 6

Notes:

This story is set in an alternate universe, in an imaginary town and country, and during an ambiguous time period.

Idea 12 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UUArHUUiq8  

“I'm sorry for calling you so late,” Jeongwon said, his voice low, almost uncertain. 

On the other end of the line, he heard Inhwee inhale sharply—a quick, startled sound, like he hadn’t expected to hear Jeongwon’s voice at this hour. 

“It's all right,” Inhwee finally responded.

In one hand, he held a joint, the ember burning faintly in the dim room, its scent thick in the air. He brought it to his lips, inhaling deeply, letting the smoke curl through his lungs before exhaling in a slow stream. The evening had been completely wrecked, thanks to Gangwoo’s outburst. After Inhwee and Gangwoo left, Jeongwon had split from Changjun, needing to burn off the excess energy vibrating under his skin.

Two hours at the gym hadn’t been enough to calm him. He had pushed through sets of weights, run miles on the treadmill, and still his nerves buzzed. The only thing that helped—somewhat—was calling Inhwee. He couldn’t let the moment just pass.

“Not even a thank you for picking up,” Jeongwon teased, though his tone was light. He shifted his weight from one foot to the other, balancing the joint between his fingers. “I wanted to apologize. I shouldn’t have—”

“No, you're fine,” Inhwee cut in, chuckling. “I feel. . . honored. You defended me— my honor.” He was rambling.

Jeongwon blinked, caught off guard by Inhwee’s response. He felt foolish for how worked up he’d been, but hearing Inhwee laugh—knowing he wasn’t upset—made something warm unfurl in his chest. He liked that sound. He liked that Inhwee had said it like that. Defended my honor.

He wanted to protect Inhwee. He wanted to be with him in every way. Jeongwon knew how intense he was—knew it too well. His feelings rang loud in his head, overwhelming in how quickly they had surfaced and solidified. If he ever tried to explain the mess inside his mind, he was pretty sure Inhwee would file a restraining order.

“I shouldn't have joined,” Jeongwon said, exhaling another trail of smoke.

“What? No. It was fine,” Inhwee reassured him quickly. There was a slight rustling on his end, like he was shifting in bed. “Gangwoo… he was drunk. Sorry about that.”

The mention of Gangwoo made Jeongwon’s jaw tighten. His grip on the joint tightened for a split second before he forced himself to relax. His voice was calmer when he responded, but only just. “You don’t have to apologize for him.”

A pause stretched between them, the silence holding something fragile, something almost uncertain.

“How’s your injury?” Jeongwon finally asked, his voice softer now.

“It doesn’t hurt much,” Inhwee murmured. “But hey…”

Jeongwon hummed in the back of his throat, giving Inhwee the space to continue. He walked over to his couch—the plush one his mother had insisted on buying him—and flopped onto it, his bare skin pressing against the cushions. The joint hung loosely from his lips as he waited.

“Do you like someone?” Inhwee asked.

Jeongwon’s breath rattled in his throat. His body went still. He hadn’t expected that question. Not wanting to give Inhwee time to overthink or backtrack, Jeongwon responded immediately. “Yeah.”

 “Oh.” Inhwee let out a small, awkward laugh. “I see…. Wow, I had no idea.”

Jeongwon smirked, wondering if that laugh was masking something else—something like jealousy. Was his mind playing a prank on him, or was he right? Did he want Jeongwon the way Jeongwon wanted him? The thought sent a slow, creeping thrill through Jeongwon’s veins.

“Do they go to our school? You should’ve told me. I could’ve helped,” Inhwee offered in a flurry of statements, his voice lighter, but Jeongwon caught the underlying tension.

Jeongwon cleared his throat, shifting onto his side, his voice dropping lower. “You already did.”

There was a sharp intake of breath on Inhwee’s end. A hesitation. Inhwee’s breath hitched. “Th–that was nothing,” Inhwee said weakly, attempting to laugh again. This time, it wasn’t lighthearted. It wasn’t carefree. It was nervous.

And Jeongwon loved it.

Inhwee was jealous. It was so obvious now. And that realization sent Jeongwon into a quiet spiral of excitement. He had been uncertain before, hesitant in naming what he felt, but now? Now, he wanted to push. To see how far this could go.

Maybe because Jeongwon had been silent for too long, Inhwee spoke again, hurriedly, as if trying to fill the space.

“I’m sorry. It’s just… I guess I’m asking because we kissed and… you already have someone you like.”

Jeongwon chuckled, feeling the warmth spread from his chest up to his face. “To be honest, I already got rejected once.”

“What?” Inhwee exclaimed, genuinely shocked.

Jeongwon decided to tease him. “I guess they didn’t like the kiss. They don’t want to date me because they don’t feel attracted to me that way.” 

“Wha—how? But you’re so good loo—” Inhwee cut himself off, probably realizing what he was saying.

“So,” Jeongwon said smoothly, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips, lowering his voice just a notch, “teach me.”

 “What?” Inhwee’s voice came out breathless.

Jeongwon inhaled, the smoke filling his lungs before he exhaled through his nose, the gray trails curling into the air. “I want to know,” he said, voice thick with intent.

Silence again. Jeongwon knew Inhwee wouldn’t say no. His breath was coming out faster now.

It was only a matter of time before they were together. Whatever resistance Inhwee still clung to wouldn’t last—not against what was building between them. Jeongwon knew that with unwavering certainty.

“Know what?” Inhwee asked, quieter now, almost wary.

Jeongwon let the words settle. He took a slow inhale of his joint , letting the burn anchor itself in his lungs before exhaling a thick gray stream through his nose.

 “What my problem is. I want to learn all of it.”

He wasn’t lying. He meant it—he intended to court Inhwee, to give him the full experience he’d once boasted about to the entire campus. The thought sent a pulse of excitement through him.

He wanted to see him.

  -------------

Jeongwon: I'm almost there.

Jeongwon had hardly been able to contain himself. The moment he asked Inhwee for help, he’d started planning a date. Luckily, Inhwee only worked four days a week, and the following Thursday evening, he was off. Inhwee had agreed to go on a practice date with him. Though they saw each other at school and texted frequently now, none of it dulled Jeongwon’s excitement at the thought of actually going out with him.

He’d taken extra care grooming himself, checking and rechecking his reflection in the rearview mirror after parking. He had to admit—he looked good. He wore a slightly oversized graphic tee paired with tailored black cargo pants—fitted yet relaxed, accentuating his lean frame. A silver chain peeked from beneath his shirt, adding a touch of understated cool, while a light leather watch complemented the strong, veined lines of his forearms. On his feet, a pair of clean, high-top sneakers completed the look—casual, yet intentional. He looked effortlessly polished—the kind of guy who didn’t just dress well, but carried himself with the quiet confidence of someone who meant to be seen.

To keep up the ruse, Jeongwon had told Inhwee that he would handle everything. All Inhwee had to do was rate his “practice” and give pointers. With that in mind, Jeongwon got out of the car, sent one last text to let Inhwee know he was close, and made his way toward the mall. It was busy that Thursday evening. Bright overhead lights gleamed off polished floors, and the sound of distant music mingled with the low roar of chatter and footsteps.

Jeongwon spotted Inhwee almost immediately, waiting by the fountain where they had agreed to meet. He looked effortlessly cute in a white T-shirt tucked into brown pants, with an almost mustard-toned button-up layered on top. His white sneakers were crisp and clean, giving him a sharp, put-together edge. A minimalist silver chain hung around his neck, and a sleek black watch sat snugly on his wrist—pulling the whole outfit together. The colors flattered his complexion, bringing warmth to his skin and highlighting the casual elegance in his posture.

Jeongwon’s stomach flipped. Where excitement had been, nerves now crept in—unexpected and breathless.

Every time he saw Inhwee, it felt like rediscovering just how deeply he liked him. It was shocking, because he’d always considered himself straight and how easily he’d accepted these feelings.

Inhwee took a few seconds to notice him, scanning the crowd until their eyes met. His expression shifted—eyes widening slightly, lips parting, caught off guard. Jeongwon saw it—the way he stilled, gaze lingering, like he was trying to process something. Inhwee blinked, momentarily mesmerized, and clearly at a loss for words.

Attraction nipped at Jeongwon like the first embers of fire. His confidence surged. I guess I look good, he thought, his smile deepening.

He’d never felt the need to impress anyone before. In fact, he usually avoided people drawn to him for superficial reasons. But this was different. He wanted Inhwee to notice—not just the effort, but him. He wanted Inhwee to think he looked hot. And he did.

Maybe dating didn’t have to feel like a burden.

“Hey,” Jeongwon said, a smile playing on his lips

Inhwee blinked rapidly, as if shaking himself from a daze, before stepping forward. “Hey,” he greeted in return, his voice smooth but carrying a hint of hesitation, like he was still processing seeing Jeongwon.

Jeongwon gave him a languid, charming smile. “Sorry for making you wait.”

“No, I just got here.” He peered at Jeongwon again, not blinking.

“What?” Jeongwon asked, giggling.

Inhwee reeled back, blinked rapidly and shook his head, his cheeks pink. He was a nice peach color down his neck. Cute. “No… umm… You dressed up,” Inhwee finally said, his voice carrying a hint of something Jeongwon couldn’t quite place.

Chuckling, Jeongwon muttered bashfully, “Is it that obvious?”

Inhwee quickly waved his hands in front of him in a frantic motion, his eyes widening. “I didn’t mean it like that!” he said empathetically, clearly worried he had offended him.

Jeongwon laughed, shaking his head. “Relax. It’s a date.”

Sliding up beside Inhwee, Jeongwon placed a hand on his shoulder, steering him forward. Inhwee flinched slightly at the unexpected touch, but Jeongwon pretended not to notice.

 “You look nice.”

“Oh. .  . . Thanks. I mean, I’m just wearing something casual.”

“And it looks this good. Wow,” he said earnestly.

Inhwee didn’t look at him, but Jeongwon saw the way his ears changed from a peachy flushed to a crimson color.

“Let’s go inside. It’s been a long time since I’ve gone skating.”

Inhwee cleared his throat before replying, “Yeah, same here. This is going to be fun.”

As they walked through the entrance, Jeongwon stole a glance at Inhwee to gauge his reaction. It was a weekday, so the rink was relatively quiet—just a scattering of couples, a few teens, and families trailing after their small children. Still, Jeongwon couldn’t ignore the potential implications: two men skating together. He wondered if Inhwee might feel self-conscious, if the ease they shared in private might falter beneath the sterile glare of public scrutiny. But when Inhwee looked around, there was no sign of discomfort or hesitation. Instead, his eyes caught the lights and shimmered with something close to delight, the corners of his mouth tugging upward in a flicker of unmistakable excitement.

“I hope you have fun,” he said.

Laughing, Inhwee admitted, “This is a good date idea.”

Jeongwon nodded, giving him what he hoped was a grateful smile.

 “You’ve already gotten an A plus on setting up dates.”

“Yeepe!” Jeongwon teased, his eyes crinkling at the corners.

The rink was cool, a stark contrast to the warmth outside, and since it was a Thursday evening, it wasn’t very busy. They didn’t have to wait long for their skates, which was a plus.

They sat on a bench near the edge of the rink, lacing up their skates. Jeongwon had even brought extra socks—just in case—for both of them. Purposefully, he sat close—too close—allowing their outer thighs to touch slightly. Inhwee didn’t move away.

Once they were both ready, Jeongwon led Inhwee onto the ice.

 “I know you told me you can skate, but since it’s been a while, I’ll stay close just to make sure you’re good.”

Inhwee’s cheeks tinged that nice shade of pink, but he laughed. “You’re doing a good job.”

“Huh?”

“Boyfriend duty.” Inhwee held his gaze. “You’re doing good.” He looked away, his voice was light.

Jeongwon hooted a bark of laughter. “Thank you, teacher.”

They joined the steady flow of skaters circling the rink.

“I think I got this,” Inhwee assured confidently.

“Oh, you do, huh?” Jeongwon teased.

Inhwee nodded, grinning up at him.

“Is that a challenge?” Jeongwon asked, raising an eyebrow.

Inhwee lifted and rolled his shoulders, trying to appear nonchalant, though his eyes gleamed with amusement.

“Race you,” Jeongwon challenged.

Inhwee took off before he even finished speaking.

Laughter spilled from their throats as they chased each other around the rink. After several exhilarating laps, breathless and grinning, they coasted into the low side wall. Inhwee shook a playful finger at Jeongwon. “Beat yah.”

“Well, you did cheat,” Jeongwon countered.

“Wha—I am not a cheater!” Inhwee protested loudly, his smile too wide.

“You’re light-years too young to beat me,” Jeongwon teased dramatically, rolling his eyes before breaking into another bout of laughter. Inhwee joined in, his whole body shaking until he started hiccuping. Jeongwon couldn’t stop laughing either—the sound of Inhwee’s joy made him feel weightless.

“Another race?” Inhwee suggested, eyes gleaming.

Jeongwon didn’t respond—this time, he took off first. Inhwee zoomed after him, laughter echoing between them.

“You cheater!” Inhwee shouted, just as he lost balance. “Shit!”

Jeongwon immediately stopped and spun back toward him. “Are you okay?” he asked, concern lacing his voice as he reached down.

Inhwee groaned but didn’t seem hurt. “My pride is bruised, but I’m fine.”

Jeongwon chuckled at his good-natured response.

“Don’t laugh at me,” Inhwee huffed, arms resting on his raised knees, looking up at Jeongwon from under his fluffy fringe—but he was grinning—it was crooked with mischief, his nose slightly scrunched, and a few strands of hair had fallen loose across his forehead. He looked effortlessly charming—soft in a way that made Jeongwon's chest tighten with yearning.

“I’m not,” Jeongwon assured, lips still curled in a smile. “I was just thinking you’re amazing.”

Inhwee’s face turned an even deeper shade of pink.

Jeongwon reached for his hand to hoist him up. As their fingers interlaced, he swallowed, struck by the pressure, warmth, and texture of Inhwee’s skin. His hands were impossibly soft—the softest Jeongwon had ever touched. It caught him off guard. A shiver ran down his spine, Jeongwon wasn’t sure if it was the lingering exertion—or the fact that he was touching Inhwee—that had his pulse racing, but he could hear his heartbeat reverberating inside his skull.

Inhwee cleared his throat. Jeongwon came to and easily pulled him up, keeping his grip firm even after Inhwee was back on his feet.

“Thank you,” Inhwee said, pulling his hand back. Jeongwon missed the warmth immediately.

Leaning in slightly, Jeongwon smirked. “So, does this mean I’ve won?”

Inhwee laughed, momentarily forgetting his fall. “Sure. Stupid skate wheels.”

“Don’t blame the skates,” Jeongwon teased.

“I will when I fall because the wheels malfunctioned. I’m a great skater,” he jested, eyes glowing, cheeks red like a sun-ripened apple.

“Okay, okay. I believe you,” Jeongwon said, amused. After a pause, he added, “You’re blushing.”

Inhwee covered his face, laughing. “Dude, you’re supposed to ignore that. You’ll make your date cry.”

“I’m sorry,” Jeongwon said, reaching out and gently laying a hand on Inhwee’s shoulder. He didn’t shake him off. “I don’t want that. That wasn’t my intention.”

Inhwee dropped his hands, revealing his face. His eyes shimmered faintly. “I’m teasing.” Still, he didn’t pull away from Jeongwon’s touch. “I mean, your date might care, but I don’t.”

Jeongwon tilted his head, grinning at him.

Inhwee patted his cheeks and said, “Shit, I’m mortified, though. I feel like I’m blushing.”

Head empty, Jeongwon said, “For what it’s worth, you look good when you blush.”

“Huh?” The flush spread deeper across his cheeks and down his neck.

“You’re this nice peach color—” Jeongwon cut himself off, suddenly realizing what he was saying. “Sorry.”

Inhwee froze for a beat, then blinked—and burst out laughing. Jeongwon joined him, relieved. Inhwee finally stepped away, eyes lowered. “It’s fine. I’m just glad I don’t turn into an ugly tomato red.”

“Have you ever seen ripe tomatoes? That shade of red is beautiful too.”

“Right,” Inhwee chuckled, scratching the side of his neck. “Do you want to take a break?”

Jeongwon nodded. “Yeah, we can.”

“I’m thirsty. I think I’m going to get a drink.”

“Good idea,” Jeongwon echoed, following him off the rink.

Suddenly chatty, Inhwee tapped his chin. “I wonder if I should get ice cream.”

“Get it all.”

Inhwee glanced at him, his mouth tugging into a playful grin. “I can’t do that.”

“Hey.” Jeongwon skated up beside him. “About earlier—I’m sorry.”

“Huh?”

“I feel like I killed the mood.”

“What?”

“What I said—”

“No. I know you were just joking.”

“I… Right. I just want you to feel comfortable around me.”

“I… I am.”

“Mm-hmm.”

“What?” Inhwee frowned and slowed his pace. “I am. I mean—” He trailed off and gave a confused shrug.

“I want you to see me as a friend.”

Color bloomed again across Inhwee’s face, this time more subtle—like a quiet warmth rising beneath his skin. “Yeah. That would be…” He faltered again and shrugged.

“We’ve known each other a while now.”

“Yeah.”And then he smiled. It was soft and adorable. “I’d like that.” Inhwee added, “And I’m not uncomfortable. I just…” He looked over at Jeongwon. “Blush easily. I guess.” And, true to his word, his skin pinked again.

Chuckling, Jeongwon followed him off the ice.

The counter was free of other skaters, so they didn’t have to wait. Inhwee scanned the menu, his eyes lighting up when he spotted the ice cream flavors. Jeongwon smirked softly, watching him patiently as he debated between vanilla and cookies and cream.

“Just get both,” Jeongwon teased.

Inhwee shot him a glare. “I won’t be able to finish it all now.”

“Choose one now and one later.”

“Nah,” he muttered, but finally settled on cookies and cream. 

Jeongwon let Inhwee order first. He got vanilla ice cream and a drink.

The cashier rang them up, and before Inhwee could reach for his wallet, Jeongwon smoothly slid his card into the reader.

“Hey!” Inhwee protested, trying to stop him.

Jeongwon, expecting the reaction, casually shifted to block him. “I’m supposed to pay.” He turned his head just enough to smirk at him.

“Huh?”

“It’s a date, remember?”

Inhwee’s ears tinged pink first, the color creeping steadily across his cheeks like a slow-burning ember. His eyes flicked to the unassuming worker, then back to Jeongwon—still, he looked thoroughly troubled by the concept. “But—”

“No buts.” Jeongwon took his card back as the transaction went through. He turned back to Inhwee with a triumphant grin. “See? It’s already done. Too late to fight me now.”

Inhwee folded his arms, pouting slightly as he looked away. “Alright.”

Jeongwon chuckled.

“Here’s your order!”

After grabbing their stuff, Jeongwon said, “Come on, let’s grab a seat.”

Inhwee licked his ice cream in small, thoughtful bites while Jeongwon took a sip of his drink as they walked.

 

Chapter 7

Notes:

Author’s Note: This story is set in an alternate universe, in an imaginary town and country, and during an ambiguous time period.

Idea 7 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2y_T1iScjd4  

“There’s an arcade in the mall,” Jeongwon said, shoving his hands into his pockets. “Wanna check it out? Or would you rather grab dinner?”

He wasn’t planning on letting Inhwee leave just yet. He wasn’t ready for their “trial date” to end—though they were both clearly worn out from the skating rink.  After their break, during which Jeongwon had charmed Inhwee into eating half of the vanilla ice cream he’d stealthily bought for him—not partial to sweets himself—they’d returned to the ice, skating, talking, and laughing. It had been a genuinely good time.

Inhwee looked at him, a little surprised, as if he hadn’t expected the invitation. But then his lips twitched into a small smile—the kind Jeongwon was quickly realizing he liked seeing on him.

“Is this your way of exacting revenge?” Inhwee asked.

Jeongwon scoffed. “What do you mean?”

“Didn’t you say you were a video game nerd?”

“Those weren’t my words,” Jeongwon said, feigning offense, “but…”

“Whatever, bro. I’m a quick study.”

As they made their way out of the rink, Jeongwon said casually, “If you’re ever interested in learning, I can teach you.”

“Cool! I’ll hold you to it.”

Jeongwon nodded, biting back a grin. He had just successfully gotten Inhwee to agree to come over to his place—and he would get him there, eventually. The thought sent a quiet thrill through him, far stronger than he’d expected.

----------

As they made their way through the flashing lights and crowded aisles of the arcade, Inhwee glanced around, his expression tinged with nostalgia. “It’s been a while since I’ve been to an arcade,” he admitted. “I used to come all the time in high school—with my friends,” he hurriedly added.

Jeongwon found himself asking before he could think better of it, “Did you know Gangwoo back then?”

Inhwee shook his head easily, not seeming to find the question odd. “No, we met last year. Freshman year.”

Jeongwon nodded, his mind catching on those words. Last year.

 It tugged at a memory, back to when he had first noticed Inhwee.

It had been around this time last school year, during the first semester. That loud group of friends—especially Gangwoo—hadn’t just caught Jeongwon’s attention, but everyone’s. Jeongwon hadn’t paid Inhwee much attention before then. In fact, he couldn’t recall ever seeing him prior to that day in class. But something shifted.

Class had just ended, and Jeongwon was responding to a girl who had worked up the courage to return his pen and use it as an excuse to talk to him. She was cute, clearly interested—cheeks flushed as she shyly asked if she could buy him a coffee in exchange for his number. Normally, he might have said yes—if only out of boredom or mild curiosity—but the way her hands trembled and the hopeful look in her eyes made him uncomfortable. He didn’t like that kind of fragile nervousness.

Instead, he sent her a polite no, along with a coffee coupon.

Just then, Jihoo, his row neighbor, leaned over and asked, “Texting the girl already?”

Jeongwon barely had time to answer before their conversation was drowned out by a burst of laughter—Inhwee’s group, loud and impossible to ignore.

That was when Jihoo made an offhand comment that stuck with him.

“He’s kind of funny, don’t you think?”

Jeongwon hadn’t known who he meant at first, but Jihoo nodded toward Inhwee, who was in the middle of the group, smiling like he belonged in the center. He looked lit from within, radiant in a way that demanded attention. Jeongwon hadn’t been impressed—at least not until Jihoo added, with a smirk, “You heard about him, right? Apparently, he has a lot of dating experience…” He clicked his tongue, eyes narrowing slightly. “But whenever he opens his mouth, it sounds like he’s putting on an act.” He looked at Jeongwon. “Like, he doesn’t know what he’s saying.”

At the time, Jeongwon had simply hummed in acknowledgment, uninterested. But later, he began to understand what Jihoo meant. Inhwee was good-looking, undeniably so, though in a softer, prettier way than the angular, chiseled beauty typically celebrated in men. Still, there was something about the way he carried himself, the way he spoke. To the untrained eye, it might read as confidence, but to Jeongwon, it felt just a little too rehearsed—like he was performing a version of himself for the world. He looked like someone who spent hours every day making sure everything was just right before stepping out of his door.

And for some reason, that stuck with Jeongwon—someone who had never needed to try, but had always been given the kind of attention Inhwee seemed to work so hard to earn.

Till the end of that day to now, Inhwee’s face lingered in his mind.

That evening, Jeongwon attended a department outing. The moment he walked in, he saw Inhwee again, surrounded by his usual crowd, effulgent, laughing at something Gangwoo had said. Jeongwon tried not to look, tried to focus on his own table and his own conversations.

Yet, his eyes kept drifting back to him.

At some point, an upperclassman—Yuna—had started flirting with him. She was discreet, mature, and seemed like she wasn’t looking for anything serious. Jeongwon had been interested and had fully intended to take her up on her invitation to leave together. But even then, his eyes kept flickering in Inhwee’s direction. He wasn’t sure why. Maybe it was curiosity. Maybe it was the way Inhwee laughed so easily, even when the conversation wasn’t particularly funny. Or maybe it was the moment Gangwoo—far too loud and clingy for Jeongwon’s liking—started rubbing his cheek against Inhwee, practically hanging off of him. It was weird. It was strange, and it reminded Jeongwon of why he didn’t do friendship. They were all leeches. 

Inhwee didn’t pull away, even though he didn’t look like he liked it, nor whatever his friends were saying to him. That much was obvious. His whole body was stiff, his smile strained. It looked like they were harassing him. And that didn’t sit well with Jeongwon. Something in him had tightened.

Without thinking, he left Yuna mid-sentence and advanced toward Inhwee’s table. He wasn’t even thinking—just reacting, instinctively wanting to get closer, to step in. But as he approached, he caught the conversation happening around Inhwee.

Someone had asked for advice on kissing, and Inhwee—red-faced and clearly uncomfortable, yet still going along with it—was doing his best to answer. A slow heat crawled up Jeongwon’s chest, something sharp and unsettled lodging in his throat. 

Inhwee was trying to stay good-humored, playing along even as his friends egged him on. When someone demanded specifics about tongue placement and refused to accept a verbal explanation, Inhwee hesitated—but still, timidly, he tried to demonstrate. 

It was pathetic. Not Inhwee himself, but the entire situation—the way his so-called friends seemed to enjoy pushing him into things, clearly never taking him seriously. Jeongwon felt sorry for him, for the naïveté that kept him from seeing how much of a joke they considered him. The frustration was immediate and sharp, curling in Jeongwon’s gut alongside a reluctant sense of pity.

For a moment, Jeongwon just stood there, transfixed—torn between stepping in or walking away—until Inhwee opened his mouth and began demonstrating how to properly kiss a girl. He stuck out his tongue—pink, smooth, glistening under the restaurant’s harsh lighting—and moved it in a small circle. His friends whooped and hollered around him. Jeongwon’s stomach clenched again, tighter this time, and his breath hitched in his throat, heat rushing through his spine.

Jeongwon turned away sharply, as if burned eyes flicking from the thin, glistening strand of saliva that stretched from the roof of Inhwee’s mouth to the tip of his tongue. Without a word, he pivoted and walked back to his own table in stiff, mechanical strides, jaw clenched, pulse pounding in his ears. He couldn’t look again. 

He was overwhelmed by his reaction.

When Yuna asked if he wanted to leave with her, Jeongwon hadn’t hesitated. He readily agreed, repulsed by the scene he’d just witnessed and unsettled by the strange, persistent thrum moving through his body. But even as he left, even as he tried to focus on Yuna’s voice and the warmth of her arm brushing against his, his thoughts kept drifting back to Inhwee. To his parted lips. To the soft, glistening sweep of his tongue. The image had branded itself into Jeongwon’s mind, uninvited and inescapable.

From that night on, Inhwee had become someone Jeongwon couldn’t help but notice—no matter how hard he tried not to.

----------------------

 

After spending nearly two hours at the arcade, laughter and playful competition lingering between them, Jeongwon suggested dinner. He had made a reservation in advance—wanting their trial date to feel special—but Inhwee immediately protested, saying it was too much, even for a trial. Though Jeongwon briefly considered canceling, he insisted that Inhwee still had to eat with him. They were hungry. They had to eat. They could eat together. Most importantly, he didn’t want the night to end just yet.

They spent another hour and a half eating and talking. Conversation flowed like a gentle current—natural, engaging, and uninterrupted. Jeongwon marveled at how easy it was to talk to Inhwee. Every topic spun seamlessly into the next, keeping them both animated, their eyes bright with amusement and curiosity. 

When it became impossible to ignore that they’d eaten their fill, Jeongwon suggested dessert. He brought up a pop-up ice cream shop specializing in gourmet flavors that had become wildly popular. Jihoo had once grumbled about how his girlfriend kept nagging him to take her there. Inhwee laughed, claiming he would burst if he ate another bite. Still, Jeongwon lingered, reluctant to let go of the comfortable atmosphere that had settled between them.

As they stepped out of the restaurant, the sky opened up—rain pouring down in thick, glistening sheets. Jeongwon immediately told Inhwee to wait under the awning while he dashed to get the car. The rain was cold and unrelenting, soaking through his shirt as he jogged across the pavement.

By the time he pulled up, Inhwee slid into the passenger seat and frowned. “That was fast,” he said, pushing back damp hair from his forehead. “Oh—I got your seat wet. Sorry…”

“That’s okay. It’s just water. Here, use this.” Jeongwon handed him a towel from his gym bag.

Inhwee took it, dabbing his face. “You’re so prepared.”

Jeongwon laughed, his gaze lingering warmly on him. Inhwee must have noticed because he shifted uncomfortably, suddenly hyper-focused on drying off. “It’s because I go to the gym a lot. But don’t worry, it’s clean.”

Inhwee nodded, silent as he continued patting down his arms and neck.

As Jeongwon pulled onto the road, he glanced up at the sky, the rhythmic patter of rain against the windshield filling the car. “They said it would rain starting tonight. Didn’t think it’d start this early.”

“You can’t control the weather,” Inhwee teased, his lips curving into a small smile.

Chuckling, Jeongwon shrugged. “Still, I’m worried it ruined the date.”

“What? No.”

Jeongwon glanced at him. “Did you have fun?”

Inhwee nodded, his damp hair falling slightly over his eyes.

Jeongwon hesitated before asking, “Do you think I wouldn’t get rejected?”

Inhwee blinked, startled. “No! I had a lot of fun.”

“Even though it was so long? And you got wet?” Jeongwon teased, eyes twinkling.

Inhwee laughed, warmth creeping into his expression. “I was having so much fun that I didn’t even notice the time. Which is good. And getting a little wet isn’t a big deal. It’s just water.”

“Thank you.”

“Huh?”

Looking at Inhwee, Jeongwon said, “You’re just… really nice.” 

Inhwee coughed, his cheeks tinting pink. “It’s nice driving in the rain.”

“You’re right.” Jeongwon relaxed into his seat. “Makes me want to go on a long drive.”

“You like driving.”

“I do.” Jeongwon grinned, tapping his fingers against the wheel. “Can you drive?”

Inhwee shook his head. “I’m planning on getting my license this year.”

“Want me to teach you?”

“You would?” Inhwee turned, excitement dripping from his eyes.

Jeongwon nodded, his chest warming. “It would be my pleasure.”

“Amazing. My goal is to get my license this year and go on a road trip.”

“Want to go to the ocean?”

“Huh?”

“It’s about an hour and a half away.”

Inhwee scowled at him, confused.

“After you get your license… Or before. Next weekend.”

“That’s…”

“Okay,” Jeongwon laughed. “I was going to suggest an overnight trip.”

Inhwee sputtered. “I think women would find this a bit… too much!”

Stopping at a red light, Jeongwon leaned over the steering wheel, chuckling. “I meant as friends. Not a trial.”

“Oh.” Inhwee exhaled, shifting in his seat. “Well… it’s just kind of sudden.”

“Is it? I feel like we know each other.”

Yes, they hadn’t been as close as they were in the past few weeks, but they had talked and interacted over the last two semesters. Jeongwon had been slowly—steadily—drawing closer to Inhwee.

“I guess.”

“I don’t snore.”

Inhwee turned to him, baffled. “What?” He chuckled.

“You don’t have to be apprehensive about sleeping in the same room as me.”

“Wha—How would you even know that?”

“I just do.”

“You wouldn’t know unless someone told you.”

Jeongwon groaned, exasperated. “This is unfair. Then, should we really go on an overnight trip? I’ll prove I don’t snore.”

Inhwee rolled his eyes, but there was a small, amused smile playing on his lips.

Jeongwon sighed dramatically. “Now I’m worried.”

“Why?”

“I need to know my habits. What if that’s why I got rejected?”

Inhwee frowned, turning to him with genuine curiosity. “Did you really get rejected?”

Jeongwon nodded, the corner of his lips kicking up.

“What?” Inhwee shook his head. “It’s just—” He stopped himself.

“Talk to me,” Jeongwon urged. “I want to hear what you’re thinking.”

Inhwee hesitated, then sighed. “She must be a special person for you to be getting coached on dating.”

Jeongwon w as quiet for a moment before saying simply, “I like nice people.”

Inhwee’s eyes softened, and he gently nodded. Looking out the window, he said, “That's what I meant.”

“Huh?”

He looked sharply at Jeongwon, then cleared his throat. He stuttered as he started, and finally said, “I want to apologize.”

Jeongwon scowled, his stomach twisting into nervous knots. “You did nothing wrong.”

Inhwee tried to hide his face in the damp towel. “I…” He paused, straightened his posture, unveiled his face, pushed out his chest, and said, “That night. Friday. Three weeks or so ago.” He shut his mouth.

Jeongwon nodded encouragingly.

Inhwee cleared his throat again and finally looked at Jeongwon. “I was… really, really drunk,” he added, trying to emphasize just how intoxicated he’d been that night.

Jeongwon started laughing. “Is it about you calling me ‘hot’? And here I thought you changed your mind.”

Inhwee simply blinked at him, looking amused. The corners of his lips twitched as if he were about to laugh, but his eyes looked confused and a little glassy. “Well,” he muttered, dragging his eyes away. “I feel weird not mentioning it and apologizing. As a man, you know?”

Jeongwon hummed noncommittally. “Uh-huh.” Then he added, “I’m used to people wanting to get to me because of my face—how I look.”

“I’m sorry. I wasn’t trying to—” He laughed, and Inhwee paused.

“I know. I’m just saying, I don’t mind you calling me ‘hot’.” He winked at him. “I like it.” 

Inhwee colored, but his eyes shimmered. He turned his face away.

They were silent for a bit.

Jeongwon scowled again, glancing at Inhwee’s profile. He wondered what Inhwee was really thinking.

“But… it hurts more when a nice person rejects you,” Jeongwon stated, glancing at Inhwee. “I’m not mean, as you’ve said, and I’m not too ugly, as you’ve said.”

Inhwee gasped. “Ugly?”

He chuckled again. “What do you think my problem is?”

Inhwee hesitated. “I… I guess—don’t take this the wrong way.”

“I won’t. I asked.”

Inhwee inhaled deeply, his face serious. Jeongwon had to resist the urge to laugh at how cute he looked. “I like these things about you,” he stressed, looking troubled, “but girls… women are different. If you stare too openly at them, it can unnerve them.”

Jeongwon nodded attentively, lowering his eyelids to soften his open gaze at his side profile. “You like them, though?”

Inhwee flinched, and he blushed. He cleared his throat. “Well, I’m a man, and we’re…friends, so—” He inhaled and quickly said. “It’s different.”

Jeongwon nodded, pushing down his chuckle. “Okay. Do you have more advice?”

“Well…” Inhwee hummed, thinking. “Maybe dial back on the physical affection.”

Jeongwon gasped in mock mortification. “That’s how I communicate my affection and interest.”

“Yes, well, again, girls might find that too much.”

“But not you, right?” He teased me.

Inhwee glared at him, his cheeks a deeper shade of pink. “Also, maybe, when you go on your actual date, maybe get a gift. Girls like small tokens of appreciation.”

Jeongwon filed that away. Inhwee liked small gifts—just like when he had gotten him that coffee after work, a simple yet meaningful gesture. That was something to remember. Jeongwon had always enjoyed spoiling the people he cared about, and there was no denying it now—he liked Inhwee a lot. So that would not be difficult to do.

“You can just buy something she shows interest in while you’re walking the streets, like a stuffed toy or anything else that could become a good memory in the future.”

“Noted.” Jeongwon grinned cheekily. “You’re so helpful, Inhwee.”

Inhwee sparkled at the praise. “Well, that’s what I’m here for.”

He likes compliments. Jeongwon filed that too.

As they turned onto the street Inhwee lived on, Jeongwon took a wrong turn.

“Hey, you’re—” Inhwee stopped, realization dawning.

Jeongwon parked in the same spot as last time, the low hum of the engine settling into silence as he shifted in his seat to face Inhwee. His heart drummed in anticipation, the soft glow of the streetlights casting a golden sheen over Inhwee’s profile. He looked beautiful—disarmingly so.

“Can I get another kissing lesson?” Jeongwon’s voice was low, laced with warmth. “I want to end the date with a bang.”

Inhwee’s eyes widened slightly, his lips parting as if caught off guard. A flicker of hesitation danced across his expression before he nodded. “Oh, I… sure.”

Jeongwon reached out, his fingers brushing against Inhwee’s cheek, tracing down the smooth curve of his jaw with featherlight intent. Inhwee shivered at the touch. Though the reaction was small, Jeongwon found it utterly intoxicating. He reveled in the way Inhwee’s breath caught in his throat. His skin felt warm under his fingertips, a contrast to the cool night air that seeped through the car windows. 

“If you don’t want to, we don’t have to,” Jeongwon offered, watching Inhwee’s expression closely, unwilling to push him.

Inhwee shook his head quickly. “No, I want to help. I said I would.”

Yet, even as he said it, he hesitated, his gaze darting away, refusing to meet Jeongwon’s eyes. The vulnerability in that moment struck Jeongwon—Inhwee wasn’t indifferent to this. He wasn’t unaffected.

“I don’t want you to feel forced. I won’t be upset if you say no.” He paused and examined his face. “You can always say no.”

Inhwee shook his head again, slightly panting now. “It’s just,” Inhwee continued, voice quieter now, “I’m a guy, and I don’t know how much doing this with me will help.”

Jeongwon chuckled, tilting his head. “All kisses are the same. We all have mouths.”

That earned him a genuine laugh, the sound melting some of the tension that had built between them. Inhwee relaxed, if only slightly, the stiffness in his shoulders beginning to ebb. Jeongwon took it as a small victory and reached over, easily undoing Inhwee’s seatbelt. His fingers grazed the fabric of Inhwee’s shirt as he pulled the strap away.

“Do you want to be on top like last time?” he asked, a teasing edge in his tone.

Inhwee’s reaction was instant—his entire face, down to the column of his throat, flushed a deep shade of red. Jeongwon could feel the heat radiating off him, the sudden shift in atmosphere thickening the air between them.

“To end the date with a… young lady, it wouldn’t—” Inhwee stammered, clearly flustered.

Jeongwon couldn’t help but laugh, low and affectionate, before reaching out again, running his fingers down the fine slope of Inhwee’s neck. His skin was impossibly soft, his pulse thrumming beneath Jeongwon’s fingertips like a drumbeat—fast and uneven. He leaned in, closing the space between them, and placed a chaste kiss on Inhwee’s lips, brief but deliberate, then on the corner of his lips. When he pulled back, their breaths mingled—warm and lingering.

“I want to learn how I should kiss if I want to give off some sexual appeal,” Jeongwon murmured, his voice dipping into something softer, deeper.

Inhwee swallowed hard, his Adam’s apple bobbing. “I—”

“Please?” Jeongwon coaxed, brushing his lips against the corner of Inhwee’s mouth, lingering just long enough to feel the way Inhwee’s breathing turned shallow. His hand slid lower, over the column of Inhwee’s throat, tracing the way his body responded, the way his temperature spiked beneath his touch. Jeongwon’s lips trailed lower, down the edge of his jaw, leaving open-mouthed kisses against his skin, damp and slow.

Inhwee trembled. Jeongwon felt it—the way his body yielded, the way his hands gripped the edge of the seat like he needed something to anchor himself. Jeongwon loved his skin, how easy it was to mark him. A rush of possessiveness surged through him. He wanted to mark him. He wanted the whole world to know that Inhwee was his.

“I got so much better after you taught me,” Jeongwon whispered, his lips hovering over Inhwee’s pulse point, reveling in the way Inhwee’s breath stuttered.

Inhwee exhaled shakily, his voice thick when he finally spoke. “Okay.” His hands curled into fists on his lap, as if grounding himself. “Stick out your tongue.”

 

Notes:

Thank you for reading!

Chapter 8

Notes:

This story is set in an alternate universe, in an imaginary town and country, and during an ambiguous time period.

Idea 20 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPEDJXBDMjo  

 

“When are you going to stop playing around?” his father asked, tone sharp, as if Jeongwon were some unruly child instead of a grown man in his second year of university. The question cut through his thoughts like a blade.

Jeongwon’s jaw tightened. He had known this conversation was coming. It always did. 

His parents were only letting him study computer science under the assumption that they could still browbeat him into applying to medical school once he graduated. They were still paying his way through school because he had given in and taken a few science classes. He knew they would’ve been insufferable if he had completely disregarded their wishes for him. He despised how they controlled him.

Jeongwon hated being home.

The moment he stepped through the front door, the weight of the place settled onto his shoulders like a suffocating cloak. The air was too still, too full of unspoken expectations and the echoes of past arguments. 

He wished Inhwee had taken him up on his offer to go away for the weekend—just the two of them, somewhere far from all of this. If he had, Jeongwon wouldn’t be here now, sitting stiffly at the dining table, bracing himself for the inevitable storm.

With no excuse to get out of it, he’d been forced to visit his grandfather in hospice, which was always an emotionally draining experience. He hated it. Not because he didn’t love his grandpop, but because the visits were never just about him. They were always about them—his parents, their grievances, their sacrifices, their expectations.

Dinner was no different.

As always, his mother and father had come together, their usual friction dissolving into perfect unity when it came to breaking him down. They reminded him, again and again, how much they had sacrificed for him. How hard his mother’s grandfather had worked to achieve success, to send her to school, to give them the means to open their own medical practice. And because they wanted to give him everything, they’d only ever had one child. They had poured everything into him. And now, he owed them.

He chewed slowly, staring at the untouched portion of his meal.

“Why are you wasting all of our hard work and your intelligence?” his father pressed, no longer even pretending to focus on his food.

Jeongwon sighed, setting his fork down with a quiet clink. “Dad, engineers make good money, too.”

His father scoffed. “It's not just about the money, Jeongwon. You could be doing so much good in the world.”

Jeongwon swallowed down the sharp retort that threatened to slip from his tongue. He knew better than to argue. It never ended well.

Across the table, his mother let out a long, exasperated sigh, her expression twisting in frustration. “This boy,” she muttered, shaking her head. “When are you going to stop acting petulant and get serious? Do we need to cut you off to get you to open your eyes? Playing video games is not a serious career!”

Jeongwon felt something snap inside him.

His grip on his fork tightened before he let it fall onto his plate with a dull thud. The words they hurled at him weren’t new. He had heard them a thousand times before, but tonight, the weight of their expectations felt heavier than usual. He could feel it pressing down on him, clawing at his skin, wrapping around his throat like a vice.

“I have a lot of work I need to finish before Monday,” he said, his voice eerily calm. “I think I’m going to drive back to school.”

His father’s reaction was immediate. “Sit down!” he snapped, the command laced with authority. “Eat your food.”

Jeongwon clenched his teeth. He sat down.

“You stubborn mule,” his mother hissed, stabbing at her roasted broccoli with a little too much force, as if her fork might somehow drive some sense into him.

Jeongwon closed his eyes. For a moment, he blocked out the tension—the suffocating atmosphere, the sharp glances, the disappointed sighs. He forced his mind to drift somewhere else, somewhere warmer, softer.

Inhwee.

He pictured him—his bright, teasing smile, the crinkle at the corners of his eyes when he laughed, the way his presence made everything feel lighter. The gentle lilt of his voice. They always had so much fun whenever they’d meet up or simply texted. Fuck. He wished he had taken him up on that trip. He wouldn’t be here, dealing with this.

Jeongwon took a deep breath, let the tension seep from his shoulders, and exhaled slowly.

He would endure this for now. But he was already planning his escape—and he wasn’t sure when he’d visit them again.

------------------

“Hello?” Inhwee answered on the second ring, his voice groggy and thick with sleep.

Jeongwon frowned. “Are you okay?” he asked, merging into traffic.

He was driving back to school, and he felt lighter the farther he got from his childhood home. The tension of the weekend was slowly dissipating. He barely glanced in the rearview mirror, refusing to let their voices linger in his head any longer.

“Huh?”

“You sound sick.”

Inhwee let out a long breath. “I just woke up from a nap.”

“A nap?” Jeongwon repeated, his lips curving into a small smile. He laughed, the warmth of it chasing away the last remnants of frustration from last night’s dinner. “How old are you, Mr. Nap-time?”

Inhwee huffed. “Shut up.”

Jeongwon only chuckled, feeling that familiar pull—the way Inhwee arrested him like a physical force.

Inhwee yawned, then groaned. “I needed this nap. School is kicking my ass. How are you doing with all the assignments we have due next week? I’m drowning.”

“I’m almost done,” Jeongwon said casually, switching lanes.

There was a pause, then an incredulous exclaimed, “What? Are you a god?”

Jeongwon grinned. “No, I’m mortal.” Then, after a beat, he added, “I can help. We’re in pretty much the same classes this semester.”

Inhwee made a small, considering sound before saying, “Would you, really?”

“Anything for you.”

There was silence on the other end. A hesitation. Jeongwon could almost picture Inhwee blinking in surprise—maybe even turning bright red, which was a sight Jeongwon loved and always tried his best to elicit. But then, just as quickly, Inhwee steamrolled past the quiet.

“Thank you so much,” he said, his voice back to normal—bright and eager.

Jeongwon smiled to himself. “How about today?”

Inhwee hesitated. “I thought you were out of town?”

He had texted him.

“I’m back. Want me to pick you up?”

“Huh?”

“I can come over.”

“No!”

Jeongwon blinked at the immediate, almost panicked response. “No?”

There was a beat of silence before Inhwee quickly changed the subject. “Where do you want to go?”

“I was thinking of my place.”

Inhwee’s voice turned nervous. “I thought you’d want to go to the library.”

Jeongwon smirked. “Sunday evening.”

“Right.”

A beat.

“Okay.”

Jeongwon caught the hesitation in Inhwee’s voice and softened his tone. “If you’re uncomfortable, we can go to a café.”

“Why would I be nervous?” Inhwee shot back—too fast.

Jeongwon let out a knowing chuckle. “Good. I’ll pick you up in ten.”

Inhwee exhaled sharply. “Give me fifteen.”

Jeongwon grinned, already making the turn toward Inhwee’s place. “Fifteen it is.

 

Notes:

Every time I get a kudos or a comment, I swoon. Thank you to every single person reading, and to those who have left me a kudos or a comment—I'm so appreciative and so grateful. I love you all. I hope you enjoyed this chapter! 💛

Chapter 9

Notes:

This story is set in an alternate universe, in an imaginary town and country, and during an ambiguous time period.

 

Idea 25 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqr3khMncqM&list=RDEMyHusfZDRcCPPBxyJotYYug&index=4   

 

“I still don’t get how you have time for all this,” Inhwee said, peering at the game code displayed on Jeongwon’s monitor, his voice laced with genuine incredulity. “Good grades, personal projects, working out…” He looked over at Jeongwon. “What, do you bend time to your will or something?”

Jeongwon let out a low chuckle. “Nah, I just don’t sleep.”

Inhwee’s eyes scanned his face. “And yet, you still manage to look…” He paused and dramatically flailed his arms around.

“Look what?” Jeongwon fished, voice low.

“You look fine.”

Jeongwon grinned. “Oh? You like how I look?”

Inhwee immediately stiffened, his lips parting slightly as his brain seemed to short-circuit. “I mean—you know. I mean…” He stammered, rubbing the back of his neck before shrugging. “Bro., you know what you look like.”

“Average at best.”

Inhwee scoffed, rolling his eyes. He instantly relaxed. “Dude, stop. You’re not being humble. You’re just making me feel like shit. Look at how I look.”

Jeongwon made a point to look at him. Inhwee started laughing, even though he was slowly turning red, starting with his cheeks and spreading to his ears and down his neck. It was mesmerizing.

“What? You do look great.”

“Please,” Inhwee waved his words away, brushing off Jeongwon’s compliment. “It’s the shower I just took.”

Jeongwon scowled, hoping Inhwee was only being coy, brushing off the compliment out of humility rather than genuine disbelief. If Inhwee could see himself through Jeongwon’s eyes, he’d understand how utterly captivating he looked.

Jeongwon’s gaze traced over him, taking in the way his still-damp hair clung in soft, inky strands, curling just slightly at the ends. The faint pink lingering on his cheeks from the warmth of his obvious embarrassment made him look even softer. Jeongwon felt he could drown in him if he wasn’t careful.

“Jiwon—hell, even Yuna, a senior, thinks you’re hot.”

At the mention of ladies, Jeongwon felt an odd, unexpected twinge of irritation. He pushed it down.

He tilted his head, narrowing his eyes playfully. “Wait. You talk about me?”

Inhwee’s reaction was immediate. “No! I just overheard the girls talking. All the girls talk about you.” After a beat, he added, “All the time.”

Jeongwon chuckled, his gaze softening. He flirted, “See, the girls all flock to you because you’re the handsome one.”

Inhwee’s fingers twitched against his knee. “That’s not true,” he muttered, looking away. “But thanks.”

“No, it is.” Jeongwon’s voice dropped, heat lacing his words as his gaze lingered on Inhwee’s face. He saw the way Inhwee’s Adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed hard, the tension thick between them for a moment. “Really.”

He wished he could lavish his praise in much more explicit detail, but he held back, not wanting to scare him off. He wanted him, and that desire only intensified with each passing day. Jeongwon hoped that Inhwee lowering his guard, forgetting he was supposed to be the effortless “campus casanova,” meant he was aware of the way Jeongwon flirted with him—and that he wanted this too. But the small thread of uncertainty—whether Inhwee truly understood what was happening between them, whether he sensed Jeongwon’s attraction—gnawed at Jeongwon, tormenting him.

The moment Jeongwon quieted down, Inhwee quickly shifted the conversation. “Thanks again for helping me. Shall we start?”

Jeongwon exhaled through his nose, and with a light grin, he nodded. “Yeah, let’s do it.”

As they worked through Inhwee’s assignments, their conversation flowed effortlessly. They studied, paused, talked, then returned to studying—slipping in and out of focus with ease. Without even realizing it, they covered everything, from their goals and interests to what they envisioned for their futures, diving deeper into each other’s lives with a natural intimacy that neither had the presence of mind to fully notice.

“Okay,” Jeongwon said, sipping his carbonated drink, “you clearly don’t jive with tech., so why Comp. Sci.?”

Inhwee shrugged, sipping his own drink.

“Nah, there’s a reason.” Jeongwon stretched out his legs across the floor. His foot grazed the side of Inhwee’s leg. Inhwee flinched. He was such an open book. Jeongwon smirked. “And you need to spill. You know all my secrets,” he reminded, his tone playful.

“Okay, don’t laugh.”

Jeongwon scowled, lowering his can to rest on his thigh. “Never.”

“Okay. Well… I don’t know, I thought that maybe I could actually be…” He stopped and looked at Jeongwon, who was watching him seriously, earnestly waiting for him to finish. “I wanted to be a teacher,” Inhwee rapidly finished, glancing at Jeongwon.

Jeongwon smiled softly. He could see that. “You like kids?”

Inhwee quickly shook his head and said vehemently, “I… I don’t dislike them, but like—” He gave Jeongwon a sheepish look. “Not really.”

Jeongwon paused, raising an eyebrow. “Wait—you don’t like kids?”

Inhwee snorted. “Yeah, not really.”

Jeongwon looked at him, genuinely confused. Inhwee started laughing. 

“You really don't?”

Inhwee nodded again, winding down,

“Okay. Help me make sense of this: why would you wanna be a teacher then?”

Inhwee shrugged, leaning back slightly.

“You know they work with kids, right?”

Inhwee full-on chortled and snorted. That made Jeongwon grin.

“I know,” he shrugged. “It’s just… Okay.” He sat up. “I like the younger ones. Like, elementary age.”

“But,” Jeongwon supplied.

He grinned and lifted his right shoulder in a shrug. “My older sister took care of me and my siblings growing up, and watching her, I realized early on that I didn’t want to take care of anyone like that. It’s a lot. But in high school, I had to do volunteer work—it was a graduation requirement—so I helped out at my old elementary school.”

Jeongwon tilted his head. “And you actually liked it?”

“Yeah.” Inhwee smiled a little, reminiscing. “I mean, I know my experience wasn’t the same as being a real teacher, but it was fun.”

“You should do it, then,” Jeongwon said, scooting closer to the coffee table, inching nearer to Inhwee. “You’d be good at it.”

Inhwee scoffed and pointed out the situational irony. “You’re the one teaching me right now.”

Jeongwon smirked. “This just happens to be my area of expertise.”

Inhwee hummed in amusement but didn’t argue. Jeongwon let the silence linger for a moment before asking, “So why didn’t you go into the College of Education?”

Inhwee hesitated before shrugging. “Dunno.”

Jeongwon eyed him knowingly. “No, you do,” he said teasingly, tossing a chip in Inhwee’s direction. It landed on the coffee table in front of him. “Spill.”

With a small sigh, Inhwee finally admitted, “Okay, well… teaching doesn’t pay well.”

“Right.” Jeongwon cocked his head, sipping his drink as he watched Inhwee from under heavy eyelids. “You want that money.”

“I do,” Inhwee nodded, the corner of his mouth twitching. “Don’t we all?”

Jeongwon chuckled. “I’d be fine with just enough to live on.”

Inhwee snorted. “Well, it’s different for you.”

“Hmm?”

“I mean, you already have money.”

“Hmm. Do I?” Jeongwon sat up. “My parents do well for themselves.” But if they ever knew the real him, he doubted he’d still have their support. That wealth wasn’t his. It never would be.

Jasejoong blinked at him, seeming to realize what he had just said. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean that. I mean, teachers aren’t respected.”

Jeongwon let out a short laugh. “You’re fine, but engineers aren’t respected like that either.”

Inhwee nodded, lips quirking slightly. “Yeah, but… but as a man, I wanna be able to provide for my family.”

Jeongwon glanced at him, genuinely surprised. He could tell Inhwee’s reluctance to pursue teaching wasn’t just about money or respect—it was something deeper, something he wasn’t ready to fully share. So Jeongwon simply said, his voice gentle, “That’s not what makes you a man.” He ran his fingers along the keys of his laptop.

Inhwee huffed a soft laugh. “Oh, you would know.”

“I would. Believe it or not, I’m a man.” He grinned at a snorting Inhwee.

“Or a good partner,” Jeongwon added.

Inhwee carelessly rolled his shoulder, though Jeongwon noticed the tension in his jaw. “Well, I don’t. As a man, I value… that.”

Jeongwon tilted his head, a fine line forming between his brows as he studied him. "Wait. You want a family? I thought you didn’t even like kids."

Inhwee shrugged, playing it off. “I’m young, I have time to play the field.”

“You want to play the field?” Jeongwon inquired, raising a brow.

“That’s what gives me such great insight to impart on you,” Inhwee teased, flashing a sly grin.

Jeongwon chuckled, nodding. “And I’m so thankful.” His voice was laced with heat and intent, making Inhwee shift ever so slightly. Before Jeongwon could dwell on it, Inhwee swiftly turned the conversation back on him.

“What about you?”

“I’ve always known I’d pursue tech,” Jeongwon said with an easy shrug. “Always wanted to make games.”

“Wow.” Inhwee tilted his head, impressed. “You sound so passionate and determined.”

Laughing softly, he said, “Do I?” Inhwee rapidly shook his head. “Thanks.”

“Your parents must be proud—blessed to have such an easy child to raise.”

At that, something in Jeongwon’s chest twisted. A bitter pang settled in his stomach as he recalled his last fight with them, their disappointed voices still echoing in his head.

“I don’t think they feel like that,” he admitted, his tone lighter than the weight in his heart.

Inhwee’s face fell. “Oh, shit. Did I just put my foot in my mouth again?”

“Again?” he murmured with a laugh.

Jeongwon shook his head, surprised by how easily the truth came out. “My parents wanted me to pursue a different major.”

“Wow. I’m sorry.”

“Haha.” Jeongwon shrugged, feigning nonchalance. “Your parents aren’t as overbearing?”

Inhwee let out a dramatic sigh and rolled his eyes. “They’re on the opposite end of that. I wished—No.” He caught himself, and massaged the side of his neck. “My sister does all the parental worrying.”

“I’m sorry,” Jeongwon said softly, and for a moment, they sat in quiet understanding.

Something had shifted between them—Jeongwon could feel it. This quiet camaraderie, the way their burdens brushed against each other just enough to bring them closer. His feelings for Inhwee deepened in a way that made his heart ache—in the best possible way.

Inhwee clapped his hands together, breaking the moment. “Shall we get back to work?”

They settled into their tasks, working steadily before deciding to take a break. They ordered pizza and drinks, and while they waited, Inhwee wandered around Jeongwon’s apartment, eyeing Jeongwon’s game collection.

“I’m always looking for someone to play with.”

That led them into a conversation about learning new things, and soon they were talking about driving.

“Do you work tomorrow?” Jeongwon said, glancing at him.

Inhwee shook his head. “Nope. Just classes,” he said, sighing dramatically. “Why?”

Jeongwon grinned. “Then let’s start your lessons.”

 

Chapter 10

Jeongwon spotted Inhwee walking into class alongside Jiwon, their conversation light and easy. His stomach twisted at the sight, though he couldn’t immediately figure out why. He liked Jiwon.

Jiwon slid into the seat beside him, her perfume a little too strong this early in the morning, while Inhwee took the seat on the aisle. “Good morning, Jeongwon,” she greeted brightly, tilting her head as she smiled at him. She tucked a long strand of hair behind her ear.

Jeongwon forced a polite smile and met Inhwee’s eyes. “Morning.” He kept his voice even, but tension coiled in his shoulders.

“This class is so hard,” Jiwon whined.

“Professor Cha is such a hard-ass,” Inhwee agreed, avoiding Jeongwon’s piercing gaze.

This was the first time Jiwon had ever sat next to him. He wasn’t dumb; he knew she still had a thing for him, even after he’d made it very clear he wasn’t interested. What annoyed him even more was that Inhwee, who should have known better, seemed to have been pulled into whatever scheme she was running to get closer to him.

But that wasn’t what was really bothering him. Not really. It thrilled him to think that others had started to associate Inhwee with him and vice versa.

They had spent almost every day together for the past several weeks, hanging out all over campus and town, eating dinner together, and working on assignments. Inhwee’s face would light up whenever Jeongwon walked into his workplace, and Jeongwon lived for that reaction. He had even spent hours teaching Inhwee how to drive, somehow enjoying the constant near-death experiences when Inhwee kept mixing up the brake and accelerator.

During their time together, their conversations had grown deeper, more intimate, and more open. So, people correctly recognizing Inhwee as being close to him wasn’t what made Jeongwon feel so tense and vexed. It was watching Jiwon giggle and Inhwee’s jovial quips that left him on edge.

He wanted Inhwee to be jealous. Everything that had transpired between them couldn’t have been for nothing. Not when he was serving himself on a silver platter in front of an obviously starving Inhwee. Inhwee wouldn’t always deny what they shared. Right?

Jeongwon caught Inhwee’s gaze. He gave him a small, awkward smile and quickly looked away, slowly turning that nice shade of peach Jeongwon loved. Not when he looked at him like this. The same look he always had whenever he thought Jeongwon wasn’t watching.

“You two are close,” Jeongwon mused aloud.

Jiwon lit up like a billion stars. “Huh? Us?” She pointed to Inhwee with her index finger.

Jeongwon nodded, staring at Inhwee, who seemed to be growing more uncomfortable by the second. Good.

Jeongwon felt like being mean.

“Jaejo—”

He cut Jeongwon off with a small, sharp laugh. “Yeah. We’re…” He trailed off, shifting his shoulders as if the motion would help him find an appropriate response.

“We’ve just gotten close,” Jiwon shared in his stead. “We share a lot of the same classes.” She batted her lashes at Jeongwon.

“Right. Isn’t Gangwoo at eight o’clock?”

She blinked at him. Hard. And then she laughed. Jeongwon searched Inhwee’s face. He looked like he had swallowed something sour. His cheeks were much redder now.

“Unfortunately.” She threw loose strands of hair behind her shoulder. “But being with Inhwee makes up for it. Plus, the class is much easier than this one,” she added in that whiny voice again.

Jeongwon smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes. He wondered if Inhwee noticed. He wondered if Inhwee understood the intent behind it. Behind every one of his actions. Behind them.

Inhwee seemed stuck, refusing to acknowledge his truth. Instead, he played into the same macho, flirtatious act as all the other guys on campus, as if he had something to prove. Jeongwon didn’t understand why. He simply couldn’t be straight. Inhwee might not be gay—Jeongwon wasn’t even sure if he was—but there was something there. And it seemed to terrify Inhwee as much as it thrilled him.

Jeongwon saw it in the way Inhwee looked at him when he dropped him off at home, especially that first night they hung out at his place. The bewilderment on his face as Jeongwon drove straight to his apartment complex instead of taking the usual detour had been meaningful. And it happened every time Jeongwon dropped him off in the last few weeks. It was always the same—hesitation, longing, and a quiet yearning that Inhwee never acted on.

Jeongwon noticed other things too: the way Inhwee’s gaze would flicker over him, how he took in his body, how his attention would waver, like he was fighting something within himself. It was the same way Jiwon was looking at Jeongwon in that moment, except hers was open and obvious in her attraction.

Inhwee wanted him. Jeongwon knew it. He had made it very obvious since they left the bar together a few weeks ago that he liked him. Hadn’t he? He didn’t understand why Inhwee refused to admit it, why he kept turning away from what was right in front of him.

Patience had never been Jeongwon’s strong suit, especially not when he wanted Inhwee as much as he did. It might be lust or something else; he didn’t know. But he did know he wanted to discover what it was. His patience was wearing thin the longer they danced around each other.

Jiwon laughed softly at something Inhwee said and leaned into him. It looked natural. Ubiquitous.

Jeongwon’s spine and chest burned. He sat in the lecture hall with something ugly curling in his chest. Possessiveness, maybe. He wasn’t used to feeling that way about anyone, but here he was, gripping his phone a little too tightly to keep himself from doing something stupid.

Instead, he tuned them out and started scrolling through a forum discussion on a new VR game he’d been following. It was better than getting dragged into whatever conversation they were having. Until—

“Inhwee, you’re single, right?” Jiwon’s voice cut through his thoughts.

Jeongwon’s fingers stilled over his screen.

“Hmm?” Inhwee hummed absentmindedly.

“Do you want to go on a blind date?” she whispered, as if they weren’t sitting right next to Jeongwon.

His grip on his phone tightened. He kept his face neutral, but his pulse spiked, his whole body going rigid as his attention snapped fully to them.

“I—”

“She’s a design major,” Jiwon interrupted, already unlocking her phone. “She saw your picture and begged me to set you guys up. Look!” She shoved the screen into Inhwee’s face.

Jeongwon wanted to see it too. Wanted to know what kind of girl she thought was Inhwee’s type. But mostly, he just wanted Inhwee to say no.

Instead, Inhwee chuckled, easygoing as always. “Sure. Why not? She’s pretty.”

Jeongwon barely kept his expression in check, but his jaw clenched involuntarily. His heart pounded, and before he could stop himself, his gaze met Inhwee’s.

Inhwee faltered.

Something flickered across his face—guilt, maybe? Or was he second-guessing himself? Whatever it was, it didn’t last long. He looked sharply away, suddenly focused on the desk in front of him, his posture stiffening.

Jiwon, oblivious to the silent tension crackling in the air, grinned. “Then I’ll give you her number.”

“Oh, I–”

“She’s cool people; just ask her if she’s free next week.”

Jeongwon forced himself to look back at his phone, though he wasn’t reading a damn thing on the screen. His mind was a mess, a storm of emotions he didn’t want to deal with right now.

Fine. If Inhwee wanted to play this game, he wouldn’t stop him.

--------------

“Have you heard of Mangoes?”

Jeongwon blinked at the smiling twenty-something. It was hard to register what she was saying. The bar was too loud for his mood, filled with strobing lights and a crowd of young college students who reeked of cheap cologne and eager desperation. He wanted to be anywhere else, preferably his apartment.

Changjun had invited him out and blackmailed him into coming. Changjun wouldn’t stop whining about how wishy-washy he’d been lately with his promise to hang out more now that he was back in town, and how he needed to stop being such a homebody. He needed to go out and socialize more. He was “wasting his good looks.” Plus, Changjun needed someone to “reel in the ladies,” and Jeongwon “owed” him a favor after rejecting so many of his previous hangout invitations.

Realizing that Changjun wouldn’t stop blowing up his phone—and needing something to take his mind off Inhwee and his sour mood—he decided to take Changjun up on the offer. He needed to unwind and get out of his head; otherwise, Jeongwon feared he would combust.

But he wasn’t really in the mood, and nothing seemed to be changing that.

“They just opened,” she added.

He blinked at her again and scowled. “What?”

She chuckled nervously and ran her palm down her head, smoothing hair that hadn’t moved since she styled her back-bun. “They have live music. Every Saturday. My friend and I are thinking of checking it out. I was just…” she trailed off.

He forced his face to relax and smiled at her. She lit up. It did sound fun. He’d like to go there with Inhwee. “Ah. That sounds…”

“Fun, right?”

He couldn’t do this. “Yeah. Let me get you a drink.”

She looked at her glass. She had barely taken two sips. She smiled at him. “Ah. Yeah. Thanks.” She started chugging her drink.

Jeongwon disappeared into the crowd, jaw tight and mind thousands of miles away, specifically in a lecture hall, stuck on the sound of Inhwee’s easy laugh and his careless, “Sure. Why not?” It bothered Jeongwon because he couldn’t decide if he had any right to be upset or put off. Inhwee hadn’t come out and told him he was gay or that he wanted to pursue a romantic connection with him; furthermore, Jeongwon wasn’t sure if he wanted to get into something more meaningful with Inhwee. Right now, they were both operating under a lie, lying to each other and continuing their farce. But it didn’t feel right, and Jeongwon was upset.

“Whoa! Watch out,” Changjun laughed, bumping into Jeongwon. He grabbed him.

“Oh, hey.”

“Where are you going?”

“Home.”

Changjun sighed. “Dude. Come on. What’s wrong? Weren’t you—aren’t you talking to that girl? Is she boring?”

He shrugged. “She’s fine. I'm not feeling well.”

Changjun gave him an appraising look. “Cuh. You’re ruining the mood. What’s up with the long face?” He turned and walked with Jeongwon. “We're here to mingle! Did your cat die?”

Jeongwon scowled at his friend. “I’d be distraught over such an occurrence. Plus, I don’t have a cat.”

Changjun laughed, loud and obnoxious. “What the hell, man?”

“What?”

Changjun leaned in, clapping Jeongwon’s cheek gently. “Seriously, what’s going on? Do you need Big Bro to step in and give you some advice—girl trouble?”

Jeongwon exhaled through his nose, staring at his friend without blinking. His long stare made Changjun scowl and pull back, though he smiled good-naturedly. “Really? You?”

“What?” Jeongwon asked, gently scowling.

Changjun laughed and took a swig of his drink. “I’d never peg you as a guy who’d have girl problems.”

Jeongwon’s frown deepened, but he didn’t say a single word for a few seconds before letting out a loud sigh. “I don’t.”

Changjun grinned and smacked him on the shoulder. “Attaboy.”

They arrived at the bar. It was busy.

“But… there’s someone.”

The words felt foreign coming out of his mouth. He hadn’t planned to say them. He hadn’t said them to anyone. But there it was. The truth. Quiet. Heavy.

Changjun blinked. “Wait. What? No way. You? You like someone?”

Jeongwon glanced sideways at him. “Why do you sound so surprised?”

“Because you’re Jeongwon.” Changjun gave him a once-over, eyes narrowing in amusement. He sat down on a stool. “Holy shit, you’re serious. Who is it? Is she behind this kicked puppy look?”

Jeongwon didn’t answer. He just took a slow sip of his drink. His throat burned.

Changjun chuckled, missing the tension under Jeongwon’s nonchalance. “Well, you’ll recover. I mean, look.” He stepped in closer to Jeongwon, grabbed his shoulder, and pointed to one of his friends—red-faced, beaming Haehyuk—who was talking to a trio of college-aged girls.

Changjun nodded at Jeongwon’s quizzical expression. “Haehyuk is going through it. But look at him recovering. The adage works, my boy!” He smacked his shoulder again.

Jeongwon’s brows furrowed slightly. He stared silently—and for far too long—at Changjun again, making him uncomfortable.

“What?”

“No, nothing.” He sighed into his drink. “I was just thinking.”

“What?”

“What if I were gay?”

Changjun stilled. He was as stunned as Jeongwon. Jeongwon hadn’t realized what he had intended to say until it was already out of his mouth.

Then Changjun laughed, full of levity and male gusto. “That would be great news for the male population.”

He got up and followed it with an animated, “Down some drinks and come get someone to help mend your broken heart.”

He flippantly added over his shoulder, “Shouldn’t be hard for you.”

Jeongwon stared into his drink and didn’t move. He didn’t follow.

And he didn’t stop thinking about Inhwee.

 

--------------

Inhwee: Are we not doing driving lessons anymore?

Tuesday 11:07 PM

Inhwee: Are you ignoring me? You’re not in class.

Thursday 8:12 A.M

Inhwee: Do you still want to be partners in DSA?

Saturday 8:24 AM

Jeongwon: I’m not ignoring you. Of course we’re partners.

Saturday 8:25 AM

Inhwee: You’ve stopped ignoring me.

Jeongwon: I was never ignoring you.

Inhwee: Is that why you went MIA last week?

Jeongwon: I was sick, but I’ve been on campus.

Inhwee: You’re sick?

Jeongwon: Was. I’m much better.

There were a few gray bubbles that disappeared as soon as they appeared before Inhwee’s final response appeared.

Inhwee: I’m glad to hear that.

Inhwee: There’s a department hangout later. You’re coming?

Jeongwon: You’re going?

Inhwee: Yeah. I’m working in the morning.

Jeongwon: I’ll be there.

 

----------

Jeongwon hadn’t meant to ignore Inhwee.

He had come down with a brutal cold. He hadn’t been lying when he told Changjun he wasn’t feeling well. What started as a mild cough escalated into losing his voice and a deep, hacking cough that rattled his ribs. He spent the week in self-imposed exile, sending apologetic emails to his professors, catching up on assignments between naps, and trying to shake off the heavy weight of fever dreams. The quiet of his apartment was almost suffocating, giving him too much time to think, too much time to stew.

And it wasn’t just the cold making him feel miserable.

Inhwee. His sexuality. The world. It all felt insurmountable.

Jeongwon was pissed. No, he was livid.

He was jealous and annoyed. While he sat in his apartment pondering his sexuality, his life as he had known it, Inhwee had agreed to meet up with some random girl, continue living a lie, and worse, he was openly scheming with Jiwon despite Jeongwon making it crystal clear that he wanted nothing to do with her.

It wasn’t like Jeongwon had ever been good at hiding his feelings—he could honestly admit he had all the subtlety of a crashing server—but when it came to Inhwee, it had only gotten worse. It wasn’t just a crush anymore. It wasn’t just a passing attraction. Jeongwon wanted him so badly that thinking about him made his stomach twist, his whole body tense. It was unbearable, this pull toward him, this ridiculous hope that Inhwee would stop pretending he didn’t feel it too.

So when Jeongwon walked into the restaurant, a carefully constructed smile on his face, his eyes immediately sought him out.

“Jeongwon!” a classmate called his name, but he barely registered it. His gaze locked onto Inhwee, sitting with his back to him, opposite a friend, looking completely at ease, as if nothing was wrong, as if Jeongwon hadn’t spent the entire week feeling like his emotions were running on an overheating processor.

“Jeongwon, sit over here,” someone suggested.

“Hey, Jeongwon,” another voice greeted.

Jeongwon barely acknowledged them. Instead, he took a deliberate step toward Inhwee. As if sensing him, Inhwee turned, his soft smile aimed right at Jeongwon, so damn unguarded it made Jeongwon’s jaw clench. How could he look at him like that and still pretend?

Gripping the edge of the table, Jeongwon directed his words at Inhwee’s senior. “Hey, Yuri, can I sit here?”

“Huh?” She blinked up at him, beer halfway to her mouth.

Still smiling, Jeongwon tilted his head. “I want to chat with Inhwee. Sorry.”

She was charmed. Yuri blinked, then quickly scooted over, her tone a little too bright as she patted the spot beside her. “Of course! Jump in.”

“Thanks.” Jeongwon slid into the space next to Inhwee, his knee pressing against his thigh. “Are you feeling alright?”

Inhwee nodded. “Yeah.”

Before Jeongwon could say more, a voice from across the table cut in. “Hey, Jeongwon, last time—”

“Oh, yes?” he said, forcing a smile at Jihoo, his patience already thinning.

“Did you meet up with Yeonwoon?”

Jeongwon felt Inhwee flinch next to him. Under the table, Jeongwon reached for Inhwee’s knee and gently placed his hand there. Inhwee lit up like a short-circuited motherboard. Their eyes met, and Jeongwon smiled.

“Ah. Who?” Jeongwon asked, feigning ignorance as he casually leaned in, pressing their thighs together, making it impossible for Inhwee to pull away.

“Dude. Euigeon gave you her number. You did, right?” He spared the guy a brief look. “I thought you took her out.”

Euigeon chimed in. “She’s a cutie.”

“Right. Fine-shit.”

“Eww,” Yuri muttered into her drink. She rolled her eyes and looked at a flustered Inhwee.

Was he bothered, Jeongwon wondered, his heart racing. Was he jealous?

“She’s been asking about you. She really likes you.”

“Every hot-blooded girl on campus likes him, too,” Yuri added loudly enough for the people at the table to hear, sipping her beer. The girls in their vicinity giggled their agreement.

“Do they now?” Jeongwon murmured, side-eyeing Inhwee, who was trying—and failing—to shrink away. He lifted his hand from Inhwee’s knee, catching his fingers instead, lacing them together. Inhwee inhaled sharply.

Time slowed down.

“Seems stupid to miss this chance,” someone said. “Did y’all go on that date?”

“I—”

“I need…” Inhwee practically knocked the table over as he shot to his feet. “—fresh air.”

Jeongwon stood as well, but before he could follow, a classmate grabbed his arm. “Yeonwoon is—”

“I have to go.”

--------

Jeongwon caught up with Inhwee outside, where he stood in the smoking area, staring up at the night sky as if looking for answers written in the stars.

“Inhwee, what are you doing here?”

Inhwee turned sharply. “Nothing. Just needed some air. How about you?” He looked away and added, “It felt stuffy in there…”

“Hey, about Yeonwoon—”

“You don’t have to explain,” Inhwee cut him off, his smile tight and forced.

“No.” Jeongwon stepped closer. “I don’t know her.”

Inhwee exhaled sharply, rubbing his arm. “I know you like someone. I was thinking… maybe I should try dating, too. I feel a bit lonely.” He laughed, but it didn’t reach his eyes.

Frustration swelled in Jeongwon’s chest.

As Inhwee moved to pass him, Jeongwon caught his wrist, sliding his hand down until their fingers intertwined. He squeezed gently. Holding his gaze, he said, “I really have no interest in seeing anyone.”

“R-right. You already have someone you like,” Inhwee mumbled, sucking his bottom lip.

The urge to kiss him was overwhelming. Jeongwon decided to put a stop to this dance.

“Inhwee,” Jeongwon murmured, tightening their grip. “Are you free tomorrow?”

“Huh?”

“Tomorrow.”

Inhwee hesitated, a flicker of something soft crossing his face. He looked relieved. Pleased. Conflicted.

Jeongwon saw the small smile he tried to suppress and thought, God, he’s so damn hot.

Advancing a little, Jeongwon said, “Sorry, did I hurt you?” loosening his grip slightly.

“No!” Inhwee denied quickly, shaking his head. Scratching his cheek, he smiled. “So, hmm… what time?”

Jeongwon’s eyes flickered to Inhwee’s mouth. It had been too long since they last kissed.

“Can we—”

“What are you guys doing here?” A feminine voice interrupted.

Inhwee flinched, panic flashing across his face. Jeongwon turned to see Yuna approaching. Inhwee pulled his arm free and stepped away from Jeongwon.

“Hi, Kang Yuna,” Inhwee greeted politely, turning away from Jeongwon.

“Hi!” she waved, approaching. Stopping near Inhwee, she smiled at them, giving Jeongwon a meaningful look before settling her gaze on Inhwee. “Did you get a haircut? It looks nice.”

Inhwee chuckled, running his fingers through his hair. “Not really, but thanks.”

Jeongwon clenched his jaw. He hated this.

“Jeongwon,” Yuna said, stepping closer. “You’ve been MIA.”

“Well, yeah. Exams and assignments have kept me busy.”

She kept slowly moving toward him. Jeongwon looked at Inhwee, who watched them like he was witnessing some celebrity couple reunion. Jeongwon felt even more irritated.

“What’s with the rumors about the blind date? Are they real?”

Jeongwon saw the way Inhwee flinched at her words. He wished he could grab his hand.

“Rumors?” Jeongwon scoffed, locking eyes with Inhwee as he spoke. “I’m dating no one.”

Yuna laughed and gave him an appreciative look. “Good,” she muttered. “That’s very good.”

“We should go inside,” Jeongwon said, flashing Yuna a polite smile before turning to Inhwee. “Let’s go.”

------

As Jeongwon and Inhwee walked back into the restaurant, a voice rang out over the chatter of their classmates.

“Hey! Where the hell have you two been?” someone Jeongwon didn’t know well called out. “We thought you ditched us!”

Then, their gaze flickered to Inhwee, and their expression shifted. “Wait… huh?” They leaned in slightly before bursting into laughter. “Inhwee, your face—holy shit, are you drunk? Your cheeks are beet red!”

Inhwee stiffened beside him, his steps faltering for just a second before he ducked his head. Jeongwon saw his ears turn an even deeper shade of pink.

They reached their table, and as they sat down, another classmate leaned in, grinning. “Inhwee, man, you okay? You look kinda out of it.”

Inhwee let out a quiet groan and buried his face in his hands.

“Aww,” the guy teased, nudging his shoulder. “You’re adorable when you’re tipsy.” The table erupted into laughter, friendly but persistent.

Inhwee peeked through his fingers, his lips pressed in a tight line, before muttering, “Oh… maybe I am a little tipsy.” He lifted both hands to cover his flushed cheeks completely, as if that could somehow make them less noticeable.

Jeongwon, amused but also hyper-aware of Inhwee’s every reaction, caught the quick glance he shot in his direction. Their eyes met—Inhwee’s wide and wary, Jeongwon’s steady.

Inhwee quickly turned away. “What?” he asked, his voice slightly sharper than necessary. He was obviously flustered, and it made Jeongwon want to tease him just a little.

Before he could respond, Jihoo’s loud, slightly slurred voice cut through the air.

“Hey, Jeongwon! Come over here for a sec!”

Jeongwon turned his head to see Jiwon waving him over enthusiastically, his face flushed from alcohol.

“Oh, sure,” Jeongwon said, standing up.

As he moved toward their table, he felt Inhwee’s eyes on him, sharp and lingering. He resisted the urge to turn around.

Just as he reached Jiwon’s group, one of the girls—someone whose name he couldn’t remember—grabbed his arm unexpectedly and tugged.

The movement caught him off guard, and he stumbled slightly, landing in the seat next to her. She laughed, leaning in a little too close.

“You joining us for round two?” she asked, eyes bright with amusement. “We’re going to Rainbow Bar.”

Jeongwon barely registered the question. His focus had already shifted back across the room, back to Inhwee. Inhwee was talking to someone at their table, his head tilted, a small smile on his lips. Then he laughed, soft and genuine. Jeongwon’s chest tightened.

The sight made something restless stir inside him—something hot, something possessive.

And he suddenly didn’t feel like drinking anymore.

Chapter 11

Notes:

Hello all! Thank you to everyone who is reading.

I want to explain why I've changed the names.

This work is a reimagining of the manhwa "A Secret Romance Between Us." If you've read the manhwa or you read it now as you read this fanfic, you'll notice that a lot of the scenes are the exact same: about 45% of it is directly cut-and-paste from the original. The rest is my own original writing. And since most of the story is my own original plot and writing, I was initially going to make it a Yunjae fanfic, since that’s what I’ve always written. However, since this story has a lot of smut (both from the manhwa and my own original scenes), I just don’t feel comfortable writing spicy scenes using real people’s names and likeness.

That’s why I decided to change all the names back to the original. I hope that even with these changes, you’ll still give the story a chance and enjoy it. Thank you so much for communicating with me here in the comments—it really means a lot.

“Inhwee,” Jeongwon called out breathlessly behind him, gripping his arm before he crossed the street. The countdown started.

Inhwee looked back at him and smiled when he noticed it was him.

Jeongwon’s chest tightened at the sight of Inhwee’s slightly flushed face, his dark eyes flickering with curiosity and maybe just a hint of guilt. “Oh, hey.” He faced him. “What are you doing here? I thought you went to the second bar?”

Jeongwon smiled and shook his head, his pulse still racing from the moment he realized Inhwee had left the bar unnoticed by him.

The group that had dragged Jeongwon away earlier had been relentless, loud, and insistent. It wasn't until they started making plans for the second location that Jeongwon even noticed Inhwee was gone. A quick word from Yuri had confirmed it: Inhwee had decided he’d had enough for the night and went home because he had work the next day.

“Why did you leave without saying anything?” Jeongwon asked, still holding Inhwee’s wrist. His grip was firm but not tight, more like he needed the assurance that Inhwee was actually there.

Inhwee looked at him blankly for a moment, then his expression shifted as realization passed over his features. “Oh… right.” He exhaled, looking apologetic, as if suddenly recalling that they were, in fact, friends, and leaving without a word had been impolite. “Well, you were at another table with your friends, and… I didn’t want to bother you just to tell you I was going home.”

Jeongwon sighed, his fingers instinctively tightening around Inhwee’s wrist for a brief second. “You never bother me,” he said sincerely.

Inhwee’s lips parted slightly, his brows knitting together as he studied Jeongwon. There was something conflicted in his gaze, like he wasn’t sure how to respond to that. Instead, he opted for something safer, tilting his head. His smile was broad, covering his whole face when he said, “You ran all the way here, didn’t you?” His voice gentler now, he teased, “Your breathing’s still ragged.”

Jeongwon blinked, caught slightly off guard by the shift in Inhwee’s attention. “I was worried,” he admitted without hesitation.

Inhwee blinked back at him, clearly taken aback by his honesty. But then, just as quickly, his expression softened, and Jeongwon caught the smallest, almost imperceptible lift at the corner of his lips. He looked pleased.

Jeongwon reached out and took the liberty to touch Inhwee’s forehead. “Are you feeling okay?”

Inhwee let out a small, breathy laugh, the kind that Jeongwon had started to recognize as a sign of genuine amusement. He didn’t move away. “I’m fine.”

“Are you drunk?”

He gave him a small, sneaky grin. “A little tipsy.”

Jeongwon chuckled. “Regardless,” he said, lowering his hand but keeping his gaze steady on Inhwee, “let me take you home.”

Inhwee hesitated for just a second, then nodded. “O-okay.”

As they started walking back toward the bar’s parking lot, Inhwee said, “My place isn’t far. It’s about a fifteen-minute walk.”

Jeongwon grinned. “By car, I can shrink that to five.” Then, quieter, “I just… I want to spend time with you.”

He heard Inhwee’s sharp intake of breath, and for a moment, the other man said nothing. Jeongwon simply smiled.

They turned and made their way to the parking lot before getting in his car.

The ride back was quiet. Not tense, exactly, but something lingered in the air between them. Jeongwon finally broke the silence with an apology.

“Sorry for missing class. And the driving lessons.”

Inhwee waved it off. “It’s fine. You were sick.” But his voice lacked its usual warmth.

“What’s wrong?” Jeongwon asked, glancing at him.

Inhwee shook his head. “Nothing.” He tried to change the topic. “Thanks for the ride.”

Jeongwon scowled but didn’t press the issue. “I want to.”

“Thanks.”

“I like spending time with you.”

Inhwee looked at him, mouth agape, but he said nothing for a while. His cheeks simply darkened.

Chuckling, Jeongwon gently asked, “Inhwee, are you upset about something?”

Inhwee shook his head and sighed. “It’s nothing.”

Jeongwon reiterated, “I like spending time with you. I wasn’t ignoring you.”

“I know,” Inhwee muttered, rubbing his bottom lip as he looked away from him.

Jeongwon exhaled, eyes on the road. After a stretch of silence, he added, “I really was sick.”

Inhwee looked at him, gaze sharp. “Oh, I’m not saying—” He stuttered. “You don’t have to apologize.”

“Sorry for not texting you.”

“What? I’m not angry. Really. And you don’t have to text me the moment I do. It’s not like we’re dati—I mean, I’m not your girlfriend or anything. So…” He trailed off, then shrugged. He awkwardly cleared his throat, something Jeongwon was starting to notice he did whenever he was anxious or embarrassed.

Jeongwon filled in the gap by saying, “But we’re friends.” Inhwee nodded, but Jeongwon wasn’t done. He asked for good measure, “We are friends, right, Inhwee?”

Inhwee paused for a brief second before he nodded. That bothered Jeongwon.

Packing his words with heat, Jeongwon said, “I want to get closer to you.” When Inhwee didn’t immediately respond, Jeongwon added, “I don’t really have friends like that. But you, I want us to be close. I want to hang out and… you know, talk. I don’t want things to get awkward.” His gaze flickered to Inhwee. “What about you?”

Inhwee hesitated, then answered quietly, “Me too. I wish we could be good friends.”

“We are,” Jeongwon insisted. For now.

“Good,” he muttered, grinning at Jeongwon. He felt like a huge boulder had been lifted off his shoulders, and he was floating as he stared into Inhwee’s smile. This was good. This was a needed talk.

Inhwee’s phone dinged; he checked it and smiled.

Jeongwon found himself asking before he could stop, “Who’s that?” Inhwee didn’t seem to notice the slight edge in his voice.

“Oh, it’s Hwang Seoyeon, the girl I’m supposed to go on a blind date with.”

Jeongwon’s grip tightened on the steering wheel. “Huh?”

He didn’t like this. Not at all.

Inhwee slipped his phone into his pocket. “She’s the one.”

“What?” The car shifted a bit. Inhwee jolted.

“Whoa!”

Jeongwon chuckled and tried to fill it with as much levity as he could muster. “Sorry. Umm, what did you mean?”

“Oh. Yeah, Seoyeon is the girl Jiwon was talking about. She gave her my number.”

“Are you going on a date?” Jeongwon kept his tone neutral; he was proud of that, but something about the question made his chest feel tight, and it felt like lava was coursing through his veins.

“I haven’t decided yet,” Inhwee admitted, sighing. He relaxed in the seat. “Liking someone seems nice.”

“I suppose.” He looked over at him. “Do you have someone in mind?” His heart was beating so hard, Jeongwon feared Inhwee would hear it.

Who would have thought Jung Jeongwon, confident and composed, would be in his early twenties struggling with something as juvenile as a crush? Because this was a crush. The kind that made his heart race with a single word, that had him stressing over how to monopolize Inhwee, that left him constantly restless. It was ridiculous, really; he wasn’t some inexperienced teenager. And yet, hearing Inhwee talk about a girl and even suggesting getting romantic with her left Jeongwon completely unmoored, like he was standing on shaky ground with no way to steady himself.

And again, his declaration to Changjun came back. Maybe he wasn’t as uncertain as he had thought. If his feelings were this strong, he was certain he knew where his sexuality sat.

Inhwee shook his head and pulled Jeongwon from his reverie. “No. But you do, and… your love seems earnest.” He paused, Jeongwon’s heart pounded, then Inhwee sat up straighter, quickly adding, “I sound like my sisters.”

Jeongwon laughed, relieved. “Nah. I like them. A lot.”

Inhwee snorted. “You don’t know them.”

“I like how you talk about them.”

“Probably because you’re an only child.”

“Could be.”

Jeongwon made a right turn, leaving the main street that led to Inhwee’s apartment. He saw Inhwee tense beside him, but there was no fear on his face, only anticipation. Excitement. How could he be such an open book, react like this to his advances, and still have the gall to talk about going on a date with someone other than him, Jeongwon wondered.

Jeongwon didn’t guard his affection, so he knew Inhwee must see the way he looked at him. Jeongwon knew he had to know. Right?

Nothing about Inhwee was certain, and it stressed Jeongwon too much to bear.

Jeongwon parked and lowered the music, the hum of the engine becoming more pronounced. His fingers tapped restlessly against the steering wheel, his heart thrumming in his chest as he turned his head to look at Inhwee. The air between them felt charged, electric, like the calm before a storm. His eyes lingered on Inhwee’s lips, soft, slightly parted, and so inviting. Something inside him stirred, a quiet desperation that had been building for weeks. He couldn’t hold back anymore.

“Can we practice tonight?” Jeongwon’s voice was soft, almost tentative, as if he were afraid to break the delicate tension that hung between them. He stared at Inhwee from under his thick lashes, his gaze intense but gentle.

Inhwee audibly swallowed, his Adam’s apple bobbing as he nodded.

The confirmation was all Jeongwon needed. He snapped his seatbelt off without hesitation, the click echoing in the confined space, and reached over to unbuckle Inhwee’s. His movements were slow and deliberate, trying to keep the fire inside him from spilling over too soon. But he couldn’t temper the excitement swelling within him. It had been so long since they had kissed, so long since he had felt the warmth of Inhwee’s body against his. He was done waiting.

“Is this okay?” Jeongwon asked, his voice low and warm, his breath fanning across Inhwee’s lips, eyes searching Inhwee’s for any sign of hesitation.

Inhwee’s breath hitched, his chest rising and falling with shallow breaths. His pupils were blown wide. “Yeah. Yeah.” He nodded again, his voice firmer this time. “Of course. I want to help.”

A muscle in Jeongwon’s jaw flexed at those words, at the weight of them. Help. Inhwee had no idea how badly he wanted to devour him right now.

Jeongwon didn’t waste another second. He lifted himself slightly from his seat, his hand cupping Inhwee’s face with a tenderness that belied the urgency coursing through him. His thumb swiped gently against the warm plane of Inhwee’s cheek, relishing the smoothness beneath his touch before pressing his lips to his. Their lips instantly encased each other with every sweeping movement. Sparks ignited between them. Jeongwon was gone.

Inhwee was soft, so incredibly soft, his lips pliant beneath his, parting instinctively as Jeongwon deepened the kiss. His heart pounded as Inhwee made a quiet, needy sound, barely a whimper, and Jeongwon swallowed it down greedily. The sound made his heart pound even harder. His tongue teased along Inhwee’s bottom lip before sliding past, tasting him and drinking in the heat of his mouth.

Slow. Deep. Deliberate.

Jeongwon kissed him with purpose and intention, wanting Inhwee to feel everything—the hunger, the desire, the aching need that had been clawing at him for weeks. And Inhwee kissed him back, helplessly moaning into his kisses. Lava ran through Jeongwon’s veins. He kissed him harder, deeper. When they finally parted, Jeongwon could see the effect it had on Inhwee. His eyes were hazy, he was breathless, his breath coming in short, uneven gasps, his lips pink and spit-slicked. Jeongwon’s chest tightened at the sight, a dark satisfaction unfurling inside him.

“Do you want to be on top?” Jeongwon murmured, his lips brushing against Inhwee’s as he spoke. His voice was thick with desire, but he kept it soft and gentle, not wanting to overwhelm him.

Inhwee slowly shook his head, his eyes dark with want, his breath shuddering. Jeongwon smiled, a calm, reassuring smile, as he moved his hands to the back of Inhwee’s head. His long, slender fingers tangled in the smooth charcoal strands of Inhwee’s hair, pulling him closer.

“Inhwee…” he whispered, voice dripping with want, his gaze fixed on his kiss-bruised lips. “Are you nervous?”

Instead of answering, Inhwee surged forward, pressing his slightly parted mouth against Jeongwon’s again and melting into him. His left hand rested gently on Jeongwon’s thigh, fingers curling slightly over the fabric of his jeans. The intimacy of the gesture almost undid him. Fuck.

Jeongwon groaned, the sound low and needy, his restraint hanging by a thread. He kissed Inhwee harder, deeper, letting his tongue tangle with his, sucking lightly on it just to hear him gasp. Inhwee’s body was pliant against him, eager, and it made something deep inside Jeongwon stir. He could feel the warmth of Inhwee’s skin and the pull of his scent, and he desperately wanted him. Right now.

Jeongwon’s hands were restless and greedy. He ran them up Inhwee’s sides, fingers teasing over his soft abdomen, then higher, pressing against his chest. Inhwee's body arched ever so slightly into Jeongwon’s touch. When his thumb brushed over a nipple, rolling it between his fingers, Inhwee’s breath hitched sharply, and then

A moan.

Soft but desperate, slipping past his lips before he could stop it.

Jeongwon’s stomach tightened, heat pooling low and heavy between his legs. His breath came faster now.

Pulling apart to breathe, Jeongwon passionately kissed the corner of Inhwee’s lips and trailed down his chin and jaw, his lips ghosting over his skin. He reveled in the sound of Inhwee’s rough breathing, the way his body subconsciously pushed into his touch. Tracing the curve of his cheek, Jeongwon pressed slow, heated kisses down the column of Inhwee’s neck. His breath was hot, his mouth greedy as he sucked just below Inhwee’s jaw, intent on leaving a mark. The way Inhwee trembled beneath him, his head tilting back instinctively, gave Jeongwon more access. A rush of satisfaction shot through him, and he tightened his grip on Inhwee’s hip, fingers digging in slightly.

Jeongwon smirked against his throat, his tongue flicking out to soothe the mark he had left. “Mm, you like that?” he murmured, his voice low and teasing.

Inhwee’s response was a quiet, desperate whimper. Jeongwon’s hand slipped lower, pressing against Inhwee’s waist, feeling the way he shivered, the way his body pressed closer as if seeking more. The heat between them was unbearable, and intoxicating, and Jeongwon knew

If he didn’t stop touching Inhwee now, he would lose control and fuck him.

He could already see it, picture it so vividly that it made him dizzy. He had been imagining it for weeks. The way Inhwee would look beneath him, breathless, wrecked. The way he would sound. He needed to stop.

Head spinning from the sensation of Inhwee’s tongue running against his, his heat, his smell, Jeongwon pulled back. The sound of their lips separating rang loudly in the car. He looked down into Inhwee’s eyes. They were heavy-lidded, his dark pupils blown wide with desire, his lips wet and slightly parted. Jeongwon’s chest tightened at the sight. He lifted a hand to Inhwee’s cheek, his thumb brushing over the flushed skin before he framed his face.

He didn’t mind playing this game of cat and mouse a little longer. They were already practically dating. Just look at how Inhwee looked from a single kiss. He was already his. Jeongwon didn’t mind letting him take all the time he needed to come to terms with his emotions.

His voice steady despite the storm raging inside him, Jeongwon said, “Hey.”

“Hmm.” Inhwee practically mewed, the sound going straight to Jeongwon’s cock. He looked completely intoxicated.

Taking in a shaky breath, Jeongwon tried to focus, to pull himself back from the edge.

“Should we plan our next date?” Jeongwon’s voice was husky, but there was amusement laced in his tone as if he knew just how far gone Inhwee was.

Inhwee let his head fall back against the seat, his chest rising and falling rapidly. His fingers flexed against Jeongwon’s shoulders, and he breathed out a dazed, “Date?”

“Yeah. It’s been a while since we’ve hung out.”

“Date?” His voice was barely above a whisper, shaky and needy. The way he sounded, so wrecked, so completely undone, made Jeongwon snap. Without thinking, he slid his hand down Inhwee’s thigh, gripping just enough to feel the strength in his muscles before capturing his lips again in a deep, wet kiss. His tongue slid against Inhwee’s, slow and teasing, before he nipped at his bottom lip, pulling it between his teeth with a playful tug.

“I like our dates.”

Inhwee blinked at him, and then it was like a light switched on in his brain. “Oh. A practice date. Yeah, let’s do it,” he said, panting.

Jeongwon tried to appease the sting he felt at him using the words “practice” by pressing another soft, lingering kiss against Inhwee’s swollen lips. He wanted more, so much more, but he needed to get them out of this damn car before he lost all control. “I’m excited,” he murmured.

“Yeah… me too,” Inhwee breathed, his voice barely audible but filled with longing.

Jeongwon let his forehead rest against his for a moment, collecting himself, his body still thrumming with heat.

Pulling back, his chest rising and falling as he tried to steady his breathing, he smiled up at him. His fingers brushed against Inhwee’s cheek one last time, his touch lingering for a moment before he reluctantly dropped them to his thigh and hip. His voice was packed with heat as he said, “Let me take you home.”

Chapter 12

Jeongwon was waiting.

Waiting for Inhwee to finally set up the practice date. Waiting for him to take the lead on something Jeongwon had all but handed to him on a silver platter. But days passed, and Inhwee didn’t make a move.

All they did was meet up at school like always.

And Jiwon? She kept trying to wedge herself between them.

She grew comfortable after Inhwee invited her to sit with them for the first time. Now, she sat with them in class, always angling for conversation, always trying to catch Jeongwon’s attention. But Jeongwon made it clear—painfully clear—that he didn’t want her there. He barely acknowledged her unless Inhwee spoke to him directly. His answers were short, clipped, and uninterested. He didn’t care if she noticed his coldness. She should, but she never seemed to.

Meanwhile, whenever Jeongwon spoke to Inhwee, he laid it on thick. He wanted Inhwee to get it, to see past the act, past the careful balance of feigned indifference and playful pretense. The way he leaned in a little closer when Inhwee spoke. The way his voice dropped when he teased him. The way his eyes followed him, soaking in every flustered reaction.

They met up in the library often, working on their projects together. Inhwee would fidget when Jeongwon stretched out lazily in his chair, rolling a pen between his fingers. Sometimes their legs would brush under the table, and Inhwee would glance at him before quickly looking away. Jeongwon could feel how Inhwee was drawn to him, even if Inhwee didn’t know what to do with that feeling. And then there were the moments at Inhwee’s job. Jeongwon had started dropping by sometimes—not because he needed to, but because he liked watching Inhwee work. Inhwee would get flustered every single time their eyes met, his cheeks dusting pink as he tried to focus back on his task.

The closer they got, the more comfortable they became with each other, the more noticeable Inhwee’s reactions became.

Still, Jeongwon was getting impatient. He was tired of Inhwee playing coy and ignoring all the clues he was giving him.

On Friday evening, after an entire day of not seeing Inhwee—no classes together, no shifts at work—sitting in front of his monitor with his assignments completed, Jeongwon finally texted.

Jeongwon: Busy?

Inhwee’s response was immediate. Jeongwon sat up straighter.

Inhwee: Hey! What’s up?

Jeongwon: Nothing much. Finished some assignments.

Jeongwon had to wait for Inhwee’s response. He hated it.

Jeongwon: If you’re not busy, wanna meet up?

Jeongwon: We can work on assignments or do a driving lesson.

Jeongwon felt like he was begging. He didn’t like how pathetic he sounded. Just as he was about to decide what to do next, Inhwee responded.

Inhwee: I’m out with some friends. Maybe next time.

Jeongwon frowned.

Friends?

Who?

His fingers hovered over the keyboard before he typed back.

Jeongwon: Who are you with?

No reply.

His frown deepened.

Jeongwon tossed his phone onto his desk, irritation curling in his gut. His thoughts started spinning, overanalyzing.

Inhwee wasn’t ignoring him, was he? He couldn’t be. Was Inhwee on a date? If he were, would he lie to him, Jeongwon wondered.

Was he being too needy, Jeongwon wondered, because if Inhwee was ignoring his text, or taking a while to respond, he shouldn’t be overreacting or overthinking. He knew how deeply invested Inhwee was in maintaining his smooth-talking playboy facade, acting like he had it all figured out while blending in effortlessly with the betas around him. Jeongwon had seen firsthand just how far Inhwee was willing to go to protect that illusion.

He could absolutely see Inhwee dating just to keep up appearances. If he was willing to lie so blatantly about his experience, what was stopping him from going on a meaningless date with someone who would help him sell the act? Someone easy. Someone safe.

Jeongwon scowled.

He needed to pick up the speed.

He needed to burn this feeling off.

Getting up, he sighed and raked his fingers through his hair. He needed to go to the gym.

Grabbing his gym bag, he threw on his sneakers and headed out.

Inhwee still didn’t respond.

At the gym, he pushed himself harder than usual. Every rep, every set, every weighted pull was fueled by frustration and restless energy. Each time he checked his phone, his irritation mounted. His inbox was flooded with invitations for drinks, yet the one person he actually wanted to hear from hadn’t written to him. Jeongwon texted, asking for more than just a few drinks. The thought of going out, of making small talk, of pretending he wasn’t completely consumed by this obsession—it felt impossible. He didn’t want drinks. He didn’t want casual. He wanted Inhwee.

After two hours of going hard, he decided to take a shower and go home. He was still agitated. His muscles ached, and sweat clung to his skin, but the burn in his chest refused to settle. He wasn’t just physically exhausted; his mind was still restless, caught in a loop of unanswered texts and unwanted thoughts.

The locker room was empty, the late hour leaving only the distant hum of the ventilation system. Jeongwon stripped off his damp clothes, rolling his shoulders as he stepped under the scalding spray of the shower. Steam billowed around him, curling against the tiles, but the heat did nothing to unwind the tight coil of frustration gripping his body. He braced his hands against the tiled wall, his head hanging low as the steam rose around him.

Fuck.

He was frustrated and horny.

Closing his eyes, he exhaled sharply, tilting his head back beneath the stream. He should have gone out, should have accepted one of those invitations, let someone distract him, take the edge off, and let himself fall into the easy cycle of pleasure without thought. It had been so long. Too long.

But his body didn’t crave just anyone. It craved Inhwee.

The image struck him hard: Inhwee on his knees, lips parted, breathless and flushed, looking up at him with wide, excited eyes. The shower’s heat paled in comparison to the fire licking up his spine. He imagined the pink of Inhwee’s cheeks, the way he’d get flustered so easily, how his far too long lashes would flutter as he struggled to hold eye contact.

He gritted his teeth.

His hand slid down his chest, his breaths growing uneven, fingers brushing over the ridges of his abs before dipping lower. He didn’t even realize what he was doing until he was already touching himself, his cock hard and aching in his grip. Fuck. He should stop. He knew he should stop. But the image was already there, burned into his mind, and he couldn’t fight it. The thought of Inhwee’s mouth, warm and eager, sent a shudder through him, his grip tightening as he imagined guiding him, coaxing him, watching him unravel piece by piece.

He groaned, his fingers tightening as he stroked himself, the water from the shower mixing with the pre-cum already leaking from the tip. His hips jerked forward, chasing the sensation, the pressure , the relief that was just out of reach.

“Fuck,” he muttered, his voice rough, almost a growl. He could feel it building, that tight coil in his stomach, but it wasn’t enough. It wasn’t him . He stepped back from the wall, letting the water hit him full force as he leaned his head back, his breath coming in short, shallow gasps. His other hand joined the first, his strokes becoming faster, more desperate. He could almost feel Inhwee’s hands on him, his lips, his tongue.

“Inhwee,” he whispered, the name slipping out before he could stop it.

His knees nearly buckled as he came, his release hitting him like a wave, intense and all-consuming. He pressed his forehead against the cool tile, his body trembling as he rode it out, his mind still filled with the image of Inhwee: flushed, gasping, his .

When it was over, he stood there for a long moment, his chest heaving, his heart pounding. The guilt hit him almost immediately. What the fuck is wrong with you? It wasn’t the first time he’d fantasized about him, but it was the first time it had felt so… real. So inescapable.

He turned off the water and stepped out of the shower, running a hand through his damp hair. Grabbing a towel, he roughly dried himself off. His phone buzzed again, and he glanced at it, but he didn’t bother to check the message. None of the messages were from Inhwee. He didn’t care.

Pulling on a clean pair of boxer briefs, a loose T-shirt, and black sweats, he grabbed his things and headed out of the gym. The cool night air did little to ease the restlessness still coiled in his chest.

 

---------------------

 

Jeongwon was restless.

Putting his stuff away, he decided the best way to get his mind off Inhwee and his increasing annoyance was to work on his personal coding project. When that did nothing to quiet the noise in his head, he switched to his console. Even that left him more vexed than when he started, his eyes flickering to his phone again and again. Finally, he decided he needed a joint.

As he grabbed his materials, his phone buzzed again. His heart jumped with familiar anticipation, but it was another disappointment.

He was down bad.

It was from his mother: Remember, your grandfather is at the hospice. Visit him.

Jeongwon sighed, rubbing his temple before setting his phone down. Always with the guilt trip.

He wanted to be distracted. Another chest pinged. He massaged his chest and sighed.

He missed Inhwee. Conversations with him were always fun, even when it was just them texting random stuff back and forth.

Lighting his joint, he placed it between his lips. The first inhale was deep, the familiar burn in his lungs momentarily grounding him as he exhaled a slow stream of smoke. He slumped onto his couch, controller in hand, and loaded up a game, determined to distract himself.

What was he doing? Who was he with? Was he safe? He had such a bad drinking habit.

Still feeling that gnawing unease, Jeongwon grabbed his phone again. He didn’t think. With his blunt in the corner of his mouth, he just typed.

Jeongwon: Don’t drink too much.

The second he sent it, he exhaled harshly, realizing how ridiculous he probably sounded. Like some weird, obsessive boyfriend. Like he had any right to tell Inhwee what to do.

They were barely friends. He was manipulating him. Inhwee would hate him if he found out about this charade.

But—

He wanted him. So desperately, with each moment they spent together.

The message sat on read. No reply.

Less than three minutes after he sent his text, his phone rang.

For a split second, excitement shot through him, sharp and immediate. Inhwee was calling him. Maybe he was going to ask him to come pick him up or say something ridiculous like he missed him. Maybe—

But the voice that came through wasn’t Inhwee’s.

It was someone else. A guy, slurring, laughing, too loud over the background noise of a packed bar.

“Is this Jeongwon?”

Jeongwon’s stomach dropped. His grip on the phone tightened. “Yes, who is this?”

“You’re Inhwee's friend, right?” the stranger asked, barely getting the words out between chuckles. “This is Jaehwan. Inhwee’s friend.”

“Inhwee’s out cold,” the guy continued, still laughing like it was the funniest thing in the world. “Hold on!” he announced to someone in the background. “Yeah, we wanna hit another bar, but Inhwee, he—”

Jeongwon was already moving before he could think. He snatched his keys and shoved his feet into his sneakers. “Where?” he demanded.

The guy rattled off a bar name, still amused, still slurring. It wasn’t far—less than fifteen minutes from his apartment.

Jeongwon didn’t hesitate. He shoved his phone in his pocket and headed out the door, his mind racing.

Chapter 13

Jeongwon stepped into the bar, eyes scanning the dimly lit space. The smell of grilled meat, stale alcohol, sweat, and cheap cologne clung to the air, making him wrinkle his nose. It didn't take long to find Inhwee.

There he was, slumped over a table, head resting on his folded arms, his inky black hair tousled and falling over his face. Around him, his drinking buddies were getting ready to leave, laughing and shoving each other, barely sparing him a second glance.

One of them, a guy standing next to Inhwee, perked up at the sight of Jeongwon. He was grinning, his thirty-two teeth on full display, looking absolutely delighted. “No way! You’re real?” He laughed, eyes lighting up as he looked Jeongwon up and down. “You’re the Jung Jeongwon. Inhwee wasn’t lying?”

Jeongwon smiled politely, feeling extremely uncomfortable.

“You guys are actually buddy-buddy?”

He ignored the statement uttered like a question, stepping closer to Inhwee, but the guy—Jaehwan, he thought—kept talking.

“Man, this is crazy. We were just talking about you. He kept bringing you up, you know?” Jaehwan nudged Inhwee’s shoulder, but Inhwee barely stirred. “Anyway, we should totally exchange numbers. Next time, you gotta come drinking with us.”

Jeongwon didn’t particularly want to, but he gave Jaehwan his socials out of politeness, nodding vaguely when the guy repeated, “Next time for sure, man.”

Turning his attention back to Inhwee, Jeongwon reached out and placed a hand on his shoulder. He stirred. “Hey, In—”

Jaehwan smacked Inhwee on the back. “Dude, wake up.”

Jeongwon winced. Inhwee jerked, blinking blearily at his friend, and grimaced. “Ow.”

“I got him,” Jeongwon said sharply, glancing at the group. “I drove here, so I’ll take him home.”

Jaehwan’s grin was too wide, leaving Jeongwon annoyed. Turning to his bleary-eyed friend, Jeongwon said, “Hey, how are you?”

Inhwee blinked up at Jeongwon, his eyes not registering him.

“Let’s go,” Jeongwon said, pulling him upright. Inhwee looked at him, and recognition finally dawned. His eyes lit up and his cheeks flushed. “Jeongwon?” he slurred.

“It’s me,” Jeongwon muttered, letting him rest his weight on him.

Jaehwan clapped Jeongwon on the back. “Thanks, man. Get home safe.”

Jeongwon didn’t respond. He maneuvered Inhwee’s arm over his shoulder and led him out of the bar. Inhwee was heavy, his body warm against Jeongwon’s side, leaning on him completely, his legs sluggish as if made of lead.

The moment they hit the fresh night air, Inhwee groaned, suddenly pulling away. He staggered, bracing his hands on his knees before dry heaving. Jeongwon immediately moved to support him, placing a steadying hand on his back.

“Easy,” Jeongwon murmured, rubbing slow circles between Inhwee’s shoulder blades.

Inhwee suddenly turned, grabbing Jeongwon’s face with both hands, his warm palms cradling his cheeks. His glassy eyes searched Jeongwon’s face, wide with wonder. “Am I dreaming?” he asked, voice thick with alcohol and exhaustion. “Is this really Jeongwon?”

Jeongwon exhaled through his nose. “It’s me. You drank too much.”

Inhwee hummed in response, his eyes drooping before opening again. “I might have.”

“You’re going to have a horrible hangover.” Jeongwon sighed, shaking his head before gently pushing Inhwee’s bangs back, fingers threading through his soft hair. The action was soothing, almost intimate, and guilt curled in his gut when he remembered what he had been doing just an hour ago. He could feel the tendrils of his desires.

Inhwee’s lips stretched into a slow, lazy smile. “I’m so glad you’re my friend.”

Jeongwon’s heart clenched. His jaw tightened before he muttered, almost too quietly, “I want to be your only friend.”

Inhwee just chuckled, oblivious to the weight of Jeongwon’s words. He stared up at him, gaze soft and glassy, and then, with an almost reverent whisper, he said, “You’re amazing, you know? So kind.”

Jeongwon’s jaw clenched. He dug his fingers deep into Inhwee’s hair, massaging his scalp.

Inhwee continued. “You smell nice, you look nice, and you’re…” He tilted his head forward, eyelids fluttering down. His voice broke slightly, and his eyes welled up as he said, “I like you so much.”

Jeongwon froze. His breath caught in his throat, his grip on Inhwee tightening. Was this a confession? The words felt too raw, too unguarded to be anything but the truth slipping past Inhwee’s usual defenses.

Inhwee swayed, pressing into Jeongwon’s palm like a cat seeking warmth. “I have so much fun spending time with you.”

Jeongwon’s chest swelled with pure, unfiltered joy. He swallowed, his hand moving down to trace the curve of Inhwee’s neck and earlobe, before kneading his tense shoulders. His voice was low, a little unsteady. “You like me?”

“Yeah. A lot.” He nodded. “Like a lot,” he added.

Jeongwon started laughing. He didn’t mean to, but the situation was too comedic.

Inhwee stilled in his grasp, staring at Jeongwon. His lips trembled as tears slipped down his cheeks. “I’m serious,” he sniffled. “I—my head—”

Jeongwon frowned, pressing a hand to his forehead. “Does it hurt?”

Inhwee shook his head, his breath shaky. “No, I… I can’t think straight. When I’m with you—” He hiccupped. “I like hanging out with you. We need to spend more time together. I think about you all the time. I really like you. Don’t laugh.” He lifted his hand and pressed it against Jeongwon's mouth.

Jeongwon’s whole body shook with laughter, the sound muffled. Holding his gaze, he kissed his palm, making Inhwee yelp and careen back. Jeongwon wrapped an arm around him, stopping him from falling.

Smiling softly, Jeongwon said, “I’m not laughing.”

“Yes, you are,” Inhwee whined. Then his face twisted, his hand flying to his mouth.

Jeongwon sighed, the corner of his mouth curling up. “You drank too much. Let’s go home.”

Inhwee didn’t argue as Jeongwon pulled him up, guiding him toward the car.

“I hope we can stay friends forever,” Inhwee murmured, stumbling along. Then he looked up, blinking sleepily. “Do you like me too?”

Jeongwon sighed. Without a word, he hoisted Inhwee up into his arms. Inhwee gasped, his eyes rounding before he broke into breathless laughter. “Fuck! You’re so strong!” he sang, dropping his head against Jeongwon’s chest. He inhaled deeply, exhaling with a pleased sigh. “You smell so nice…”

“So you’ve said,” Jeongwon chuckled, shaking his head. “You’re so drunk.” He held him a bit tighter.

Inhwee hummed. Then, in a small, wistful voice, he murmured, “You’d be such a perfect boyfriend.”

Jeongwon nearly tripped. His entire body went rigid, and he stopped walking, staring down at the man nestled in his arms. “You want to date?”

He hadn’t expected Inhwee to give in so easily, to say something so direct. Was he serious? Or was it just the alcohol talking? Jeongwon’s heart pounded, his mind racing, hope warring with uncertainty. But did it even matter if it was the alcohol? This was probably Inhwee’s true self finally speaking.

Inhwee made a small sound, nuzzling into Jeongwon’s chest before going completely limp.

Asleep.

Jeongwon tightened his grip on him, feeling the warmth of his body pressed against his own. The scent of alcohol clung to him, but beneath it, Jeongwon could still catch that familiar, intoxicating trace of him—something that made his pulse quicken and his chest ache.

He let out a slow breath, shaking his head with a wry smile. “Perfect boyfriend…? Unbelievable.” Was that how he saw him? Was that how he wanted this to go?

Jeongwon swallowed, shifting Inhwee in his arms as he carried him the last stretch to his car.

He slept the whole way home.

Parking his car, holding him bridal style, he made his way to Inhwee’s apartment. Inhwee was passed out against his chest, breathing evenly, his lashes resting in dark crescents against his cheeks. His fingers twitched slightly where they gripped Jeongwon’s shirt, like even in his sleep, he wanted to hold onto him.

Jeongwon exhaled sharply, trying to suppress the surge of affection swelling inside him. He hated that he would have to wake him up.

“What’s your passcode?” he murmured, shaking him slightly.

Inhwee barely stirred. “Mmm…” His nose scrunched up, then he mumbled a string of numbers. Jeongwon typed them in, relieved when the screen unlocked.

He hadn’t known what to expect from Inhwee’s place, but the moment he stepped in, he took in the clutter—clothes draped over the couch, school papers and textbooks stacked haphazardly on the coffee table and floor, a few dishes in the sink. It wasn’t dirty, just… lived-in. Like Inhwee barely had time to keep up with it all.

It made sense. Jeongwon recalled him once saying he wasn’t a caretaker.

“Where’s your—” he stopped when he realized it was a small one-bedroom apartment. Kicking his shoes off, he made for Inhwee’s bedroom.

Inhwee groaned softly as Jeongwon set him down on the bed, rolling onto his back with a heavy sigh. He looked small like this, despite being anything but. Carefully, almost without thinking, Jeongwon reached out, brushing his fingers along Inhwee’s cheek, tracing the curve of his jaw and the fullness of his bottom lip.

Inhwee stirred slightly, his brows drawing together as if he could feel Jeongwon’s touch even in his drunken haze. His lips parted, a quiet breath slipping out, and Jeongwon swore his heart stopped for a second. 

What the hell was he going to do with him? 

What the hell was he going to do with himself?

He needed to take his shoes off.

Roughly pushing his hair back, Jeongwon sighed. He reached over, slipped off Inhwee’s shoes, and then looked at his legs, hesitating. His jeans looked uncomfortable, twisted from how he had been leaning against Jeongwon earlier. He wondered if he should take them off, too. He hesitated, then shook his head. No. He wasn’t going to cross any lines.

Instead, he stood, pulled the blanket from the other side of the bed, and draped it over Inhwee. He lingered, watching him for a moment before whispering, “What am I supposed to do with you?”

Chapter 14

“Hello.” Inhwee's voice was groggy, slightly hoarse.

Jeongwon pressed the phone to his ear, grinning as soon as Inhwee answered. “Bad hangover?” he asked, unable to hide his amusement. He placed his water glass in the sink and turned on the tap.

“N—no! I was asleep.”

Jeongwon chuckled. “Want me to bring you some hangover medicine?”

“What—no. I—”

“I’ll be there in twenty,” Jeongwon said, cutting him off and hanging up before Inhwee could protest further.

A little thrill coursed through him at having an excuse to see Inhwee. Without hesitation, he grabbed his keys and headed to the store to pick up the essentials: hangover meds, porridge, and coffee, Inhwee’s favorite.

 

--------

 

Inhwee looked freshly showered when he opened the door, his hair slightly damp and clinging to his forehead. He smelled like freshly sliced lemons. Jeongwon took him in, and for a split second, he swore Inhwee did the same, his gaze lingering a little too long on Jeongwon’s thighs. Jeongwon smirked.

Inhwee’s ears turned pink, and he cleared his throat.

Did he remember last night?

“C-come in,” he stammered, clearing his throat and casting a furtive sideways glance.

“Are you okay?” Jeongwon asked, handing Inhwee the two shopping bags he held.

“I’m good.” He reached for them, peeking inside before blinking up at Jeongwon. “Whoa. Why did you buy so much?”

Jeongwon shrugged, closing the door behind him. “I know how bad a hangover can be.”

“I’m fine, really,” Inhwee insisted, looking at him.

Jeongwon felt his face melting as his lips stretched into a smile and his eyes turned into iridescent crescents. Inhwee blinked, his gaze remaining fixed on Jeongwon's smile; his Adam's apple bobbed erratically. Jeongwon gave in to the urge and reached out, resting his hand on Inhwee’s arm. His skin was warm, tension humming beneath. Inhwee flinched slightly, looking at him in shock. Jeongwon grinned at him and said, “I’m glad you’re not experiencing a hangover. You were really drunk last night.”

Inhwee dropped his gaze to the bags. “Yeah. I’m sorry. Thank you for picking me up.”

“That’s what friends are for, right?”

“Still. Thanks.”

“I’ll always pick you up.”

Inhwee cleared his throat, his face turning a deep shade of red. Jeongwon just shook his head, watching the way Inhwee fidgeted, biting his lip. Did he really not remember?

Chuckling, Jeongwon added softly, “Have you eaten? I brought porridge.”

“Thank you. And for the coffee and… hangover medicine.” Inhwee’s voice was quieter now, almost hesitant.

Jeongwon’s heart swelled. He couldn’t contain his happiness as he grinned. “I got you tea, too. Wasn’t sure what you like to drink.”

Inhwee shrugged. “I like both.”

“Good. I’m glad.”

“Ah… Thanks. Umm, sorry for the mess,” Inhwee stammered, rubbing the back of his neck.

Jeongwon glanced around. It looked fine—even cleaner than last night. “It looks fine.”

Inhwee hesitated, then gestured toward the coffee table. “Want to eat the porridge together?”

Cute.

Jeongwon laughed. “No, I already ate. You eat.”

Inhwee nodded, busying himself with unpacking the groceries before taking a seat. Jeongwon followed, sitting across from him as Inhwee carefully peeled back the lid of his porridge. He sipped his coffee first, then picked up his spoon. Jeongwon watched him eat.

“Um… Sorry for… Would you like to watch…”

“You don’t have a TV,” Jeongwon said, laughing.

Inhwee chuckled, licking the corner of his mouth before swallowing. “I have a laptop.”

“No. I’m fine.” Watching Inhwee was the most interesting thing he could do at that moment. Unable to stop himself, Jeongwon reached out and pushed Inhwee’s bangs out of his face. As always, his hair was fluffy and soft.

Inhwee flinched at the touch, eyes darting up to Jeongwon’s. Jeongwon retracted his hand, leaned back, and smiled.

“Hey… did something good happen?”

Instead of answering, Jeongwon asked, “Why?”

Inhwee shrugged, pushing his porridge around. “I don’t know; you’re… are you happy about something?”

“Should I be?”

Inhwee blinked, confused. “Huh?”

“You’re blushing.”

Inhwee looked even more flustered. “No, I’m always like this.”

Jeongwon laughed and reached for a napkin, leaning toward him to gently dab the corner of Inhwee’s mouth.

“Wha–”

“Do you remember last night?” Jeongwon asked, tilting his head as he gently wiped the other corner of his mouth. It was clean. He was testing his boundaries. Inhwee simply stiffened.

“Huh? What do you mean?”

Jeongwon’s heart started racing. He let out an exaggerated sigh. “Hmm, you’re making me sad.”

Inhwee’s spoon paused mid-air. “Did I… do something weird?”

“Nope.” Jeongwon shook his head, feigning disappointment. “You just confessed.”

The spoon slipped from Inhwee’s fingers, clattering against the coffee table. “What?” He exclaimed, eyes wide.

Jeongwon nodded, trying not to grin. “You told me you like me while crying.”

Inhwee’s face went pale. “I—No way.” He blinked. Hard.

“You said you fell for me while hanging out together. I was surprised because you caught me off guard.”

Inhwee’s throat bobbed as he swallowed thickly. He looked more than just panicked; he looked frightened. “Jeongwon, I—”

“But I was moved,” Jeongwon continued, watching Inhwee’s expression shift. “I saw how sincere you were.”

Inhwee looked like he wanted to melt into the floor. “W—wait!” He closed his eyes, aligning his hands and Jeongwon his palms. “I don’t understand.”

“What don’t you understand?” Jeongwon asked softly, rubbing strands of his hair between his fingers. He watched Inhwee like a hawk.

Inhwee opened his eyes. His voice was small. “Are you saying… we agreed to start dating?”

Jeongwon paused, surprised at where Inhwee’s mind went, and he couldn’t help but wonder if Inhwee would suggest they date now that his true feelings had poured out.

Jeongwon nodded, barely suppressing a chuckle. “Mhm.”

Inhwee’s eyes widened. “I—I don’t remember… I’m sorry.”

Jeongwon shrugged. “Sorry?”

Inhwee’s mouth opened and closed, completely lost for words. “I… I know that…”

“What?” he tenderly encouraged.

“That you have someone you like, and I—”

Jeongwon arched a brow. “I’ve enjoyed spending time with you.”

Inhwee sucked in a sharp breath, looking like the world had tilted on its axis. His breath came out a little shaky. “I... me too.”

“Good.” Jeongwon pulled back. He laid his hands on the table between them. “When’s our next date?” Jeongwon teased.

Inhwee’s head snapped up. “Huh?”

Jeongwon grinned. “Inhwee, I’m teasing.”

Inhwee looked relieved for a split second, but then he frowned. “I—”

“I like seeing you blush, but you did confess.”

Inhwee groaned, running a hand through his hair before taking another sip of his coffee. “I’m sorry.”

Jeongwon frowned. His head was buzzing. “Do you like me?” The question slipped out with unexpected confidence, though his voice still wavered as he tried to sound calm and collected.

“I…”

He sucked in a breath, desperate to avoid the hurt of hearing anything but a confession. “I find that alcohol tends to loosen the tongue,” he said softly.

Inhwee looked at him, appearing overwhelmed. 

“Maybe it was just your subconscious speaking.” Jeongwon held his panicked gaze, leaning forward and resting his chin on his hand. “I like you.”

Inhwee was lost for words. He was the most flustered Jeongwon had ever seen him. He was red from his face, ears, neck, and down to his chest. He looked like a cornered animal. He looked scared. 

That look stung Jeongwon.

Jeongwon hesitated for a moment before admitting, “I’ve only ever dated girls before, but… I know I’m not opposed to being with a guy.” Especially this guy in front of him. He wanted to tell him he was gay, but he didn’t know if that would make Inhwee run away from him. That would be too painful. 

Jeongwon didn’t know how much clearer he could make his intentions.

Inhwee sighed, staring at him. He covered his face and groaned. “Stop playing with me.”

Jeongwon blinked and frowned. “Huh? I'm not. I do like you.”

Inhwee groaned again, dropping his arms onto the table and burying his face. 

Jeongwon felt hopeful. He laughed, reaching over to poke at his hair. He sank his fingers into the thick strands and massaged his scalp. “Are you blushing?"

Inhwee shook his head, sitting up with an exaggerated sigh. “Stop teasing me.”

Jeongwon paused, tongue-tied.

He palmed his burning cheeks. “I’m already so embarrassed about last night.”

“Don’t be,” Jeongwon said, leaning back comfortably. His joints felt stiff. Jeongwon already knew he was in a long game. Something was holding Inhwee back. He knew he needed to be careful. He couldn't corner Inhwee like this again, he realized. He didn’t mind waiting a little bit because Jeongwon knew Inhwee liked him and wanted him. Something was holding him back, and he planned to get to the bottom of it. “And, I'm not teasing. I do like you?" Before Inhwee could break his heart into tiny pieces, he quickly said, "We're friends, right?"

Inhwee simply stared at him for a moment, breathing so hard that his chest moved with each inhale and exhale. "How can you be so..."

“So what?”

He shook his head and ran his hand down his face. He gave a hopeless shrug. “You're so cool and composed.”

“Why wouldn't I be?” He tried to hold Inhwee's fleeting gaze.

“You're not concerned about people thinking you're...”

A beat.

“What?” Jeongwon demanded, voice low.

He hated how they kept on moving in a circle. Nothing happened. Nothing changed. He despised this endless dance of one-sided longing and yearning.

Inhwee shook his head and inhaled. He smiled and said on an exhale, “I value our friendship, too.” He sucked his bottom lip, still smiling, he said, ​​​​​​​“I want to be as confident as you are when I'm older.”

Jeongwon laughed, but he couldn't deny that this hurt.

Shaking his head, he took a slight step away from Inhwee and said, “But you can make it up to me.”

Inhwee lifted his head and eyed him warily. “Yeah? How?”

Jeongwon smirked carelessly, trying to push down his hurt, tilting his head. “Well, I still need your dating advice.”

Inhwee gaped at him. “Oh!”

“I’m still vying for that person who keeps shooting me down and ignoring my advances.”

My clear advances.

Chapter 15

Inhwee : I think we’re getting a hundred. All because of you.

Jeongwon : You worked hard, too. Don’t downplay your hard work.

Inhwee : I’m sane because of you.

Jeongwon : Glad to help.

Inhwee : I’m so excited for the end of the semester.

Jeongwon : Why? Fun plans this break?

Inhwee : Not really. I’m just happy I’ll get a little break from constantly stressing. My immune system will be so thankful.

Jeongwon : You’re so funny. But I’m happy for you.

Jeongwon : Do you want to hang out this break?

Inhwee : We should.

Jeongwon : Don’t forget that you owe me a date.

 

---

 

Three weeks after promising Jeongwon a date, Inhwee finally texted him, asking if he was free next Friday evening. Jeongwon was elated. They rarely saw each other on Fridays due to their different class schedules, and for Inhwee to reach out first made Jeongwon’s entire week.

Excited, Jeongwon took extra care styling his hair and picking out his outfit. He felt slightly ridiculous staring at himself in the bathroom mirror, hair gel in hand, but then he remembered the way Inhwee looked at him. He wanted Inhwee to be starstruck when he saw him. Not that it was difficult—Inhwee had always enjoyed looking at him. That much was obvious.

They were meeting at Lola’s Bookstore. Jeongwon had never been. He arrived a few minutes early, anticipation buzzing in his veins.

When he got Inhwee’s text saying he was there, Jeongwon looked up and immediately spotted him rushing toward him. He looked adorable, dressed like an academic heartthrob in a checkered vest, white-collared shirt, and snug jeans.

“Sorry I’m late,” Inhwee apologized, slightly breathless, cheeks pink. He was a vision. Jeongwon’s heart throbbed.

Jeongwon flashed him a bright smile. “No, I just got here too.” He met him halfway, catching a whiff of Inhwee’s cologne—clean, warm, and distinctly him. His hair was styled, his features softer than usual. Jeongwon couldn’t help but tease. “You look nice,” he said, voice smooth.

“Me?” Inhwee blinked, his eyes growing wide before flickering over Jeongwon’s figure. His throat bobbed.

Jeongwon nodded, smirking.

Inhwee scratched the back of his neck, looking flustered. “Well… thank you.”

“Thank you for taking me out,” Jeongwon added playfully.

Inhwee laughed. “I’m sorry it took so long. I… I’m not great with dates.”

“Really?” Jeongwon arched an eyebrow.

Inhwee laughed nervously. “Yeah. I… I’m a more ‘casual’ guy. But I did ask my sisters what girls liked, and they said quality time and thoughtfulness.”

Jeongwon tilted his head. “Oh? And what exactly did they suggest?”

Inhwee coughed. “To do something low-stakes.”

“Huh?”

“Like… comfortable. For example, I know you’re a reader,” Inhwee explained, “and you mentioned your favorite author just released a book you planned on getting, so I thought…”

Jeongwon’s heart practically melted. If he died right now, he’d go with no regrets.

“Oh.” His face hurt from smiling. 

Inhwee scratched the side of his neck. “I do listen when you talk.”

Jeongwon nodded, and cleared his throat to stop from laughing. “I wish I had brought flowers or something.”

Inhwee sputtered. “I’m the guy. I mean, in the role of the guy today.”

“Oh?” Jeongwon grinned, deciding to tease him further. “Where are my flowers, then?”

Inhwee’s eyes widened in horror. “Shit. Should I have gotten you flowers? Do you like flowers?”

Jeongwon laughed, reaching for Inhwee’s hand. He intertwined their fingers. Inhwee’s hands were smooth and a little rough at the same time. Jeongwon liked it. “Should we go in?”

Inhwee nodded, letting Jeongwon pull him inside.

They wandered through the bookstore, and when Jeongwon bought his book, he also picked out matching bookmarks. Inhwee tried to refuse, but Jeongwon manipulated him with sweet words, insisting that if this were a real date, a girl would be thrilled by the thoughtful gesture. Inhwee caved, tucking the bookmark into his small crossbody bag with a shy little smile.

As they sat at the bookstore’s café, sipping their drinks, Jeongwon studied Inhwee. “You seem different today.”

Inhwee, mid-sip, blinked. “What?”

Jeongwon smiled. “No, you look happier than usual.”

“O-oh, really?” Inhwee laughed, fidgeting. He stabbed his muffin with his fork. “Maybe it’s because the semester is almost over.”

Jeongwon leaned in. “What else do you have planned for us today?”

Inhwee chuckled. “I know your penchant for long dates.”

“Hey! If I like you, I want to monopolize your time.” Jeongwon tilted his head, the corners of his eyes crinkling. “I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that, right?”

Inhwee nodded wistfully. “Girls like that.”

Before Jeongwon could respond, Inhwee’s phone lit up. They both glanced at it. Jiwon.

Inhwee’s expression immediately changed.

“Answer your phone, Inhwee,” Jeongwon said, sitting straighter.

“Y—yeah. One sec.” Inhwee turned away, picking up. “Hello? Hi. I’m well, and you?... I’m at Lola’s Bookstore… yeah, it’s five minutes from ES Department Store.” Inhwee flinched. “No, I’m not alone… Y—yes.” He glanced at Jeongwon, then looked away. “Really? Yeah, come. Okay.” Lowering the phone, he muttered, “Shit,” and looked at Jeongwon with a guilty expression.

Jeongwon looked expectantly at Inhwee.

“Hey,” Inhwee started cautiously.

“Yeah?”

“I’m sorry, but Jiwon is here.”

Jeongwon frowned. “Huh?”

“In the neighborhood. She’s with Hwang Seoyeon.”

Jeongwon scowled. The way Inhwee said her full name made it clear he was supposed to recognize it.

“She’s the one Jiwon introduced me to,” Inhwee explained.

“Oh.” Jeongwon hated how his tone cooled so sharply, but irritation settled in his chest, heavy and unmistakable.

“We’ve been talking and grown close—er.” Inhwee hesitated before continuing, shifting in his seat as if bracing himself for Jeongwon’s reaction. “So, they’re in the neighborhood. ES department. Shopping. And they’re coming by to say hi.”

Jeongwon forced a polite smile, though his fingers curled slightly around his coffee cup.

Inhwee, watching him carefully, added, “She said they’ll only stay for a bit.” He looked nervous, as if gauging Jeongwon’s mood. “Is that okay?”

Jeongwon grinned—maybe a little too widely. “Yeah. Sure.”

Inhwee exhaled in relief, his whole body visibly relaxing. “You’re not offended, right? I know today was supposed to be all about you.”

Jeongwon laughed, but there was an edge to it. “I’m not a child.”

“Oh, okay,” Inhwee murmured in a small voice, dropping his gaze. Jeongwon couldn’t wait until Inhwee felt completely comfortable with him.

The tension still hovered between them when Jiwon and Seoyeon arrived, Jiwon waving both hands giddily. Seoyeon, standing beside her, was of similar height and build, though Jeongwon didn’t spare her much attention.

“Oh, that was quick,” Inhwee said, scooting over to make space. Jeongwon realized belatedly that this meant one of them would have to sit next to him. He shifted over slightly, though a part of him wished he had gotten up and moved next to Inhwee instead.

“We hurried over so we could catch you,” Jiwon said, sliding in smoothly beside him. Seoyeon took the open seat next to Inhwee.

Jeongwon tightened his grip on his cup, the ceramic warm under his fingers.

The moment Seoyeon’s gaze locked onto him, her eyes twinkled. “Whoa!” she giggled, pointing directly at him. “I can’t believe this is true. It’s our school’s celebrity!”

Inhwee and Jiwon both gasped at the bluntness of her gesture.

Jeongwon chuckled, casting a glance at Inhwee, who had turned a faint shade of pink. The embarrassment in his expression was unmistakable, and Jeongwon, just to soothe him, maintained easy eye contact.

“That’s a huge compliment,” Jeongwon said smoothly, his voice even. From the corner of his eye, he saw Jiwon relaxing beside him, the tension in her shoulders easing.

“You’re known by the whole student body,” Seoyeon went on, her gaze lingering on him in a way that made Jeongwon distinctly uncomfortable. Wasn’t she friends with Jiwon?

“Thank you,” he replied, immediately steering the conversation away. “Were you ladies able to get all you needed today?”

Jiwon chuckled. “We weren’t looking for anything specific. Just needed a break from studying.”

“Right. We’re so happy the semester is ending, but the exams and projects are too much,” Seoyeon whined dramatically.

“Right! I’m tempted to drop out,” Inhwee added, leaning back in his chair with a mock sigh.

Seoyeon giggled, too loudly for Jeongwon’s liking.

“Don’t do it,” she said, playfully nudging Inhwee’s arm.

“Right,” Jiwon agreed.

The conversation flowed, but Jeongwon kept an eye on Inhwee. He noticed how the more polite he acted, the more Inhwee’s brows creased in irritation. Jeongwon almost smirked. The moment he had agreed to let them visit, Inhwee had regretted it.

“I can’t believe you lived in Vancouver,” Seoyeon said, shifting slightly to face him fully. She was watching him attentively, asking him questions—too many questions. Jeongwon didn’t miss how her interest seemed to revolve solely around him, not Inhwee.

“For a semester only,” Jeongwon corrected.

“You know, my friend said Canadian students smoke marijuana. Is that true?”

“I can’t say. I suppose as much as all young people. I was only there for a semester.”

“Do you smoke?” Jiwon asked suddenly.

Jeongwon coughed, startled by the question. Across from him, Inhwee was staring with naked curiosity, as if waiting for his answer with more interest than the conversation warranted.

Feeling bold, Jeongwon stretched his legs beneath the table, trapping one of Inhwee’s legs between his own. He pressed just enough to make his presence known. Inhwee stiffened but didn’t pull away.

“Do you?” Jeongwon countered instead, his tone playful as he looked at Jiwon.

She batted her lashes and said coyly, “I’ve dabbled. Do you smoke hookah?”

Jeongwon chuckled, slipping a hand under the table and resting it against Inhwee’s knee. He lightly massaged it. Inhwee shuddered.

They were fine. The date was still good. And if nothing else, he got to see a jealous Inhwee.

“I’m too busy with school to find time to even grab dinner with friends,” Jeongwon answered vaguely.

“You’re hanging out with Inhwee, though,” Jiwon muttered lightly, batting her lashes at him.

“Inhwee has owed me this meet-up for almost a month now,” Jeongwon supplied, almost winking at Inhwee.

“Do you smoke, Inhwee?” Seoyeon interrupted her friend, turning her focus to the quiet Inhwee.

He quickly shook his head. “My sister would kill me.”

Seoyeon giggled. “Cute.”

Jeongwon didn’t know how he felt about her.

“Plus, it stinks,” he added, making a face.

“It’s not too bad,” Jiwon insisted, smiling at Jeongwon.

Seoyeon clapped her hands, drawing all of their attention to her. “Talking about school,” she started, groaning, “does anyone know Professor Cha?”

“I’m taking his class this semester,” Jeongwon said, thankful for the change of topic.

“I can’t believe it!” Her face lit up. “When do you have him? I have him in the afternoon. For an elective class, he does too much.”

Jeongwon chuckled as he allowed his fingers to travel up past Inhwee’s knee, just a fraction higher. Inhwee gasped and twitched in his seat, barely suppressing a reaction. The girls didn’t notice.

“Mornings. He’s really funny, right?”

“At torturing his students, yeah,” Seoyeon said, rolling her eyes. “He says ‘eh’ like thirty-six times in an hour.”

Inhwee finally retaliated, sneaking a hand under the table to pluck Jeongwon’s fingers away. But Jeongwon was faster—he caught Inhwee’s hand, twining their fingers together in a firm hold.

“Talking about break, we’re going to the beach. You two want to tag along?” Seoyeon asked, her eyes twinkling. She looked directly at Inhwee.

Inhwee, who had just managed to free his hand, tensed. Jeongwon let his leg go.

Jiwon leaned in, smiling suggestively at Inhwee in a way that made Jeongwon’s scowl deepen. “What do you think? You’ll come to the beach with us, right? I’ll make a group chat.”

Jeongwon smiled at her before turning pointedly to Inhwee. “I’ll go if Inhwee goes.”

“H—huh? Me?”

“Say you’ll come,” Jiwon begged, pressing her palms together.

Inhwee looked troubled, but after a moment, he nodded. “I have no plans. That sounds fun,” he muttered.

“That’s a deal,” Jiwon said, cheering.

“Oh no, Ji, we have to go,” Seoyeon said, springing up.

Jiwon checked her phone and groaned. “We wish we could hang out more, but we have to run.”

“Let’s meet up before break,” Seoyeon suggested.

“Make sure to check your messages later,” Jiwon said.

“Bye, ladies,” Inhwee said as the girls linked arms, waved, and hurried out.

Jeongwon glanced at Inhwee, who was still avoiding his gaze.

“Should we get going too?” Jeongwon asked.

“Sure,” Inhwee murmured.

“Where to next?”

“You like games, so I was thinking of going to the VR Gaming Center.”

Jeongwon grinned, satisfaction curling in his chest. “What a thoughtful date this is.”

Inhwee laughed. “Trying my best to teach you new tricks.”

“Well, you’re doing an amazing job, master.”

“Please stop.” But Inhwee was chuckling merrily.

“Now,” Jeongwon said, standing up and stretching, “that sounds like a plan.”

 

Notes:

Thank you so much for reading.
If you’ve interacted with the story or with me in the comments, I want to extend an extra warm thank you to you as well.

Chapter 16

“Ah,” Inhwee groaned, lifting his shirt slightly to get some airflow, his skin glistening from the heat.

Jeongwon slid into the driver’s seat, tossing his phone onto the console. “It’s hot, right?” He reached for the AC dial, cranking it up.

Inhwee stopped fanning himself and shot him a glance, his expression unreadable. “I’m fine,” he said, though the slight sheen of sweat on his collarbone suggested otherwise.

Jeongwon didn’t argue. Instead, he casually adjusted the air vent to face Inhwee, directing the cool breeze toward him.

Inhwee hesitated for a moment before murmuring, “Thank you.” His voice was quieter, almost as if he hadn’t expected Jeongwon to make such a kind gesture. As Inhwee’s brain short-circuited, Jeongwon took the opportunity to lean over, reaching past him to grab the seatbelt. His arm brushed against Inhwee’s as he pulled it over. The soft inhale of surprise filled Jeongwon’s ears. He smirked.

“Oh, you don’t have to—” Inhwee started.

With his face only a few inches away from Inhwee’s, Jeongwon met his gaze, holding it for a moment longer than necessary. He smirked. “That’s on the house.” His voice was light and teasing, but there was something deliberate in the way he said it.

Inhwee’s fingers twitched against his lap, his face warming. “Are you sure you need my expertise?” He tried to sound unimpressed, but the way his voice wavered slightly gave him away. He pushed his hair back, his bangs now sticking to his damp forehead.

Jeongwon chuckled, his smirk widening. “Do I make your heart race?”

Inhwee’s response was immediate—he glared, but the pink still dusting his cheeks betrayed him. “You have a habit of being way too caring,” he grumbled, shifting slightly in his seat as if trying to shake off the flustered feeling.

Jeongwon placed his hands back on the steering wheel, stretching out his fingers before gripping it. He cast Inhwee a sidelong glance, his voice dropping just slightly. “I can be even more caring,” he said smoothly. His lips curled into a knowing smile as he added, “But I haven’t gotten a chance yet.”

Inhwee blinked. “Oh.”

Jeongwon bit back a grin at how thrown off he sounded. He tapped his fingers against the wheel. “So, where to next?”

Inhwee let out a small laugh, shaking his head as if trying to regain his composure. “All afternoon together isn’t enough?”

“Not even an eternity,” Jeongwon said, keeping his voice soft but letting the weight of his words settle between them.

Inhwee cleared his throat, clearly grasping for a distraction, and checked his phone. “Well, it’s almost eight. Want to grab food?”

“I’m starving,” Jeongwon said immediately, flashing him an easy smile.

Food sounded great. But being around Inhwee just a little longer? That was even better.

 

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“Can I help clean up?” Jeongwon asked as Inhwee tossed their trash.

Inhwee shook his head. “I’m almost done.”

They ended up grabbing takeout and heading back to Inhwee’s place after realizing the restaurant had a two-hour wait.

After washing his hands, Inhwee joined Jeongwon at the coffee table. They stared at each other for a beat, an odd sort of quiet settling between them.

Jeongwon didn’t want the night to end, but it was already close to eleven.

Inhwee chose for them. “I know it’s late, but wanna watch a movie?” 

Jeongwon leaned back on his palms, watching Inhwee explain himself. 

“I have, like, a million streaming accounts,” Inhwee finished.

Jeongwon raised an eyebrow. “A million?”

“I share passwords with my sisters.”

Jeongwon chuckled. “Every time I hear you talk about them it makes me wish I had siblings.”

“Don’t be,” Inhwee said easily.

“Huh?”

“I love them, but I always wondered what it’d be like to be an only child.”

Jeongwon huffed a laugh. “You kinda are. You’re the only boy out of five.”

“True,” Inhwee admitted. “Still, you have no idea how many times I wished for some peace and quiet.”

Jeongwon hummed in understanding, watching Inhwee grab his laptop. “Being an only child can be lonely, too,” he shrugged and gave him an easy smile. “I often wished for a brother or sister. I just wanted noise.”

“Well,” Inhwee smiled tenderly at him, “friends are like siblings.” He broke their gaze. “You know, chosen family and all.”

Jeongwon laughed. “Yeah. I think… I now know how it feels,” Jeongwon said, dragging his words.

“Want to watch in my room?”

Jeongwon’s eyebrows shot up. “Yeah?”

Inhwee cleared his throat, noting Jeongwon’s reaction, his face coloring. He blushed so often, and he looked so cute. Jeongwon wanted to kiss him.

“Are you having indecent thoughts?” Jeongwon teased.

“What? No!”

“You’re blushing.” He chuckled softly.

Inhwee palmed his cheeks. “I told you I blush easily.”

“Good. Because I’d be hurt otherwise.”

Inhwee arched a quizzical eyebrow. “Hurt?”

Jeongwon shrugged slightly. “I hope that at this point, we’re comfortable with each other. Close.”

Clearing his throat, he dropped his hands and nodded. "Yeah. We are." Then he rewarded Yunho with a smile. "Anyways, I don’t have a couch, and my bed’s got a decent backrest.”

Jeongwon grinned, standing up immediately. “You don't have to explain yourself; I definitely want to watch a movie. Let’s go to your room.”

Inhwee swallowed hard, then muttered, “I have a beer. Want some?”

“Sure.” Jeongwon grabbed the laptop from Inhwee’s grasp and waited as he grabbed drinks from the fridge.

In Inhwee’s room, they sat side by side, sipping their beers as the horror movie played. Jeongwon noticed Inhwee kept subtly offering him new drinks as he finished each one, trying to get him to drink more.

Interesting.

So Jeongwon played along, slowly forming a plan in his head. If Inhwee wanted him drunk, then fine. He’d pretend to be just tipsy enough to test some boundaries.

About three-quarters through the movie, Jeongwon lets his head drop onto Inhwee’s shoulder. He mumbled, his breath fanning the smooth skin of Inhwee's throat, “Shit, I think I’m drunk.”

Inhwee tensed but didn’t move away. “Oh. Okay. Do you think you’ll be able to drive?”

“No.” Jeongwon turned slightly, nuzzling into Inhwee’s neck. He heard Inhwee swallow audibly.

Inhwee hesitated before saying, “If you don’t mind, you can stay here.”

“Can I?” Jeongwon let his hand rest on Inhwee’s knee, applying the lightest pressure.

Inhwee shuddered. “Ye—yeah. You’re always taking care of me.”

“Thanks,” Jeongwon murmured, brushing his thumb over Inhwee’s knee. “Got an extra toothbrush?”

“Yeah, of course.”

After the movie ended, Inhwee handed Jeongwon a change of clothes before pushing him toward the bathroom.

The T-shirt Inhwee gave him was too tight. The graphic teddy bear across the chest looked hilariously stretched out. Jeongwon smirked at his reflection before stepping out.

“Inhwee, you can shower now,” Jeongwon called. “Oh, and thanks for the shirt.”

Inhwee’s gaze dragged over him, dazed. His face turned red.

Jeongwon smirked. “Your face is kinda red. Are you drunk?”

“…model.”

“Huh?”

“I—I mean, I’m hot from cleaning up. I was… cleaning around a bit.” Inhwee tore his gaze away and coughed. “Anyway, is my shirt too small for you?”

“I’m only wearing it for tonight, don’t worry.” Jeongwon ran his fingers through his damp bangs. “Go shower.”

“Right. Let me g—go do that.”

Inhwee practically fled to the bathroom, slamming the door behind him.

Jeongwon laughed to himself, then scrolled through his phone as he waited. Inhwee was in there for a long time. Suspiciously long.

“You take really long showers,” Jeongwon teased when Inhwee finally emerged, hair still slightly damp.

Inhwee climbed into bed and pulled the sheets up. “That’s because I dried my hair too.”

“Mhm.”

A beat of silence passed before Jeongwon turned his head slightly, his voice dipping lower. “You sober?”

Inhwee turned to face him. “I wasn’t drunk to begin with.” He swallowed before he said, “You?”

Chapter 17

Inhwee stared at him, his expression unreadable, dark eyes flickering with something Jeongwon couldn’t quite decipher. A second stretched into eternity before Jeongwon’s patience snapped.

He pushed himself closer, pressing his body against Inhwee’s and trapping his feet between his own. The heat radiating from Inhwee seeped through their clothes, making Jeongwon dizzy. He cupped Inhwee’s face, thumbs brushing over the soft skin of his cheeks.

“Are you okay?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper, his breath fanning over Inhwee’s parted lips.

Inhwee swallowed hard, his Adam’s apple bobbing. “What… what happened to the girl you liked?”

Jeongwon blinked and exhaled sharply, momentarily thrown off by the question. Why was Inhwee asking about that now? His fingers flexed against Inhwee’s skin as he fought the urge to just kiss him, to make him stop talking so they could get to what was really happening here.

“Oh, that kind of fell off,” he said, trying to sound nonchalant even as his pulse pounded. His self-control was hanging by a thread. He didn’t want to talk—he wanted to kiss, touch, devour. Inhwee’s presence was overwhelming, intoxicating, and it took every ounce of control not to close the distance and lose himself in him.

“It ‘fell off’?” Inhwee echoed, brows slightly furrowed, gaze searching.

Jeongwon exhaled, dragging a hand through Inhwee’s hair before leaning in. “Yeah,” he murmured, inching closer, his voice softer now. His eyes roamed Inhwee’s face, committing every detail to memory—the flush on his cheeks, the way his lips trembled just slightly. “I ended up falling for someone else.”

His hand slid down Inhwee’s side, fingers slipping under his shirt to trace the curve of his waist before pressing against the small of his back. The skin beneath his fingertips was smooth, and he felt the slight shudder that ran through Inhwee at his touch. Goosebumps rose under his palm, and Jeongwon wanted to feel more, touch more, claim more.

Inhwee inhaled sharply, eyes lowering before flicking back up to meet Jeongwon’s gaze. “Then… what about that person?”

Jeongwon smirked faintly, running his fingertips up Inhwee’s spine. He relished the way Inhwee reacted to him, to his hands, to his voice. “It didn’t work out,” he murmured, his other hand moving to Inhwee’s scalp, massaging slow circles against his nape. Inhwee shuddered beneath his touch, legs shifting under Jeongwon’s as their bodies molded closer together.

“What… Is that why…?”

“We’re going to be friends,” he said, this time quieter, more deliberate. Jeongwon cupped Inhwee’s face, rubbing his thumb over the soft skin just below his eye, grounding him.

“Oh.” Inhwee’s lashes fluttered, lips parting as if to say something, but he hesitated. Jeongwon took the opportunity to reach up and cup his face again, thumb gliding along the sharp line of his jaw, then over the swell of his bottom lip.

Jeongwon leaned in, his nose brushing against Inhwee’s cheek. “I plan to woo them.”

“Huh?” Inhwee blinked, looking adorably lost.

Jeongwon almost laughed. Was Inhwee really this naive, or was he pretending not to understand? Even the blind could see how hard he was pursuing him and his obvious interest. It was frustrating and unbearably cute all at once. Jeongwon scooted even closer, pressing their bodies together, feeling every contour of Inhwee against him. Inhwee gasped softly but didn’t move away.

“Is it… this, do you…” He trailed off. Jeongwon respectfully gave him a few seconds to finish his thought, but he didn’t elaborate.

“What do you mean, Inhwee?” Jeongwon lifted his hand to Inhwee’s neck and earlobe, gently stroking the soft skin. Inhwee shuddered under his touch. Jeongwon held his gaze, giving him room to respond.

“I… are we… Am I helping you?”

Jeongwon laughed and scooted even closer. “Yes. And I’m forever in your debt.” Inhwee perked up, his eyes shimmering. “Can I kiss you now?” Jeongwon asked, rubbing the side of his foot up and down Inhwee’s leg, his fingers traveling higher up his back, exploring.

Inhwee’s breath hitched, but his face fell, his eyebrows scrunching. “I—Jeongwon, are you—” He stopped himself, voice thick with uncertainty.

Jeongwon scowled, his hands stopping their explorations. He physically inched away and murmured, “Do you not want to do this anymore?”

He tried to mask his hurt, and most importantly, his agitation and impatience. But at moments like this, when Inhwee’s unnamed fear rose between them, he felt the urge to abandon his careful plan of slowly getting Inhwee used to him, used to them and what they were, and just confess everything, giving him no way out. He was tired of this endless cat-and-mouse game. But of course, as always, he knew he was no better than Inhwee. His fear always stopped him from shattering their delicate glass castle because the thought of losing him terrified him just as much. He knew Inhwee needed reassurance. He needed time to build his confidence in them. Anything else, and he would lose him.

“No.” As swift as his refusal, Inhwee swooped in, erasing the space Jeongwon had created between them.

Jeongwon’s lips spread into a wide smile, the corners of his eyes crinkling. He moved his face closer, his body heating up again, and his lips grazed Inhwee’s chin. “This is okay?”

Inhwee nodded.

Passion shot through Jeongwon, from the tip of his head down to his toes. It felt as if he had been electrocuted. He wanted him. Badly. The need coiled inside him like a spring wound too tight. Inhwee shuddered beneath his touch, his hands gripping Jeongwon’s shoulders as if to ground himself.

“But, would she—” Inhwee cut himself off again, voice faltering.

“What?” Jeongwon demanded, exasperated. There was no one else but Inhwee, and he couldn’t wait until he realized that.

Inhwee hesitated for only a second before lifting himself and closing the space between them. The kiss wasn’t chaste, wasn’t hesitant—it was desperate, open-mouthed, hungry. Jeongwon inhaled sharply, the shock of it sending fire down his spine. His body reacted instantly, pressing into Inhwee, his arousal evident. The friction made his head spin, and the soft moan that spilled from Inhwee’s lips sent him into overdrive.

He widened Inhwee’s legs with his knee, pressing their bodies together as he ground down against him in slow, deliberate movements. Dry humping him. It felt incredible, but it wasn’t enough. The friction sent a pulse of heat through him. He needed more—more heat, more skin, more Inhwee.

“Inhwee,” he moaned against his lips, pulling back just enough to kiss along his jaw before diving back in, claiming his mouth again.

His hands roamed down Inhwee’s back. He squeezed his butt, making Inhwee let out a giddy yelp. Jeongwon smiled and captured his mouth, sucking his tongue as he slid his hands up—one slipping up his back, the other trailing down, exploring under his clothes. He was drowning in him, completely lost to the moment, the scent, the feel of him. His fingers slipped past the waistband of Inhwee’s pajama bottoms, eager, desperate.

Then Inhwee jerked back, his body stiffening beneath him. The sudden movement was like a bucket of ice water. Jeongwon froze.

His heart pounded as he stared down at Inhwee’s wide, startled eyes. The moment shattered around them, and Jeongwon’s stomach twisted with guilt. He pulled back instantly, sitting up on the bed and rubbing his hands over his face, trying to breathe through the haze of his desire.

Inhwee stared up at him, still lying on the bed, his chest rising and falling heavily.

Fuck!

Guilt slammed into him like a freight train. He kept forgetting that Inhwee needed him to take baby steps and treat him with soft, fragile gloves. He was too skittish.

“I’m sorry,” he choked out, his voice rough with regret.

Inhwee sat up too, breathing just as hard, his chest rising and falling rapidly. “No. No, you’re fine,” he said quickly, his voice growing steadier, stronger. He pushed himself up, mirroring Jeongwon’s posture.

Jeongwon inhaled sharply. “I—” He exhaled heavily, raking a hand through his hair. “I’m going to g—”

“What? No.” Inhwee brought up his left knee and hugged it to his chest. Wetting his bottom lip, he said, “No, it’s okay. Stay. I’m sorry, I—”

“Don’t apologize,” Jeongwon cut in, his voice sharp with self-recrimination. “I went too far.”

“No, it’s fine. I…” Inhwee dropped his gaze, still visibly shaken. “It’s not my first.”

Jeongwon stilled. His stomach turned cold. “You’ve done this with a guy before?”

Inhwee quickly shook his head, his eyes flicking up to meet his. “No. I meant…” He didn’t vocalize what he meant; he widened his arms and then dropped them. Jeongwon studied him and saw the lie. He sighed, relief settling in his chest. He knew he was Inhwee’s first, but for a moment there, mind fogged with lust, he had almost thought something else.

This had been too much for him. Too intense. Jeongwon needed to slow down.

“I’m sorry for pushing you so far,” he murmured.

Inhwee shook his head again, quickly. “It’s fine! Really.” He lay back down, tugging the blanket up to his chin, signaling the conversation was over. “Let’s just go to sleep, okay.”

“…You want me to stay in bed with you?”

Inhwee blinked at him. “I don’t have anywhere else.”

Jeongwon hesitated, huffed out a quiet laugh, and reluctantly lay back down, keeping a safe distance, even though every fiber of his being ached to pull Inhwee back into his arms.

Jeongwon had played himself.

He never should have agreed to sleep in the same bed. His body was still burning, still throbbing with unfulfilled need. This was going to be torture.

As they settled in, Inhwee turned to face him and smiled. “I had fun.” He added, whispering, “Today.”

Jeongwon returned his smile. He basked in the way Inhwee’s eyes lit up as he raked over his face. He liked his smile. He was such an easy book to read, so why was it so hard to pin down exactly what was holding him back from just giving in to them?

Because, fuck. He was already in too deep.

“Me too.” Then he added, “I love hanging out with you.”

“We need to go on more dates.”

Jeongwon cheesed. “Yes, please.”

Inhwee chortled. “Or we can just… hang out. As friends.”

Jeongwon nodded softly. “I’d love that.”

He shifted to his back. “Good. Good night.”

Jeongwon barely managed to respond, “Sweet dreams.”

 

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Jeongwon woke up to something soft brushing against his face. It took him a moment to register where he was, who he was with. He kept his eyes shut, feigning sleep.

Inhwee’s fingers ghosted over his cheek, hesitant and reverent. Then, he scooted closer and, ever so gently, pressed his lips against Jeongwon’s.

That was all the confirmation Jeongwon needed.

Inhwee wouldn’t run forever. And Jeongwon? He would make sure Inhwee finally gave in and was honest with himself. It excited him to think about Inhwee focusing solely on him and openly pursuing him. That would be nice.

He was tired of waiting.

Chapter 18

Inhwee: I went back to the library, but it was gone.

Inhwee: I’m so sorry. 

Jeongwon: It’s okay. I can just buy you a new one.

Inhwee: Don’t.

Jeongwon: Because of that bookmark, you read your Public Speaking book and passed; I’m getting you a replacement.

Inhwee: It was a c.

Jeongwon: Cs get degrees.

Wed, 6:30 PM

Jeongwon: Do those dates work for you? Will your job give you the time off?

Inhwee: My boss is chill.

Inhwee: Are you sure you’re fine with this trip?

Jeongwon: You’ll be there.

Jeongwon: I already saw the text.

Inhwee: Oh. Sorry.

Jeongwon: I don’t mind Jiwon. She doesn’t make me uncomfortable. 

Inhwee: Did she ask you out?

Jeongwon: I’m not interested. 

Jeongwon: After your last exam, do you want to go for a drive? You need to start driving on the main road.

Inhwee: Sleep first, learning later.

Jeongwon: 😂 Later then. Let me know when you’re free.

Friday 1:44 PM

Inhwee: Are you not into talking on the phone?

Jeongwon: I’m sorry for missing your call. Let me get back to you.

Tuesday 11:26 AM

Inhwee: Are you free tomorrow?

Jeongwon: Sorry, Inhwee. I’m busy.

Jeongwon: Let me get back to you.

Wednesday 6:30 pm

Inhwee: Okay.

Wednesday 6:31 pm

Jeongwon: Let’s meet up next time for a long date. Sorry

Thursday 8:02 PM

Inhwee: I miss you.

———

Jeongwon had to drive home right after his last exam to attend his family’s yearly reunion.

They had decided to gather to honor his grandfather before he passed, hosting a boisterous four-day event that brought relatives in from all over the country. With his parents playing host, Jeongwon was roped into the exhausting planning process, leaving him feeling more than just drained—he wanted to be excommunicated. For days, he barely had a moment to himself, constantly attending to extended family, smiling through conversations he had no energy for, and being pulled in a dozen different directions.

The event itself was overwhelming and endless. He hadn’t grown up close to his extended family; his aunts, uncles, and cousins were mostly strangers. The awkward small talk was bad enough, but his cousins around his age had brought friends, one of whom—a girl in her early twenties—who hadn’t stopped gawking at him since she met him and kept trying to catch his attention. 

Seeing his cousins smiling and hanging out with their friends made him wish he had mustered the courage to ask Inhwee to join him; however, looking at the sea of his family’s faces, he knew that would have been a horrible idea.

On day three of extended luncheons, polite conversations, and answering the same questions over and over about his life choices, he escaped from the garden in search of a moment of solitude. But before he could find a quiet corner, one of his cousins appeared—a few years older, recently accepted into med school, a fact Jeongwon hadn’t heard the end of from anyone, especially his parents, who, through willful ignorance, lied to their relatives that he, too, would soon follow in his dear cousin’s footsteps. He has the brains and the looks, they’d tutted, cheeks rosy with pleasure at being able to sing his praises. Their son. He felt like a prized trophy horse being shown off and told to smile.

He felt stupid and pathetic. And so, so alone.

“Dude.” His cousin, who seemed to have materialized out of thin air, smacked him loudly on the back. Jeongwon flinched and spun to face him. He towered over the shorter man, though his cousin was built like a tank. His drunken grin bared all his teeth.

“Hey, can I help you?”

“Yeah. Why are you not all up on that piece of ass?”

“Huh?” Jeongwon responded warily.

“She’s throwing herself at you, man,” his cousin leered.

Jeongwon frowned. “Who?”

“Don’t play dumb,” his cousin said, wiggling his eyebrows as he sipped his drink. When Jeongwon made no motion to continue the ill-fated conversation, he attempted to supply a name. “Soo—Sooyoung, Soojin, or Soojung, whatever her name is. She wants you, bro.”

Jeongwon exhaled through his nose, already tired of the conversation. 

He was used to three kinds of people: those who disliked him on principle, those who wanted him purely for his appearance, and those who wanted to be around him for the social status it granted. He’d entertained the second group in the past—if they liked him for how he looked and he found them attractive, what was the harm in one night? But that had long ceased to be a priority. Since the semester started, there had been only one person on his mind. And he missed that person right now.

His cousin studied him. “Don’t tell me you’re not interested. If I had your height, my man, there’d be no stopping me.”

My height and looks, you piece of shit. Jeongwon smiled at him.

He shook his head and scratched his nose. Sniffing, he needlessly elaborated, “I mean, heck, man, if you don’t want fine shit, hook me up.”

“Huh?”

How old was he? Jeongwon was disgusted.

“Come on,” he said, slinging an arm over Jeongwon’s shoulder and forcing him down a bit.

Jeongwon chuckled hollowly. He wanted to punch him.

“Yeah, he was looking at yo—” Mijoo, a second-removed cousin Jeongwon had met for the first time two days ago, and the one with the attentive friend who had made her interest in Jeongwon obvious, walked in. Her eyes widened slightly, and she blushed. Her enraputed friend was behind her, and her face lit up when she realized her luck. Her eyes locked on him. Jeongwon groaned. The women waved and rapidly made their way over.

He needed to escape.

At moments like this, he hated the effect his looks had on people.

“I have to go.” He tapped his cousin on the back and made a run for it, ignoring Mijoo as she called his name, probably at the behest of her friend. Jeongwon wondered if he would survive this reunion.

The rest of the luncheon was a blur of dodging his family’s relentless questions, his parents’ overenthusiasm, and his cousin’s continued efforts to get him to engage with Sooyoung, Soojin, Sojung—whatever her name was. He barely had a moment to himself, and in the chaos, he forgot to respond to Inhwee’s last message. He had read it—“I miss you”—and it had brought him a wave of comfort amidst the suffocating family event. But before he could reply, someone had called his name, pulling him away yet again.

By the time the event wrapped up, he couldn’t wait another second. Sooyoung, Soojin, Sojung—whatever her name was—had made a blunt final attempt at getting into his pants, not hiding her motives, and it sealed the deal for him. He needed to see Inhwee. A text or phone call wouldn’t suffice.

He stealthily got in his car and drove straight to his apartment.

 

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Inhwee wasn’t home. He was working on a day he typically didn’t work. That didn’t matter. Jeongwon had driven almost three hours to see him, and he still had to go back to his parents’ home. He decided to wait. He’d surprise him. Leaning against his car, he checked his phone every few minutes. Ten minutes turned into thirty. An hour passed.

Just as he was about to give up and text him, Inhwee turned the corner, his steps slowing when their eyes met.

Jeongwon’s face split into a bright, relieved smile. He moved away from his car and walked toward him. “Hey.”

Inhwee froze. “Uh…” He looked startled. Looking around, he said, “What… are you doing here?”

Jeongwon’s head buzzed. He couldn’t control himself. He strode forward and, without asking for permission, wrapped Inhwee in a tight, crushing bear hug. He drank in his familiar, comforting scent. He heard the small gasp that left him, but Inhwee’s body melted into Jeongwon’s grip. Jeongwon squeezed him tighter, burying his face against his neck, inhaling deeply like a man starved. He had missed this—missed him.

Inhwee’s hands hovered uncertainly at Jeongwon’s sides before gripping the back of his jacket. His voice was muffled against Jeongwon’s shoulder when he finally asked, “What—what are you doing here?”

Jeongwon didn’t answer right away. He wanted to stay like this just a little longer, letting the warmth of Inhwee’s body soak into his bones. But he knew if he lingered any more, he wouldn’t want to let go. With one final, reluctant squeeze, he pulled back just enough to take in Inhwee’s face, brushing his fingers against his cheek. His skin was warm beneath his touch, soft and real in a way that made Jeongwon’s heart ache.

He searched his expression, eyes warm. Jeongwon offered a lazy shrug, unwilling to admit how badly he had needed to see him. “I was just passing by.”

Inhwee frowned at the obvious lie. “Passing by?”

They shared a light laugh.

“I didn’t know you wouldn’t be home,” Jeongwon added, reluctant to drop his hands. The last time he had touched Inhwee like this had been two weeks ago, when he’d spent the night.

“Oh. Yeah. I was working the closing shift today.” Inhwee rubbed his arm absentmindedly, glancing down like he suddenly felt self-conscious.

“I see.” Jeongwon finally stepped back, removing his hands from Inhwee. “I should have called first.”

Inhwee hesitated. “Oh, that’s…” He paused before reaching out, his fingers brushing against Jeongwon’s wrist. “No. This is fine, too.” He seemed to shake off whatever was holding him back. He beamed at Jeongwon and said, “Come in.”

Jeongwon’s chest burned with desire.

Running his long fingers through his hair, Jeongwon sighed, pained. “I want to, but I can’t.” Inhwee’s face fell, and Jeongwon immediately hated himself for it. “I have to get back. It’s the last night of the reunion, and my parents…” He shook his head, cutting himself off. He ran a hand through his hair again in frustration. “I have this family obligation. But I’ll be back tomorrow evening. Let’s meet up?”

“Okay.”

Jeongwon hated how disappointed he sounded and the way his face fell. “I just wanted to see your face.”

Inhwee’s eyebrows jumped up. “Dude,” was all he could muster.

Jeongwon laughed, watching his coloring darken.

“You’re going to stop teasing me one day.”

“Never.”

“Hey! I can always stop being your friend.”

“Please don’t.”

They shared an easy laugh.

Sighing deeply, feeling as light as helium, Jeongwon handed Inhwee a simple brown shopping bag. Inside were some treats, the bookmark he picked up for him from Lola’s Bookstore, and an expensive bottle of liquor he had snagged from his parents’ collection. “I… brought you something.” 

Inhwee’s expression softened as he peeked inside. “Oh.” He smiled, small but genuine. He bit his bottom lip. “The bookmark.”

“Yeah. Remember, you said you lost it.”

“You didn’t have to—”

“I want us to have matching bookmarks.”

Inhwee’s lips parted slightly, his expression softening again in that way that made Jeongwon’s chest ache. “Thanks.”

Jeongwon waited, holding his breath, for Inhwee to look up at him again. But he didn’t. He just kept staring into the bag, gripping the handles tighter like he didn’t trust himself to meet Jeongwon’s gaze.  “You’re a good friend.”

“I’m trying to be the best,” Jeongwon spoke softly, stepping closer and lifting both hands to frame Inhwee’s face. His skin was warm under his palms, his lashes fluttering slightly at the touch. Jeongwon tilted his head, searching his eyes. “I thought you missed me. Why won’t you look at me?”

Inhwee’s breath hitched, his pupils dilating just slightly as his gaze finally flickered up to meet Jeongwon’s. He looked startled, like he hadn’t expected Jeongwon to see through him so easily.

“This has been the longest weekend.” He closed his eyes briefly as he exhaled. “Let’s see each other more often.”

“Yeah.”

Jeongwon was thankful that Inhwee hadn’t moved away from him.

“You’re not busy?”

He dropped his hands to his shoulders. 

“Just work.” 

He inhaled sharply. Inhwee was so close, his scent wrapping around him like a warm cocoon, and the want—the need—to kiss him was overwhelming. He clenched his jaw, forcing it down.

“Can I hug you?”

Inhwee’s eyes widened. A beat of silence passed before he laughed, a faint blush dusting his cheeks. “Dude, you need to stop. You’re always making me blush.”

“What?” Jeongwon chuckled, stepping even closer. “Can’t we?”

“Now you ask?” Still laughing, Inhwee shook his head, the sound of it making Jeongwon’s chest feel light and warm. He bit his lip and looked at Jeongwon with a fond expression. Jeongwon felt warm and bubbly.

“So, can I?”

“Now, I’m embarrassed,” Inhwee muttered, but he still stepped forward, letting the distance between them disappear as he wrapped his arms around Jeongwon’s waist.

Jeongwon almost collapsed against him. He buried his nose in Inhwee’s shoulder, breathing him in like he could imprint the scent into his memory. And suddenly, unexpectedly, he felt like crying. His throat burned, his eyes stung, and he squeezed Inhwee tighter, willing himself to keep it together. Dealing with his parents always left him feeling so low.

He had missed spending carefree time with him so much.

He wished they could always be together.

 

---------------------

 

“Can I ask you something?”

“Shoot,” Jeongwon said, his head resting against the headrest of the passenger seat. The hum of the engine and the soft music playing in the background made the car ride feel almost too comfortable. Inhwee was driving, both hands resting on the steering wheel.

“Umm…” Inhwee chewed on his bottom lip, hesitating.

Jeongwon glanced at him, watching the way his fingers tightened slightly on the wheel. “What?” he urged, reaching for the console to turn the volume down.

Inhwee inhaled like he was steeling himself. “Well… okay, how do you really feel about Jiwon?”

Jeongwon blinked. That wasn’t what he had expected. They were coming from dinner with Jiwon and Seoyeon, where they had ironed out the details of their upcoming beach weekend. He tilted his head, considering.

“She’s fine. Why?”

Inhwee briefly looked at him before turning his attention back to the road. His grip on the wheel tightened, his knuckles flexing as he repositioned his hands.

“Can I be honest?”

“Please. Always,” Jeongwon said, shifting in his seat, suddenly more interested.

“Okay.” Inhwee exaggeratedly inhaled, like he was preparing himself. “Umm… I don’t know, I feel like you’re.... Didn’t she confess or something like that?”

Jeongwon shrugged lazily. “Or something like that.”

“She did or she didn’t?” Inhwee pressed on the brakes too hard. The car jolted to a sudden stop at the light, sending Jeongwon forward against his seatbelt. He let out a short laugh as he caught himself.

“Yeah,” Jeongwon said, still grinning at Inhwee’s reaction. “At the beginning of the quarter, she said she’d like it if we could get closer.”

Inhwee’s lips parted slightly, his brows pulling together. There was something tense in his shoulders now, something cautious in the way he gripped the wheel. Jeongwon saw the flicker of thought behind his eyes before he spoke again.

“What’s wrong with her?”

“Huh?”

“I… gathered that…”

“What?”

“I like Jiwon.”

“What?” He sat up, turned his head fully now, studying him. His heart was bolting.

Inhwee was staring straight ahead, deliberately avoiding eye contact. “She’s nice. But, she’s not the one you like… right?” Inhwee’s voice was small, uncertain.

Jeongwon laughed. The soft glow of the streetlights illuminated the sharp angles of his face, the slight tension in his jaw. Jeongwon let the silence hang between them for a few seconds longer than necessary before answering.

“Why are you… No, I don’t like Jiwon like that,” he said, his voice low and steady.

Inhwee exhaled softly through his nose, his fingers tapping lightly against the wheel. “Why not?”

“Huh?”

“Oh. I… I mean, she really likes you, and—”

Jeongwon’s interruption was swift. “I don’t want her.”

He was irritated. Jiwon had put Inhwee up to this.

“Right.” He was still staring straight ahead.

Shifting in his seat, Jeongwon stared at Inhwee for a long moment before he said, “What about you?”

“Me?”

“Her? Seoyeon?”

Inhwee jolted, letting out a small laugh as he shook his head. “It’s like I told you. We grew closer as we started texting. We have quite a bit in common.”

“Jiwon?” Jeongwon said, his chest tightening in a way he didn’t like.

“We’re friends.” Inhwee nodded, still staring ahead, his tone casual—too casual. “Really good friends now, but nothing more.” Surprisingly, Inhwee started laughing and said, “I fear Seoyeon is more interested in you than me.”

Jeongwon scowled, his stomach twisting. “What do you mean by that? You two… are just friends, right?” His voice came out sharper than intended, and he immediately regretted it.

Inhwee turned to him with an amused smile, eyes gleaming with something teasing, something knowing. “You sound jealous. Are you into her ?”

Jeongwon rolled his eyes, looking away, but the tension in his chest didn’t ease. The light turned green, and Inhwee pressed gently on the gas pedal, keeping a steady speed.

“I’m way more into you,” Jeongwon murmured, almost too casually, but his voice was weighted with his usual honesty.

Inhwee flinched. It was barely noticeable, just a small, sudden hitch in his movements, but Jeongwon caught it. Inhwee swallowed, his Adam’s apple bobbing, then licked his bottom lip before he avoided his advances like always. “Haha. Good one.” His voice was slightly strained, his fingers flexing on the wheel. He blinked a few times before finally saying, “It’s going to be a nice trip.”

Jeongwon leaned back against the headrest, watching him out of the corner of his eye. His lips curled slightly. “I think so.”

Chapter 19

Jiwon: We’re leaving at seven, right?

Inhwee: Yup.

Seoyeon: I’m so excited.

Inhwee: Me too!

Jiwon: Jeongwon, are you already sleeping?

 

-------------

 

“I think I have motion sickness.”

Jeongwon huffed a laugh, glancing at Inhwee out of the corner of his eye as they walked toward the front of the hotel. “I think your stomach’s in knots,” he teased, a smirk playing at his lips as he nudged Inhwee lightly with his elbow.

Inhwee sighed dramatically before breaking into a laugh. “Okay, maybe. But I maintain that highways are a death trap.”

He was probably still shaken up from barely lasting five minutes on the highway before pulling over, white-knuckled and on the verge of a meltdown. Jeongwon had taken over the wheel with calm competence while Inhwee sat there, stewing in embarrassment.

But now that they were at the hotel, the frustration melted away.

“Wow,” Inhwee breathed, his voice bright with awe. “Look at that ocean view!”

Jeongwon followed his gaze, taking in the sight just past the hotel lobby entrance. The ocean stretched out endlessly, a deep, mesmerizing blue under the warm afternoon sun. The hotel was sleek and modern, a perfect blend of luxury and comfort, with towering glass panels that reflected the sky and sea. Palm trees swayed in the breeze, and the soft sound of waves crashing against the shore added to the dreamlike atmosphere. The salty air mixed with the faint scent of flowers planted in neat arrangements along the entrance path. It was the kind of place that instantly made you feel like you were on vacation.

“Not bad,” Jeongwon admitted, though he was more interested in Inhwee’s excitement than the view itself.

Inside, they spotted Seoyeon and Jiwon already in line at the reception desk. When the girls noticed them, their faces lit up, and they waved them over. As they approached, Jeongwon immediately noticed Jiwon’s gaze raking over him, lingering a second too long before trailing back up and down again. She wasn’t even trying to be subtle. He suppressed a grimace. The difference between Jiwon looking at him like that and Inhwee simply glancing his way was the difference between annoyance and his entire body overheating and combusting.

“Hey, you made it,” Jiwon greeted, stepping in front of Jeongwon, her attention flickering to Inhwee for a moment before snapping back to him.

“Yeah,” he replied casually, giving her a polite, neutral smile before turning his head slightly and lifting a hand to cover his mouth as he yawned, more out of boredom than fatigue.

“Inhwee, you don’t look so good. Are you okay?” Seoyeon asked, frowning. She was entirely too close to Inhwee, and Jeongwon almost winced aloud when she reached out to touch him. However, Inhwee, blissfully unaware—or maybe just willfully ignoring the obvious—clapped his hands together.

“This place is great! Your uncle is seriously the best, Seoyeon.”

He waved her off with a smile. “Huh? I’m fine! This resort is really nice!”

“Right?” Seoyeon grinned. “They recently renovated everything.”

“Your uncle is the best!” Inhwee cheered. “We even got the room for free!”

Jiwon, still hyper-focused on Jeongwon, tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “We’re probably the first ones staying in these rooms.”

“That’s so cool!” Inhwee beamed. “I still can’t believe we got them for free.”

“Yeah, enjoy it,” Seoyeon said, looking proud.

“We’re a little hungry and we're thinking of grabbing something to eat as soon as we get settled,” Jiwon added, directing her words at the group, but her smile was only for Jeongwon. She batted her lashes and then, as if just remembering, shifted her attention to Inhwee. “You’ve seen the itinerary?”

Jeongwon and Inhwee nodded in unison.

She hummed before saying, “But Jeongwon must be exhausted from driving.”

Seoyeon turned to Jeongwon. “Are you okay?”

Jeongwon gave her a small, polite smile. “Yeah, I’m good.”

“A nap wouldn’t hurt, though,” Inhwee mused, tilting his head slightly as he looked at him in consideration.

Jeongwon checked his watch. “Hmm, then should we meet up in thirty minutes to eat and go to the gallery?”

“Sounds good.” Seoyeon nodded, her smile never faltering.

“I’m excited.” Jiwon beamed. “Oh, yeah. Your keys,” she suddenly remembered, reaching into Seoyeon’s bag and pulling out a keycard. She stepped closer— too close—to Jeongwon as she handed him the key. “This is the key to your room.”

“Thanks.” Jeongwon took it without much reaction, quickly stepping back.

“See you later,” Seoyeon said, waving. “Go unpack and get some rest.”

They waved back before heading toward the elevators.

Inhwee rolled his suitcase behind him, stepping in first. As the doors slid shut, he stretched his arms over his head and let out a contented sigh. “I’m so glad we came. I can’t wait to get in the water.”

“It did look nice,” Jeongwon agreed, pressing their floor button.

Their room was just as impressive as the rest of the resort, with a modern design and an expansive window offering another stunning view of the ocean. There were two beds.

Jeongwon exhaled sharply through his nose, barely containing his disappointment. He'd held onto a small, irrational hope that they’d get a single bed room. But considering Seoyeon hadn’t given them a heads-up, he should’ve known better.

Inhwee wasted no time making himself comfortable. He kicked off his shoes, dropped his suitcase by the bed closest to the door, and flopped onto the couch with a satisfied groan. “Haa… how nice.”

Jeongwon chuckled at his childish excitement.

“You still feel sick?” he asked, padding towards him and leaning over.

Inhwee cracked one eye open and stared at him for a beat, his gaze unreadable. Then, with a sudden movement, he pushed himself up onto his elbows.

Something hot curled in Jeongwon’s stomach, his throat tightening.

This was the difference. Jiwon, or anyone else, really, could stare at him all they wanted, and he’d feel nothing but discomfort. He knew what they were looking at. But Inhwee? Inhwee looking at him like this made him burn from the inside out. It was like being stripped bare, exposed to something raw and electric. He wanted to drown in it.

Jeongwon sat down at the foot of the couch near Inhwee’s legs.

“No.” Inhwee sat up fully. “I’m fine.”

“You look pale.”

Inhwee huffed a soft laugh. “I’m always pale.” He lightly patted his own cheeks, drawing up his legs, then looked at Jeongwon. “You must be tired from driving.”

“I’m fine.” Jeongwon shrugged.

“Didn’t you say you were tired?”

“Yeah.” Jeongwon stared at his bare feet. Even his toes were cute. He looked up into his eyes. “Let’s get some rest.”

“Huh?”

Jeongwon chuckled. “I’m tired, and so are you. Let’s sleep for a bit. Don’t worry, I’ll set an alarm.”

Inhwee hesitated before nodding. “Okay.”

Jeongwon got up and extended a hand. Inhwee stared at it for a moment before slowly reaching out and grasping it. Jeongwon pulled him up gently before releasing his grip and stepping back. Something waltzed across Inhwee’s face and disappeared before Jeongwon could decipher it.

“I’ll close the curtains,” Jeongwon said, walking toward the window.

“Okay.”

Inhwee headed to his bed, choosing the one nearest to the door.

Jeongwon drew the heavy curtains shut, blocking out the bright afternoon light. “Better.”

“Yeah. Thanks. It’s perfect.”

Jeongwon climbed into his own bed, pulling out his phone to set the alarm. “I’ve set it for two. Let’s wake up then…” He glanced at Inhwee, who already had his eyes closed. “And then go out with the girls.”

“Mm.” Inhwee hummed, his voice thick with exhaustion.

Jeongwon studied him for a moment. Despite Inhwee’s earlier energy, he looked more drained than Jeongwon felt, and Jeongwon had been the one driving for two hours.

Quietly, Jeongwon got up and walked over to Inhwee’s bedside. He leaned down slightly, voice softer than he intended. “Sweet dreams, Inhwee.”

Inhwee shifted slightly under the covers but didn’t open his eyes. “Hmm,” he mumbled sleepily.

Jeongwon smiled. He wanted to crawl into his bed and hold him.

 

---------

 

The sharp sound of Inhwee's voice, high and frantic, cut through the haze of sleep like a siren. “Damn it! We were supposed to meet the girls in thirty minutes!”

Jeongwon jolted awake, his heart pounding in his chest. The room was dim, with the faint glow of early afternoon sunlight filtering through the curtains. He blinked groggily, his vision settling on Inhwee’s silhouette as he stretched across the space between their beds, fumbling for his phone on the nightstand.

Jeongwon forced the sleep from his eyes and focused on Inhwee, who was now sitting on his bed, tense and hunched over, fingers flying across his phone screen.

“Jeongwon, wake up! It’s already past 3:30!” Inhwee’s voice was frantic.

Jeongwon exhaled heavily and rolled onto his side, eyes still half-lidded, watching as Inhwee’s panic set in. His hair was sticking up in every direction, lips slightly parted as he muttered under his breath, scrolling through his notifications.

He sat up slowly, his body feeling heavy and sluggish, as though still tethered to the warm cocoon of sleep. He squinted at Inhwee, who was thumbing through his phone with hurried desperation.

“Oh, gosh: twelve missed calls!” Inhwee’s voice cracked with disbelief and guilt.

Jeongwon didn’t say a word. Instead, he rolled out of his bed with lazy grace and crawled onto Inhwee’s mattress. He wrapped his arms around Inhwee’s waist, pulling him down with him as he buried his face into the soft fabric of Inhwee’s shirt. Mmm, he smells so good, Jeongwon thought, inhaling deeply. The scent of Inhwee’s cologne mixed with the faint traces of sleep was intoxicating.

“Mmm, let’s just sleep,” Jeongwon murmured, his voice muffled against Inhwee’s chest. He tightened his grip, feeling the warmth of Inhwee’s body against his own.

“Jeo—Jeongwon…” Inhwee’s voice was strained, and his body stiffened against him, but he didn’t immediately push him away.

Jeongwon pressed his cheek against the warmth of Inhwee’s chest. “Just a few more minutes,” he whispered, his breath warm against Inhwee’s skin. He felt Inhwee’s heartbeat quicken beneath his cheek, the steady rhythm growing erratic. When Inhwee tried to wiggle free, Jeongwon held on firmly, refusing to let go.

“The girls are—”

“Umm, please…” Jeongwon murmured, nuzzling against him, enjoying the way Inhwee’s chest pumped under him. His nose brushed against the sensitive spot just below Inhwee’s collarbone. He felt Inhwee shiver, his body tensing for a moment before relaxing slightly. He liked him like this. “A little longer…” Jeongwon’s voice was soft, almost pleading.

Before Inhwee could argue further, his phone vibrated aggressively in his hand. He fumbled with it before bringing it to his ear, shifting slightly but still caught in Jeongwon’s tightening grasp. Jeongwon refused to let go even as Inhwee tried to sit up.

“H–hello? Hey, Jiwon. Sorry… No, I’m so sorry…” Inhwee’s voice was apologetic, his tone sheepish. Jeongwon could hear the muffled sound of Jiwon’s voice on the other end, her words sharp and accusing.

“Do you know how many times we called you? When are you guys coming down?” Jiwon’s voice was loud enough that Jeongwon could hear it clearly, even without the phone on speaker.

“Sorry…. We were so tired that we slept through the alarm,” Inhwee rushed to explain, his voice quieter now, like he was bracing himself. Jeongwon could feel the tension in his body, the way his muscles tightened as he tried to keep his composure.

Jeongwon hummed sleepily, loosening his hold just enough for Inhwee to sit up. He admired the way his hair fell into his eyes, the way his lips pressed together in nervous anticipation.

“Hmm… fine. Since you looked tired and Jeongwon drove all the way here, I’ll let it go this time.” Jiwon’s tone softened slightly, though there was still an edge to her words.

Inhwee exhaled sharply, a sigh of relief escaping his lips.

“But lunch is on you!” Jiwon added, her voice teasing now.

Jeongwon smirked. Before Inhwee could respond, he slipped both of his strong, long legs under Inhwee’s, now sitting between his open thighs, forcing him to hook a leg over his thigh. Wrapping his arms around his middle again, he squeezed teasingly. He rested his chin on Inhwee’s shoulder, listening as Jiwon continued to scold them.

He faltered and had to clear his throat before he tried again. “Yeah, of course,” Inhwee agreed quickly, trying not to sound breathless. Jeongwon pressed his body closer, holding him tighter.

“Did you order?… No, you did good, keep eating. We’ll be right there.” Inhwee’s voice was steady now, though Jeongwon could feel the way his heart was still racing.

As soon as the call ended, Jeongwon nuzzled Inhwee’s neck, his lips brushing against the soft skin there.

“Hey,” Inhwee said, his voice soft and thin, but firm. “There’s no time for this.”

Jeongwon ignored him, nuzzling closer. He felt Inhwee tense, his body going rigid beneath his touch.

“Soe—Soeyeon sounded really mad,” Inhwee muttered, his voice less steady now.

“Mmm… I’m sleepy,” Jeongwon murmured, his voice low and husky. He slid his palm down Inhwee’s back, feeling him tense, then shiver under his touch.

Inhwee let out a strangled sound before shoving at his arms. “Ugh. Get up already.”

Jeongwon chuckled, the sound low and warm, feeling the heat radiating off him. Even the side of Inhwee’s neck was turning pink.

“Stop laughing,” Inhwee grumbled, still flustered.

Jeongwon pulled back slowly, just enough to look at him. Their faces were close, too close, and he could feel the warmth of Inhwee’s breath against his lips. He loved it. For a moment, everything seemed to slow down, the air between them thick with unspoken words and unfulfilled desires. The sound of Inhwee’s heartbeat filled the space between them, loud and insistent.

Unexpectedly, Inhwee reached up and grabbed Jeongwon’s shoulders, his fingers digging into the muscle as he started to massage him. Jeongwon blinked, surprised.

“What are you doing?” he asked. He had expected their good mood to lead to something more—a kiss, perhaps, or even just a lingering touch. It had been so long since they’d been this close, and Jeongwon was trying his best to tantalize Inhwee into initiating. But he wanted him.

Jeongwon tilted his head, searching his face.

“Y–you must’ve been really tired from driving,” Inhwee stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. His cheeks were flushed, and he couldn’t seem to meet Jeongwon’s gaze.

Jeongwon blinked at him, his heart pounding in his chest. Exhaling through his nose, he reached up, taking Inhwee’s right hand off his shoulder and clasping it between them. He squeezed gently, holding Inhwee’s gaze, and let his lips curve into something teasing.

Holding Inhwee’s gaze, Jeongwon said coquettishly, “That totally woke me up.” His voice was lower now.

His breath hitched in his throat, and Inhwee’s face turned as bright as a Christmas tree in December, his focus disappearing entirely. He couldn’t look away from Jeongwon.

“Then let’s go down,” Jeongwon said, standing up with a lazy grin and stretching. His job here was done.

Chapter 20

 

The sun dipped low, painting the sky in hues of amber and rose, but Jeongwon’s focus was elsewhere. His eyes lingered on Inhwee, who walked a few paces ahead, shoulders tense, concealed by that damned rash guard.

Of all things, a rash guard. Jeongwon shook his head, a mix of frustration and amusement bubbling in his chest. He had been looking forward to seeing Inhwee bare-skinned under the sun, wearing something that would make it impossible to look away. But no. Instead, he had chosen to cover up, claiming with a smile that stretched from ear to ear that he was “going to bulk up” next year. Jeongwon had smirked at the time, offering to be Inhwee’s gym buddy, but now, as he watched the fabric cling to his friend’s frame, he couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment.

Maybe he was too lustful, Jeongwon silently reasoned.

“Inhwee, let’s take a picture before we go in!” Seoyeon’s voice broke through Jeongwon’s thoughts as she skipped ahead. Jiwon walked a step behind her in a sleek white two-piece, a purple floatie tucked under her arm.

Inhwee nodded, his voice soft. “Okay.”

He adjusted his shirt slightly, his fingers twitching before he forced them still.

Jeongwon frowned, his eyes following the action.

Was he self-conscious?

Shaking his head, he caught up to them, his bare chest glistening under the fading sunlight. Exhaling softly, he raked his fingers through his hair, and he didn’t miss the way Inhwee’s eyes flickered to him before quickly looking away. The girls openly stared, but Jeongwon didn’t care. He had worked hard for this, and if he were going to show off, he would do it right. He wanted to tempt Inhwee. His eyes were the only ones he wanted on him.

“Jeongwon, over here!” Jiwon called, taking in the attention he was drawing. She waved him over, making sure he’d join the group.

He stopped next to Inhwee, his smile widening as he noticed the faint flush creeping up his friend’s neck. Inhwee’s reaction to a half-naked him was so enjoyable, he could combust. “Oh, this?” Jeongwon said with a playful grin, following Inhwee’s gaze down to his toned abs. “I worked out so I could wear a bathing suit.”

Inhwee went bright red. His mouth opened, but before he could stammer out a response, Seoyeon interrupted. “Guys, let’s take a picture!” She whipped out her phone, all smiles. “Gather around.”

Jeongwon slid up behind Inhwee, his arm draping over his shoulders, pulling him close. Jiwon posed in front of Jeongwon, her smile bright, and Seoyeon snapped the photo. “I’m going to take lots. Say cheese!” she sang.

Inhwee held up a peace sign, his smile awkward, and Jeongwon almost laughed. It was endearing. God, he’s adorable.

“Again, another pose this time!” Seoyeon said, capturing a few more shots before finally letting them go. She shared the pictures in the group chat, and Jeongwon immediately saved his favorite, setting it as his lock screen. It was the first one—Inhwee’s awkward peace sign, Jeongwon’s arm around him, the closeness between them palpable.

“Guys,” Seoyeon chirped, pulling the floatie around her waist. “Let’s go in!”

“Sure, I’m just going to check the pictures,” Inhwee said, already scrolling through his phone. A second later, he turned to Jeongwon. “Hey, did you see the pictures? They all look good, except the first one.”

Jeongwon tilted his screen toward him, and Inhwee’s eyes widened. “That’s the first picture!”

Jeongwon smiled.

“Why do you keep staring at that one? My face looks weird.”

“Because this is my first picture with you.”

Inhwee’s lips parted in surprise before he flushed a deep, burning red. He turned away, fanning himself dramatically. “O…oh.” He turned away again, fanning himself even more. “The sun feels hotter and hotter.”

Jeongwon huffed a laugh, his eyes tracing the curve of Inhwee’s back. Cute .

“Let’s go in,” Inhwee suggested, his voice a little too high-pitched.

They put their electronics away and waded into the water, the coolness a welcome relief from the heat. Jeongwon kept his eyes on Inhwee, who seemed determined to avoid his gaze. Every time their eyes met, Inhwee would look away, his cheeks flushing. It was endearing, and Jeongwon couldn’t help but want to tease him.

“And I was—” Jeongwon started, but his words were cut off. Water rushed up to engulf him as he was dunked under. Through the muffled sound of the ocean, he could hear Inhwee’s laughter. He came up sputtering, raking his wet bangs out of his eyes, and turned to see Inhwee laughing, the sound light and carefree.

“Inhwee, you little—” Jeongwon said threateningly, taking a step toward him.

Inhwee shrieked, backing away, but Jeongwon caught him in two strides. He wrapped his arms around Inhwee’s waist from behind, pulling him close. Inhwee squirmed, laughing, but Jeongwon held him tight, his body pressing against his friend’s.

“Get over here,” Jeongwon said, his voice low and playful.

“No, I’m out of here,” Inhwee laughed, twisting in his hold, trying to lean away, but his movements only caused his plump bottom to press into Jeongwon’s groin.

Jeongwon’s breath hitched, but he forced himself to stay calm, his voice teasing as his arms tightened around Inhwee. Inhwee’s body was slight but warm, and Jeongwon could feel the way he tensed at the contact.

He whispered in his ear, his mouth brushing the shell of it, “You’re not going anywhere.”

Jiwon reached out, grabbing Inhwee’s arm, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “I’ll save you,” she said, breaking their moment.

“Ow! My arm,” Inhwee said, laughing, but Jeongwon didn’t let go.

“Give Inhwee back,” Seoyeon said, giggling.

“No,” Jeongwon replied, his voice firm but gentle. He aligned their bodies, tightening his hold. The heat between them was undeniable. He felt Inhwee’s heartbeat against him, and he knew Inhwee was aware of it too.

Inhwee’s laughter faded, and Jeongwon could feel the tension in his frame.

“Jeo—Jeongwon, wait…. Let me go,” Inhwee said, his voice trembling.

Jeongwon leaned closer, his lips brushing against Inhwee’s ear again. “I’m going to stick even closer to you.” Inhwee flinched, his breath catching, and Jeongwon felt a surge of satisfaction.

“Inhwee, try harder! Why are you staying still?” Seoyeon laughed, oblivious to the tension.

Jeongwon slid his hand down Inhwee’s bare stomach, his fingers grazing the edge of his swimsuit. Inhwee tensed, his breath hitching. “Uh, yeah…about that…” He wiggled haphazardly, elbowing Jeongwon in the stomach. “Let go of me! I’m serious.”

Then, suddenly, before Jeongwon could react, Inhwee stumbled, falling into the water with a splash. Jeongwon paused for a moment, laughing, until he realized Inhwee hadn’t surfaced. He dived in for him and saw him under the water, clutching his leg. Jeongwon reached him with broad strokes and collected him in his arms. His voice was frantic as he hoisted him up in a bridal carry. “Inhwee!”

Jeongwon’s eyes scanned Inhwee with concern as he blinked up at him, eyes wide. “That scared me. Are you okay?” Jeongwon asked, his heart pounding.

“Y–yeah…” Inhwee sputtered. “My foot cramped up.” He swallowed hard. Jeongwon began making his way out of the water toward the shore. Inhwee looked around and noticed the attention they were garnering.

“Thanks,” he muttered. “I’m fine now…”

“What do you mean? Your—”

“Put me down. Hurry!” Inhwee’s sudden outburst cut Jeongwon off. It was as if he suddenly remembered their position. His hands flew to cover his groin, his face flushing. Jeongwon ignored him, his grip firm. He felt a thrill of satisfaction. Inhwee was flustered because of him . “Stop, you're hurt.”

“Jeongwon, really, I—”

“I’m taking you back to the tent,” Jeongwon said, carrying him out of the water. The girls followed behind, their voices filled with concern as they asked about Inhwee’s well-being.

“I’m taking Inhwee to the tent. Go ahead and enjoy the water,” Jeongwon told them.

“Inhwee, are you okay?” Jiwon asked, rushing to catch up. Curling into himself against Jeongwon, Inhwee whispered, his tone curt, “Please don’t let her see me.”

Jeongwon frowned down at him, confused, but he said over his shoulder to her, “He’s fine. Give us a few minutes.”

“Oh,” she muttered, slowing to a pause. Seoyeon hooked her arm through hers and said with a smile, “Jeongwon will take care of Inhwee.”

Jeongwon nodded and gave them a bright smile, maintaining his quick pace.

“I’m thirsty,” he heard Seoyeon say.

“Oh. Okay. Let’s get something to drink,” Jiwon replied. As Jeongwon entered the tent, she called out, “Jeongwon—”

Gently setting Inhwee down, Jeongwon looked back at the girls and said, “I’ll be right there after I treat Inhwee. Go ahead without me.” He turned to look at Inhwee, who had instantly cowered the moment Jeongwon stepped back, pulling his legs up and wrapping his arms around his knees. He was trying to hide.

Their eyes met, and Jeongwon’s chest expanded and deflated.

Jeongwon reached for the zipper of the tent and closed the entrance behind them.

“Let me see it,” he said, his voice soft but commanding as he dropped to his knees and inched toward Inhwee. His harsh breathing filled the silence, thickening the air inside the tent.

“Jeongwon,” Inhwee finally muttered, his voice barely audible, “it’s just a cramp. I’m not hurt. Go.”

“You’re hurt.” Jeongwon reached for his leg and grabbed his knee, his touch careful but firm. A sharp flinch ran through Inhwee, a low groan spilling past his lips as he stretched his leg. Jeongwon’s grip tightened instinctively, a strange satisfaction curling in his stomach at the way Inhwee reacted to his touch.

His hands were firm but gentle, sliding down Inhwee’s thigh with deliberate slowness that made Inhwee’s breath hitch. A groan escaped him as Jeongwon worked to release the cramp, his body jolting involuntarily.

Jeongwon felt a rush of heat at the sound, his own pulse pounding at the way Inhwee’s breath trembled, at the way his fingers curled helplessly into the fabric of his swimsuit.

“Ugh! Why does it hurt so much?”

Jeongwon didn’t answer, his focus entirely on kneading the tension from Inhwee’s leg. He maneuvered Inhwee’s limb carefully, fingertips pressing firmly into the tight muscle, searching for the knot. His grip was steady, deliberate, but the way Inhwee responded—every shudder, every quiet gasp—sent something electric through him. Jeongwon tried to maintain control, to act unaffected, but it was impossible not to notice the way Inhwee trembled beneath his touch.

Slowly, Jeongwon dragged his fingers along the curve of Inhwee’s calf, applying just enough pressure to work through the cramp. His touch lingered, moving higher, his fingers tracing the sleek muscle of Inhwee’s thigh.

When his fingertips brushed against the hem of Inhwee’s swimsuit, just barely ghosting beneath the fabric, Inhwee’s breath hitched sharply. His entire body stiffened.

“N-not there…” Inhwee’s voice came out in a broken whisper, his fingers twitching before gripping Jeongwon’s wrist tightly.

Jeongwon stilled, his gaze flicking up to watch the way Inhwee’s lips parted, the way his pupils were wide, dark with something he was desperately trying to suppress.

A slow smirk tugged at the corner of Jeongwon’s lips, but he said nothing. Instead, he adjusted his grip and coaxed Inhwee’s leg over his own thigh, shifting him into a more open, vulnerable position. His movements were unhurried, as if he were only focused on the cramp, but he couldn’t ignore the way Inhwee sucked in a sharp breath, or the way his fingers dug into his own skin as if bracing himself.

Jeongwon continued kneading the muscle, keeping his touch measured and careful. But his resolve wavered when Inhwee let out another soft, unsteady gasp. His fingers twitched against Jeongwon’s wrist, then tightened.

“I’m fine,” Inhwee stammered, his voice unsteady. “It’s gone now.”

Jeongwon studied him, his gaze dragging over the rise and fall of Inhwee’s chest, noticing how his breath came too fast, too shallow. He knew Inhwee felt it—the heat, the pull between them, the unspoken tension that had been building for far too long.

For a moment, Jeongwon considered testing him, pushing just a little further to see how much Inhwee could take before he finally stopped pretending. But instead, he exhaled and let go.

Patience, he reminded himself. This wasn’t a race.

Slowly, Jeongwon eased Inhwee’s leg down, his fingers dragging lightly over his skin one last time before releasing him completely. He lingered for a moment, his gaze heavy and unreadable.

“Want to get some rest?” he murmured.

Inhwee nodded quickly, his eyes flicking up to meet Jeongwon’s for the briefest moment before looking away again, curling into himself and clutching his knee like a shield.

Jeongwon huffed a quiet chuckle, shifting back to give him space. Time. But he knew.

They both knew. This wasn’t over.

-----------

Jeongwon hadn’t even planned on getting into the water. He was just supposed to grab a drink with the girls, maybe wait for Inhwee to come out of the tent, but somehow, between Jiwon’s persistent pleading and his inability to find a good enough excuse, he had ended up waist-deep in the ocean, giving her a swimming lesson.

“Hey! I’m all better—”

Jeongwon’s head snapped up at the sound of Inhwee’s voice carrying across the sunbaked white sand, the familiar, slightly raspy tone cutting through the evening air. He turned instinctively, his gaze landing on Inhwee just as he stepped out from the tent. Jeongwon’s chest tightened, his mouth going dry.

“Don’t let go!” Jiwon squealed, gripping onto his arms like a lifeline as the waves rocked around them.

Inhwee’s face didn’t change, not immediately, but Jeongwon caught the moment his expression stiffened.

Jiwon tugged at his hands, breaking his focus. “I’m scared,” she murmured, looking up at him with wide eyes.

Right. Swimming lesson.

“You’re doing good,” he reassured her, though he was barely paying attention now. His mind was still on Inhwee, on the way he had looked at them—at him.

Was he jealous? But he knew how he felt about her. Regardless, the thought excited Jeongwon.

“Now paddle,” he instructed absently, glancing back toward Inhwee again.

From the corner of his eye, he saw Inhwee hesitate near the tent. His gaze lingered on Jeongwon, then flickered to Jiwon, then back again before he started moving toward them.

“Wow! I’m moving!” Jiwon cheered, squeezing his hands tighter. “I think I’m a good swimmer now.”

Jeongwon hummed a response, but his focus was slipping entirely. Inhwee had paused on the shoreline, his gaze locked onto them.

“This is all thanks to—” Jiwon’s sentence was abruptly cut off by a startled yelp as she lost her balance. “Agh!”

She stumbled right into him, her arms flailing before she landed against his chest.

Jeongwon instinctively caught her, steadying her with a firm grip. “You need to keep your balance,” he said automatically, adjusting her hold so she wouldn’t tip again. “Are you okay?”

Jiwon burst into laughter, still gripping onto him. “That scared me. Yeah, I’m fine. Thanks, Jeongwon.”

But Jeongwon wasn’t looking at her anymore. His gaze was fixed on Inhwee, who was now engaged in an animated conversation with a laughing Seoyeon.

Chapter 21

“We have to start getting ready for the real world soon,” Jiwon was saying. Jeongwon was barely keeping track of her words. She had been talking nonstop since they sat down at the beachside barbecue restaurant, her voice blending into the background noise of clinking glasses and sizzling meat. He had lost track of the conversation minutes ago, his mind drifting elsewhere.

Inhwee was too quiet. Too quiet since he’d come out of the tent.

“You okay, Inhwee?” Seoyeon asked, tilting her head toward him. “You still not feeling well?”

“What? Oh!” Inhwee blinked as if snapping out of a daze. “I’m fine. Just a food coma. I also didn’t get much sleep last night—I was too excited, that’s probably why.” He cheesed, but his eyes were still dark and serious.

The three laughed, except for Jeongwon, who kept watching Inhwee. He noticed how the smile didn’t reach his eyes and the faint lines of strain around them.

“You were that excited, huh?” Seoyeon teased.

Inhwee laughed along with them, but again, it was hollow. Jeongwon noticed.

“Oh, come on,” Jiwon giggled, nudging him. “You have to pace yourself.”

“The food is good, though,” Jeongwon said, throwing him an easy out. He took a sip from his drink.

Inhwee clutched his stomach dramatically. “Right.” His gaze flickered off him too quickly. Jeongwon wasn’t enjoying this new dance he had found himself in as an unwilling partner.

“Does your stomach hurt?” Jeongwon asked, sitting up and turning to look at Inhwee.

“Oh, I’m—”

“You two are cute.” Seoyeon propped her elbows on the table, resting her chin on the backs of her hands as she turned to Jeongwon.

“Huh?” Inhwee blurted, looking extremely alarmed, his whole body going stiff. His wide eyes darted to Seoyeon, then to Jeongwon, then back again, his face turning redder by the second.

Jeongwon just blinked, trying to make sense of what she meant by that vague statement.

“U-Us? Why would we…?” Inhwee stammered, his voice high and panicked, his face heating up, his ears glowing, eyes shiny under the glow of the restaurant’s lights.

Seoyeon let out a bright laugh. “You two are cute, but I meant them .” She glanced pointedly from Jeongwon to Jiwon, who immediately flushed. “You two would make a cute couple.”

Inhwee’s face fell. Jeongwon noticed that, too.

“Stop joking,” Jiwon huffed, but her twinkling eyes betrayed her amusement.

Seoyeon, of course, did the opposite of stopping. “Why don’t you have a girlfriend?” she pressed, pointing at Jeongwon. “You’re obviously popular.”

Jeongwon didn’t answer. He didn’t even move except to blink.

“Maybe your standards are too high,” she added, unfazed by his silence.

Jeongwon shifted his gaze away from her and settled it on Inhwee. Inhwee, who looked like he wanted to be anywhere else but here. His shoulders were tense, his fingers gripping his fork a little too hard.

“They’re not high,” Jeongwon said simply.

“Then what are they?” Seoyeon prodded.

Jeongwon exhaled a quiet laugh, running his fingers through his hair before putting on a teasing smile. “Inhwee has high standards.”

Inhwee released a loud gasp. “What?” he sputtered, looking utterly betrayed. “Why are you dragging me into this?”

Jeongwon chuckled.

“You know,” Jiwon gushed, “when I first met Inhwee, I thought he’d be kinda cold. But he’s so cute!”

Seoyeon nodded enthusiastically. “Yeah! Honestly, I thought you’d be super unapproachable. But you’re so nice! I’m really glad I was wrong.”

Inhwee was bright red now, a loopy smile on his face.

Jeongwon smiled, warm and knowing. “Inhwee is always like this. He’s calm, comfortable to be around.”

Inhwee stilled.

“Is Inhwee always like that?” Seoyeon asked, gazing between them, her eyes twinkling.

Jeongwon’s stomach tightened painfully. He chuckled and nodded. “He’s also considerate and kind.” Jeongwon continued.

“Aww,” Jiwon cooed.

Inhwee looked up, his gaze locking onto Jeongwon’s.

“And he’s cute, just as you said,” Jeongwon added, his voice dipping lower, softer, more intimate.

The noise around them blurred. The girls, the restaurant, the crackling of the grill—it all faded as Jeongwon focused solely on Inhwee, on the way his lips parted, breath shallow.

Jeongwon clenched his jaw, a muscle in his cheek twitching as he swallowed hard. Something fluttered deep inside him.

“You surprised me, too, Jeongwon,” Jiwon’s voice broke through, yanking him back.

“Huh?” Jeongwon blinked, snapping his gaze away.

“Because you’re more serious than you look,” she said, grinning.

“Huh?” he repeated, still thrown off.

“You two are too cute! I love your friendship,” Seoyeon gushed.

Jiwon smirked. “For a second there, I thought you were bragging about your girlfriend.”

“I would melt if my boyfriend talked about me like that,” Seoyeon giggled, nudging Inhwee playfully.

Inhwee groaned, covering his face.

Jeongwon laughed. The girls joined in. The moment passed.

“This is hilarious,” Seoyeon said, finishing her drink and refilling it. “Jiwon, let’s grill a little more meat.”

“Okay! One sec.” Jiwon jumped up, grabbing the tongs—only to immediately drop them with a shriek.

Jeongwon, who had been quietly observing Inhwee, moved on instinct. His body was up before he was even aware of what he was doing. “Are you hurt?” He was already standing, reaching for her. “Should we go to the hospital?”

Jiwon shook her head, nursing her hand. “No, no, it’s not that bad.”

“Let’s run your hand under cold water.” Jeongwon turned toward Seoyeon and Inhwee. “Hey, can you borrow some ointment or a first aid kit from the front?”

“Yeah, sure—”

“No,” Inhwee cut in. His voice was firm, but there was something else underneath it. “You stay here with Jiwon. I’ll go.”

Jeongwon turned to him, their eyes meeting briefly before Inhwee looked away and hurried off.

Something felt off.

Jeongwon exhaled, watching Inhwee’s retreating figure. That strange feeling from earlier settled deeper into his chest.

----------

“Are you better now?” Inhwee asked, his voice soft but laced with a tension that made Jeongwon’s spine tingle.

Jeongwon’s eyes flickered to Inhwee’s face, taking in the slight furrow of his brow and the way his lips pressed together with concern.

They were all crowded around Jiwon in the hotel lobby, the mood more giddy and casual than filled with concern. The restaurant had been a disaster—nothing useful for Jiwon’s burn, just awkward scrambling. Now, back at the hotel, Seoyeon sat next to Jiwon on the plush couch, waving off their worries.

“Yeah, this is nothing,” she said, her tone light. “I just want to get drunk and forget about burning my fingers like an idiot.” She laughed, and soon Seoyeon joined her. “Yes, please!” Seoyeon cheered.

Jeongwon glanced at Inhwee again, catching the worry etched into his face. It was subtle, but Jeongwon had learned to read him—the way his jaw tightened, the flicker in his eyes of something darker, something Jeongwon couldn’t quite name but felt in his gut. Jealousy? The thought sent a spark through him. He stepped closer, brushing past Inhwee to reach for the bandage from the open first aid kit.

“Let me wrap it for you,” he said, his voice steady but his heart racing.

“Oh…thanks,” Jiwon murmured, her cheeks flushing pink as she held out her hand. Jeongwon took it gently, his fingers brushing against her skin as he began to wrap the bandage.

He could feel Inhwee’s eyes on him, burning into the side of his face, and it took everything in him not to look up. He kept his focus on Jiwon’s hand, maintaining the steady rhythm of his fingers as he worked.

“It’s better to wrap it immediately after putting the ointment on it,” Jeongwon advised, his tone clinical, though his mind was anything but. He could still feel Inhwee’s gaze, heavy and unrelenting, making his skin prickle with heat.

“Are you a med student or something?” Seoyeon teased, her voice cutting through the tension. Jeongwon glanced up, offering her a small smile, but his eyes flickered to Inhwee almost instinctively. The other man was quiet, his expression unreadable, but Jeongwon noticed the faint tremor in his hands and the way he clenched his fists at his sides.

“Thank you, Jeongwon,” Jiwon said, her voice soft and demure. “I’m better now, thanks to you.”

“That’s good,” Jeongwon replied, forcing himself to sound normal even as his heart pounded in his chest. “Don’t put anything too cold on it.”

He stepped back, finally releasing Jiwon’s hand, and glanced around the group. The girls were chatting now, the tension easing, but Inhwee—where was Inhwee? Jeongwon’s eyes darted to the spot where he’d last seen him, but it was empty. His stomach dropped.

“Where did Inhwee go?” he asked, his voice sharper than he intended. The girls looked at him, their expressions confused.

“Did he run to the bathroom?” Jiwon suggested, cradling her bandaged hand.

“Let me check,” Jeongwon said, already pulling out his phone. He texted Inhwee quickly, his fingers flying over the screen, but when there was no response after a minute, he called. The phone rang once, twice, then went to voicemail. Jeongwon’s jaw tightened. Damn it, Inhwee.

“Maybe he had to go number two,” Seoyeon said with a playful grin, earning a scolding look from Jiwon.

“Did he respond?” Jiwon asked, her voice gentle, but Jeongwon was already shaking his head.

“I’ll be right back,” he said, leaving the girls without another word. He didn’t have to think about where Inhwee might’ve gone—he knew.

The elevator ride felt like an eternity. Jeongwon tapped his foot impatiently, his mind racing with impatience and, frankly, annoyance.

When the doors finally opened, he strode down the hallway, his heart pounding louder with every step.

He found Inhwee in their room, lying face down on the bed. The sight made Jeongwon’s chest ache, and his annoyance cooled. Now, he simply wanted to soothe him.

He closed the door behind him, the soft click echoing in the silence. “Found you,” he said, his voice low as he padded toward the bed. He heard a sniffle and felt the urge to rock Inhwee until all his bad feelings disappeared.

The mattress shifted as he pressed his knee down onto it. “Why are you crying?” he asked, reaching out to pat Inhwee’s back.

Inhwee sniffed again but said nothing. Jeongwon’s hand lingered on his shoulder, the warmth of his skin seeping through the fabric of his shirt. He wanted to shake him, to demand answers, but instead, he grabbed his shoulder and gently turned him over. Inhwee’s face was streaked with tears, his eyes red and puffy. He lifted his hands to cover his face, but Jeongwon didn’t miss the way his breath hitched.

“I…wasn’t crying…” Inhwee mumbled, his voice shaky, but Jeongwon wasn’t buying it. He sat silently, watching him, his heart hammering in his chest. Was he really that jealous over me interacting with Jiwon? The thought sent a thrill through him, though he felt upset that his jealousy had left him like this all day. He shouldn’t take pleasure in Inhwee’s misery, but he liked knowing he was wanted, to the point of despair. He pushed his feelings down, focusing on the upset man in front of him.

“I just teared up from yawning,” Inhwee attempted, his voice barely above a whisper. Jeongwon sighed softly, grabbing his shoulder and hand to sit him up. He thought he had finally reached the end—his breaking point. Even with tears streaming down his face, Inhwee refused to admit what was happening between them. It was infuriating.

“Got it.” Jeongwon swallowed, his throat hurting from the pressure. “Well, everyone is waiting. Let’s go downstairs,” he said, his tone calm but his patience wearing thin.

Inhwee started wiggling, trying to pull away.

“Just go without me. Tell them I’m sleeping.”

Jeongwon froze, staring at him before releasing him and sitting down on the bed across from him. “Then I’m not going either.”

They sat in silence, the tension thick enough to cut with a knife. Inhwee’s face was still red, his breathing uneven, but Jeongwon didn’t look away. He leaned toward him, extending his hand to touch his forehead before gently stroking his hair. He wished they could stop this game of pretense, his heart aching. I wish I could tell you how much you mean to me.

“Are you sick?” Jeongwon asked, his voice soft, trying to respect Inhwee’s desire to lie and conceal his emotions. But Inhwee shook his head, his lips trembling as he spoke.

“You’re nice to everyone,” he said, his voice barely audible.

Jeongwon paused, pulling back. “I am?”

Inhwee shook his hands between them, palms facing Jeongwon. “You look good with Jiwon.” He shook his head, clearly dejected. “Even Seoyeon looks good with you, too.”

Jeongwon’s scowl was harsh. “What?”

Inhwee broke their gaze, shaking his head. “No… what I mean is…”

When he trailed off and stopped talking, Jeongwon leaned in closer, reaching out to cup Inhwee’s face. His heart was galloping. “What do you mean?” He caressed his cheek. “Be honest.”

Inhwee stubbornly shook his head and bit his bottom lip after saying, “Nothing.”

“Nothing?” Jeongwon tilted his head up, forcing him to meet his gaze.

Inhwee visibly shook as he inhaled. “I don’t know. The girls and you…”

Jeongwon looked at him expectantly. He wiped under Inhwee’s eye, his touch gentle, but his heart pounding. “The fact that I’m nice to other people—girls.” He moved between Inhwee’s legs, sliding his own under Inhwee’s, forcing him to throw his legs over Jeongwon’s. “Do you not like that?”

“Huh? What?… No…” Inhwee stammered, his eyes wide, but Jeongwon didn’t stop.

“Then change me,” Jeongwon said, his voice low and steady as he slid his fingers through Inhwee’s hair, his palm covering his ear. He bumped their foreheads together, their breaths mingling. “I only want to be good to one person, too, regardless of gender.”

Inhwee’s heart was pounding, and Jeongwon could feel it, could hear it in the silence between them. But still, Inhwee hesitated.

And in that moment, Jeongwon realized with complete horror what was possibly the principal reason they had been dancing around each other, and why Inhwee had been avoiding his own growing attraction. He was homophobic. He was so deeply in the closet that he had internalized the profound hatred society held for people under the LGBTQ umbrella. He truly believed something was wrong with two men being together. He didn’t want to be with Jeongwon because he feared sullying him, and if Jeongwon were to tell him right now that he was gay, Inhwee would blame himself for “turning him,” using it as more fuel for why he needed to run away and hide from his feelings.

Inhwee feared they didn’t and couldn’t look good together, even though they did. Deep down, he knew Jeongwon was hitting on him, but he was so deluded that he honestly didn’t think Jeongwon could be into men—let alone him—that he missed most of his flirts. Unless Jeongwon gave him no choice, he would keep running away because it felt safe. He wanted to feel safe, and his attraction to Jeongwon was terrifying.

“I…don’t know what you mean,” Inhwee whispered, his voice trembling.

Jeongwon’s lips curved into a small, bitter smile. “Oh, yeah?” he said, dropping his free hand to Inhwee’s waist and squeezing. Inhwee’s breath caught, his eyes widening as Jeongwon leaned in impossibly close. For a moment, they were frozen, their faces inches apart, the air between them charged with electricity. But then, abruptly, Jeongwon got up. “Okay.”

“Wh—where are you going?” Inhwee asked, his voice panicked as Jeongwon took large steps toward the door.

“Sleep if you’re tired. The girls are waiting,” Jeongwon said, his voice cold as he grabbed the doorknob. He looked back at Inhwee, his heart aching at the sight of him on the bed, his face panicked. “I’ll be back later.”

He opened the door and walked out, his heart pounding in his chest. He was furious, frustrated, but mostly, he was tired. He couldn’t keep doing this: this back and forth, this game of pretending.

Having feelings was rough, Jeongwon realized; he felt bad for his exes. He wanted reassurance, though he knew that was a futile desire at this moment.

“Hey,” he heard Inhwee’s soft voice as he called out to him, scooting off the bed. But Jeongwon didn’t stop. He looked at Inhwee one final time before closing the door behind him, the sound final, and walked down the hallway.

“Wait…” Inhwee pleaded, his voice shaky. Jeongwon looked at him, his heart racing at the sheer desperation on Inhwee’s face.

“Do you have something to say?” Jeongwon asked, his voice calm despite the pounding in his chest.

“Yeah… um…” Inhwee wavered, his hand reaching out as if to touch him, only to let it drop back to his side.

A couple walked up beside them, standing next to Jeongwon. Inhwee immediately fell silent, glaring at the ground.

The elevator arrived with a soft ding, the doors sliding open, but Jeongwon didn’t move. Instead, he asked Inhwee, his voice steady but his heart racing, “What is it?”

“D—don’t go,” Inhwee whispered a moment later, his voice thick with distress.

Jeongwon’s heart skipped a beat.

“Excuse me, are you getting on?” the lady asked, her hand outstretched to select her floor. Jeongwon looked at Inhwee, who had clenched his fists by his sides, his head dropped as he covered his face. Jeongwon shook his head and waved at the lady. She tapped her foot impatiently.

He stepped closer, his hand reaching out to grab Inhwee’s arm. “Why not?” he asked, his voice soft but demanding.

Inhwee’s body swayed, his voice trembling as he spoke through his fingers. “I… Jiwon.”

Jeongwon felt like ice was pouring through his veins. “What about her?”

Inhwee dropped his hands, clenching them into fists. “I… She likes you.”

Jeongwon advanced on him, scowling. “And I don’t like her.”

Inhwee shook his head, looking distressed.

“Inhwee, why are you so… insistent that—”

“Because you two look great together, and she’s—”

“No. Don’t finish that. You don’t mean it,” Jeongwon pleaded, his eyes stinging. He was so angry and hurt, he felt like crumbling into himself.

“I… Jeongwon, I…”

“I like you. A lot. And you know that.”

Jeongwon looked at him, eyes wide open, shocked. It was as if, for the first time, the film he had over his eyes had finally cleared, and he could see and hear Jeongwon. He heard and saw the truth, and he had nowhere left to run. He had been caught.

Sighing sadly, his voice barely above a whisper, Jeongwon asked, “Are you going to keep on pretending there’s nothing between us? Because, if so, we can’t be friends.”

“I like you,” Inhwee’s confession was rapid-fire fast.

“What?” Jeongwon blinked, his mind reeling. He didn’t think he would get Inhwee to give him his feelings.

Biting his bottom lip, Inhwee dropped his gaze. “I—”

For a moment, Jeongwon just stood there, his heart pounding in his chest. Then, without a word, he pulled Inhwee in, their lips crashing together. The kiss was desperate, hungry, all-consuming. Inhwee melted into it, his hands gripping Jeongwon’s shirt as if afraid he would disappear.

“Hey. Wait…” Inhwee mumbled between kisses, his voice muffled, but Jeongwon didn’t care.

“I love you,” Jeongwon admitted in a breathless rush, his fingers threading into Inhwee’s hair as he deepened the kiss.

“This is… the hallway,” Inhwee managed to say, but Jeongwon only pressed in closer, parting his lips, coaxing, demanding. His tongue slid against Inhwee’s in a slow, intoxicating stroke, sending shivers down both their spines. Inhwee’s hands pressed weakly against Jeongwon’s chest in protest, but Jeongwon licked the roof of his mouth, earning a soft gasp, then nipped at his bottom lip.

“Hey… wait… mmph—” Inhwee tried again, but Jeongwon didn’t stop, kissing him deeper, his hands roaming.

Then, finally, Inhwee pulled away, breathless.

“I can’t breathe,” he said weakly, his face flushed.

Jeongwon just laughed, pressing a wet kiss to the corner of his mouth. He never wanted to stop kissing or touching him.

“Come on,” he murmured, grabbing Inhwee’s hand and pulling him toward their room. The door was still open, and Jeongwon couldn’t help but tease as he pushed it shut behind them.

“You left the door open.”

Chapter 22

Notes:

Content Warning:

This story contains graphic depictions of sexual content. Please be aware that the scenarios depicted are fictional and not an accurate or comprehensive representation of real-life sexual experiences, particularly between two men.

It’s important to emphasize that sexual intimacy, especially between men, involves preparation, communication, and care that cannot be fully captured or conveyed in a fictional narrative. The reality is nuanced, layered, and deeply personal, and it’s vital to prioritize safety (use condoms, everyone), consent, and mutual respect in all intimate situations.

Furthermore, please don’t rely on fictional media or content found online as a substitute for proper sexual education. You might think you know everything you need to know because you consume stories that depict sexual intimacy; however, I am here to tell you: No, you don’t. Always seek reliable, evidence-based information, and don’t hesitate to consult trusted sources or professionals if you have questions.

Stay safe, take care of yourselves, and enjoy the story responsibly. 

Standing on the balcony, staring at the ocean, Jeongwon took in the way the moonlight softened Inhwee’s features, the way the night breeze played with his hair. The sky stretched endlessly above them, stars sprinkled like secrets waiting to be told. Jeongwon stepped forward, pressing against Inhwee’s back, wrapping his arms around him as he pressed a kiss to the side of his head.

“I thought you would never say it,” Jeongwon murmured, his lips lingering against Inhwee’s temple.

“Huh?” Inhwee turned his face slightly, just enough for Jeongwon to see the confusion in his eyes. Jeongwon only smiled and captured his lips in a kiss: soft, warm, but insistent. He pulled back to simply stare at Inhwee again. He was so goddamn handsome. No, beautiful.

Inhwee blinked at him, breath unsteady. “You’re the one who has been playing.”

Jeongwon kissed him again, swallowing whatever protest Inhwee might have had. “I’ve always been honest.”

“You—”

Another kiss. Jeongwon was determined to make him understand. It was clear Inhwee had missed, or had chosen to misunderstand, his obvious displays of attraction and his consistent pursuit over these last weeks. He didn't understand how he missed it, but he wanted to clear up all misunderstandings from now on.

Jeongwon muttered against his lips, “I’ve always liked you.”

Inhwee let out a shaky breath. “What about… your crush?”

Jeongwon barely let him finish before he grabbed Inhwee’s chin, stopping him from looking away. Instead of answering immediately, he turned his head and kissed Inhwee’s palm, letting his lips linger before pulling back to smile.

“You,” Jeongwon said simply.

Inhwee’s breath hitched. “Huh, but—”

Jeongwon sighed, his fingers tightening their grip on Inhwee’s waist as he kissed his cheek. Lowering his voice to a whisper, he let his lips brush against Inhwee’s ear. “It’s always been you; I want to be nice only to you.”

Inhwee inhaled sharply, the sound unsteady, almost pained. “I—”

“Do you like me, Inhwee?” Jeongwon pressed, his grip firm, grounding.

Inhwee nodded, but Jeongwon wasn’t satisfied. “Say it.”

Inhwee hesitated, and Jeongwon held him tighter, his arms molding their bodies together. “I—”

“Are you scared?” Jeongwon asked gently.

Inhwee nodded again, more hesitant this time. The sound of the waves crashed around them, surrounding them in a cocoon of salt and moonlight.

“Of us? Of this?”

Another nod.

Jeongwon let his hands roam up Inhwee’s back, slow and deliberate. “Is your friendship with Jiwon—”

“She likes you. A lot.”

“And—” he kissed the side of his head, “I like you a lot.”

“Okay.”

Jeongwon saw his small smile bloom before Inhwee turned his head and kissed him.

Before he turned away, Jeongwon asked, grabbing the side of his face, “Do you like me a lot?”

Inhwee’s eyes darted away from Jeongwon’s, his expression troubled. Jeongwon dropped his hand to his shoulder and tightened his arm around his waist.

“Okay. Inhwee…is your sexuality a source of distress?”

Inhwee flinched. “Huh?”

“Are you scared of… like me, a guy?” Jeongwon tactfully asked, his voice low and careful.

Inhwee hesitated, then countered, “Are you gay?”

Jeongwon dropped both hands to Inhwee’s waist and tapped his fingers lightly there, then started rocking them slightly, his chin resting on Inhwee’s shoulder. For now this was okay. They had nothing but time to be with each other as boyfriends and dive into deeper conversations.

Jeongwon truthfully answered, “I’ve been with girls.”

Inhwee stiffened. “Girls?”

Jeongwon’s heart stuttered. “I’ve had a girlfriend,” he quickly clarified, pressing a kiss to Inhwee’s ear, his lips just barely grazing his skin.

“Bisexual?” Inhwee asked, but the sadness in his voice twisted something inside Jeongwon’s chest.

“I like you.” Jeongwon flipped him around, cupping Inhwee’s face before kissing him deeply, lingering. He pulled back just enough to whisper against his lips, “So much.”

Inhwee’s pupils were blown wide, his lips parted as if words had escaped him. Jeongwon kissed him again, long and slow, before murmuring, “You don’t have to be scared.”

Inhwee pulled back, lips slightly swollen, eyes searching Jeongwon’s face. “I’m not.”

Jeongwon cradled his face, thumbs brushing over the apples of Inhwee’s cheeks. “I’m going insane.”

“What?” Inhwee’s voice was barely above a whisper.

Jeongwon kissed him again and, against his lips, murmured, “Why am I so happy?”

Inhwee let out a quiet, broken sound, pushing his hands against Jeongwon’s chest to create distance. “Are we… dating?”

Jeongwon blinked. His heart panicked and painfully slammed against his ribcage. With a softened gaze, he said, “I want us to. Do you?”

Inhwee’s expression wavered, shadows flickering in his eyes. He was scared; Jeongwon could see it. The weight of the unknown, the reality that once they crossed this line, there was no going back. 

But, in Jeongwon’s eyes, that has already happened. Their feelings were out in the open. There was no going back. He pulled Inhwee close again, pressing their foreheads together. “Inhwee, it’s okay if you’re scared and unsure. I’ve never been with a guy until you. But I know I like you.”

Inhwee sucked in a deep breath, his chest rising sharply, his collarbones visible in the dim light.

“A lot.” He insisted. Cradling his head, Jeongwon asked again, softer this time, “Do you like me?”

Inhwee was overwhelmed. He simply nodded.

Jeongwon smiled. “Then this is fine.”

Inhwee was the one who kissed him this time, and Jeongwon melted into it, pulling him in like he never wanted to let go.

——————————

Lying on the bed, their bodies tangled together, lips swollen and mouths dry from kissing, Jeongwon couldn’t stop staring at Inhwee. His hair was a mess, strands sticking to his damp forehead, his cheeks flushed a delicate pink. He looked utterly wrecked—soft, pliant, and so unbearably beautiful it made Jeongwon’s chest ache.

“Is this really okay?” Inhwee murmured, his voice quiet and uncertain.

Jeongwon ran his fingers through Inhwee’s tousled hair, his touch reverent as he savored the silkiness against his fingertips. He tilted his head down, brushing a kiss against Inhwee’s temple and lingering there just to breathe him in.

“This is more than okay,” he murmured, his lips grazing the shell of Inhwee’s ear. “This is amazing.”

Inhwee exhaled sharply, his fingers tightening where they rested against Jeongwon’s ribs. “It’s…” He trailed off, shaking his head as if trying to clear his thoughts. He tried again. “I’ve never,” he stopped and sighed. He made a small movement, as if to slip away from Jeongwon’s embrace, but Jeongwon wouldn’t let him go. He held him tighter, feeling the rapid beat of Inhwee’s heart against his own.

“What’s wrong?” Jeongwon asked, concern creeping into his tone.

“Nothing,” Inhwee said, but his voice was unconvincing.

“You can tell me anything.” Jeongwon’s fingers brushed along Inhwee’s jaw, coaxing him to meet his gaze.

“It’s just… I never thought I would…”

“What?”

Inhwee stared at Jeongwon for a long time, then said, his throat working as he swallowed hard, “Were you popular in high school?”

The question threw Jeongwon off. “Huh?”

“Yeah?” Inhwee said, his fingers trailing the slope of Jeongwon’s nose, his touch featherlight as he traced the curve of Jeongwon’s upper lip before skimming over the fuller bottom one. Jeongwon resisted the urge to catch Inhwee’s fingers between his teeth, to kiss each one slowly, indulgently.

Fuck . He liked him so much.

A distracted Jeongwon lied: “Not really.”

Inhwee smiled, a knowing glint in his tired eyes. “You were.”

“It was just based on appearances,” Jeongwon admitted softly.

“It always is.”

The corners of Jeongwon’s eyes crinkled in amusement. “Oh, yeah? Then you must have been super popular.”

Inhwee rolled his eyes and snorted. “ You're the only one who thinks that.”

“I can confirm that’s a lie.”

“Whatever,” he muttered, but his eyes gleamed. Then his expression turned serious and thoughtful. “People don’t like you for who you are; it’s always about their perception of you based on how you appear.”

Jeongwon chuckled, rubbing slow circles into Inhwee’s back. “What’s making you turn philosophical?”

Inhwee exhaled, his fingers still absently touching Jeongwon, as if he couldn’t stop. “Well, I wasn’t popular.”

“Sacrilegious,” Jeongwon murmured. But as he looked at Inhwee, really looked, something clicked. The fear he harbored because of his feelings for him, his friendship with Gangwoo, and the way he surrounded himself with the other guys. It all made sense.  He was performing, tolerating bad behavior just to belong, to be one of them. He was afraid of being isolated, just as he had been when he was a child, and now, with his uncontrollable feelings for Jeongwon having come to the surface, he feared being isolated from the greater society as well. 

Jeongwon wondered if Inhwee had been bullied growing up. His heart ached at the thought, and he wished he could reach back in time, scoop up that younger version of Inhwee, and shield him from whatever loneliness and torment he had suffered. Even now, his chest tightened with the need to protect him.

Jeongwon understood Inhwee’s conflicted feelings. He, too, was grappling with a sudden and unexpected shift. If he were being honest, he could confidently say he believed he was more gay than bisexual. For Inhwee’s sake, he could pretend otherwise and say he was bi to make things easier. But the moment those words had slipped out of his mouth a few weeks ago at the bar with Changjun, he’d realized he hadn’t fully understood his sexuality. The apathy and irritation he’d always felt toward dating women wasn’t because he disliked romance; it was because he wasn’t drawn to them in that way. It wasn’t about the lack of emotional connection; it was about desire. He wasn’t interested in women because they weren’t what he wanted.

What he wanted, what he had been craving, was Inhwee. Not only because he was Inhwee, but because he wasn’t a woman. Being with Inhwee felt honest in a way Jeongwon hadn't realized until now. Giving in to his feelings for Inhwee, exploring and studying them had allowed him to realize how he had always put on an act when it came to how he dealt with women in a romantic context.

With Inhwee, he was realizing, there was no pretending. No performing. It made his chest ache and his stomach twist, but it felt real. It felt like the first time he was living his life on his own terms, for himself, not for his parents or society. Just for him. Because what he truly wanted, and what he had always wanted, even if he didn’t have the words for it until now, was him. A man. Inhwee. And just the thought of Inhwee being his boyfriend filled him with a quiet, dizzying joy.

Jeongwon was willing and ready to slowly walk through their new reality with Inhwee. He didn’t mind waiting for him, as long as they were together.

“You’re beautiful.”

“Beautiful?”

Jeongwon laughed. “Handsome.”

Jaejoong chuckled, but the sound lacked levity. “Yeah. I don’t know about that.”

“Why not?”

“My looks…” Inhwee sighed, his fingers drifting down Jeongwon’s chin. “I’ve always been comfortable with girls—women.”

Jeongwon threaded his fingers through Inhwee’s hair again, pulling him closer, wishing he could hold him so tightly they would melt together.

Their gaze locked. Jeongwon smiled.

“They were blind.”

Inhwee scowled, a crease forming between his brows. “Huh?”

“You’re beautiful,” Jeongwon said simply, his voice laced with sincerity.

Inhwee flushed, looking away. Jeongwon wished he could show him what he saw, let Inhwee see himself through his eyes.

“I have four sisters,” Inhwee muttered.

“Huh?” Jeongwon was confused by how fast Inhwee was switching topics. “I know.”

“Girls. I guess I’m comfortable with them.”

“You’re popular with them,” Jeongwon teased.

Inhwee scoffed, rolling his eyes. “Not when you exist,” he teased back.

Jeongwon wanted to tease him about finding him attractive, but at that moment, he just wanted Inhwee to know and understand that he was beautiful; that he, Jung Jeongwon, found him good-looking.

“No, you’re more than just handsome, you’re beautiful,” Jeongwon insisted. “Inside and out.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Inhwee muttered. “I’m also the new coming of Christ,” he teased. Then he sighed, his fingers slipping away from Jeongwon’s skin, and Jeongwon instantly missed the warmth.

“You are,” Jeongwon insisted again, then smirked playfully. “And with men, too.” His amusement faded, though, at the thought of someone else vying for Inhwee’s attention, someone else touching him, someone else kissing him. His grip on Inhwee tightened, his voice dropping lower, more intimate. “You’re popular with me.”

Inhwee’s breath hitched. Jeongwon felt the rapid pound of his heart, the way his body tensed before softening again. “I… I—what I’m trying to say is…” Inhwee stammered. Jeongwon felt his pounding heartbeat. “I don’t know,” Inhwee finally said, then turned his head and kissed Jeongwon. 

The kiss was desperate, filled with something raw and uncertain. Jeongwon kissed back just as fiercely, rolling them over and pinning Inhwee beneath him, his hands trapping Inhwee’s wrists above his head on the pillow.

“Jeongwon—!”

Jeongwon ground against him, feeling their mutual arousal, the heat between them, and Inhwee gasped, eyes wide, body trembling beneath him.

“Let’s get up!” Inhwee insisted, his whole body flushed.

Ignoring him, Jeongwon rolled his hips again, capturing Inhwee’s lips in another searing kiss. He swallowed Inhwee’s moans, reveling in the way his body arched into him, how responsive he was.

Their phones suddenly vibrated against the nightstand, the persistent buzz breaking through the haze of pleasure.

“Sh—Shouldn’t we… let the girls know?” Inhwee panted.

Jeongwon groaned, releasing Inhwee’s wrists only to slide his hands down his waist, pulling him closer, making sure Inhwee felt everything he was doing to him.

“They can wait,” he murmured, lips trailing down the column of Inhwee’s throat, sucking softly at the sensitive skin there.

Inhwee gasped, his hands clutching at Jeongwon’s back. “Jeongwon—“

“Does that tickle?” Jeongwon teased, sitting up and spreading Inhwee’s legs over his thighs, taking in the sight of him. Inhwee was panting, his lips swollen and slick, his eyes glazed over with desire.

“N-ngh…”

Jeongwon pushed Inhwee’s shirt higher, rolling his fingers over hardened nipples, watching as Inhwee squirmed under his touch.

“Wait. We should… check our phones,” he insisted again.

“Why?” Jeongwon asked, leaning down to kiss along his jaw, then nipping at his chin. Inhwee whimpered, shivering beneath him. Sliding lower, Jeongwon pushed up Inhwee’s shirt and licked over his nipple, earning a sharp gasp. 

“Ugh—Wait! Jeongwon, ah—!”

He was losing himself. He wanted to devour him, touch him everywhere, feel every inch of him.

Grabbing the back of Jeongwon’s head, Inhwee gasped, “Stop sucking.”

Jeongwon pulled back, breathing heavily, Inhwee straddling him. His hands skimmed down Inhwee’s sides, fingers teasing just beneath the hem of his shorts.

“Is this too much for you, Inhwee?” Jeongwon asked, his voice low, leaning over to kiss him, rubbing his hard nipples one by one between his thumb and forefinger.

“Don’t ask questions like that.” Inhwee’s breath shuddered. He kissed Jeongwon. “Just do it.”

Jeongwon’s heart pounded, alarm bells ringing loudly in his head. He searched Inhwee’s face for hesitation, for fear, but all he found was desire, need, and something dangerously close to surrender.

“Can I touch you?” Jeongwon whispered, his fingers tracing higher up his thigh to touch the soft skin of his inner thigh.

Inhwee pulled him into another kiss. “Please, stop asking,” he murmured against Jeongwon’s lips again.

“Is that a yes?” Jeongwon grinned.

Inhwee groaned. “Just do it.”

So Jeongwon did.

He pressed in deep, mouth slanting over Inhwee’s, their lips molding together, fitting too perfectly. The kiss was hot, wet, and intoxicating. Their tongues met, hesitant at first, then urgent, sliding, exploring, tasting. 

Inhwee whimpered into his mouth, his body arching into Jeongwon’s like he was starving for more. Jeongwon felt the heat of him everywhere, the way his fingers clutched at his shoulders, the way his breath hitched every time Jeongwon tilted his head, deepening the kiss, claiming him.

Jeongwon’s hand skimmed down Inhwee’s side, fingers splaying over his ribs before trailing lower, tracing the soft skin of his hip. He swallowed the little gasp Inhwee let out when he pressed closer, feeling every shift, every tremor. He nipped at Inhwee’s bottom lip, sucking it into his mouth before pulling back slightly, watching through hooded eyes as Inhwee blinked up at him, lips swollen and slick, pupils blown wide with need.

Jeongwon’s breath hitched as his fingers curled around the waistband of Inhwee’s shorts and underwear. He didn’t hesitate, pulling them down in one fluid motion, leaving Inhwee completely bare, his hard cock standing tall between them. Jeongwon’s gaze lingered; Inhwee was beautiful like this, his skin glowing in the dim light, every curve and line perfectly defined. Heat surged through Jeongwon’s body, his own arousal throbbing in response, but he forced himself to focus and take it slow.

Inhwee shifted slightly, practically sitting on Jeongwon’s lap now, his thighs trembling. Jeongwon’s hand reached between them, wrapping around Inhwee’s length. The moment his fingers made contact, Inhwee let out a soft, breathy moan that sent shivers down Jeongwon’s spine.

Jeongwon reveled in his reaction.

He had done that.

He sounded like that because of him.

He started to stroke him, slow and deliberate, his grip firm but not too tight. Inhwee’s head fell back, his lips parting as another moan escaped. He jerked, and more precum gushed from his tip.

He’s so wet.

Jeongwon had never imagined having another man’s cock in his hands. He had thought the idea would repulse him, but it didn’t. Not with Inhwee. Instead, the sight of him, hard and aching, only turned Jeongwon on more, sending a thrill through his veins. He couldn’t resist.

Biting his bottom lip, swallowing back a groan, he leaned forward, draping himself over Inhwee’s body, his chest pressing flush against his. The heat between them was unbearable, almost suffocating, but Jeongwon didn’t care. He wanted more. He needed more. His hips moved instinctively, thrusting lightly against Inhwee’s ass, the friction making him groan.

God, he feels incredible.

With his face buried in the crook of Inhwee’s neck, Jeongwon inhaled deeply.

He smells so good.

Jeongwon parted his lips, pressing a soft kiss to the side of his neck. Inhwee shuddered beneath him, his breath hot on Jeongwon’s shoulder. Encouraged, Jeongwon kissed him again, this time with more urgency, leaving marks that would surely bruise.

They were together now. He could do this whenever he wanted. There was no more holding back.

Pulling back slightly, Jeongwon took in the sight of Inhwee beneath him. His lips were parted, his chest rising and falling rapidly, his eyes half-lidded with pleasure. He wanted to remember this forever. With his free hand, Jeongwon pushed his own pants and underwear down, freeing his cock. He took them both into his hand, their lengths pressed together, the sensation making his head spin.

Inhwee’s eyes fluttered shut, a low moan escaping his lips. “Hngh.”

Jeongwon tried to bite back his own moans, but a strangled sound slipped through his clenched teeth. The feeling of Inhwee’s smooth skin against his, the heat radiating off their bodies, was almost too much to bear. He tightened his grip, his strokes becoming more frantic. Inhwee’s body vibrated with pleasure, his fingers digging into Jeongwon’s thighs as he arched his back.

Jeongwon couldn't hold back. Not anymore.

Their movements became more erratic, their breaths mingling in the small space between them. Jeongwon’s eyes flicked down to Inhwee’s peach-pink, glistening hole, the sight sending a jolt of desire straight to his core. He felt his cock pulsating, precum gushing from its tip.

I want him.

But he knew it would be too much, too fast, too soon. He wanted to savor this, to make it last. He wanted to keep making him feel like this.

The coil of heat in Jeongwon’s belly began to unfurl, threatening to consume him. He closed his eyes, trying to hold on, to prolong the moment. Inhwee. Half-naked. On his lap. Staring up at him like he was the only thing that mattered. But it was no use. His body betrayed him, his orgasm crashing over him like a wave. He came hard, his release spilling onto Inhwee’s soft belly. Inhwee followed soon after, his body trembling as he found his own release.

Breathless, Jeongwon collapsed onto the bed, his body nestled between Inhwee’s legs. His pants were still tangled around his thighs. Inhwee’s shorts hung off one ankle. He pulled Inhwee close, their chests pressed together, their hearts beating in sync.

He’s perfect.

“Hey… didn’t you say you’re bad at this stuff?” Inhwee’s voice was scratchy.

“I just let my instincts lead me." Jeongwon’s hands moved lazily up and down Inhwee's back. The touch was soothing, but Inhwee's mind was still reeling.

“Wait, do you mean—” Inhwee started, but Jeongwon didn’t let him finish. He lifted his head and captured Inhwee’s lips in a deep, possessive kiss, silencing any further questions.

Chapter 23

 

Yesterday 8:30 PM

Jiwon: You can’t just leave a message like that and go missing.

Yesterday 8:32 PM

 Jiwon: Why aren’t you answering our calls?

Yesterday 8:38 PM

Jiwon: Are you okay?

Today 8:06 AM

 Seoyeon: Good morning, princes; it’s almost our checkout time. Are you all ready to go? We're hanging out?

Jiwon: Good morning! We missed you two last night.

Jiwon: Are we grabbing breakfast and hanging out before heading home?

---------------

The last day of their trip passed in a blur. The four of them spent the morning together over breakfast, Seoyeon teasing them for disappearing the night before, while Jiwon looked sullen and annoyed that their plans had changed. She kept complaining about how quickly everything had gone and how much more she wanted to do with them. Though her words said one thing, her eyes remained firmly fixed on Jeongwon, who said little, his knee brushing against Inhwee’s under the table as he lost himself in the way Inhwee’s lips wrapped around his coffee straw and the way he innocently licked whipped cream off his thumb.

Jiwon stopped stirring her straw in her iced coffee and turned to Jeongwon, her eyes hopeful. “We’re planning to go to a music festival. Wednesday. Have you heard of them? They’re playing there. Inhwee and I are both huge fans.”

Jeongwon looked at Inhwee, who smiled and lifted his shoulder invitingly. His heart gave a sharp, aching squeeze. It was irrational, maybe, but the thought of Inhwee spending time with someone else, laughing, talking, existing in a space that didn’t include him, left an uncomfortable knot in his chest. It felt strange, almost wrong, to picture Inhwee somewhere he wasn't.

“So,” Jiwon continued, “Seoyeon is coming too.” She paused, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear.  He glanced at Seoyeon, who was scrolling through her phone. He wasn’t sure how she felt about Inhwee—they had just met—but either way, Jeongwon didn’t like the uncertainty. “I’d love it if you could join us.” Jiwon continued. “I... I would have invited you earlier, but I didn’t know you and Inhwee were close, but… we can still get you a ticket if you want. It’s a few months away, and there should still be tickets for sale.” She paused long enough to look at a silent Seoyeon who smiled and nodded at her. “I’d love to have you there.”

Jeongwon hesitated. He glanced at Inhwee, who was focused on eating.

That selfish part of Jeongwon, the new, possessive part that had bloomed rapidly over the past twenty-four hours, fought within him. He wanted to immediately confirm his attendance, but Seoyeon would be there, and he still wasn’t sure where Inhwee stood—whether he had one foot in the relationship and one foot out the door—and that made him hesitate. Jeongwon couldn't tell if Inhwee’s continued friendship with Jiwon was a way of maintaining control over whatever was developing between them. He didn’t want to add more fuel. Still, unsubstantiated jealousy itched at the base of his spine. He knew he needed to get a handle on it, to give Inhwee space, to trust him. It had been less than a day since they had made anything official, if it could even be called that. But still, the thought of Inhwee hanging out with Seoyeon for a whole weekend without him made his stomach twist.

“I think I’d like to go,” Jeongwon said eventually, managing a small smile. “I’ll get my own ticket.”

“Yay! You won’t regret it. Music festivals are fun.” Jiwon’s eyes lit up, her smile returning with full force. “We should enjoy summer while we can, right?”

---------------

Inhwee wanted to make it up to the girls, so they spent the remainder of their time together. The group caught a late lunch before parting ways, their goodbyes filled with promises of future plans.

As they drove back into town, the sun dipped lower, painting the sky in deep golds and violets. It felt too soon to let go of the weekend, too soon to return to reality, so Jeongwon turned to Inhwee and asked, “Want to watch the sunset with me?”

Inhwee looked at Jeongwon with a funny expression.

“What?” He laughed.

“I’m starting to realize that you’re a romantic.”

Chuckling, he said, “Do you want to see the sunset or not?”

Now laughing with him, Inhwee nodded. “Sounds fun.”

“Sounds like you love the romance,” Jeongwon teased.

“Whatever,” Inhwee muttered, blushing. He looked away from Jeongwon's twinling eyes.

They licked their melting ice cream and talked for hours as the sun disappeared below the horizon.

By the time they returned to town, darkness had settled around them like a warm cocoon. The hum of their quiet drive home was filled with something unspoken, something neither of them seemed ready to name.

When they parked in front of Inhwee’s apartment, Jeongwon didn’t let go of his hand. He squeezed it, his thumb stroking the back of Inhwee’s fingers, grounding himself in his warmth. His heart was so full it ached.

He didn’t want to leave.

“Is this how it’s always going to be?” Jeongwon murmured, turning to him.

Inhwee blinked, caught off guard. "Huh?"

"Dating," Jeongwon clarified, smiling softly. "I’m so happy I could combust."

Inhwee laughed, a rich, beautiful sound that made Jeongwon’s stomach flip. "Jeongwon."

“What?” Jeongwon grinned, tightening his grip on Inhwee’s hand and leaning closer, drawn in as if gravity had shifted to pull him toward Inhwee. "I am happy."

His gaze softened, drinking in the way Inhwee’s lips parted slightly, the way his eyes darkened under the dim streetlights, the way his hoodie hung off one shoulder, exposing the dip of his collarbone. “Are you happy?”

Inhwee sucked in a breath. Jeongwon could see the war in his eyes: the push and pull of something deeper, something hesitant. And that hurt more than Jeongwon wanted to admit. They had just started dating, and this level of caution was understandable. But Jeongwon wanted Inhwee to be as obsessed with him as he was.

Then Inhwee smiled and repeated his own words back to him. “I am so happy I could combust.” And before Jeongwon could process it, Inhwee leaned in.

The kiss was soft, tentative, but not unsure. Inhwee knew what he was doing, knew what he wanted—and that realization sent a slow burn of heat curling through Jeongwon’s stomach. His pulse pounded in his ears, drowning out everything except the feeling of Inhwee’s mouth against his.

Then Jeongwon melted.

He cupped the back of Inhwee’s head, deepening the kiss, savoring the way Inhwee’s breath shuddered against his cheek. His other hand slid up Inhwee’s arm, fingers pressing lightly over muscle, feeling the way he tensed, then relaxed beneath his touch.

God, he wanted more. Not just physically, though his body burned for him, but in every way. He wanted to be the one Inhwee turned to, the one he trusted, the one he could be completely himself with.

Inhwee was warmth, was weight, was something real and solid beneath Jeongwon’s hands. And the way he responded, how he let Jeongwon pull him closer, how his fingers curled into Jeongwon’s shirt, ignited something possessive in Jeongwon’s chest.

But then Inhwee pulled away, lips kiss-swollen, pupils blown wide. He exhaled shakily, licking his lips, and Jeongwon had to grip the car seat to stop himself from pulling him back in.

Would he survive dating Inhwee? Jeongwon wondered, wrecked with desire.

“Hey,” Inhwee murmured, his voice slightly hoarse. “Do you want to stay for a bit?”

Jeongwon’s stomach tightened at the question, and heat shot to his groin. He knew what Inhwee was asking—and what he wasn’t asking, too.

Did he want to stay? Hell yes.

He wanted to stay and press Inhwee against the bed, taste him until the hesitancy melted from his bones. He wanted to feel Inhwee let go completely, to unravel for him, because of him. But Jeongwon also knew he had to take it slow, had to be careful with Inhwee.

And he knew Inhwee. Knew how his mind worked. Knew the uncertainty that still lingered beneath the surface, no matter how much he leaned into Jeongwon’s touch.

Jeongwon inhaled slowly, steadying himself. “Can I?” he murmured, watching Inhwee’s reaction closely.

Inhwee nodded, and that was all the permission Jeongwon needed. He drowned in happiness. Inhwee kissed him again, deeper this time, fingers sliding into the soft hair at the back of his head, pulling him close.

Inhwee let out a quiet sigh, pressing closer. Jeongwon could feel his warmth through his clothes, the way his body responded instinctively to the touch, the hesitation in his hands before they finally settled on Jeongwon’s shoulders. But then he pushed him back, softly.

“We’re in front of my apartment,” Inhwee murmured against his lips.
Jeongwon smiled against his mouth, pressing another teasing kiss to the corner of his lips. “And?”
Inhwee let out a huff, pushed lightly at his chest, and fully peeled off him. “Let’s go in.”

Something instantly felt off.

Jeongwon’s bubble of bliss popped, and it was loud and ugly. His ears rang.

He smiled at Jeongwon and reached for the car door, already getting out, already inviting him inside, but something in Jeongwon held him back.

“Hey.” He reached out, gently grabbing Inhwee’s elbow, stopping him mid-motion. Inhwee turned, looking at him curiously.

Jeongwon hesitated. “I’m a little tired.”

Inhwee’s expression shifted immediately. He was intuitive. “You are?”

 “Yeah.”

His expression flickered—first surprise, then confusion, and finally something Jeongwon couldn’t quite name. That realization made Jeongwon go cold.

Inhwee turned again, reaching for the car door. “I can make noodles—”

 “I…” Jeongwon exhaled, smiling a little. “I think I’m going to go home. Maybe next time.”

Inhwee stared at him, lips slightly parted, brow furrowing. Jeongwon could see the thoughts racing through his head.

“Hey,” Jeongwon continued, reaching up to brush his knuckles against Inhwee’s cheek. “I’m sorry about earlier. I got carried away—”

“No,” Inhwee interrupted quickly, voice firm. “You don’t have to apologize.”

Jeongwon smiled, tilting his head. He finished his earlier statement. “Because I like you too much.”

Inhwee sucked in a breath, eyes widening slightly, but he said nothing. This was all still a lot for him.

“I’ll try to control myself,” Jeongwon murmured, trailing his fingers down Inhwee’s arm and squeezing his wrist lightly. “Let’s take it slow.”

Inhwee hesitated, then nodded. “Okay.”

Jeongwon let out a breath, his body releasing the tension that had built up inside him. Good. “Whenever I want to kiss you or be affectionate,” Jeongwon teased, smirking slightly, “just do it yourself.”

Inhwee rolled his eyes, but Jeongwon caught the slight smile playing at his lips.

“Okay, well… good night,” Jeongwon said.

Inhwee nodded and reached for the door. Then he stopped, his body tensing as if something inside him warred for control. He turned back slowly, and Jeongwon caught the flicker of anxiety in his eyes and the uncertainty shadowing his features. But beneath it, unmistakable, was the raw heat of desire and something gentler: affection. Then, all at once, He lunged at Jeongwon and grabbed his shoulders, knees on the passenger seat, and kissed him. Not tentative. Not hesitant. Just pure, raw want.

Relief flooded through Jeongwon. He couldn’t breathe as he kissed him, but he never wanted to stop.

And just like that, maybe without even knowing it, Inhwee destroyed all of his fears.

Inhwee finally pulled back, breathless, eyes dark and shining.

Jeongwon laughed. 

Now he really didn’t want to leave. “I hope you sleep well,” Jeongwon whispered, caressing Inhwee’s side. He felt him shudder under his touch.

Taking things slow was going to be difficult, Jeongwon realized. 

Kissing Inhwee softly on the cheek, Jeongwon inhaled a shuddering breath.

“Y—you too,” Inhwee finally stammered, scooting back.

Jeongwon didn’t reach for him. He let him go, his body humming with a rising heat.

He let out a breathless laugh, dazed.
“Yeah. Sweet dreams.”

------------

The warm water cascaded down Jeongwon’s body, steam rising in thick clouds around him. He needed to take things slow. He needed to control himself.

He tilted his head back, letting the droplets run over his face, but no amount of water could wash away the memory of Inhwee. He stroked himself to the thought of him, biting back a curse as pleasure coiled tight in his stomach. He could still feel the heat of Inhwee’s skin, the pressure of his lips, the texture of his tongue and mouth, the way his breath had hitched when Jeongwon’s fingers traced his cheek and ear in the car. His teeth grazed his bottom lip as he let out a low groan, his hand sliding down his torso.

He couldn’t stop thinking about last night—the way Inhwee looked, the sound of his soft moans as Jeongwon’s hand moved between his thighs. It had been incredible, and yet it had left Jeongwon craving more. His fingers wrapped around his arousal, stroking slowly as he replayed the memory. The way Inhwee arched into his touch, the way his lips had parted, begging for more without saying a word. Jeongwon’s breath quickened, his grip tightening as he imagined it was Inhwee’s hand instead of his own. His name spilled from Jeongwon’s lips in a whispered plea, muffled by the sound of the shower.

When he finally stepped out, a towel slung low around his hips, his body still thrummed with restless energy. He checked his phone and ignored the messages his parents had left. They never stopped.

Jeongwon grabbed a blunt from the table, lit it, and took a long drag. Smoke curled around him in the dim light. Stroking his hair dry, he padded barefoot around his apartment, calming his nerves, though it did nothing to quell the ache in his chest. He picked up his phone again and scrolled through his contacts until he found Inhwee’s name. His thumb hovered over the screen before he finally pressed call.

It only rang twice before Inhwee’s voice came through, soft and hesitant: “Hello? Did something happen? What’s wrong?”

Jeongwon chuckled, though his heart was pounding. Why did just hearing his voice make him feel like this? Were relationships always like this? It had been so long, he could hardly remember what it was like during his first, and last, relationship.

“Why would something happen?” he teased, leaning against the wall.

“Oh, I…” Inhwee faltered, and Jeongwon could picture him fidgeting, that little crease forming between his brows. “What’s up?”

“I just wanted to hear your voice.” Jeongwon’s tone was casual, but his chest tightened as he said it.

“But you just left.”

“I just can’t stop thinking about you,” Jeongwon admitted, his voice dropping lower. “But I guess that’s just me.”

There was a sharp intake of breath on the other end of the line, and Jeongwon smirked, imagining the blush creeping up Inhwee’s cheeks. He could almost hear his heart racing. Good.

“Hey, not only do I constantly think about you, but I… I… never mind.”

“Never mind?” Inhwee echoed, his tone light but curious.

Jeongwon laughed, running a hand through his damp hair. “Did you shower?”

“I did, and you?” Inhwee asked, his voice softening.

“Just finished. I’m drying my hair, about to go to sleep.”

Inhwee said, “You must be tired.”

“I am, but… hearing your voice rejuvenates me.”

Inhwee laughed, the sound so bright and warm it made Jeongwon’s chest ache. He could practically see how Inhwee’s eyes would crinkle at the corners, how his lips would curve into that smile. God, he was beautiful.

“Want to hang out tomorrow?” Jeongwon asked, trying to keep his tone casual despite the way his pulse quickened.

“I work the mid-shift,” Inhwee replied, and Jeongwon could hear the regret in his voice.

“If you’re not too tired after work, let’s meet up,” Jeongwon suggested, his voice low, almost coaxing.

“It’s a date,” Inhwee chirped, his tone suddenly bright and awake. Too bright, maybe. Jeongwon could picture him trying to suppress his excitement, his cheeks pink, his fingers tapping nervously against the phone.

“Perfect,” Jeongwon said, a grin spreading across his face.

Notes:

Thank you so much, risingmoon2! Your consistent comments truly brighten my day and keep me motivated to write. It means the world to know you’re here rooting for my story every step of the way. You’re the best! 💖✨

Chapter 24

Notes:

Content Warning:

This story contains graphic depictions of sexual content. Please be aware that the scenarios depicted are fictional and not an accurate or comprehensive representation of real-life sexual experiences, particularly between two men.

It’s important to emphasize that sexual intimacy, especially between men, involves preparation, communication, and care that cannot be fully captured or conveyed in a fictional narrative. The reality is nuanced, layered, and deeply personal, and it’s vital to prioritize safety (use condoms, everyone), consent, and mutual respect in all intimate situations.

Furthermore, please don’t rely on fictional media or content found online as a substitute for proper sexual education. You might think you know everything you need to know because you consume stories that depict sexual intimacy; however, I am here to tell you: No, you don’t. Always seek reliable, evidence-based information, and don’t hesitate to consult trusted sources or professionals if you have questions.

Stay safe, take care of yourselves, and enjoy the story responsibly. 

Jeongwon: Want to go to a summer fest?

Inhwee: Summer fest?

Jeongwon: Yeah. I know it’s close to the musical festival, but this is just a fair: games, rides, fair food, the whole nine yards. I saw a flyer. You’re off on that day.

Inhwee: You don’t have to sell it to me. I’m down.

Inhwee: I haven’t been to a summer festival in forever! 

Inhwee: Will there be fireworks?

Jeongwon: I think so. I’m happy you’re excited.

Inhwee: Ecstatic.

Jeongwon: How’s work

Jeongwon: I miss you. Can I bring you dinner after work?

Inhwee: You can bring me breakfast or lunch. As long as it’s food, I’ll eat it.

Jeongwon: I’ll be parked in front of the cafe.

---------------

They met the next day, the day after, and the day after that. Over the break, they fell into a rhythm: movies, dinners, day trips and excursions, and entire days spent tangled up in each other’s presence. Whether at Inhwee’s place or Jeongwon’s apartment, they gravitated toward one another like magnets. 

The music festival ended up being so much more fun than Jeongwon had anticipated, enough to not be rattled by the two female presences making their group of four, but he realized how many more fests they could go to just the two of them. Jeongwon invited Inhwee to a local tech convention, and he started planning on finding a way to get him to join him at a video game convention.

Jeongwon monopolized all of Inhwee’s free time, but he just liked spending time with him.

He was the friend Jeongwon had never been blessed with growing up. 

It felt like they were destined to meet and be together.

Each time they parted, Jeongwon noticed the way Inhwee lingered in his car, his hand hovering on the handle. The way he looked at him, his mouth, his eyes, dark with longing, as if expecting more. And Jeongwon wanted to give him more. But he had promised himself he wouldn’t push, even as the hunger between them grew unbearable. Even as his patience thinned.

Tonight was no different. 

They had had another six-hour date session, and it was still not enough.

“I think I’ve gotten better,” Inhwee said, dropping the game console to the floor beside him with a triumphant grin.

Jeongwon chuckled, walking toward him from the back. Sitting beside Inhwee on the floor, he handed him a fresh can of beer and warned, “I opened it for you. Be careful.”

Their fingers brushed, and Inhwee didn’t pull away like he used to at the beginning. Instead, he boldly leaned in, tilting his head up with a knowing grin.

Jeongwon felt his abdominal muscles tighten. The jittery feeling increased. “I’m glad to hear that,” he said, voice thick. He cleared his throat.

Inhwee chuckled. Jeongwon wondered if he knew what he was doing to him.

“Thanks.”

“I like taking care of you.”

Inhwee’s eyes widened, and he coughed as his sip went down the wrong pipe.

“What?”

He carded his fingers through his hair and shook his head. He was smiling.

Dating’s fun , Jeongwon thought.

“You’re a good teacher,” Inhwee said, his pitch better than normal.

“Thank you,” Jeongwon said and gave him a wide, licentious smile. “I can teach you so much.” 

Inhwee tacitly understood his implication. He quickly swallowed the sip of his drink he had just taken. Clearing his throat, he said cutely, “I have free time, since it’s summer and all, you can teach me…” 

Jeongwon let out a hoot of laughter. He was too funny.

“What?” This time, he carefully swallowed his sip of beer to avoid choking. Pressing his lips together, he said, “You should stream.”

“Stream?” Jeongwon lifted his can to his mouth and took a gulp.

Inhwee smiled and nodded enthusiastically. “Yeah.”

Jeongwon laughed, pulling back to take in Inhwee and his beaming smile.

“Why not? You’d be popular.”

Jeongwon blinked at him. “Really?”

“Yeah,” he shrugged. “You’re good, you’re a good teacher, and you’re—” He stopped. Their eyes met, locking with a force that made the air between them hum.

Color surged to Inhwee’s cheeks, not soft or subtle, but fierce and consuming. It bloomed across his face and crept down his neck like heat flooding through his skin. His chest rose with a shallow breath, betraying the intensity that gripped him. Jeongwon loved how Inhwee’s body always told on him.

Deliberately, Jeongwon ran his tongue over his lips, starting with the bottom and slowly dragging it to the top. He leaned in, savoring the way Inhwee watched him, rapt, eyes fixed and unblinking, as if Jeongwon’s every move unraveled something inside him. Their faces hovered just inches apart. Jeongwon’s breath ghosted across Inhwee’s parted lips, as if he might whisper something, or kiss him.

“Why did you stop?” he whispered silkily.

“I... I was just—” Inhwee stuttered.

“Telling me how hot you find me.”

Inhwee laughed, eyes wide, then quickly pulled back.

Jeongwon winced internally, the sting of lost opportunity sharp.

But he wasn’t sure Inhwee understood the full extent of his desire—what he wanted. He didn’t want to scare him. Things were still so new between them. This relationship, whatever it was becoming, still felt fresh and fragile.

“There’s nothing wrong with you finding your boyfriend hot,” Jeongwon teased, raising his eyebrows with playful implication.

He watched the way Inhwee flinched, eyes going wide, but he said nothing.

“Teasing,” Jeongwon said quickly, trying to soothe the tension, to soften the edges of his boyfriend’s obvious mortification, while also pressing down the ache in his chest, the one that urged him to lean in and finish what they’d almost started.

“Hungry? Want to order in?” Jeongwon asked, shifting slightly, trying to create some distance and rein in his self-control.

“Sure.”

“Fried food?”

“Sure.”

“Chicken?”

Inhwee nodded. 

Jeongwon focused on his phone to place the order. When he glanced up, he found Inhwee watching him. His desire unsheathed.

Jeongwon’s body tensed, straining with the effort to hold back. Every inch of him buzzed with anticipation. The closeness, the vulnerability, the way Inhwee looked at him, like he wanted him just as badly, sent a heavy warmth coiling low in his gut, tightening everything inside him.

It would be so easy to reach over, grab him, and kiss him, to give in to what they both wanted. Jeongwon swallowed hard, his Adam’s apple bobbing.

He knew he needed to move slowly with Inhwee, to be careful and patient. But it was becoming harder when the man he craved kept looking at him like that: like he already belonged to him.

“Do you want to sleep over?” Jeongwon asked, his voice hoarse.

“Yes, please.” Inhwee chuckled and stretched, his shirt riding up just enough to expose a sliver of soft, pale skin. Jeongwon’s breath hitched. He looked away.

“At this point, I feel like I’m moving in.”

“Huh?”

Inhwee laughed. “Because I’ve spent so much time here… and I have a toothbrush, and—” He trailed off.

Jeongwon chuckled. “Right. We’ve been spending a lot of time together, but—” He shifted closer, pressing his palm against Inhwee’s knee. “We’re dating. This is fine?” He hated his insecure need to confirm that Inhwee was fully in it too.

Inhwee turned a deep shade of red, as if he’d forgotten they had permission to be with each other in more ways than one.

Jeongwon caved. Leaning toward Inhwee, his voice dropping, he said, “Can I kiss you?”

Inhwee’s breath caught. “Don’t.”

Jeongwon froze. He started to pull back, but Inhwee surged forward, closing the space between them.

“I… I mean, you don’t have to… Yeah.”

His voice was barely above a whisper, but he tilted his face up, lips slightly puckered, waiting.

Jeongwon huffed out a quiet laugh, his galloping heart beginning to slow. He let his phone slip from his fingers onto the floor. With deliberate tenderness, he cupped Inhwee’s face, his thumbs brushing over flushed skin before tilting his lips to meet his.

It was a chaste, mouth-closed kiss. It started soft and slow—exploratory. But then Inhwee whimpered against his mouth, a needy, breathless sound that sent a shiver down Jeongwon’s spine, snapping the last thread of his restraint.

Jeongwon deepened the kiss, his tongue slipping past Inhwee’s parted lips, teasing, tasting. Then he sucked on it, drawing out a quiet moan that had his pulse pounding. Inhwee kissed him back with just as much hunger, his fingers curling into Jeongwon’s shirt, tugging him impossibly closer.

Jeongwon’s hands slid down, gripping Inhwee’s hips before slipping beneath his shirt, his fingertips skimming over warm, bare skin. Inhwee gasped at the touch, arching into him, pressing their bodies flush together. He mimicked Jeongwon, hands on his chest, cupping his pecs.

A haze of heat and want clouded Jeongwon’s mind, turning his thoughts to static. Groaning, he eased Inhwee down onto the floor, covering him with his body as he claimed his lips again—deep and consuming. He sucked Inhwee’s lower lip before trailing his mouth lower, biting his jaw and kissing along it, then down the elegant column of his throat, each kiss slow and reverent, savoring every inch.

Inhwee dragged his hand up Jeongwon’s chest and neck, digging his fingers into his hair and pinning his head in place. His legs spread for him, instinctively giving Jeongwon access, before he hooked his knees against Jeongwon’s sides.

Jeongwon’s hand roamed over his ribs and up to his chest, rubbing slow circles around a hardened nipple. Inhwee gasped, his grip on Jeongwon's hair trembling as he arched into the touch.

Jeongwon kissed him again, grinding against him, unable to help himself. The friction was too good, the heat of Inhwee’s body beneath him intoxicating.

One of Inhwee’s hands slid from Jeongwon’s head to rest on his hip. He didn’t pull Jeongwon closer, but he didn’t push him away either.

“I want to touch you,” Jeongwon admitted, his voice thick with need. Kissing the line of Inhwee’s neck, he shifted with him, their groins pressing together. Inhwee groaned, sliding his socked foot up and down the back of Jeongwon's calf in a slow, teasing motion, then pulled him closer.

Jeongwon's vision swam. Even the sound of Inhwee’s breathing and moans was erotic. Just hearing them turned him on.

He stared at Inhwee for a few seconds longer, trying to steady himself, before abruptly sitting up and straddling him. Inhwee lay beneath him, a vision—his shirt half-tucked up, breathless and wanting.

“I... I’m sorry,” Jeongwon panted, dragging his fingers through Inhwee’s hair, holding his head in place.

Inhwee blinked up at him, dazed. “Why?” he croaked.

“I promised to take things slow.”

Inhwee blinked again, his throat working as he swallowed. “Is that why... I...” He hesitated, then gathered his thoughts. “I'm a man too, Jeongwon.”

“Yeah, I know.” Jeongwon's gaze dropped, lingering on the undeniable evidence of their arousal pressed between them.

“I... I want to touch you,” Jeongwon repeated, his voice low as he lowered his face to Inhwee’s.

Inhwee lifted his upper body, bringing their faces close, and captured his lips in a soft, eager kiss. “I want to touch you too,” he said into Jeongwon's mouth.

Breaking the kiss, Jeongwon began placing soft, chaste kisses on Inhwee’s damp lips, cheeks, and jaw as he panted, “I want you so bad… What should I do?”

Inhwee twitched beneath him, his skin heating at the words. Jeongwon found it unbearably hot; he felt his cock straining in his underwear. He deepened the kiss, his breath warm against Inhwee’s lips.

“When we first agreed to date... and even now, I like you so much that I don’t want to spend a single second away from you.” He rolled his hips against Inhwee’s, pressing their bodies together, letting him feel just how much he wanted him. He was rock hard. “But I fear,” he murmured, trailing wet, nipping kisses along Inhwee’s flushed cheek, “that you might not feel the same way... or I’ll scare you.”

“Wha— No! I... I do.”

Before Inhwee could say more, Jeongwon swallowed the words with another deep kiss, his tongue sliding against his. Inhwee sucked it and groaned into the kiss—then exhaled sharply. As their mouths moved together, Jeongwon’s hands slid down, his fingers fumbling with the waistband of Inhwee’s pants.

Inhwee made a small noise, but he didn’t stop him. If anything, he lifted his hips to help.

Jeongwon paused, his head clearing just enough to remember his manners. “Can I?”

“Stop asking,” Inhwee said, before biting his bottom lip. Laughing, Jeongwon pulled back, bit Inhwee’s chin, and pushed his pants down, freeing him: exposing his stiff cock to the cool air between them.

Jeongwon ran his hands up and down Inhwee's warm, damp skin. Inhwee trembled so hard his teeth clattered.

“Do you…me to?” he panted incomprehensibly, swallowing his words, twisting beneath Jeongwon, aching for his touch. Even before Jeongwon had even touched him, he was already undone with pleasure. 

He tried to reach down to Jeongwon’s crotch. 

“No.” Jeongwon shook his head, kissed the tip of his chin. “Let me,” he instructed, wrapping an arm around Inhwee’s thigh. 

Inhwee swallowed his soft yelp, his body jolting as Jeongwon’s strong fingers wrapped firmly around his length and he stroked him. Jeongwon kept his gaze on Inhwee’s face, taking in his look of delirium. It was so much better than having Inhwee’s hands on him, though he knew he could wait because he knew that would happen soon enough.

Keeping up his rhythm, Jeongwon trailed kisses down his body: his collarbone, the slope of his chest, the taut muscles of his stomach, until he reached his cock. Inhwee’s scent was strong, which in turn turned him on. He kissed his inner thigh. Inhwee gasped and jolted.

“Wait… agh!” Half-sitting up on his elbow, his breath hitched. He stared at Jeongwon, who smirked at him with deceptively innocent, wide eyes and tightened his vine-like grip around his thigh, anchoring him in place.

“What’s wrong?” Jeongwon applied delicious pressure to his cock, making it quiver and leak pre-cum. Inhwee panted, speechless. He stroked once, twice, watching Inhwee’s expression shift, his lips parting, brows furrowing

His head tilted to the side. “I—” Inhwee’s words caught in his throat, dissolving into a sharp inhale as Jeongwon’s grip tightened just slightly, his thumb tracing along the sensitive underside.

“You can’t,” Inhwee whispered, but his body betrayed him. His hips pushed into Jeongwon’s touch, his head falling back.

“Do you not want to?” Jeongwon carefully asked, his deft fingers maintaining the rhythm. 

“No, I….” He stuttered. 

“I can?” 

“I… Are you going to—”

Jeongwon swiped his thumb on the smooth tip of his penis. He shivered, and his cock jerked. Seeing Inhwee’s reaction up close and personal made Jeongwon want him even more. “Yeah. Can I? It’ll feel good.”

“I…. It’s dirty.”

“It’s not. I want to.” He ran his fingers tenderly up his thigh and squeezed his hip.

Inhwee looked unconvinced. His chest moved up and down with each of his rapid, deep breaths. 

“Let’s try it out,” Jeongwoon insisted, softening his voice as he brought his face even closer to Inhwee’s penis. His hot breath hit the tender organ. Goosebumps rose on Inhwee’s thighs.

Jeongwon flashed his boyfriend a confident, impish smile filled with boyish charm. “Please.”

“Jeongwon,” he pleaded, cheeks redder than before.

“We’re lovers. This is normal.”

“Do you want me to—”

“Not right now.” Then he quickly added, “Except if you want to. But,” he tenderly massaged his hipbone,” I want to make you feel good. Can I?”

Dropping his head and lying flat on his back, he brought his hands to his face and whispered, “Okay.”

Jeongwon didn’t wait for him to change his mind. He lowered his head and took him into his mouth. Inhwee jolted, a choked sound escaping him. He tried to soothe him by running his hand up his side, but he didn’t back down. Hollowing his cheeks, he sucked harder. Inhwee shuddered, his body taut with overwhelming sensation. It was too much—Jeongwon could feel it in the way Inhwee’s fingers shot down toward his head, only to tangle desperately in his hair.

Until that night during their trip, when he had first wrapped his fingers around Inhwee, Jeongwon hadn’t been entirely sure he could be with another man, let alone have him in his mouth. But now, with Inhwee’s cock sliding past his lips, filling his mouth, he knew. Not only could he do this, he wanted to. Needed to. He had never expected to enjoy giving head, but the act was intoxicating: the smell of him, the weight of him on his tongue, the heat, the way Inhwee gasped and trembled beneath him. It ignited something deep within him, fanning his desire into an uncontrollable blaze. And he knew, without hesitation, that he could, and deeply wanted to, have sex with Inhwee.

Not that he had needed the confirmation. He had known from the moment he admitted to himself that he was attracted to him.

With one hand under Inhwee’s left thigh, lifting it onto his shoulder, Jeongwon used his free hand to explore further below. He rubbed gently at Inhwee’s twitching entrance, not daring to push in. Not yet.

Inhwee liked it. His body shook.

“No!… I, hngh!” Inhwee whimpered, writhing beneath him, muscles coiling with tension. But Jeongwon held him down, seizing the moment. Without hesitation, he took Inhwee deep, swallowing around him.

“Agh! Jeongwon—stop. I—I’m gonna—”

Jeongwon took him in as far as he could go, nearly choking in the process.

“Jeong—” It was too late. Inhwee cried out, his body arching as pleasure crashed over him. His head fell back, thighs trembling around Jeongwon’s shoulders. Then he was coming, hot and fast, painting Jeongwon’s lips and chin as he gasped for breath.

Jeongwon stared up at him, completely mesmerized by the sight of Inhwee: covered in sweat and cum, overtaken by lust. His mind went blank, focused only on the taste of Inhwee on his tongue, the way he twitched in his grasp.

Then, with a strangled gasp, Inhwee suddenly sat up, chest heaving, his face burning red. “Oh my god, I’m so sorry, I—”

Jeongwon met his wide, frantic eyes and, with a devilish grin, deliberately licked the remnants of Inhwee’s release off his lips and fingers.

Inhwee let out a mortified noise and kneed him.

Notes:

Thanks for reading!

Chapter 25

Notes:

Content Warning:

This story contains graphic depictions of sexual content. Please be aware that the scenarios depicted are fictional and not an accurate or comprehensive representation of real-life sexual experiences, particularly between two men.

It’s important to emphasize that sexual intimacy, especially between men, involves preparation, communication, and care that cannot be fully captured or conveyed in a fictional narrative. The reality is nuanced, layered, and deeply personal, and it’s vital to prioritize safety (use condoms, everyone), consent, and mutual respect in all intimate situations.

Furthermore, please don’t rely on fictional media or content found online as a substitute for proper sexual education. You might think you know everything you need to know because you consume stories that depict sexual intimacy; however, I am here to tell you: No, you don’t. Always seek reliable, evidence-based information, and don’t hesitate to consult trusted sources or professionals if you have questions.

Stay safe, take care of yourselves, and enjoy the story responsibly.

After his orgasm and a moment to catch his breath, Inhwee quickly excused himself to the bathroom, his voice barely above a whisper, his face crimson. He stayed inside for half an hour, leaving Jeongwon alone with his thoughts. Was Inhwee embarrassed? Overwhelmed? Regretting what had just happened between them?

By the time he emerged, the food had already arrived and was growing cold. His face was still pink, his damp hair clinging to his forehead, and he smelled faintly of soap and shampoo. He looked freshly showered, as if he had tried to scrub away not just the sweat, but his lingering emotions too.

He avoided Jeongwon’s gaze as he sat down stiffly.

“The food is here,” Jeongwon said, watching him carefully.

Inhwee nodded without a word and picked up his chopsticks. They ate in silence, the air heavy with what neither of them said.

Then, suddenly, Inhwee spoke.

“Why did you do that?”

Jeongwon blinked. “Huh?”

Inhwee’s grip on his chopsticks tightened. “Why did you lick up—” He swallowed, still not looking at him. “—my cum earlier?”

Jeongwon smirked, but the amusement faded when he noticed how serious Inhwee was. His expression was unreadable, but there was a flicker of vulnerability in his eyes.

“Oh.” Jeongwon set his chopsticks down, his throat suddenly dry.

Inhwee hesitated before continuing. “I’ve been in a lot of relationships… and I have a lot of experience… so it’s not like I’m not used to this kind of stuff…”

“Wait, Inhwee, I—” Jeongwon began, sensing where this was heading.

“But I think that was—”

“I’m sorry,” Jeongwon cut in quickly. “I guess I got carried away because I like you too much.”

Inhwee’s eyes flicked up to meet his. For a moment, Jeongwon thought he saw something like relief pass across his face. He bit his lip, looking conflicted, as if struggling to find the right words.

“But,” Jeongwon added, softer this time, “I’ll try to control myself.”

“No!” Inhwee blurted, then flushed even deeper.

“No?” Jeongwon echoed, confused, tilting his head.

“I…” Inhwee reached for his drink, his fingers trembling slightly as he brought it to his lips. “I liked it.”

Jeongwon’s brows lifted, biting back his smile. “Oh?”

“It’s just…” Inhwee exhaled, his shoulders relaxing a little. “The last part.”

A slow grin spread across Jeongwon’s face. “Okay. No freaky stuff.”

Inhwee snorted, a reluctant chuckle escaping despite his embarrassment. His blush lingered, but the tension in the air had eased, replaced with something warmer.

Good . They were fine. But Jeongwon still wondered how slowly he had to move. It was difficult when he wanted him as much as he did.

“I mean…”

Jeongwon snapped to attention, like a bloodhound catching the scent of prey. “You mean?”

Inhwee avoided making eye contact; instead, he fingered his food. “As long as I—”

Jeongwon’s phone buzzed. Inhwee gave him an expectant look.

“It’s nothing. Continue.”

Inhwee sucked in his bottom lip and shook his head. “That was it. I have nothing more to…say.”

“Inhwee,” he whined.

“Check.”

He sighed and reached for it.

Jihoo: We’re playing basketball. You can’t say no.

----------------------

 

“I don’t even know him.”

“He's family. Your family."

“But—”

“End of discussion. You have to be there.”

“It’s only an engagement dinner.”

“You’re a part of this family.”

Jeongwon swallowed a sigh of frustration. When would his parents stop trying to control him? Was that even possible? Just thinking about the inevitable day he would have to sever their grip and the privileges he would lose in the process made his head pound.

They would never accept anything but the perfect son they had constructed in their minds. They would never accept him.

His mind veered to Inhwee. He groaned.

Fuck.

“Jeongwon, you’ll be making the drive. See you this Saturday.”

He paused, inhaling sharply. His parents were being unfair, like always.

“Yes, Mother.”

“Good. I have to go.”

The call ended, leaving Jeongwon gripping his phone, irritation simmering in his chest. They never had real conversations. He was always on the receiving end of their demands. Did they even know him? His likes? Dislikes? Hopes? Dreams? Did they even care?

He let out a long breath, forcing his body to release the tension. Lighting a blunt, he took a slow drag and exhaled, refocusing on his code.

After a few minutes, he called Inhwee. He missed him now more than ever.

“Hey. Are you having fun with your friends?”

“It’s just dinner,” Inhwee replied, his voice slightly muffled.

“Is it good?”

“It would be if Gangwoo would pipe down.”

Jeongwon laughed. “Still as loud as ever, huh?”

“Worse.” He chuckled, then sighed. “Anyway, what are you doing?”

“Working on some personal projects,” Jeongwon said, stretching his legs out.

“Have you eaten?”

“Not yet. I’m about to.”

 “Eat something good.”

“I will…” Jeongwon paused, biting his bottom lip as a smile teased at his mouth. “Hmm, I miss you.”

He heard the catch in Inhwee’s breath. “When are you heading home?” 

“I’ll probably leave in two or three hours.”

“Want me to pick you up?”

“Yeah, no can do. Gangwoo is spending the night.”

Jeongwon’s good mood soured. Gangwoo was still nasty toward him, probably still bitter about Jiwon.

He swallowed the irritation and said, “Call me when you get home.”

“I will.”

“Enjoy your dinner.”

“You too.”

Jeongwon paused, taking another slow drag. Smoke curled from his nose as he exhaled. “It’s been too long. I miss you.” His voice carried a soft whine.

“Well, gosh.” Inhwee chuckled quietly. “I—it’s only been a day.”

“Still too long,” Jeongwon smirked, shifting in his chair. “So, can I get a kiss?”

“Huh?”

“But we…”

“I know. Over the phone is fine.”

“What?”

“Kiss me,” Jeongwon murmured, tilting his head back against the padded chair. “Say your goodbye properly.”

“Goodbye?”

“A kiss. We always kiss.”

Inhwee made a small noise, caught off guard. “You… You really like that kind of stuff, huh?”

Jeongwon chuckled, his mood lightening. “I like anything you do for me.”

A stretch of silence followed. Then Jeongwon brought the phone to his mouth and exaggerated a big, smacking kiss into the speaker.

Inhwee let out a guttural sound, half protest and half giggle.

Jeongwon grinned. “Talk to you later.”

----------------------

 

“Hey, I was going to—”

 

“Are you drunk?”

 

“Wha—No. I didn’t drink a lot.”

 

“Good.” The corners of Jeongwon’s lips twitched up.

 

“I said I wouldn’t. Plus, I was the caretaker.”

 

Jeongwon looked up at Inhwee’s apartment from his driver’s seat. His bedroom light was still on.

Jeongwon scowled. For a brief moment, he almost forgot about Gangwoo. “How tired are you?”

 

“Huh?”

 

“I’m outside your apartment.”

 

Inhwee sighed. The sound hit Jeongwon like a punch to the gut. Just as quickly, he felt stupid for making himself this vulnerable—for even being at his apartment.

 

“Jeong—Gangwoo is here.”

 

“I know.” He leaned his head against the steering wheel and exhaled heavily. “Am I being selfish?”

 

“What?” His voice dropped, and Jeongwon could hear him shifting around. “No. I mean… what did you have in mind?”

 

Jeongwon raked his fingers through his hair, pushing his fringe back, staring longingly up at the apartment windows. “I should let you sleep.”

 

“No.”He wasn’t sure if Inhwee had picked up on something in his voice, but now he sounded insistent.

 

Was he such an open book? Jeongwon wondered, glancing out through the windshield at the moon.

 

“You’re here. I can come down. What did you have in mind?” Inhwee pressed.

 

As foolish as it felt, the clear concern in his voice made Jeongwon feel good. It was nice—someone worrying about him over something as small as a shift in his tone. He hadn’t realized how much he’d been starving for this level of intimacy.

 

He mouthed softly, “It’s late.”

 

Inhwee chuckled. The sound was airy and warm. Jeongwon’s heart squeezed.

 

“You’re here.”

 

“Are you up for a…walk?”

 

Inhwee laughed. “A walk?”

 

“What?” He ran a hand down his face, smiling despite himself.

 

“You’re a romantic.”

 

“You finally recognize.”

 

They shared a laugh, then fell into a pause. “Yes,” Inhwee said at last. “Why not? Give me a moment to change.”

 

“I’ll come up.”

 

“No!” His reply was immediate. “That’s fine. Let me come to you.”

 

“I’ll be up front.”

 

“Gotcha.”

 

Jeongwon didn’t wait longer than five minutes before spotting Inhwee hurrying down the steps of his apartment building, hair slightly mussed. He was smiling. Jeongwon’s heart hummed, full and unsteady, aching with a joy that felt too big for his chest.

“You’re such a night owl,” Inhwee said in greeting as he slid into the passenger seat, shutting the door softly behind him. 

 

Jeongwon leaned over and brushed a quick kiss against his cheek. The gesture caught him off guard. Inhwee flinched slightly, and though he didn’t push Jeongwon away, his sharp eyes darted around the quiet street, scanning the shadows as if someone might be lurking there.

 

Jeongwon swallowed down the sting of annoyance, the frustration that Inhwee still reacted this way, even after having his dick down his throat just a few days ago. He forced himself to calm down. This was new for Inhwee. He had every right to be cautious.

Putting on a small smile, Jeongwon leaned back and started the car. “You smell nice.”

“Ah. I just showered.” Inhwee cleared his throat, fluffing his hair. “It’s just my old, regular soap.”

 

“Well, it smells nice,”  Jeongwon said, giving him a small, open smile as he drove them onto the main road.

“So, where are we going?”

 

“Dal river.”

 

“Good choice.”

“You like it?”

 “It’s a popular date…. You know? Haven’t been there at night, but…” He trailed off and shrugged, grinning at Jeongwon. He felt a bit more at ease, pushing off the edge of his earlier discomfort. This was new for both of them. Inhwee was still learning.

“Did you have fun?”

“Huh?”

“The hangout.”

Inhwee chuckled, rolled his eyes, and shifted in the passenger seat. “If you call dealing with a bunch of drunk guys fun, then, yeah.”

“You don’t have to go if you don’t want to,” Jeongwon suggested softly.

Inhwee shrugged. “Friendship is work.”

Jeongwon was quiet for a moment, and then he said in a teasing tone, “You have me.”

“And you’re great, but…” Inhwee shrugged again and trailed off, as if they had a tacit understanding of what they were and how that differed from his other friendships.

“Friends are important,” Jeongwon muttered.

“Ardently.”

“Ardently?” Jeongwon joked.

Inhwee grinned at him. “You know what I mean.”

Looking back at the road, Jeongwon was caught slightly off guard when Inhwee said, “So, what’s wrong?”

“Something has to be wrong for me to want to spend time with my boyfriend ?”

Inhwee was quiet. Jeongwon turned to look at him and found him blushing. He liked that he could still make him blush.

Laughing, Jeongwon was glad he was able to put him off his trail. He liked that Inhwee was perceptive of his feelings, but he wasn’t ready to disclose why he was being needier than usual. Inhwee brought out the worst of his childish self, he realized.

As he drove through the quiet streets toward the river, their voices wove together in light, effortless chatter about the day, filling the silence with gentle warmth.

When they stepped away from the parked car, Jeongwon felt a wave of gratitude for Inhwee. Their relationship was imperfect, still fragile, but he was thankful for his friendship—and simply for having him in his life.

“The moon is gorgeous tonight,” Inhwee gushed, tilting his head slightly back.

They walked side by side, the cool night air filling their lungs. The moon rippled silver across the water, shimmering and alive, as if dancing just for them. It was late—so late it was nearly morning—and the path was empty except for their footsteps.

“It’s gorgeous.” Jeongwon paused and turned to look at Inhwee.

“What?” Inhwee asked with a light chuckle.

“You would love to visit the beach at night.”

“I would?”

“If you like this.” He nodded at the gleaming river. “It’s even better.”

“Oh. Really.”

“We should plan it and go.”

Inhwee shrugged, keeping pace beside him. “Why not?”

“Perfect.”

Their arms brushed as they walked, the backs of their hands touching once, then twice—accidents neither of them seemed willing to correct. Jeongwon kept his hands shoved deep in his pockets, fighting the urge to hold him properly. If that kiss on the cheek in the safety of his car was any indication, even now, with the streets empty at this late hour, he didn’t want to risk displeasing Inhwee or putting him on edge.

“What’s up?” Inhwee cut in, his voice carrying easily through the still night. His gaze was steady, studying Jeongwon.

He arched a quizzical eyebrow. “Huh?”

“I mean… what’s wrong?”

“Umm. Nothing much.”

“Nothing?”

He laughed. “I miss you.”

“It’s almost two a.m.”

Rolling his eyes playfully, he said, “Just cabin fever. I’ve been home all day.” His eyes twinkled as he looked at Inhwee and mused, “Maybe I should get a part-time job.”

“Don’t you freelance? Isn’t that a job?”

He rolled his broad shoulders. “Outside of the house.”

“You’re already so busy.”

“Aww.” He playfully bumped his shoulder against his. “Are you worried about me?”

Inhwee scoffed lightly. “Of course. You barely sleep as it is.”

“I do sleep.” He smiled, his gaze soft as it lingered on Inhwee. “But now that I know you worry about me, I’ll make a concerted effort to sleep more.”

Inhwee rolled his eyes, though laughter slipped out. “Don’t make me sound like your mother.”

Jeongwon sighed, running his fingers through his hair. “You don’t. My mother isn’t one to care.” The bitterness in his voice slipped out before he could stop it.

Silence settled between them. They walked a few more steps before Inhwee drew a sharp breath, then, with sudden resolve, reached down and caught Jeongwon’s hand. Their fingers laced firmly together. Jeongwon turned his head sharply toward him, heat rushing up his arm and flooding his chest. He tightened his hold, afraid that if he didn’t, Inhwee might let go.

“I’m sorry.”

“Huh? Why?”

“I…” He sucked on his bottom lip, hesitating. “I just…” Jeongwon sighed, his eyes dropping to the water. “I guess I am a little bit off.”

“You don’t have to apologize for that.”

“Do you have a good relationship with your parents?”

Inhwee looked at him in silence for a bit, as if wondering what brought that question around.

“Well,” he started, gently swinging their connected hands back and forth. Then he shrugged. “It’s okay.”

“It’s okay,” he repeated, and then sighed. It was loud and laborious. “I’m jealous.”

“It’s that bad?”

He frowned. He felt ashamed that he had let the truth slip. “No,” he quickly corrected, feeling the need to hide the terrible state of his relationship with his parents, as if the truth would change the way Inhwee viewed him and their connection. “I… It’s okay, too.” He looked at a quiet Inhwee, who said so much with his gentle silence. “Well,” he decided to add, “I… I had a call with my parents earlier. It left me… off.”

Inhwee squeezed his hand. “Can I ask what it was about?”

Jeongwon laughed. “Yeah.” He nodded, then added, “Yeah, you can. I mean, thanks.”

“Huh?” Inhwee looked perplexed.

Jeongwon’s lips curved into a slow, helpless smile, his whole face softening with it. “You make it all better.”

“I—I do? What… exactly?”

Jeongwon laughed. Inhwee’s hand tightened in his, thumb brushing over his knuckles.

“I’m thankful for your friendship.”

“Oh. But—” Inhwee stopped walking and turned fully toward Jeongwon. “We’re also dating, right?”

Jeongwon blinked, startled by the absurd question. “What! Yes, of course.” He couldn’t help but laugh. “I just wanted to tell you that I don’t feel like I have to pretend. When I’m with you, I can just…be me.” He took a step, bringing them even closer.

“Oh.” Inhwee’s breath caught, and Jeongwon noticed how his pupils darkened and dilated.

“It’s like…” Jeongwon’s voice dipped. He tilted his head, weighing how much he wanted to share. “Sometimes I feel like the world—my parents—don’t want to see me. The real me. They just want that perfect son: the smart one, the nice one, the good-looking one who never makes mistakes. So I play that role, you know? I give them what they want.” He stopped, chest tight. Inhwee’s grip on his hand tightened.

Moonlight shimmered in Inhwee’s eyes. “I’m sorry.”

Jeongwon laughed humorlessly and let his weight rest on Inhwee, his forehead against his shoulder. He did smell nice. “Don’t look at me with such pity.”

“I’m not!”

“I know,” he muttered, nodding. The confession left him feeling raw and uncomfortable, but also strangely lighter—like he’d let go of some of the weight he carried when it came to his parents and the strange hold they had over him.

He felt safe with Inhwee, and he hoped that, soon, Inhwee would feel the same with him.

He couldn’t wait. He hoped he wasn’t asking for too much from him and their connection.

Inhwee shifted under him and asked, “Can we go back to the car?”

Jeongwon wrapped an arm around his waist and gave a squeeze. “You want to go back?”

“Follow me,” Inhwee said, pulling back and tugging Jeongwon after him by the hand.

 

--------------------

 

“Come here,” Inhwee coaxed, pulling Jeongwon into the back of the car with him. Jeongwon was too stunned to react at first, the implication of Inhwee’s actions sinking in slowly.

He dropped onto the seat after Inhwee. “Wha—” His protest was cut off by a kiss. Electricity surged through him, his chest tightening with the intensity of his longing. He barely dared to breathe, his pulse racing wildly.

Inhwee’s fingers slipped into his hair, and Jeongwon leaned into the touch. His spine tingled as the shock of it rippled through him. “Close the door,” Inhwee murmured, his voice low and rough with need.

Jeongwon obeyed, though his eyes stayed locked on him. His shy Inhwee, the same one who had begged him not to do anything “freaky.”

Balancing on a knee between Inhwee’s parted thighs, chest rising and falling erratically, Jeongwon looked down at him.

“What?” Inhwee’s soft demand broke the charged silence.

“I… I’m stunned.”

Even in the faint light, Jeongwon could see the blush spreading across his cheeks.

“No,” he soothed quickly, reaching for him. He pressed a kiss to his cheek, tender and wet. “I didn’t mean it like that. I like it. I just mean…it’s a little unexpected.”

“Why?” Inhwee tilted his head, their gazes locking. “We’re dating.”

Jeongwon nodded, a smile stretching across his face.

“This is fine, right?” Inhwee kissed him again, wet, hot, and nipped lightly at his bottom lip.

His hands trailed to the front of Jeongwon’s pants. Jeongwon flinched, stomach muscles tightening as heat surged through him like molten lava.

Inhwee paused, studying him. Lips parted, breath ragged, he asked with quiet contrition, “May I touch you?”

Jeongwon blinked, dazed. It was as if Inhwee’s voice reached him through water. Floating, weightless, in heaven, he struggled to steady his breath. “Do you really want to?” he managed.

In answer, Inhwee slid his palms under his T-shirt, smoothing them upward over warm skin. Jeongwon shuddered instantly, arching into the cool touch. The contrast of temperature and pressure sent shivers racing down his spine.

Inhwee was looking at him with reverent eyes. His touch was gossamer light. “Is this okay?”

“You’re going to get in trouble,” Jeongwon teased, laughing hoarsely. He dropped his forehead against Inhwee’s and grabbed his hands to shove them higher up his body.

“Hmm. Yeah?” He sounded more than beyond pleased. Inhwee tugged him closer between his legs.

Was he dreaming? Jeongwon wondered, blinking hard as he took in the sight of this bold, red-cheeked Inhwee. If he were, he never wanted to wake up.

“Is touching me fun?”

“Yes.”

“Yes?” He laughed.

“I’ve always wanted to touch you,” Inhwee said, voice light and thin.

“Get your fill then.”

Inhwee nodded, licking his bottom lip. His eyes were fixed on Jeongwon's body. His movements were stinkingly cute and arousing at the same time. Inhwee went back to running his hands up his chest as if he was at an altar, worshipping his body. Jeongwon dropped his head a bit, angled his face, and pressed his plush lips against Inhwee’s. 

Inhwee shivered a bit and parted his lips, his palms firm and warm on his chest.

Jeongwon blinked hard, feeling as if he was levitating and having an out-of-body experience. He pulled back. Though his head was buzzing, he had the presence of mind to ask, “Are you sure about this?”

Inhwee blinked, frowning. Jeongwon instantly knew his reassurance was being taken as rejection. He looped his fingers through Inhwee’s belt loops. “I… You don’t want to?”

Want to what? He bit his tongue rather than teasingly asking. He felt as if he were scaring Inhwee. That wasn’t his intention. He was too happy, too aroused, to talk him out of this trance. He wanted him. He wanted this. He wanted Inhwee to touch him; he didn’t want him to pull back and reject him. He wasn’t sure he could take it.

“I do.” He emphasized the word. “It’s just… are you sure?”

Inhwee tilted his head all the way back. “Do you not like it when I touch you?” his hands stilled.

“What?”

“You…” He stopped, frowning, eyebrows knitting. “You don’t let me—”

“No. No. Fuck. No.” Jeongwon dug his fingers through Inhwee’s hair, pushing his head back, and kissed him, shoving his tongue into his mouth while pressing his body against him. It was sloppy and messy, spit spilled down the side of their mouths. Pulling back slightly, he panted, then whispered, sensually, “I want you.”

“You do?”

“Always.” He kissed him again, sucking his tongue.

Inhwee pulled back this time. “This… this is okay?”

Jeongwon had been scared of frightening him by letting him have unfiltered access to his arousal, but not anymore. He nodded and reached for Inhwee’s hands, moving them over his body. “Yes.” He kissed the shell of his ear. “But—” Inhwee flinched.

He immediately soothed him, bringing his hands up higher over his abdomen, his body moving with each heavy breath. “It’s just… we’re outside.”

“There’s no one around, and… it’s dark.” Inhwee’s voice held a trace of impatience.

“No take-backs,” Jeongwon murmured hotly.

Inhwee chuckled. “Jeongwon.”

He tilted his head, biting his upper lip, and whispered into his mouth, “I want you to touch me.” He caressed Inhwee’s earlobes, feeling him tremble under his touch. Jeongwon’s cock throbbed at the sound; it was intoxicating to be wanted so starkly. “All over.”

Inhwee pulled his hands free and returned to Jeongwon’s crotch, fulfilling his wish.

Jeongwon could not fully stifle the soft, breathy sounds that escaped his lips as Inhwee’s fingers moved through his pants. The heat of Inhwee’s hands on his hips burned through the thin fabric of his shirt. He shivered. Their chests rose and fell in sync.

Popping his eyes open, he looked down at Inhwee. Their gaze met.

 “Is this okay?”

Jeongwon swallowed hard, his pulse quickening, a loopy smile spreading across his face. He didn’t need to articulate his pleasure for Inhwee to understand—everything was more than alright as his precum leaked down his bulging, twitching cock, wetting the front of his underwear.

Instead, he kissed Inhwee’s jaw and bit his chin, running his hands down his back and sliding his left hand under his shirt, exploring the vast, smooth skin. Inhwee’s breath shuddered.

Inhwee rapidly undid his zipper, the sound echoing in the small space of the car. His movements were haphazard, yet Jeongwon felt electrified, every nerve in his body on fire.

Inhwee’s hand slipped inside, his fingers brushing against the fabric of Jeongwon’s boxers. Jeongwon couldn’t suppress the moan that escaped him, his hips instinctively pushing forward, seeking more. “Fuck, Inhwee…” he breathed, his hands dropping to Inhwee’s waist, gripping him, marking him.

Inhwee moved his head and pressed his mouth to Jeongwon’s, encouraging him to kiss him. As Jeongwon focused on the kiss, Inhwee slid his hand under the waistband, his fingers wrapping around Jeongwon’s length. The contact was electric, sending jolts of pleasure through Jeongwon’s body. He gasped, biting Inhwee’s tongue. Inhwee flinched, then removed his hand from Jeongwon’s waist and wrapped it around his neck, caressing him there.

Inhwee’s hand began to move, slow and deliberate, both gentle and firm. Jeongwon’s breath came in shallow gasps, his body trembling with each stroke. The heat inside him built, every nerve ending screaming for more.

Breaking their frantic kiss, Jeongwon moaned, his lips brushing Inhwee’s neck. “You’re good at this.”

Inhwee chuckled, though strained. “I have… one too.”

Jeongwon grinned. “You do.” He kissed the smooth skin of Inhwee’s neck and bit him lightly. “Can I touch you?” He nuzzled his neck.

Inhwee panted. “You always—”

Jeongwon smacked a wet kiss on his lips, cutting him off. “I like making you feel good.”

“Jeongwon.” He whined, his thumb pressing down on Jeongwon’s tip while pumping him with his other hand.

He panted softly into his mouth. “We can do it together,” he pleaded, licking the corner of his mouth with his hot, smooth tongue.

“I won’t… I can’t focus.”

“I’ll keep you on track,” he whispered, sucking the smooth skin where Inhwee’s neck met his shoulder.

“Umm. Jeongwon.”

Dropping his hands to Inhwee’s fly, Jeongwon carefully caressed him through the fabric of his jeans. Inhwee whimpered, his body trembling as he shifted closer.

“Don’t stop,” Jeongwon begged, his voice barely above a whisper, thick with need. Inhwee resumed stroking him, his movements jerky, fighting to focus and not succumb to the heat rising from Jeongwon’s touch. Every brush of their skin, every subtle shift, sent shivers through both of them, and Inhwee’s grip tightened slightly, a struggle between restraint and the desire building inside him.

A teasing smirk tugged at Jeongwon’s lips. “See,” he murmured, his tone soft but teasing, “you’re doing great.”

“You’re so… Hah.” Inhwee’s pace quickened, his fingers tightening slightly around Jeongwon’s length. His haphazard touches sent shivers of heat straight through Jeongwon. His hips bucked instinctively, moving in perfect sync with Inhwee’s hand. Moans spilled freely from his throat, deep and uncontrolled, each one fueled by the intense friction and the electric connection of their bodies. Every touch, every subtle shift of hands and fingers, sent waves of pleasure coursing through him, pulling him closer to the edge.

When Jeongwon freed Inhwee’s throbbing penis, he quickly wrapped his own around his length, the tip slick with precum. Their movements fell into rhythm, synchronized in a dance of friction and heat. Every stroke was mirrored, each pulse of excitement feeding the next. Jeongwon’s body hummed with anticipation, his muscles tensing and releasing with each motion, the air around them charged with the raw intensity of their shared arousal.

He maneuvered them closer together, freeing one leg from his tight jeans and sliding it over Inhwee’s waist, pushing his leg down into the soft cushions of his car’s seat. The press of his thigh against the back of the car seat brought them impossibly close, their slick hardness pressing together, skin and fabric rubbing in a friction that made Jeongwon’s breath hitch. 

The car seemed to vanish around them; all that existed was the warmth of Inhwee’s touch, the sound of their ragged breathing, and the electric friction of their bodies pressed tightly together. Jeongwon could feel the tension coiling in his stomach, spreading through his torso, every nerve on fire, every muscle taut with need.

He couldn’t believe that they were giving each other hand jobs in his car. Out in public.

His vision swarmed.  

“I’m close,” he groaned, his voice strained, ragged, almost pleading. Inhwee leaned in, his lips brushing against Jeongwon’s ear, his hot breath making his skin tingle. “Come,” he whispered, a command and an invitation all at once.

Jeongwon’s lips found Inhwee’s parted, wet mouth, pressing and tasting him, the kiss urgent and consuming. His hand pushed down slightly, coaxing Inhwee, their bodies moving in tandem, each stroke, each flick, building the tension until it could no longer be contained. Their rhythm became frantic, desperate, the friction between them now almost unbearable.

“Hmm! Jeongwon.” The sound tore through him, and that single breathy exclamation was enough to shatter any remaining restraint. Jeongwon’s body tensed violently as a wave of pleasure crashed through him, overwhelming and intense, his release spilling over Inhwee’s hand with a shudder that rippled through his thighs.

For a long moment afterward, they remained pressed together, panting, trembling, hearts racing in tandem. Jeongwon’s body was still tingling from the aftermath, every nerve ending alive with residual heat and satisfaction. He lowered his gaze to Inhwee, his chest rising and falling as he tried to catch his breath, eyes filled with awe, desire, and a kind of tender reverence. “Did you come?” he asked softly, voice thick with both concern and lingering desire.

Inhwee buried his face against Jeongwon’s neck, muffling a quiet, embarrassed reply. “Yeah,” he whispered, his tone trembling slightly, cheeks burning in the dim light, a mix of shame and satisfaction.

Did he come from him orgasming?

Hot, unbidden desire surged through Jeongwon at the question.

Notes:

Hello to all the amazing people reading this story, and to those wonderful souls who leave me comments: thank you for reading! I hope both sides of your pillow are always cool, and your coffee always tastes just right. I hope you enjoy this new chapter—I’ll be back soon! 💖

Chapter 26

Jeongwon could have texted or called to give Inhwee a heads-up, but he was too emotionally drained to bother and missed him too much to risk rejection. Instead, he drove to Inhwee’s apartment and knocked on his door. To his dismay, there was no answer. He wasn’t home.

With a petulant sigh, Jeongwon resigned himself to waiting. His sports coat hung loosely over his arm, his fingers twitching with the craving for a smoke, as he settled in front of Inhwee’s empty apartment. The engagement dinner had gone exactly as he’d anticipated—frustrating, suffocating, exhausting in a way that made his very bones ache. Being surrounded by his parents and their endless parade of relatives always felt less like family and more like an inquisition. Every smile was a performance, every question a veiled critique. Still, he had endured, biting his tongue and keeping his composure, because that was what was expected of him.

At least, he told himself, there were still a few more years before the noose tightened further—before the well-meaning but merciless demands began in earnest, urging him to marry, to start a family, to shape his life into something tidy and palatable. And before he would have to make a choice. No matter how strained or suffocating his family felt, they were still his, and the thought of severing those ties filled him with a fear he despised—fear that exposed a weakness he wished he didn’t carry. 

Tonight had been only a rehearsal for that future. And the thought left him heavier than any dinner could.

The thought of being with Inhwee had kept him going through the evening. Inhwee in his car, eyes bright as he looked up at him, kissing him, touching him. Inhwee noticing his emotional turmoil and wanting to soothe him and be there for him. The memory filled him with warmth and strength.

After that night, Jeongwon felt that they had grown closer. He felt freer, more vulnerable, as though he could tell Inhwee anything and still be accepted. It was as if Inhwee had already accepted him for who he truly was. In the face of his parents’ conditional love, if he could even call it that, that felt incredible. To be wanted and desired for who he was, not in spite of it, was a relief he hadn’t realized he craved. For the first time, he felt as if he could be his true self and be accepted by the person he held in the highest esteem. Jeongwon felt as if Inhwee knew and accepted the real him, not some romanticized version.

If it were possible to love him more, Jeongwon knew he did.

He was lost in his thoughts when he glanced up from his phone and doom scrolling and spotted Inhwee making the turn from the stairs and into the hallway to his apartment. But he wasn’t alone. Gangwoo was with him. Their eyes met, and Inhwee immediately stopped in his tracks. He looked panicked.

Though Jeongwon was irritated to see Gangwoo—a drunk Gangwoo, at that—he instinctively smiled at Inhwee. His Inhwee.

“Inhwee.”

“Oh, what—”

Gangwoo noticed Jeongwon then. He sobered up almost instantly, his posture stiffening before he quickly turned to Inhwee and practically hollered, putting on a dramatic show, “I’m going home.”

“Wait, you’re drunk,” Inhwee countered, grabbing his arm just as Gangwoo flailed angrily.

Jeongwon rolled his eyes, irritation simmering as he stepped closer. “Is everything okay?”

Inhwee shot him a pleading look, but Jeongwon’s frustration only grew. He had been looking forward to seeing Inhwee, to spending time together after enduring his family’s endless demands. Instead, Inhwee was here, tangled up in whatever mess Gangwoo had dragged him into.

Before Jeongwon could say more, Gangwoo wrenched himself free and stumbled down the hallway.

“Gangwoo!” Inhwee called, immediately running after him.

Jeongwon clenched his jaw. Seriously?

“Hey, Inhwee!” he called, peeling after them.

Catching up just as Inhwee grabbed a teetering Gangwoo, Jeongwon exhaled sharply. This was ridiculous. Running a hand through his perfectly styled hair—the same hair he had spent fifteen painstaking minutes fixing to meet his parents’ absurd standards—he tousled it in frustration.

“Let me drive you home,” he suggested begrudgingly, voice even but firm.

Gangwoo glowered at him, as if Jeongwon had personally wronged him. 

Looking at him, you’d think Jeongwon had punched him in the face or stolen his girlfriend—he bet Gangwoo did see him as an enemy who had stolen his ‘girl’. Jeongwon didn’t care. At this point, all he wanted was Inhwee to himself. He wanted a hot, mind-numbing make-out session and to feel wanted. He wanted to stop thinking for a few hours. But with Gangwoo monopolizing Inhwee’s attention, that wasn’t happening.

“Dude,” Inhwee said, trying to calm Gangwoo down. “Please.”

Jeongwon’s patience wore thin. “Or you can sleep in the street.”

Gangwoo swayed slightly, his tongue heavy as he slurred, “Fuck you.”

Jeongwon groaned in annoyance.

“I can… I can get a cab.”

Jeongwon shrugged and snapped, “Suit yourself.”

“Jeongwon!” Inhwee snapped, turning to him, eyes blazing with frustration.

“I can’t force the guy to let me drive him,” Jeongwon said, swallowing the rest of his sentence, but I want to spend time with you. Tonight.

“Dude. Leave me alone. I got it.” Gangwoo shook free of Inhwee, his movements jerky and uncoordinated.

“Okay.” Inwhee pleaded, refusing to let him go and watch him and fall to his ungrateful knees. He reached for him again. “Let me call you a cab.”

Gangwoo waved Inhwee off again, his irritation clear. Now free, he staggered toward the elevator.

“Hey, let him go,” Jeongwon said, grabbing Inhwee’s elbow before he could follow.

Inhwee tensed and gently shook him off. “Let me get him a cab,” he insisted, his voice calm but firm. 

“He’ll be fine.”

He glared at Jeongwon, looking exasperated. “He’s drunk.”

“He’s a jerk.”

Inhwee shot him a sharp glare, frustration flashing in his dark eyes.

“He’s here!” Gangwoo snapped, hollering. They ignored him as they stared each other down.

Jeongwon sighed heavily, running a hand through his tousled hair before reaching for Inhwee’s arm again. He hesitated, glancing down the hall at Gangwoo, who was now slumped against the wall, head drooped, waiting for the elevator doors to open. This wasn’t how tonight was supposed to go.

“I miss you,” Jeongwon admitted, his voice lower, more vulnerable than he intended.

Inhwee’s gaze softened for a split second, but he quickly dropped his eyes to his phone. “Hold on,” he muttered, distracted, typing something. “Let me finish this.” He barely looked at Jeongwon before stepping past him, heading toward Gangwoo.

Jeongwon clenched his fists, trying to push down the heat rising in his chest. Why was he doing this? Putting Gangwoo first, when Jeongwon knew Gangwoo would never have done the same for him.

Trying to keep his frustration in check, he followed Inhwee, reaching for his arm again. “Hey, are you mad at me?”

Inhwee stiffened, his eyes widening slightly in panic before flickering toward Gangwoo. He quickly pushed Jeongwon’s hand off, his movements nervous and guarded. “Let me get him home,” he whispered hastily. Then, as if realizing how dismissive he sounded, he added, “I’m not mad. I’m…umm, I’m happy to see you too.”

Jeongwon barely had time to process the warmth in his voice before Inhwee’s gaze darted back to Gangwoo, who was already stepping into the now-open elevator.

“Umm…” Inhwee hesitated, torn. “Let me get him home safely.” His voice was laced with guilt as he turned back to Jeongwon, giving him a lingering look before sighing. “I don’t want him to vomit in the elevator.”

And just like that, he was gone, running after Gangwoo.

“Don’t let the elevator close, Gangwoo!”

Jeongwon stood there like an idiot, watching him disappear behind the sliding doors. His entire body buzzed with frustration. Why do I even bother?

Then, without thinking, he took off toward the stairs.

By the time he reached the lobby, Gangwoo was still arguing with Inhwee, his voice rising in loud, slurred protests.

“I’ll be fine!” he was saying, shoving Inhwee’s hands away with exaggerated dramatics. Inhwee, already exhausted, sighed in exasperation, trying to reason with him.

Jeongwon finally had enough.

“Inhwee, did you call the taxi?” he asked, his voice clipped.

Inhwee blinked at him, momentarily startled. “Y-yeah.”

“Good.” Without giving Gangwoo another glance, Jeongwon reached for Inhwee’s arm and pulled him to his side.

Inhwee gasped in surprise, eyes flying up to Jeongwon’s face. “What are you—?”

“Let’s go. I have something to tell you.”

Gangwoo scoffed, stumbling back a step as he pointed a shaky finger at them. “When did you two get so close?” His voice slurred over the words, his face scrunching in suspicion. “Is he the one you’ve been spending all your time with? Is that why you’ve been ignoring us?”

Inhwee inhaled sharply, his lips parting as if to answer, but Jeongwon had already reached his limit.

“Dude, shut up,” he snapped, unable to keep his irritation in check. His grip on Inhwee’s arm remained firm. “I think that’s your taxi pulling up.”

Gangwoo blinked sluggishly, then turned toward the curb, where a cab had just rolled to a stop.

“Jeon—” Inhwee started, but Jeongwon didn’t let him finish. With a decisive tug, he steered Inhwee toward the apartment entrance. Inhwee wiggled his arm free, twisting around to look back. “Hey, I can’t just—”

“You can,” Jeongwon cut him off. “It’s his taxi. He’s fine.”

Inhwee hesitated, torn between responsibility and whatever Jeongwon was demanding of him. But when he turned back, he saw Gangwoo sluggishly slinking into the back of the cab without another word.

Jeongwon exhaled, trying to steady himself. Fuck it.

“Hey,” he said, his voice quieter now, tinged with something rawer, something uncertain. “What’s going on?”

Inhwee finally turned to look at him fully, his expression guarded.

Jeongwon swallowed, his throat tightening. Maybe it was just the weight of the night pressing down on him, or maybe it was the residue of hours spent enduring his parents’ exhausting expectations, clinging to the hope of Inhwee’s comfort as a reprieve. But it stung—sharper than he wanted to admit—that Inhwee kept holding him at arm’s length, as if being seen together was some unthinkable risk, as if the weeks between them hadn’t meant anything at all. As if they weren’t even dating—something he, Inhwee himself, had asked just three days ago. 

He was worn thin by Inhwee’s wavering, by the constant uncertainty of which Inhwee would show up—the one who reached for him or the one who recoiled—each shift knocking Jeongwon further off balance.

“Nothing,” Inhwee said, his eyes searching Jeongwon’s face with a quiet, uneasy intensity. He lingered there for a moment, as if the weight of Jeongwon’s hurt pressed against him, impossible to ignore, before he finally moved—fingers brushing Jeongwon’s arm, tentative yet deliberate. His voice softened, almost careful. “Do you… want to come up?”

Jeongwon inhaled deeply, his frustration still simmering beneath the surface, but he nodded. Even though he was upset, he still wanted to be with Inhwee. It had been two days since they last saw each other, and after the kind of day he’d had, he needed Inhwee’s presence to ground him.

As they stepped back into the building, Inhwee finally released his hold on Jeongwon’s arm. He stayed close, their shoulders brushing occasionally as they walked in silence. The tension lingered between them, unspoken but tangible.

The elevator ride was quiet. Neither of them spoke, but Jeongwon could feel Inhwee glancing at him from time to time, as if searching for the right words.

When they entered Inhwee’s apartment, Jeongwon set the small gift bag he had been holding down on the floor.

“Can I—”

Before Inhwee could finish, Jeongwon caught his shoulders and kissed him. It was a firm, urgent kiss, an attempt to bridge the gap between them, but the frustration in Jeongwon’s chest didn’t ease. Inhwee responded, kissing him back, but Jeongwon pulled away, his brows still furrowed. He had to ask.

“Are you… do you not want people to see us together?” Jeongwon asked, his voice quieter now but laced with something raw. His thumb brushed over Inhwee’s cheek, lingering as if searching for reassurance.

Inhwee blinked at him, looking genuinely caught off guard. “What?”

“You were acting… strange earlier,” Jeongwon carefully said, studying him closely.

Inhwee scowled. “Gangwoo was drunk, and I just wanted to take care of him.”

Jeongwon exhaled sharply and stepped back, running a hand through his hair. “Why are you even friends with him?”

Inhwee tensed. “He was drunk, Jeongwon. I couldn’t just leave him like that—”

“No, Inhwee,” Jeongwon cut in, shaking his head. “I mean in general. He’s a jerk.”

“I… he… he’s not that bad,” Inhwee stammered, clearly struggling to explain.

“How?”

Inhwee opened his mouth, then closed it, fumbling for an answer. “I… I…”

Jeongwon’s frustration only deepened. “What do you two actually do that makes him a good friend?”

Inhwee swallowed hard. “I… We…” His voice wavered before he straightened his shoulders. “He’s my friend. You have friends too.”

Jeongwon stepped closer again, cupping Inhwee’s face with both hands, forcing him to meet his gaze. “What makes him a good friend? When do you two ever hang out and do something that doesn’t involve drinking or picking up girls?”

Inhwee blinked rapidly. “I—I… Jeongwon, I have classes with Gangwoo. We’re in the same club at school, and—”

“So, that’s a no?” Jeongwon murmured, pressing a light kiss against Inhwee’s cheek.

Inhwee frowned, grabbing Jeongwon’s shoulder and pushing him back slightly. “I… We hang out. We do things together that we both like, and we’re still dating.”

Jeongwon’s scowl softened into a teasing smile. “Oh, so you know we’re dating?”

Inhwee’s eyes widened slightly, his face turning pink. “Of course! I—”

“Inhwee, he’s—.”

Inhwee’s scoff of derision cut him off. “You don’t have to like him for him to be my friend.”

“What? Inhwee. No, I—”

“Why does it feel like you’re trying to tell me who I can and can’t be friends with?”

 Jeongwon froze. Their eyes met and held. 

Jeongwon’s chest tightened, his heart stuttering as panic and fear clawed at him. Inhwee thought he was controlling, just like his parents, with their constant demands, their endless expectations, their stifling ways, their toxicity. The weight of it pressed down on him, suffocating. Was he really… just like them?

Inhwee’s words caught in his throat as he realized what he’d said. He tried to take it back, stumbling over them. “No, Jeongwon. I’m sorry, I mean—”

Jeongwon’s voice trembled, almost breaking as he asked, “Are you saying I’m controlling?”

Inhwee blinked silently and inhaled a shaky breath; he looked as shell-shocked as he felt. He swallowed before attempting to speak, and he muttered slowly, “No. No." He shook his head. “That’s not what I meant…” He dropped his gaze and reached for Jeongwon’s hand, grabbing his wrist. “I know that Gangwoo can be a jerk, but he’s my friend.”

Jeongwon stayed still and tried to calm his erratic breathing. 

“I’m sorry, Jeongwon.”

Opening his mouth, he said slowly, “No.” He exhaled. “I’m sorry. I should not have said that. You can be friends with whoever you want. I would never—and I mean that…” He paused, grabbed Inhwee’s chin with his free hand, and continued, “I would never try to tell you who you can’t be friends with or try to control you. Never.”

“Jeongwon, I know,” Inhwee muttered softly, contrite. Realizing how deeply he had cut him earlier with his insensitive statement, he said, “I’m sorry.” And he turned his head slightly and kissed his wrist before he freed his grip on his wrist. Sliding his arm around his waist, he stepped even closer and kissed him again, deeper this time.

Dropping his hand from his chin, Jeongwon wrapped his arms around Inhwee and pulled him close.

As their kiss heated, Inhwee pulled away slightly, frowning in concern. “Are you okay?”

Jeongwon kissed him again just as he closed his mouth, making him smooch him. “Umm. Yeah.”

Inhwee pulled back a second time, searching his face. “Jeongwon, no, really.”

He forced a smile, knowing it lacked its usual luster. “I’m sorry. I’m so bad at this—dating. You’re the first—”

“This is my—” Inhwee abruptly stopped, realizing what he had almost said. He inhaled and then said, “I’m not talking about… Are you okay?”

Jeongwon let out a slow breath, shaking his head. “I—” He hesitated, then ran his hand down Inhwee’s back in a slow, soothing motion. His other hand lingered on Inhwee’s cheek, touch gentle. “I had a rough day. I’m sorry about earlier.”

“You’re fine. Gangwoo can be a jerk.”

“Like he was today,” Jeongwon muttered before kissing him again. “Let’s stop talking about him.” He sighed against Inhwee’s kiss-slicked lips and pulled Inhwee into a tight hug, burying his face against his neck. “I missed you.”

Inhwee chuckled softly. “It’s only been a few days.”

Jeongwon pressed kisses along Inhwee’s jaw before murmuring, almost absentmindedly, “I saw my—” He hesitated, then brushed his lips down Inhwee’s throat. “Never mind.”

Inhwee tilted his head slightly, curious, but before he could ask, Jeongwon kissed him firmly on the mouth.

“I got you something,” Jeongwon said between kisses.

Inhwee pulled back slightly, blinking at him. “Why?”

Jeongwon smiled, kissing his cheek. “A gift doesn’t need a reason.”

He pulled away from Inhwee and reached for the bag he had set aside. Picking it up, he took it to Inhwee and placed it in his hand.

“Seriously, you didn't—”

Jeongwon kissed him. “Appease me.”

He blinked at Jeongwon before sighing and opening the gift bag. Then he went back to protesting. “Hey! I can’t accept that.”

“It’s just a jacket, Inhwee.”

“An expensive one.”

“Treasure it,” Jeongwon teased before capturing his lips again. He was already losing himself in Inhwee, warmth flooding through him. That was the power Inhwee had over him.

Inhwee sighed against his lips, giving in. “Thank you.”

Jeongwon chuckled. “You’re welcome.”

Inhwee smirked before grabbing Jeongwon’s face and kissing him deeply. A thrilling current ran down his spine at the way Inhwee melted against him. Between nipping kisses, Inhwee murmured, “Want to spend the night?”

“Can I stay?” Jeongwon asked, a hopeful glint in his eyes.

“Of course. I asked.”

“Good.” Jeongwon grinned, brushing his fingers down Inhwee’s side. “Can I borrow your shower?”

“Yes.”