By Zephyria It was past 4 AM when Kwon Su-hyeok left his office. He was on his way home, finishing his workday at a time when some were starting theirs. Jeon Mi-nam, who had ended up working overtime as well, opened the rear door of the prepared car for him.
“I will take you home.”
Instead of answering, Kwon Su-hyeok simply nodded and sat in the back seat. As soon as he leaned his fatigue-worn body deep into the seat, a long sigh escaped. He loosened the knot of his tie. He also messed up his neatly combed hair.
He had no complaints about a tight life without a moment to breathe. In fact, there were times when he preferred it that way. When chased by work, useless distractions didn’t have room to settle.
He had sat in this position solely for revenge. To give back as much as he had received, he needed a corresponding amount of funds and power. Justice, legitimacy, innocence—those things had no power. So, he willingly decided to dirty his hands. Stepping into this world meant the corruption of one’s humanity. He had to endure countless risks. It didn’t matter. He had never regretted his choices in life. That was still true now.
However, after meeting Ju-wan and being with him, his thoughts changed. If he couldn’t see him for even a moment, he became anxious with curiosity, and he wanted to stay by his side for even one more minute and second. He felt an unnecessary urgency because each day seemed to pass too quickly. It was ridiculous. A man who had lived without a tomorrow, a man who wouldn’t have had a word to say even if he died like a dog in the street, had dared to start dreaming of a future.
The reason he had become significantly busier lately was that he was preparing to bring his business entirely into the light. It was purely for Ju-wan. Retribution, poetic justice. Since he had committed sins, he wasn’t afraid of meeting a miserable end. Rather, it felt natural. He was only worried about the sense of loss Ju-wan would have to bear. Even if he fell into hell, he didn’t want to make him sad by disappearing suddenly again or being found in a wretched state. Even if it was a brazen and shameless greed, that was how his heart felt. He decided to prioritize only Ju-wan for the rest of his life.
Because of that, lately, he barely managed to close his eyes for an hour or two even after going home. By 6 AM, or 7 AM at the latest, he had to live another day.
“President, we have arrived.”
He opened his closed eyes. He felt a strange sense of relief upon arriving home. Kwon Su-hyeok told Jeon Mi-nam, who was about to get out first, “It’s fine.” Jeon Mi-nam, who was unbuckling his seatbelt, looked back with a puzzled face.
“There’s no need to follow me inside.”
After unilaterally notifying him, he opened the door and stepped out himself. It was his own way of being considerate, telling him to go in and rest even a little earlier. Nevertheless, Jeon Mi-nam followed him out and bowed.
“Please rest. I will see you tomorrow.”
Leaving Jeon Mi-nam behind, he entered the house. A cozy warmth greeted Kwon Su-hyeok first. Following that, a familiar and comforting scent wafted. Out of habit, Kwon Su-hyeok looked down at Ju-wan’s sneakers placed on one side of the entrance. His face, which had been stiff the whole time, relaxed.
He took off his dress shoes next to the neatly placed sneakers and walked inside. Soon, he heard the sound of Jaguar running toward him from the living room. It seemed the animal had been startled awake by the sound of the door opening. The creature, who had rushed out to check for an intruder, gradually stopped running upon discovering Kwon Su-hyeok.
Kwon Su-hyeok reached out both hands toward the animal. Then, the creature came a bit closer, rested its head on Kwon Su-hyeok’s thigh, and looked up at him blankly. Its bottom remained obediently on the floor. Su-hyeok slowly stroked its forehead.
Then, Jaguar suddenly stood up and ran somewhere. As he shifted his gaze to follow, he saw Ju-wan looking toward the entrance from the end of the hallway. Ju-wan also looked completely out of it, as if he had woken up from a nap like Jaguar.
“Why aren’t you sleeping?”
“I was sleeping.”
He always said that, but Su-hyeok had never seen him sleep peacefully. Looking closer, his eyes were red. His face was full of drowsiness. He looked as if he would fall fast asleep the moment he lay down.
Staring at Ju-wan’s flickering eyes, Kwon Su-hyeok suddenly scooped him up in his arms. Ju-wan, flustered and unstable, instinctively gripped his shoulder. Su-hyeok carried him to the sofa and collapsed with him.
After that, Kwon Su-hyeok remained motionless, hugging Ju-wan’s waist tightly. He didn’t utter a single word. He simply breathed in and out in a tired rhythm.
Ju-wan looked down at Kwon Su-hyeok and gently stroked his hair. It seemed as though he was trying to comfort the exhausted man. At the tender touch, a faint, long curve formed at the corners of Su-hyeok’s lips. He rubbed his head against Ju-wan’s stomach a bit more and hugged him tightly. Perhaps it was an illusion, but it felt as if every second was piling up leisurely.
Ju-wan, who had been quietly held by Su-hyeok while fiddling with his ear, finally spoke after a long while.
“You know…”
“…….”
“…Are you asleep?”
He slowly lifted his head and looked down at the unresponsive Su-hyeok. Only the sound of deep breathing came from him. Tilting his head further to peer at his face, Ju-wan saw that his eyes were now tightly closed. His rhythmic breathing sounded profoundly deep in sleep. A soft smile spread across Ju-wan’s blank face.
Ju-wan lay back down and gently stroked Su-hyeok’s hair. Jaguar approached Su-hyeok, who had fallen asleep as if collapsing, and nudged him with his snout.
“Su-nam, let’s just let Hyung sleep today.”
Ju-wan blocked Jaguar’s snout as the cat tried to wake Su-hyeok again. He reached down and gently scratched under the cat’s chin. Jaguar purred in delight before eventually flopping onto his belly on the floor. With his head resting on his front paws, he drifted off to sleep.
In the silence of the dawn, only the repeated sound of deep breathing echoed. Soon, Ju-wan too was intoxicated by that sweet sound and slowly closed his eyes.
* * *
“Aren’t you working too much lately?”
Ju-wan looked worriedly at Kwon Su-hyeok, who didn’t seem refreshed even after showering. He was equally groggy, having not been able to sleep well himself.
“I’m okay. There’s not much left. If I just focus a bit more, everything will be sorted out soon.”
Su-hyeok reassured Ju-wan, approached him, and gave him a quick peck. Stroking Ju-wan’s roughened cheek, he teased him, telling him to sleep more. Ju-wan swallowed the words he wanted to say and fiddled with Su-hyeok’s tie instead. His expression became somewhat sullen.
“I’m not trying to whine, but I just hope you don’t overdo it.”
“I got it.”
Su-hyeok grabbed Ju-wan’s hand, which couldn’t seem to let go of him easily. Then, pressing his lips to the hand, he whispered softly.
“Get some more sleep. I’ll try to come home as early as possible today.”
Suddenly, he opened his mouth and lightly nipped Ju-wan’s finger before letting go. At the mischievous prank, Ju-wan’s stiff face relaxed and he let out a small laugh. He nodded silently as if in agreement.
Su-hyeok kissed Ju-wan’s lips once more and reluctantly let go of his hand. As he headed toward the entrance, Ju-wan and Jaguar followed to see him off, as they always did. He was glad that at least Jaguar was by Ju-wan’s side. The same went for Jaguar.
After stroking Jaguar’s head for a while, he turned around. Just as he was about to put on his shoes, Su-hyeok suddenly remembered something and looked back at Ju-wan.
“Come to think of it, didn’t you have something to tell me yesterday?”
“Yesterday?”
“Yeah. You were about to say something. I think I caught a glimpse of it in my sleep.”
“Ah, that… it’s nothing. It’s something that can be discussed later, so please don’t worry about it.”
It was clear he was hiding something, but he didn’t seem inclined to reveal it now. Su-hyeok gazed at Ju-wan for a moment, then reached out and cupped the back of his head. He pulled him in for a light hug and said his goodbyes.
“Tell me tonight. I’ll be back.”
“Okay.”
Su-hyeok finally let Ju-wan go and turned away. Ju-wan watched his back with longing eyes as he left again, not even three hours after arriving home. He stayed there until Su-hyeok disappeared through the gap in the front door, until the sound of the car he must have boarded faded into the distance.
Soon, the surroundings became quiet. Letting out a long sigh, he sat down to meet Jaguar’s eyes. Then, kneading the cat’s face with both hands, he muttered bitterly.
“It’s just the two of us again.”
Jaguar, who had been staying still while Ju-wan kneaded him, slowly approached and rested his head on Ju-wan’s shoulder. Ju-wan rubbed his face against Jaguar’s soft, warm body before hugging the cat and flopping over onto his back. He rolled around like that for a long time. But in the end, the emptiness in his heart was not soothed.
The day he had to spend without Kwon Su-hyeok felt daunting.
* * *
“Did Park Ju-wan try to tell me something and then stop? Do you have any idea what it might be?”
Su-hyeok asked abruptly in the moving car. Jeon Mi-nam looked at the rearview mirror with a puzzled expression and fell into thought for a moment.
He, too, had spent most of his days with Kwon Su-hyeok recently. However, since he often stopped by the house for errands or to take care of Jaguar, he would be more aware of Ju-wan’s recent activities than Su-hyeok himself.
As if the expectation wasn’t misplaced, Jeon Mi-nam spoke without much certainty.
“I might be wrong, but it seems he’s been going to get his driver’s license for a while now.”
“He’s attending a driving school?”
“Yes. It seems he wants to get his license in between preparing for the GED. I heard Teacher Baek suggested it. Since I can’t check in on him as often as I used to, it must have been very inconvenient for him. I believe I heard he went to take the written exam recently.”
It was news to him. He had never heard Ju-wan mention wanting to drive or get a license. It wasn’t surprising, given that Ju-wan usually fell into a dead sleep the moment he got home.
Of course, he had thought that Ju-wan, who spent most of his time indoors, might feel stifled. He intended to support whatever Ju-wan wanted to do beyond the GED. Moreover, he had already told Ju-wan that he didn’t need to ask for his permission for every little thing from now on.
Still, he felt strange. The fact that he alone was completely unaware of where Ju-wan spent his day, what he did, and what he thought.
Ju-wan must have wanted to tell him. He was the kind of person who would wait while nodding off just to show Su-hyeok his perfect scores on the mock exams Baek Do-un gave him, so this time would be no different. There had simply been no proper opportunity.
Thinking of Ju-wan, who must have waited for him all day but couldn’t bring himself to wake the exhausted man, a sigh escaped from deep within Su-hyeok. He shook his heavy head, burdened by lack of sleep.
“…This is truly a mess.”
He needed a solution.
* * *
“Would you like some coffee?”
Jeon Mi-nam asked as he stood up. Kwon Su-hyeok, who had been leaning back on the sofa with his head tilted, slowly opened his eyes. He had just managed to catch a breath after being plagued by heavy work immediately upon arriving at the office. Su-hyeok raised both hands and rubbed his face.
“I’m fine on coffee. More importantly, what’s this about contact from the Bangkok client?”
“They want to renew the contract, but it seems they have specific conditions. They’re asking for a representative with sole decision-making authority to be sent there.”
“A representative, all the way to the local site?”
“Yes. I looked into it, and it seems that client also underwent a major internal reorganization. The ownership and control structure have changed, and a new CEO will be running the company starting next month. As an extension of that, they seem to be renewing all existing contracts to suit their tastes. How should we handle this?”
Listening intently, Kwon Su-hyeok leaned his upper body forward. Then, he pressed firmly on his temples, which had been throbbing all along. A nervous crease had formed between his brows.
When he reached out his hand without a word, Jeon Mi-nam instinctively found and handed him the previous contract with the Bangkok client. The text didn’t enter his eyes easily. It didn’t matter. He had been needing to change the contract as part of the process of bringing things into the light anyway.
“Shall I go?”
Jeon Mi-nam volunteered for the business trip. He thought it would be too draining and tiring for Kwon Su-hyeok to go personally. However, a different calculation was forming in Su-hyeok’s mind.
The business trip itself wouldn’t be that arduous. There was nothing dangerous about it. Furthermore, since the immediate urgent matters were mostly settled, he felt he could afford to rest a bit. The fact that he had spent almost no time with Ju-wan lately continued to weigh on his mind. He wanted to compensate him somehow.
“A trip of about two days should be sufficient. So, I…”
“No.”
“Pardon?”
“I’ll go myself.”
Jeon Mi-nam once again asked “Pardon?” blankly. It was because there was no need for Kwon Su-hyeok to step in for something that wasn’t urgent or critical. If he had that kind of time, it would be better to get plenty of rest and recover his strength.
But Su-hyeok did not waver and declared decisively.
“I’m going to Bangkok myself.”
* * *
Ju-wan pulled out a suitcase and packed his things neatly. This was because Kwon Su-hyeok had abruptly notified him that he was planning to go to Bangkok and told him to get ready. There hadn’t been any mention of it until this morning, so he wondered what was going on. Since receiving the news, he had been in a daze, feeling both worried and a bit excited.
For now, he decided to hear the full story from Su-hyeok once he returned and moved diligently. Since it had been a long time since he’d packed, and especially since he was doing it alone, he didn’t know where to start. He worried needlessly that he might leave something important behind. Jaguar, for his part, was busy following Ju-wan as he darted from the bathroom to the shoe rack and back to the bedroom.
After some time, the sound of the door lock opening was heard from outside the front door, and someone burst in. Jaguar instinctively ran out. Ju-wan also quickly stood up and followed. Just as he entered the hallway leading from the living room to the entrance, he saw Baek Do-un changing into slippers.
“I’m here, Ju-wan. Hello to Su-nam too.”
As soon as Jaguar saw Baek Do-un, he paused, then abruptly turned around and went back inside. Baek Do-un protested, saying, “How could you do this?” but it was useless.
Ju-wan looked at his empty hands once, and then at his usual attire. Baek Do-un questioned him as he openly scanned Ju-wan.
“Ju-wan, why? Are you looking for something?”
“Uh… aren’t you going too, Teacher?”
“Going where together?”
“Bangkok.”
“Bangkok? So suddenly? What are you going there for?”
Baek Do-un’s eyes widened as he bombarded him with questions. He seemed genuinely unaware of the Bangkok trip. Ju-wan also tilted his head, confused. Wasn’t everyone going together, like the Hong Kong trip?
The two moved to the living room. New toothbrushes and toiletries were scattered on the sofa table—traces of packing for a trip. Baek Do-un noted them and spoke.
“Did Su-hyeok suddenly say he’s going to Bangkok?”
“Yes. He said he has to go for a few days for work and told me to be ready because he’s leaving on a flight tonight.”
“Hmm….”
Leaving the country during a busy period usually meant it was for business. Even so, the fact that he insisted on taking Ju-wan along meant one of two things: either he couldn’t bear to be apart from Ju-wan for a single moment, or he was using the business trip as an excuse to travel alone with Ju-wan. If it were the former, he would have summoned the poor Baek Do-un as well, out of worry for Ju-wan being left alone, so the latter was more likely.
“What will our Su-nam do, being lonely until the two of you return? Do you want to come to my house with me?”
Baek Do-un kneaded Jaguar with a pitiful expression. Jaguar pulled his head back, avoiding the touch.
Now that he thought about it, that was true. If Ju-wan accompanied him on the trip, Jaguar would have to stay alone. Even if Baek Do-un or Jeon Mi-nam stayed to look after him, he worried if the cat would be okay, even for just three days.
“No need to worry. I’ll be playing with Su-nam. Even if he acts like this, he actually follows me quite well. Right, Su-nam?”
Baek Do-un patted his knee, signaling the cat to come closer. Jaguar simply opened his mouth wide in a yawn and dropped his head onto his front paws. Baek Do-un remarked that the little guy liked him but was playing hard to get. Ju-wan could only laugh awkwardly.
“So, are you done packing?”
“Mostly… but I’m not sure. It was so sudden.”
“I’ll help you. Where’s the bag?”
“In the bedroom.”
Ju-wan returned to the bedroom with Baek Do-un. A large trunk was spread open on the floor. All he had packed were a few sets of summer clothes and underwear. Items he hadn’t managed to pack and long-sleeved clothes were scattered around the perimeter. He seemed to have agonized over it.
“The trick to traveling is packing only the essentials. You can procure useless items locally when you need them.”
Baek Do-un gave confident advice and helped him pack emergency medicine, a charger, and toiletries. Ironically, by the time they finished packing, the suitcase wouldn’t close.
“Why is it doing this?”
Baek Do-un actually climbed on top of the suitcase, using his strength and weight to force the zipper shut. At that sight, Ju-wan could only smile ambiguously again.
Soon, a presence was felt at the quiet entrance. It seemed the awaited Kwon Su-hyeok had returned. As if by appointment, the two stood up and went outside. Jaguar, who had gone to greet Su-hyeok first, was entering the living room with him.
“You’re early. I thought you said a night flight.”
“No need to rush there. But why are you here?”
“Why, what. Is this a place I can’t come to? No need to glare like that. Even if you beg me to go, I’m not going. I’m busy too.”
Baek Do-un grumbled, saying Su-hyeok was being mean. Then, looking at Jeon Mi-nam behind him, he asked, “Mi-nam, you’re not going either, right?”
“Yes. I have a lot of work to handle here.”
Baek Do-un shrugged, looking even more devoid of regret. Kwon Su-hyeok shook his head as if he couldn’t deal with him, then shifted his gaze to Ju-wan.
“Did you finish packing?”
“Yes. Teacher helped me.”
The two entered the bedroom side by side. Jaguar followed them with a pitter-patter. Su-hyeok glanced at the suitcase and explained the brief itinerary of the trip to Ju-wan.
“We’ll stay for about three or four days. The work itself will be finished quickly, so after that, we’ll spend the rest of the time together.”
“It’s not something dangerous, right?”
“As if I’d take you to a place like that.”
“Is it just the two of us, Su-hyeok?”
“I adjusted it that way on purpose because I wanted it to be. Do you dislike it?”
“No. It’s just… my heart is fluttering all of a sudden.”
Ju-wan gave a slightly shy smile. Watching him intently, Kwon Su-hyeok suddenly grabbed his face and pressed their lips together. A sharp pain was triggered as their lips collided hard, but Ju-wan soon relaxed his frowning face and obediently accepted Su-hyeok, who had pushed in roughly. He lightly held Su-hyeok’s waist with both hands.
Jaguar simply circled slowly around the two softly entwined people, his long tail gently tickling their legs.
* * *
“Ladies and gentlemen, our flight has arrived at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport. For your safety, please remain in your seats until the aircraft has come to a complete stop and the seatbelt sign has been turned off. Please be careful when opening the overhead bins so that items inside do not fall, and please check once more to ensure you have not left any belongings behind. Thank you for flying with Thai Airways today. We wish you a safe journey to your final destination.”
Ju-wan, who woke up as the plane landed, first looked out the window. Since it was dawn, all he could see were the guidance lights and workers in protective gear. Because of this, it didn’t quite feel like he had arrived in another country.
“Let’s go.”
Kwon Su-hyeok, who had already finished preparing to leave, caught Ju-wan’s attention. Only then did he quickly stand up and exit through the aisle.
Su-hyeok naturally took his hand. He didn’t seem to care about the attention of those around them at all. Or rather, to be precise, the people around them didn’t look at the two very strangely. Even though they had been talking intimately throughout the flight, and he frequently massaged Ju-wan’s hand or thigh.
As soon as they stepped off the aircraft, humid air rushed over their entire bodies. He finally began to feel that he had arrived in Thailand.
They boarded a cart waiting in front of the gate and moved to the immigration counter. Thanks to the fast pass, the inspection took less than a minute. The staff member found and handed over their luggage and transported it to the prepared vehicle. Thanks to this, they were able to easily board the limousine and depart for the hotel. Every process was so smooth that it was almost bewildering.
The limousine glided out of the airport. The outside air he had felt for a brief moment was stiflingly hot, but the interior of the car was miraculously cool. Perhaps that was why the scenery passing by the window felt surreal. It was as if he were watching the local night scenery through a TV screen.
Suddenly, Kwon Su-hyeok took Ju-wan’s hand. Ju-wan’s gaze immediately turned to him.
“Are you tired?”
“No. I slept a lot on the plane, so I’m okay.”
Ju-wan beamed, as if telling him not to worry. Then, he turned his head back toward the window to admire the city nightscape drawing closer and closer.
The limousine soon came to a halt in front of the hotel. Hotel staff came out to open the doors and greeted them with utmost courtesy. They were then guided to the lobby reserved for suite guests.
Sipping on a refreshing welcome drink, they looked around the quiet interior of the hotel. The subtle lighting and modern decorations, which weren’t overdone, were tasteful. The signature scent that wafted gently everywhere and the soft music flowing in the background felt comfortable and unobtrusive.
The reception clerk, having completed the check-in, stood up from his seat.
“I will guide you to your room. Please follow me.”
Kwon Su-hyeok declined the escort with a brief, “No need.”
“Since we’re tired, just give us the key.”
“Oh, is that so?”
The employee looked surprised for a moment but replied, “Understood,” and pressed the button for the private elevator. As the elevator doors opened, he stepped inside first to scan the card key. The light for the 28th floor lit up automatically. After personally pressing the button for the floor, the employee stepped back out and politely gestured for the two of them to enter. He then formally handed over the card key.
“It is room 2801. Once you exit on the 28th floor, it is the room to your right. Please call us whenever you need anything.”
The employee remained polite until the very end. Ju-wan instinctively gave a small bow in return. The doors closed quietly between the two bowing men.
The elevator began its silent ascent. Suddenly feeling a sense of openness, Ju-wan looked back to find the dazzling night view of Bangkok unfolding beyond the transparent glass wall. Staring blankly, Ju-wan pressed himself closer to the glass. His bangs were lightly pressed against it.
“It’s beautiful.”
Just as he murmured softly, Kwon Su-hyeok’s arm wrapped around his waist. Holding him tightly from behind, Kwon Su-hyeok pressed soft kisses against his white neck.
“The flight was too long.”
“Was it hard for you?”
“Yeah. I wanted to be like this the whole time, but I had to hold back.”
The lips that had been kissing him from his neck to his chin, and then to his ear, mischievously nibbled on Ju-wan’s earlobe. Ju-wan shrunk his neck and turned toward Kwon Su-hyeok. Immediately, a kiss landed on his forehead. Ju-wan burst into a soft giggle.
“Why are you laughing?”
“It reminds me of before.”
“Hong Kong?”
“Yes.”
“Was it this good back then too?”
“I’m not sure about that, but I felt like my heart was going to explode.”
Looking down at Ju-wan intently, Kwon Su-hyeok suddenly gripped his chin. Then, tilting his head, he locked their lips together. At the sudden kiss, Ju-wan’s head tilted back before he could react. Ju-wan opened his mouth to accept Kwon Su-hyeok’s tongue as it pushed its way between his lips. The reflection of the two lovers on the transparent glass wall was drenched in a brilliant golden light.
* * *
“Mmm.”
He frowned, pained by the sunlight hitting his eyes. He burrowed deeper into the blankets. As if by magic, the blinding light suddenly dimmed—as if someone who had been peeking outside had hurriedly closed the curtains.
Rather than being bothered, he rubbed his head and squirmed to wake himself up. Rubbing his stinging eyes with his hands, he lifted his eyelids. As his blurry vision gradually cleared, he saw Kwon Su-hyeok’s back. He had already woken up and finished getting ready, and was currently fastening his cuff buttons.
“Su-hyeok-ssi.”
His voice was low and slightly raspy. Kwon Su-hyeok turned around immediately. Ju-wan was momentarily lost for words at the sight of him, looking perfect and impeccable. Kwon Su-hyeok approached Ju-wan, who was staring blankly, and sat on the edge of the bed. As Ju-wan let out a groan and tried to sit up, Su-hyeok gently pressed his shoulder to lay him back down.
Ju-wan’s face was slightly swollen due to the intense lovemaking of the previous night. The corners of his eyes, which had been wet with tears, were still reddish. Kwon Su-hyeok leaned down and softly kissed Ju-wan’s eyelids, which looked as though they would sting at the slightest touch. Then, he toyed with his warm earlobe as if kneading it.
“Sleep more. I’ll be back soon. I’ve ordered room service, so eat if you’re hungry.”
“Okay. Will it take long?”
“No, about two or three hours.”
“Don’t worry about me; take your time with your business. I might be able to sleep until you get back.”
“Alright. Get some good rest. I’ll call you.”
Ju-wan nodded and pushed Kwon Su-hyeok away as if telling him to hurry and go. Kwon Su-hyeok caught the hand touching his chest and kissed it. Then, he placed the hand gently back on the bed and softly brushed back Ju-wan’s disheveled hair. After spending a long time expressing his affection, he reluctantly stood up. As he grabbed his jacket to leave the bedroom, he looked back at Ju-wan once more.
“I’ll be back.”
Ju-wan smiled happily and waved his hand. Kwon Su-hyeok quietly closed the door and left. Ju-wan lay still, listening to the sound of his presence. The quiet footsteps soon faded into the distance.
Ju-wan remained buried in the bedding, motionless. Then, feeling uncomfortable, he shifted his position. In the surrounding silence, only the sound of his deep breathing echoed repeatedly. Before long, he shifted his position again.
“…….”
It was strange. Because he had fallen asleep after watching the sunrise, he was severely lacking sleep. His body felt heavy as lead from the aftermath of sexing all night immediately after a night flight. Yet, now that he tried to close his eyes again, sleep wouldn’t come. Perhaps it was the excitement of being on a trip. Or perhaps it was because, despite the cozy atmosphere and soft bedding, he felt an unfamiliar sense of emptiness.
Eventually, Ju-wan rubbed his eyes, shaking off the lingering drowsiness. He then sat up abruptly and remained sitting there blankly for a while.
First, he wanted to shower. When he entered the bathroom, it was filled with Kwon Su-hyeok’s scent. He took a deep breath to savor the fragrance before walking into the shower booth. He washed his languid body clean with lukewarm water.
After washing, his stomach began to churn. It made sense, as he had been on an empty stomach since the in-flight meal. Ju-wan stepped out into the living area wearing only a robe. Just as Kwon Su-hyeok had mentioned, the table was laden with food. There seemed to be at least ten different dishes. He opened the silver covers one by one to check the menu. Every single one looked appetizing.
Among them, he took a plate of salad, french fries, and a hot sandwich, and a glass of watermelon juice in each hand, and went out to the balcony. A fairly cool breeze was blowing onto the spacious balcony. Leaning back in a wide lounge chair, he drank the juice first. The sweet watermelon juice refreshingly quenched his dry throat.
“It’s sweet.”
Taking a large bite of the sandwich and chewing, he gazed out at an endless, nameless river. Densely packed buildings lined both sides. It felt different from the skyscrapers that characterized Hong Kong. A vast expanse of land stretched out, so wide that not even a small hill could be found. Between the modern buildings, places that seemed to be palaces or temples were interspersed. He could see brilliant golden pagodas. He wondered inwardly what it would be like to see them in person.
He popped the last piece of sandwich into his mouth and drained the rest of the juice. Then, he stood up and looked down from the balcony. He had heard the sound of water occasionally. Sure enough, a large swimming pool was visible. Since it was an infinity pool, he felt he could fully enjoy the atmosphere of Bangkok while swimming.
After some deliberation, Ju-wan returned to the living room and opened his suitcase. He took out a sleeveless t-shirt and wide beach pants. He shed his robe, changed into the clothes, and left a note saying he was going to the pool, just in case Kwon Su-hyeok returned before him. Wearing pool slippers, Ju-wan’s steps as he left the room were lighter than ever.
* * *
Sensing a familiar scent and presence, he slowly opened his eyes. Kwon Su-hyeok’s figure filled his vision. He let out a low exclamation of surprise. Just as he was about to ask when he had arrived, Kwon Su-hyeok leaned down and entered the circular cabana. He pushed Ju-wan back and kissed him behind the screen.
“Did you play to your heart’s content?”
“I can’t swim, so I just splashed around. I got tired quickly after playing in the water for a bit.”
Kwon Su-hyeok pressed his lips against Ju-wan’s again and then pulled away. With his thumb, he stroked Ju-wan’s cheek, which had become dry and rough from the water evaporating.
“Are you going to sleep more?”
“No. I want to get up now.”
Kwon Su-hyeok said, “Alright,” and grabbed Ju-wan’s arm to pull him up into a sitting position in one go. Then, he toyed with Ju-wan’s hair, which hadn’t fully dried.
“Did you finish your work well?”
“Yeah. It was smooth, as expected. The new CEO was someone easy to talk to.”
“That’s good.”
“Aren’t you hungry?”
“I am.”
“Let’s wash up and go out for dinner. I have a place reserved.”
“Okay.”
The two immediately left the pool and returned to the room. They went straight to the bathroom to shower. After washing from head to toe in warm water, the remaining fatigue seemed to vanish.
When he stepped out, Kwon Su-hyeok approached with a towel. He lightly patted and dried Ju-wan’s dripping hair. Ju-wan smiled silently and left himself entirely in Kwon Su-hyeok’s care.
“Come here and sit.”
Having put away the wet towel, Kwon Su-hyeok led Ju-wan to the nearby vanity. Once again, Ju-wan followed obediently and sat in the chair. Kwon Su-hyeok turned on the dryer and thoroughly dried Ju-wan’s hair. The touch of his hand, reaching between the strands to massage the scalp, was bold yet careful. Ju-wan thought that if it had been his own hair, Su-hyeok probably would have handled it more roughly.
Kwon Su-hyeok didn’t stop at drying Ju-wan’s hair; he even styled it. Ju-wan couldn’t take his eyes off the mirror, unfamiliar with his own appearance.
“Uh… it looks cool, but don’t you think it doesn’t match my clothes?”
“It would be better to match the atmosphere of the restaurant.”
“I only brought simple clothes.”
“I know.”
“Your clothes are too big for me to wear.”
Kwon Su-hyeok chuckled.
“That too.”
Then, asking for a moment’s patience, he walked to the closet behind them. He opened the door and took something out. It was a suit. The tags were still attached, suggesting it was brand new.
“Try it on. It’s yours.”
Ju-wan took the suit with a bewildered expression. However, instead of trying it on immediately, he just stared at it for a long time.
Immediately after finishing the meeting with the client, Su-hyeok had gone to the store himself and picked out the item that would suit Ju-wan best. Whether looking at skin tone or aura, there would be no better choice. The only problem was that tastes differ from person to person.
“Why? Do you not like it?”
When he asked with concern, Ju-wan shook his head.
“This is my first time wearing a suit.”
It felt as if Su-hyeok had been hit on the back of the head. Usually, one would be gifted a suit upon becoming an adult or when getting a job. No, even if there was no one around to take care of them, people usually bought and wore one due to social necessity. He had forgotten that Ju-wan had been deprived of the moments that came naturally to his peers.
Kwon Su-hyeok looked at Ju-wan in silence, then personally removed his robe and helped him into the shirt. He personally fastened the buttons, the cuffs, and even the buckle and zipper of the pants. Just as he was about to tie the tie, Ju-wan suddenly grabbed his hand.
“I can do this. I’ll try.”
“Alright.”
Kwon Su-hyeok readily withdrew his hand. Ju-wan immediately turned to the mirror and began to tie the tie slowly. Because he had practiced diligently to tie it for Kwon Su-hyeok, he tied the knot without much struggle.
“How is it?”
“You’re good at it.”
He didn’t hold back his praise, letting out a small laugh. He approached Ju-wan, who was repeatedly reflecting himself in the mirror in wonder, and lightly draped the jacket over his shoulders. Indeed, as expected, it fit perfectly. It was as if the clothes had found their rightful owner.
“You should put on shoes too.”
Kwon Su-hyeok willingly leaned down and placed shoes at Ju-wan’s feet. Ju-wan dazedly slid his feet into the shoes. Kwon Su-hyeok helped him put them on by pulling the heels. Once the feet were fully settled, he subtly stroked the heel before letting go. A mixture of surprise and emotion swirled in Ju-wan’s eyes as he looked at Kwon Su-hyeok.
“Shall we go now?”
“Yes.”
Ju-wan quickly came and took Kwon Su-hyeok’s hand. Perhaps because he felt like a real adult, his complexion was noticeably flushed. His eyes sparkled exceptionally bright. He was lovely.
Now that he was dressed in a suit, his image was completely different from usual. Perhaps because of the clean and neat feeling a suit provides, his characteristic youthful aura had vanished. It was truly surprising how a single piece of clothing could make a person look so different. What made Su-hyeok happy was that he was the first and only person to witness this new side of Ju-wan that no one else knew.
As soon as they entered the elevator, Su-hyeok pulled Ju-wan by the waist and pressed his lips to his cheek. Ju-wan, who had frozen in surprise at the suddenness, immediately turned his head and kissed him first. Then, as he gave a playful smile, it felt as if happiness was contagious. Truly, for him, nothing was too much to give. It only felt as though giving and giving again was still not enough.
They arrived at the reserved restaurant just as sunset was imminent. As soon as the elevator doors opened on the top floor, he let out an exclamation at the ecstasy unfolding before his eyes.
“…Wow.”
Beyond the glass doors, the open sky was visible first. The clouds, beginning to be dyed in shades of blue and pink, were unrealistically beautiful, like something from a painting. He wanted to see it from a closer distance.
Soon, guided by a server, they stepped outside. A cool breeze blew in from all directions. Then, the panoramic view of the open rooftop restaurant came into sight. In the center of the hall, there was a bar where one could have a simple drink. Other seats were placed sparsely along the edges to allow guests to fully enjoy the night view. The spaces between each table were wide, so there would be no restriction in spending private time. No matter which way he turned his head, the city of Bangkok was clearly visible below. The slight breeze brushed against his skin just enough to feel pleasant.
Upon reaching the reserved table, the server personally pulled out the chair. Ju-wan sat down awkwardly. Kwon Su-hyeok, seated opposite him, immediately received the menu and listened to the explanation of the recommended dishes.
“They say the filet steak and the cod dish are the signatures. Which one do you want?”
“Please order whatever you like, Su-hyeok-ssi. I think anything here would taste delicious.”
Kwon Su-hyeok said, “Shall I?” and ordered the menu on his own. The English he spoke flowed calmly into Ju-wan’s ears. While Ju-wan was simply absorbed in listening, Kwon Su-hyeok suddenly checked his preference.
“Would you like to try some wine too?”
“Would that be okay? I’ve never had alcohol other than light champagne.”
“It’s not bad to experience various things. You might unexpectedly find wine more to your taste.”
“Um, okay.”
He agreed without hesitation. Kwon Su-hyeok immediately ordered a specific wine. The server, after re-confirming the entire order, greeted them politely and withdrew.
Around that time, Ju-wan turned his head completely and looked down at Bangkok, which was beginning to be dyed in red. His white cheeks were also beautifully colored by the sunset.
With no glass walls to block his view, he felt as if he were floating in the sky.
“Su-hyeok-ssi, look over there….”
While admiring the sky turning into deeper colors, Ju-wan suddenly looked back at Kwon Su-hyeok. He wasn’t captivated by the ecstasy of the view; he was staring intently only at Ju-wan. His pitch-black eyes glowed dark red, reflecting the sunset.
The city dyed in the sunset, the open rooftop restaurant overlooking it all, the softly echoing jazz melodies and the slight, cool breeze, and the person he loved. Would such a dreamlike moment ever come again? It felt as if time had stopped, and that instant was like eternity.
The sun finally set, and deep darkness descended. It was difficult to find stars in the sky, but the golden night view of downtown Bangkok more than made up for that disappointment.
Eventually, the server returned with the wine. First, he let Kwon Su-hyeok check the label, then opened the cork and let him smell the aroma. Ju-wan watched the process with eyes full of curiosity. Kwon Su-hyeok nodded and held the glass with his hand on the table. The server then poured the wine with precise movements. He then turned to Ju-wan, filled his glass as well, and withdrew.
Kwon Su-hyeok first took a sip of the wine and savored it slowly. Ju-wan looked back and forth between the wine in his glass and the fascinating Kwon Su-hyeok. Nodding with satisfaction, Kwon Su-hyeok encouraged Ju-wan.
“I ordered this because I thought you’d like it. Give it a try.”
Ju-wan nodded cautiously as if he understood, then carefully tilted his glass and took a small sip of the wine. As his slightly puffed cheeks subsided, the wine lingering in his mouth slid slowly down his throat. After rolling it around his tongue to explore the aroma and taste, Ju-wan took a larger gulp this time. It seemed to suit his palate quite well, though his cheeks flushed slightly after only two sips.
“How is it?”
“When I was little, I thought it would taste just like grape juice. I mean, it’s made from grapes, after all. But since it’s alcohol, it’s definitely less sweet and a bit bitter. But it’s so fragrant.”
Ju-wan chattered with a satisfied expression. He then slowly finished the glass, sipping bit by bit until the appetizers arrived. When Kwon Su-hyeok picked up the bottle to offer another glass, Ju-wan promptly held his glass out as if he had been waiting. Su-hyeok continued to pour wine in small amounts whenever the glass became empty, mostly because Ju-wan kept fidgeting with the empty glass as if he were disappointed. Soon, a flush spread across his ears and cheeks.
“How is the food? Does it suit your taste?”
“Yes. The seasoning is just right, and the sauce is really delicious. It’s food from another country, so it’s amazing that it suits my taste so well.”
“Take your time and eat plenty. We can order more if it’s not enough.”
“Um… then can I order some more wine?”
Ju-wan asked for permission hesitantly. They say a late-blooming thief is the most dangerous; he was suddenly becoming greedy for alcohol. It seemed to be because he was feeling elated from the alcohol. Intoxicated by a strange sense of euphoria he had never experienced before, he wanted more wine, pushed along by the romantic atmosphere. Of course, there was no way Su-hyeok could refuse Ju-wan’s request.
Kwon Su-hyeok immediately called the waiter and ordered another bottle of wine. Even so, he was concerned about Ju-wan, whose cheeks were already flushed.
“Aren’t you drinking too much?”
“Huh? No. I’m still fine. I don’t even feel that drunk.”
“Do you even know what being drunk feels like?”
“Ah, is that so? Anyway, I’m okay. Give me more.”
“Don’t overdo it. If you only chase the feeling now, you’ll suffer in the morning.”
Su-hyeok advised him as he took the wine from the waiter. For Ju-wan, it was likely unimaginable—that by drinking like this and enjoying a feeling like being in heaven, he would experience hell the next morning. Ju-wan said, “I know,” and quickly held his glass out to Su-hyeok.
“Please give it to me quickly.”
It was quite suspicious that he was pestering him, which was unlike him.
The thing he feared happened. By the time they finished their meal, Ju-wan was completely drunk and couldn’t even walk properly. As soon as Su-hyeok stood up, he supported Ju-wan, who staggered and nearly collapsed. After walking a few steps, Ju-wan’s knees finally gave out, so Su-hyeok simply scooped him up in his arms.
Once inside the car waiting outside the building, Su-hyeok let Ju-wan lean his head against him. Ju-wan breathed in short, ragged gasps, his eyes fluttering. The inside of the car was soon filled with the sweet scent of alcohol. Su-hyeok loosened his stifling tie and shirt buttons. Ju-wan grabbed his hand, rubbed it against his cheek, and let out a silly giggle. Su-hyeok let out a short laugh, finding it absurd.
“What are you laughing at?”
“I feel so hazy. It feels like the world is spinning, and like I’m floating in the air.”
Even in his completely loosened state, he chattered away quite well. In contrast, his physical abilities had hit rock bottom. As soon as they arrived in front of the hotel, he tried to crawl over to open the opposite door. In the process, he bumped his head against the innocent window.
“It’s this way.”
Su-hyeok pulled the arm of Ju-wan, who was muttering that it was a dead end. Ju-wan crawled over slowly on his knees. Eventually, Su-hyeok just picked him up, holding him like a baby.
The hotel staff held the elevator for them and scanned the key card. Su-hyeok couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity of Ju-wan, who was cradled in his arms like a child, yet kept babbling that he could walk.
As soon as they entered the room, Su-hyeok laid Ju-wan on the bed. Ju-wan rolled around the wide bed, grinning foolishly. Su-hyeok followed him and took off his shoes. Then, he tossed his own coat aside and sat on the edge of the bed.
Ju-wan flailed his arms and legs wildly and burst into a giggle. Even when Su-hyeok helped him out of his jacket, he kept beaming like a newborn baby. When Su-hyeok tried to take off his pants as well, Ju-wan curled his body into a ball and shook his head.
“It’s uncomfortable. You should sleep without clothes.”
“…Mmm.”
Ju-wan grumbled, even knitting his brows. Su-hyeok silently undid his pant buckle and zipper. Ju-wan resisted by pressing his hips down into the bed, but Su-hyeok slid his knee under Ju-wan’s lower body and lifted him, easily sliding the pants off. While groaning with a frown, Ju-wan repeatedly pulled down the hem of his shirt. Taking advantage of that, Su-hyeok unbuttoned the shirt one by one.
“I’m thirsty….”
“Wait.”
Once the shirt was off, Ju-wan wiggled his way under the covers on his own. Su-hyeok tidied up the discarded clothes and stood up. He went to the living room, hung his clothes on one side, grabbed a bottle of mineral water, and returned to the bedroom. Sitting on the bed again, he opened the water bottle. Ju-wan reacted to that small sound like a ghost, fumbling to touch Su-hyeok’s back. Soon, relying on him, he struggled to lift his upper body.
Su-hyeok brought the water to Ju-wan’s plump lips. Ju-wan took the mouth of the bottle in his lips and drank greedily to quench his thirst. The water he couldn’t swallow flowed down his chin and slid down his long neck. The stream of water continued down to his chest, forming droplets on his pale pink nipples. Su-hyeok’s Adam’s apple bobbed visibly as he stubbornly followed the sight.
Having caught his breath, Ju-wan nodded off, leaning his sagging body against Su-hyeok. He could have slept now, but he insisted on sitting there, mumbling incomprehensible things.
“Lie down now.”
Su-hyeok set the water bottle on a nearby table and turned back toward Ju-wan. Just as he was about to lay Ju-wan on the bed, Ju-wan suddenly grabbed Su-hyeok’s face with both hands. Then, he tilted his head, staring intently into his eyes.
“How can a person look like this? You’re really handsome. So pretty. I have to give you a kiss.”
In the next moment, before Su-hyeok could stop him, Ju-wan’s face approached. His lips were pressed firmly against Su-hyeok’s. After a long while, Ju-wan pulled back, his eyes curving into a smile. Then, he pressed his lips against him once more. His hot breath was filled with a strong scent of alcohol.
Su-hyeok, who had been silent, grabbed Ju-wan’s shoulders and pushed him away. At that, Ju-wan pouted his lips and drooped his eyebrows.
“Why? Do you hate me?”
“What are you talking about, you drunkard.”
“I’ll only kiss you. Just kisses, okay?”
He pleaded, wrapping his arms around Su-hyeok’s neck. It might be typical for a drunken stupor, but it was a side of him that was unimaginable normally.
“Do whatever you want.”
With a smirk, Su-hyeok half-resignedly accepted him. Ju-wan then climbed onto Su-hyeok’s lap, pressing his upper body close and pressing his lips all over Su-hyeok’s face. Leaning his back against the headboard, Su-hyeok enjoyed the outpouring of affection.
“Ah, so pretty.”
Forehead, eyebrows, eyelids, bridge of the nose, philtrum, lips, cheeks, and down to the chin. After kissing him frantically, Ju-wan stared at Su-hyeok for a moment before showering him with kisses again as if he couldn’t hold back. Fearing he might fall backward, Su-hyeok simply held his back and waist firmly, quietly offering his face.
Before long, Ju-wan began rubbing his lower body against Su-hyeok’s thighs and abdomen. The lips that had been landing only on his face now began to nibble on his ear. Ju-wan’s heated breathing leaked repeatedly into his ear. Soon, he pushed the tip of his tongue deep into Su-hyeok’s ear. Su-hyeok frowned slightly and slowly stroked Ju-wan’s lean back.
“…Mmm.”
As if desperate, Ju-wan rubbed his groin more intensely, sucking on Su-hyeok’s outer ear and earlobe in succession. His eyes, burning with heat, looked as if they might melt away at any moment. The flush on his face didn’t seem to be due to the alcohol alone.
Over the tight-fitting drawers, his member became increasingly prominent, asserting its presence. He seemed like a completely different person, acting so impatient and bold, but Su-hyeok didn’t dislike it. Even the way he groaned, begging for something to be done, was cute and lovely.
Su-hyeok hadn’t truly intended to deal with a drunk person, but since Ju-wan was attacking him so proactively, he thought he might irresponsibly go along with it. Ju-wan continued to rub his heated cheeks ticklishly against Su-hyeok’s, while rubbing his lower half more desperately. He seemed to be growing impatient.
“Mmm… nh….”
“What do you want me to do?”
Su-hyeok whispered, pressing his lips low against Ju-wan’s ear. He also gently crushed Ju-wan’s earlobe with the bridge of his nose. Ju-wan, who had been squirming and groaning with difficulty, fumbled to gaze at Su-hyeok’s face. With an intrigued smile, Su-hyeok murmured, “Yes,” encouraging him.
Even though Su-hyeok’s hand had only lightly brushed his buttocks, Ju-wan lifted his lower body on his own. His head naturally rested on Su-hyeok’s shoulder. As a result, his thick, heavy breaths repeatedly brushed against Su-hyeok’s neck.
Su-hyeok slowly pulled off Ju-wan’s drawers. As his long fingers slowly pressed the rounded mound and subtly stroked down, Ju-wan’s legs trembled. Heat seemed to gather densely in the center, causing his two knees to twitch involuntarily.
Su-hyeok pressed his lips against Ju-wan’s neck with a series of soft kisses and whispered in a low voice.
“Do whatever you want.”
Ju-wan let out a groan and shrank his neck. Even the touch of Su-hyeok’s breath, or the light landing of his lips, made his skin tingle. His entire body was throbbing, consumed by a bright red excitement.
Su-hyeok grabbed the knot of his own tie and pulled it loose in one go. Then, Ju-wan, biting his lower lip, unbuttoned Su-hyeok’s shirt one by one. He even frowned, seemingly dissatisfied with his hands, which slipped several times. As the shirt opened and his Adam’s apple was revealed, Ju-wan took it into his mouth as if he couldn’t wait, swirling his tongue around the prominent area. Su-hyeok let out a sweet moan and tilted his head back slightly. Ju-wan’s impatience simmered even more.
“Haa… I can’t stand it.”
Complaining softly, Ju-wan grabbed Su-hyeok’s shirt and pulled it apart with all his might. The few remaining buttons popped off with a series of snapping sounds. Su-hyeok watched Ju-wan’s actions with a look of surprise.
Breathing deeply enough for his shoulders to heave, Ju-wan admired Su-hyeok’s fully revealed body with eyes full of wonder. He then reached out and slowly stroked the muscles, sculpted to a perfect size and shape. Every time Su-hyeok inhaled, his abs became even more defined. Watching the sight in awe, Ju-wan lowered his head and kissed them.
Moving back bit by bit, he pressed his lips against the undulating abdominal muscles. Meanwhile, his two hands undid Su-hyeok’s pant buckle. He used his lips to grip the zipper and slowly pull it down. Perhaps it was an illusion, but the flesh inside the zipper seemed to writhe vigorously.
Su-hyeok’s breathing, which had been relatively calm, became ragged beyond concealment. Ju-wan looked straight into his eyes, which were soaked in some kind of longing, and pushed aside his underwear to pull out his thick member. Even though he only stroked it once, the massive piece of flesh jerked throughout its length. Ju-wan stared at the erect member and gently rubbed the glans, which was flushed deep red. At that, Su-hyeok’s upper body leaned forward sharply. Transparent pre-cum beaded at the urethral opening.
“…Haa.”
Ju-wan slowly rubbed and brushed Su-hyeok’s member with his chin and cheek. Su-hyeok held Ju-wan’s head and slightly thrust his lower body. His face was distorted with sweet pain, but the corners of his mouth kept curling upward.
After repeatedly rubbing Su-hyeok’s member against his cheek, Ju-wan suddenly turned his head and kissed the glans. As the mucous membrane of his mouth softly enveloped the member and then released it, Su-hyeok’s thighs flexed powerfully. He also subtly tried to press his member against Ju-wan’s lips. Ju-wan slowly shook his head.
“Not here….”
Sitting up with his knees bent again, Ju-wan gently rubbed his own member against Su-hyeok’s thick chest cleavage. Su-hyeok pressed his lips against Ju-wan’s white chest and gripped his small buttocks firmly in both hands, kneading them. The rounded cheeks turned white under the pressure and then red, leaving the marks of Su-hyeok’s fingers.
Groaning softly, Ju-wan reached down and properly straightened Su-hyeok’s member. Then, as if intending to sit on it, he rubbed his hole against the hard glans.
“Wait.”
He desperately wanted to merge their flesh right then and there, but considering Ju-wan’s condition in the morning, he had to endure. He soothed Ju-wan, who seemed ready to collapse onto him, and stopped him for a moment. Then, he reached for the gel on the bedside table. When Su-hyeok opened the cap, Ju-wan held out his hand. Su-hyeok silently squeezed a generous amount of gel onto it. Ju-wan smeared it all over Su-hyeok’s member and then rubbed the gel-covered hand around his own hole. Soon, his entire backside was glossy and slippery.
Ju-wan signaled that he had reached his limit, pressing down on the shoulder of Su-hyeok, who had been gently stroking the back of his thighs.
“Haa… I can’t wait anymore.”
Su-hyeok nodded instead of answering. Immediately after, Ju-wan slowly lowered his body. His two hands, gripping Su-hyeok’s shoulders, tightened with sudden strength.
“Ah-ugh… ugh.”
“…Ngh.”
As Ju-wan’s weight was applied, the member caught in the hole bent. Both of them frowned. Because Ju-wan pushed blindly, the bent member eventually slipped out through the gel. Showing an unprecedented anxiety, Ju-wan tightly gripped Su-hyeok’s slippery member. Then, he lowered his lower body bit by bit, forcing the hot piece of flesh inside.
As the massive member pushed in, widening the interior, Ju-wan’s body shuddered. Su-hyeok’s member also throbbed as if remembering the warmth inside, begging to be swallowed immediately. Ju-wan clenched his teeth and sank down without stopping. Finally, his trembling buttocks collided with Su-hyeok’s thighs with a wet sound, flattening against them. A long, deep exhale escaped Ju-wan. Su-hyeok’s hands, gripping Ju-wan’s hips and buttocks, turned white.
“Haa, ha… ngh, eu….”
“Ngh, euuu….”
Su-hyeok watched Ju-wan, who was squirming helplessly on top of him. His inner walls constantly writhed, tightening around the heated member as much as possible. It felt as if he were urging Su-hyeok to stir him up into a mess. A thick vein appeared on his once-smooth forehead, and sweat beaded. He licked his dry lips at the impulse to run wild. The reason he had held back until now was that he was curious about how Ju-wan’s unusual proactiveness would manifest.
Eventually, Ju-wan struggled to straighten his upper body. Then, he slowly lifted his lower body.
“Ngh… nh… ah….”
The flesh that had been thoroughly entwined with the smooth mucous membrane was slowly spat out. As the cool outside air touched it, Su-hyeok’s member flexed, refusing to leave. Ju-wan closed his eyes tightly, held his breath, and then slammed his hips down faster and bolder than before.
Su-hyeok’s member, which had been half-expelled, was swallowed in one breath, piercing deep into the belly. His entire pelvis rang with a tingling sensation. As if remembering the sex from the previous night, he recalled the sensation and etched it into his body. Ju-wan moved his hips quickly, as if seeking a more intense stimulation. Su-hyeok’s heated member was greedily devoured over and over.
“Keugh… ngh… nngh.”
“Ugh, ngh, haa, nngh… ah…!”
Su-hyeok’s thighs lifted in tandem, quickly pressing upward. Every time the entire member was swallowed, he rubbed the joined area frantically, inducing a deeper insertion. The whitened gel began to stretch into dozens of sticky strands between his thighs and Ju-wan’s buttocks.
As his body grew hotter, Ju-wan’s eyes and cheeks flushed red. Even though he was writhing, completely intoxicated by pleasure, he felt an oddly persistent thirst.
“Ngh… nh, ah-ugh, more… hngh, more….”
“Haa, as much as you want.”
Su-hyeok bit Ju-wan’s lips with his parched ones and thrust his hips upward to his heart’s content. Every time Su-hyeok began to thrust deeply, Ju-wan’s body completely collapsed. The burning sensation triggered at the point where their flesh met raced from his toes to the top of his head in an instant. Whenever Ju-wan felt unsatisfied and lifted his own hips, Su-hyeok responded by thrusting even more violently, leaving him completely undone.
Firmly gripping Ju-wan’s staggering waist, Su-hyeok thrust wildly inside the hole. He forced open the inner walls that were resisting and stirred the trembling mucous membrane as much as he could. The firm mattress bounced continuously under the violent movements.
Breathing unevenly, Ju-wan desperately clung to Kwon Su-hyeok’s lips, sucking on them before suddenly pulling his head into a tight embrace. Kwon Su-hyeok likewise wrapped his arms around Ju-wan’s back, thrusting his member deep inside, all the way to the root. For a fleeting moment, everything before his eyes went white.
“Ha-ah, ngh, mmm…!”
“Ugh…!”
Both of them stiffened simultaneously. Then, without anyone leading, they erupted in a sudden release. Goosebumps broke out across Ju-wan’s skin. His rigid body trembled faintly, unable to withstand the intense shudder. Kwon Su-hyeok furrowed his brow with a bitter expression, rubbing his head repeatedly against Ju-wan’s white chest. For a while, drenched in the thick afterglow, they clung to each other desperately.
“…Mm.”
Kwon Su-hyeok calmly pressed his lips to Ju-wan’s shoulder, gently stroking his now-subsiding member. Ju-wan, who had relaxed and was panting, suddenly grabbed Kwon Su-hyeok’s face and kissed him. Closing his eyes, Su-hyeok readily accepted the bold tongue pushing rudely into his mouth.
Then, feeling his body suddenly tip over, he opened his eyelids in confusion. Sure enough, Kwon Su-hyeok’s body had already been pushed diagonally onto the bed. Ju-wan braced himself on Su-hyeok’s shoulders and sat astride his abdomen. His eyes were still hazy, drenched in desire.
“Why… ugh.”
Ju-wan suddenly sank his teeth into the neck of the bewildered Kwon Su-hyeok. Like a young animal teething, he nibbled repeatedly at the skin and then sucked on it sweetly. The once-smooth skin quickly became irritated and mottled. Mumbling that he smelled good, he obsessively sucked on one spot. If Kwon Su-hyeok hadn’t raised a hand to gently push Ju-wan’s forehead away, he would have surely drawn blood. He was no different from a bloodthirsty vampire.
“Why, whyyy…”
He whined at Kwon Su-hyeok for interrupting. His clouded eyes were consumed by a vivid, red lust. Kwon Su-hyeok caught Ju-wan as he tried to pounce again and nipped the tip of his nose. Only then did Ju-wan pause with an “Ah.”
“If you eat too fast, you’ll get indigestion. We have plenty of time, so let’s take it slow.”
Normally, Ju-wan would have been the one pleading with Kwon Su-hyeok in such a nuance. However, completely intoxicated, Ju-wan could not easily calm his excitement. As soon as Kwon Su-hyeok let go, he began sucking on his neck again. He also rubbed his own member, which had swollen back up, thickly against Su-hyeok’s abdominal muscles.
Kwon Su-hyeok did not stop him, letting him do as he pleased. A deep curve formed at the corners of his mouth.
It seemed they would be spending another long, long night together.
* * *
Ju-wan opened his eyelids to the familiar sound of running water. A stark white ceiling filled his vision. Relaxing his stiff body, he scanned his surroundings. Ju-wan was completely buried under the duvet on the bed. When and how had they returned to the hotel? He remembered having wine and dinner at a fancy restaurant. Memories after that were blurred. Had he been that drunk?
As a habit, he looked at the spot beside him; it was empty. However, the sound of water coming from the bathroom seemed to explain his absence.
He sat up groggily. While scratching his tingling neck, he flinched at an unexpected pain. Touching it lightly, he felt a tenderness like a bruise. He thought he knew the cause. Pushing back the duvet, he scanned his naked body. Mottled kiss marks were engraved here and there. The events of last night became a bit clearer.
“Ugh…”
He tried to get out of bed but paused at a headache that shook his skull. He had heard that people suffer from hangovers the next day after drinking, but he didn’t expect it to be this bad. His stomach felt bloated and nauseous. Despite Kwon Su-hyeok’s warnings, he had been intoxicated by the atmosphere and the scent, drinking his fill without knowing his limit, and this was the result. He regretted belatedly that he should have drunk in moderation.
Soon, the sound of water stopped. Then the bathroom door opened, and Kwon Su-hyeok entered the bedroom. He approached Ju-wan, who was groaning while clutching his splitting head, and lightly stroked his back. Ju-wan shivered at the cool temperature of his skin.
“Does your head hurt?”
He only nodded. Kwon Su-hyeok stepped away for a moment and soon returned with a hangover cure and bottled water.
“Take the medicine first. For breakfast, it would be best to go to a Korean restaurant and have some haejang-guk. Rest until the hangover fades, and let’s go out tonight. There’s a place I want to take you.”
This time, Ju-wan only nodded instead of answering and forced himself up. Kwon Su-hyeok supported his back to help him sit comfortably. Ju-wan obediently opened his mouth to take the medicine Su-hyeok gave him and quenched his thirsty throat with the remaining water. Because he felt unwell, his mood sank for no reason.
“I miss Su-nam.”
“If you miss him, you can see him. Why don’t you get dressed first?”
Kwon Su-hyeok took clothes out of the suitcase and handed them over. It felt strange, as if he were being waited on by him. Of course, he didn’t dislike it. Rather, he felt pampered.
Ju-wan slowly put on only his top and tidied his messy hair. In the meantime, Kwon Su-hyeok brought his laptop. It seemed he intended to make a video call via an SNS messenger. Ju-wan silently watched the process of him turning on the laptop, logging in, and calling Jeon Mi-nam. Glancing at his own reflection in one corner of the screen, he repeatedly fiddled with his stray hairs.
President. What brings you to call?
Soon, Jeon Mi-nam’s face filled the screen. Overcome with gladness, Ju-wan smiled thinly and tilted his head. Seeing this, Jeon Mi-nam responded with a slight bow.
“I heard the client sent the newly drafted contract, the main revised clauses, and the detailed conditions to the office. Did you receive them?”
Yes. They just arrived. I have familiarized myself with all the changed conditions.
“Everything okay over there?”
Yes, you don’t need to worry.
“I’ll be departing tomorrow morning as scheduled, so please take care of things until then.”
Understood. Please take care of yourself. I will meet you at the airport.
Kwon Su-hyeok and Jeon Mi-nam shared a strictly professional conversation. Watching the two of them, who were as dry as a desert, Ju-wan stealthily brought his face closer to the camera. Then he spoke to Jeon Mi-nam, who remained so expressionless and still that it was hard to tell if it was a photo or a video.
“Mi-nam ssi. Have you been well?”
Yes. But are you sick? Your complexion doesn’t look good.
“Is our Su-nam there too?”
Ah…
Ju-wan ssi, how is Bangkok? Is it fun?
“Teacher.”
Before Jeon Mi-nam could respond, Baek Do-un suddenly cut in. A look of delight appeared on Ju-wan’s face.
Aren’t you bored being alone?
“No. Su-hyeok ssi’s work finished quickly.”
Why is your face so pale? I heard you drank; is it a hangover?
“Yes… it was my first time trying wine. I liked it more than I thought… so I overdrank.”
Oh, really? That’s a shame. It would have been great if we drank together.
…Teacher.
Why. The more people you have to drink with, the better. Ju-wan ssi, make sure you cure your hangover properly. And you said you miss Su-nam, right? Just wait a moment. Su-nam! Su-nam, Hyung is here.
Rustling noises were heard, and the screen shook continuously. Baek Do-un disappeared from the screen, and soon Jeon Mi-nam followed. It seemed Baek Do-un’s strength alone wasn’t enough to bring Jaguar.
Soon, half of Jaguar’s face was caught on camera. Ju-wan’s face brightened.
“Su-nam!”
Hearing Ju-wan’s voice from somewhere, Jaguar in the screen reacted, flapping his round ears. However, he couldn’t find Ju-wan immediately and looked around the surroundings repeatedly.
“Over here. Over here.”
As he called Jaguar desperately, the creature finally looked at the monitor after a while. He stood up on the desk with his front paws and pushed his face close to the monitor. Because of this, his head filled the laptop screen.
With his bright yellow eyes flashing, he stared intently at Ju-wan and Kwon Su-hyeok in the monitor. He even tapped the innocent monitor with his snout, thud, thud. Then, he stuck out his tongue and licked the monitor thickly. Baek Do-un’s horrified scream could be heard.
Ack! Dirty! That’s dirty!
“Ahahaha, don’t lick it, Su-nam.”
A refreshing laugh burst from Ju-wan. After that, the thumping noises continued and the monitor shook because of Baek Do-un and Jeon Mi-nam trying to stop him, and Jaguar continuing to pounce. Ju-wan reached out and stroked the screen filled with Jaguar’s face.
“See you tomorrow. I’ll be there soon.”
Now, you say goodbye too. See you tomorrow, Ju-wan ssi.
Baek Do-un grabbed Jaguar’s large front paw and waved it gently on his behalf. With that greeting, the video call ended.
Feeling lingering regret, he touched the frozen screen once more. Strangely, whether the headache had subsided during the call or he had simply forgotten about it, his body felt much lighter.
Kwon Su-hyeok pulled Ju-wan’s shoulder in for a hug and calmly pressed his lips to his forehead. Leaning silently against him, Ju-wan admitted that he had blacked out.
“Yesterday. I don’t remember how I got back to the hotel.”
“You don’t remember at all?”
“No. I know I drank a lot of wine at the restaurant, but after that, nothing… Did I do something strange?”
Ju-wan looked up at Kwon Su-hyeok with a secretly worried expression. To think he had pounced with such incredible momentum and then completely forgotten it; a chuckle escaped Su-hyeok. He wasn’t sure whether he should tell him the details of last night or not.
“Why? What is it? Tell me.”
“Don’t drink with anyone else but me from now on.”
“What did I do? I need to know so I can be careful.”
Ju-wan asked persistently with a face full of curiosity. Kwon Su-hyeok only smiled and gave him a few pecks on the lips. He vowed that, just as he had until now, he would exclusively monopolize Ju-wan’s drunken antics in the future.
After resting deeply in the room until late afternoon, his condition improved. Perhaps thanks to the Korean food for his hangover, the nausea in his stomach had completely subsided, and the headache had vanished like a lie.
He soaked his body in water with bath salts by the bathroom window overlooking the panorama of Bangkok. The sight of the setting sun was incredibly beautiful. While staring blankly, he snapped back to consciousness at the sound of a knock from outside. Kwon Su-hyeok opened the door slightly and looked inside.
“Are you not done yet? I’ve made a reservation for dinner.”
“Ah, I’m almost done. Just a moment.”
He hurriedly stood up. Kwon Su-hyeok, who had been watching him while leaning against the door, suddenly stepped inside.
“Why?”
“To wash you.”
“I can do it myself.”
“Do you think I’m worried you can’t?”
Kwon Su-hyeok led Ju-wan toward the shower. Then he lowered the showerhead hanging on the wall and adjusted the water temperature himself. He probably wouldn’t have been this cautious even when washing a small child.
Once the temperature was just right, he poured the water over Ju-wan’s body. Kneeling down, he meticulously scrubbed each of his small toes, ankle bones, heels, calves, knees, and the backs of his knees. Ju-wan subtly pressed his knees together at the ticklish sensation.
“Your clothes… they’ll get wet.”
“I don’t care.”
Kwon Su-hyeok buried his lips quietly against Ju-wan’s thigh, then looked up at him. Ju-wan met his gaze with an anxious look.
When his hand began to slowly slide up the inner thigh, Ju-wan swallowed his breath, even frowning. Kwon Su-hyeok fixed his gaze steadily on Ju-wan’s crotch and lifted his soft member with his thumb. Ju-wan’s entire body tensed up.
Indifferently, he pulled and kneaded the round scrotum and member, washing them clean. He gently peeled back the skin to wash the reddish inner flesh. Because of this, water splashed everywhere, soaking his own shirt and pants, but he didn’t mind.
“…Su-hyeok ssi.”
Ju-wan’s voice trembled unstably. Pretending not to notice, Kwon Su-hyeok pressed kisses, peck, peck, onto his smooth lower abdomen. The white belly slowly rose and fell. The member in his hand, which had been continuously stroked, began to stiffen little by little.
“Shall we rest a bit more before going out?”
Kwon Su-hyeok looked up at Ju-wan again. Ju-wan only looked down at him precariously, biting his lower lip. As if that were an answer, Kwon Su-hyeok gripped his buttock firmly. Then, the member that had been turning red was suddenly devoured by Kwon Su-hyeok. Ju-wan’s knees buckled greatly at the distant and sweet pleasure. The showerhead that had fallen to the floor only vibrated lonely on its own.
In the end, the two of them only went outside late at night. They took a car from the hotel to somewhere. Ju-wan stared blankly out the window and asked in a concerned tone.
“But what about the restaurant reservation?”
“You don’t have to worry about that.”
Kwon Su-hyeok sat close to Ju-wan, wasting the wide seat. Then he practically buried his face in the hair of the man watching the scenery outside. He rubbed his nose against the fluffy hair that had only been blow-dried. It was ticklish and fragrant, and soon a long curve formed at the corners of his mouth.
Eventually, the two arrived in front of a building. Not knowing where it was, Ju-wan followed Kwon Su-hyeok out. After passing through the building, a pier appeared. And behind it, a fairly large cruise ship floated leisurely.
“Wow, it’s huge.”
“Come here.”
“Yes?”
Kwon Su-hyeok took the bewildered Ju-wan’s hand and approached the docked cruise. A crew member waiting at the entrance checked Kwon Su-hyeok’s name and reservation details. Then, smiling brightly and welcoming them, he handed over a prepared bouquet. Kwon Su-hyeok immediately placed it in Ju-wan’s arms.
Ju-wan remained dazed until he was guided by the crew member to the wide deck. A soft melody was flowing on the deck. In the space decorated with quiet lighting, fresh flowers, balloons, and fabrics, only one table was placed. It was a space prepared solely for the two of them.
“Welcome. Here are your welcome drinks. I will be serving you both throughout the voyage today. Please call me whenever you need anything.”
A server approached and handed them two drinks. They seemed to be cocktails. After he bowed politely and withdrew, a horn sounded. It was the sound announcing the cruise’s departure.
“Is it really just the two of us?”
“Yes. Because I wanted it to be.”
“It’s my first time on a ship like this.”
“That’s good. It’s my first time too.”
Through the tourist guide in the room, he had learned about the existence of cruise ships that travel the Chao Phraya River. He had read that by taking such a ship, one could observe the main tourist attractions of Bangkok while going up the river. It seemed he wanted to soothe Ju-wan’s heart, which must have been bored from spending all his time inside the hotel during the business trip.
“Thank you.”
He didn’t forget to express his gratitude for the sweet consideration. He reached across the table and held Kwon Su-hyeok’s hand.
Soon, the towering skyscrapers began to recede slowly. At the same time, a gentle river breeze blew in, patting his skin. The candle in the glass bottle on the table dyed Ju-wan’s cheeks red.
When he had seen the Chao Phraya River from the room, he couldn’t gauge its end. It was the same even when he stood on tiptoe to look. Indeed, the waterway the cruise traveled seemed to stretch on endlessly.
Ju-wan tilted his head back like a child and looked up at the sky. Buildings with lights on, as if forgetting the night, passed over his head one by one. Temples and palaces caught his eye, shining more brilliantly under the golden lights.
Meanwhile, the server approached with the champagne that had been pre-ordered. Kwon Su-hyeok gestured to him to not disturb them as he tried to fill the glasses. The server tactfully set the champagne on one side of the table and withdrew.
Ju-wan sat turned completely around, savoring the moment while taking in the beautiful night view. Su-hyeok didn’t want to disturb him.
A while later, the server returned and placed a basket containing pre-dinner bread and biscuits. Even then, Ju-wan was preoccupied with viewing the night scenery. Then, he suddenly smiled brightly and pointed somewhere.
“Look at that, Su-hyeok ssi.”
Su-hyeok moved his gaze, which had been on the back of Ju-wan’s head, to the tip of his finger. Soon, a railway bridge getting closer and closer came into Kwon Su-hyeok’s view. The railway bridge crossing the river was only about 1.5 meters away from the hull.
People looking down at the river from the bridge waved to Ju-wan. Some threw greetings in their own languages. Ju-wan also waved readily and said, “Hello.” Even though they didn’t know each other at all, even a momentary connection was welcoming and interesting. It was the charm of traveling.
“Stop sightseeing and eat dinner first. You must be hungry.”
Kwon Su-hyeok broke Ju-wan’s reverie as he remained lost in the atmosphere. Only then did Ju-wan snap out of it and sit up straight. Various dishes had already been laid out on the table. Unlike the Western course meal at the restaurant they had visited last night, these were casual local dishes. The appetizing aroma brought back a hunger he had forgotten. He quickly grabbed a fork.
“This looks delicious. Thank you for the meal.”
“Take your time and eat plenty.”
“Yes. You too, Su-hyeok.”
Kwon Su-hyeok nodded and served some sticky rice into Ju-wan’s bowl. Ju-wan, in turn, scooped some seasoned pork from in front of him and placed it in Su-hyeok’s bowl first. Then, he took some for himself and ate it with his fork. It was slightly salty, but it was the perfect side dish. It seemed like it would suit a Korean palate perfectly. Eating it with the sticky rice was the icing on the cake.
As the delicious food entered his system, his starving stomach churned more violently. He unhesitatingly ate the dish that looked like pickles or a salad. The fragrant scent of papaya spread through his mouth, greatly whetting his appetite.
Kwon Su-hyeok watched with amusement as Ju-wan curiously tackled each dish one by one. Then, he picked up a bottle of champagne and offered it.
“Want a glass?”
“Huh? Wine again?”
“No, champagne.”
“Please.”
Ju-wan quickly held out his glass. Kwon Su-hyeok silently poured the champagne into it. It had a fragrant scent.
“I’ll pour yours, Su-hyeok.”
Kwon Su-hyeok obediently handed the champagne bottle to Ju-wan. Ju-wan half-rose from his seat and carefully filled his glass. Then, he lightly clinked his glass against Kwon Su-hyeok’s as the latter suggested a toast, and immediately took a sip. It was sweet, cool, and full of refreshing carbonation. After taking another sip, Ju-wan reluctantly set the glass down.
“It’s delicious. The color is pretty, too.”
Suddenly, Kwon Su-hyeok let out a short laugh. It was because he remembered how Ju-wan had climbed on top of him last night, repeatedly saying things were “pretty.” Having no idea why, Ju-wan looked puzzled.
“Why are you laughing?”
“Nothing. Just drink slowly. It may not seem like it, but it’s still alcohol.”
“Okay.”
Even as he nodded, he continued to sip the champagne bit by bit. Whenever he ate, he always made sure to take care of Kwon Su-hyeok’s portion before tasting it himself. He was in constant motion, like a sparrow diligently carrying food.
Soon, he popped a round shrimp ball into his mouth. His cheek puffed out in the exact shape of the ball. Out of habit, Ju-wan picked up an empty cocktail glass, then set it back down and quenched his thirst with bottled water. Watching this, Kwon Su-hyeok offered another glass.
“Want more?”
“What if I get drunk again for no reason?”
“So, you don’t want any?”
“…Then just one more glass.”
Hesitating at the sweet temptation, Ju-wan slowly held out his glass. Kwon Su-hyeok silently filled it. This happened several more times. Ju-wan couldn’t tell if he was trying to stop him from overdrinking or encouraging it.
* * *
He groaned and rolled over. For some reason, his body felt stiflingly hot, and he felt aches all over as if his muscles were knotted. His head and legs felt incredibly heavy. Most painful of all was the severe dizziness. Whenever he opened his eyes, it felt as if the surroundings were spinning.
Moaning softly, he burrowed deeper into the blankets. Before long, the bed shifted, and a familiar scent wafted over. Then, the blankets were suddenly pulled back.
“Wake up. You need to take your medicine.”
Ju-wan shook his head sluggishly. Panting slightly, he mumbled that he wanted to sleep a little more.
“Don’t make yourself suffer more.”
Kwon Su-hyeok did not back down easily; he supported Ju-wan’s back and slowly helped him sit up. A long exhale escaped Ju-wan. Along with it, a strong scent of alcohol spread.
He had ended up completely drunk again. It was because he had finished an entire bottle of champagne and then drank a signature cocktail.
Thanks to that, they had spent another passionate night, but seeing Ju-wan suffer like this, Su-hyeok wondered if he should have stopped him properly. On the other hand, he felt conflicted, wondering when else he would see Ju-wan like this if not when he was drunk.
Ju-wan leaned his head against Kwon Su-hyeok’s shoulder. It was rare to see him act so subtly spoiled.
“My head hurts….”
“Here, open your mouth.”
Ju-wan obediently opened his mouth as told. Su-hyeok pushed a headache pill into his bright red mouth and tilted a water bottle to let him drink. Then, as he laid the still-struggling man back down on the bed, he cautioned:
“Stay lying down for a bit. I’ll change your flight to the evening one.”
Ju-wan nodded with a pale face. Kwon Su-hyeok leaned over him and gently stroked his cool forehead. Ju-wan’s eyes, which had been fluttering as if he were about to fall asleep, suddenly snapped wide open. His gaze became fixed somewhere between the opening of Kwon Su-hyeok’s robe.
“What is it?”
Kwon Su-hyeok followed his gaze, curious. Soon, he saw the hickeys clearly engraved from his neck to his collarbone and the swell of his chest. Some were so vivid they could be described as bite marks.
Ju-wan touched Kwon Su-hyeok’s skin as if trying to confirm whether the mottled marks were simply insect bites or what he suspected they were. Soon, realizing they were all traces of intense sex, he looked directly into Kwon Su-hyeok’s eyes as if demanding an explanation. Kwon Su-hyeok let out a short laugh, as if it were absurd.
“Don’t misunderstand. You’re the one who did all this.”
“…Me? Liar.”
Ju-wan shook his head as if that were impossible. Meanwhile, his fingers moved busily, tracing each hickey one by one. His eyebrows flattened, and his expression became quite serious.
Kwon Su-hyeok let out a sighing laugh. He pressed his lips firmly against the forehead of Ju-wan, who was looking up at him as if he were the wronged party.
“That’s why you shouldn’t drink alcohol whenever and wherever you want.”
He gave the advice while continuously stroking Ju-wan’s roughened cheek. For some reason, his tone wasn’t stiff or stern, but gentle. Ju-wan thought he might be imagining it, but the corners of Su-hyeok’s mouth seemed to be curving up slightly. At the very least, Ju-wan’s drinking habits seemed to provide a unique pleasure for him.
Ju-wan himself couldn’t imagine at all how he had been acting while drunk.
* * *
“Su-nam!”
At the sound of the front door opening, Ju-wan lowered his body and stretched out his arms toward Jaguar, who was running toward him. Because the animal didn’t slow down, Ju-wan fell back on his buttocks. Even then, Ju-wan hugged him tightly and rubbed his cheek vigorously against the animal’s. He had even missed the feeling of the long whiskers tickling the tip of his nose.
“Ju-wan, you’re back?”
As they shared the joy of a reunion so intense it felt as if they had been apart for years, Baek Do-un greeted him. Only then did Ju-wan stand up and express his happiness, calling out, “Teacher!” Baek Do-un grabbed Ju-wan’s hand and poured out a barrage of questions without pause: “Did you have fun?”, “Did the food suit you?”, “Was it too hot?”, “Was the bed comfortable?”, “What did you do for fun?” and so on. It was practically a bombardment. Kwon Su-hyeok indifferently brushed past them and went inside first.
Jeon Mi-nam, who was preparing a meal in the kitchen, came out and bowed to Kwon Su-hyeok. Kwon Su-hyeok responded with a simple nod and went into the bedroom. Baek Do-un walked into the living room with Ju-wan, worrying about how he looked even more haggard.
“Wait, why is your face so thin again? You said you ate well and rested well?”
“Yes. I rested well, slept comfortably, and ate a lot of food.”
“Then why do you look so exhausted? Was the flight hard?”
“I drank a bit too much.”
“You drank yesterday too?”
“Yes.”
“What, is Ju-wan becoming a heavy drinker?”
“No, not to that extent….”
“Then shall we have a drink together this evening?”
“Ah, I bought some alcohol to give to you, Teacher.”
“Really? Let me see.”
Ju-wan quickly handed over the whiskey he had bought as a gift. Baek Do-un smiled with satisfaction, saying, “This is one I like.”
“Thank you, I’ll enjoy it. Oh, instead of just giving it to me, let’s drink it together this evening.”
“Shall we?”
“No.”
While they were chatting excitedly, Kwon Su-hyeok, who had already changed his clothes and come out, interrupted. Baek Do-un crossed his arms and protested indignantly.
“What do you mean ‘no’? Ju-wan isn’t a child; why does he need your permission to drink?”
“I’ll just have one glass with the Teacher. If it was because of a hangover, I’m all better now.”
Ju-wan childishly sided with Baek Do-un. Kwon Su-hyeok had no proper retort. This was because Baek Do-un’s claim was entirely correct. Ju-wan was an adult and could drink as much as he wanted without a guardian’s permission. Despite this, Kwon Su-hyeok continued to be stubborn.
“I don’t care, if I say don’t drink, don’t drink. And Baek Do-un, if you’re done with your business, just leave.”
“Wow, you petty bastard. I’ve put in so much effort taking care of Su-nam, and you treat me like this?”
“I never asked you to. You did it on your own.”
“What did you call me, you brat?”
Baek Do-un finally lost his temper and grabbed Kwon Su-hyeok by the collar.
“Please don’t fight.”
“Stop it!”
Ju-wan and Jeon Mi-nam were startled and pulled the two apart. Jaguar simply let out a long yawn, watching the four noisy people from the morning.