Yuuto sat at his new desk in Lucas's office—a modern corner suite with tall windows and a view of the city. He had a cup of warm coffee, a notepad in hand, and a knot in his stomach.
Lucas stood beside him, watching too closely. Smiling too easily.
"So, Yuuto," Lucas said, his voice smooth like silk, "what do you think of working here? Am I treating you well?"
"Yes," Yuuto replied carefully. "You've been… very kind."
Lucas smirked. "But not too kind, right?"
Yuuto didn't know how to respond. He turned away, pretending to study the building plans in front of him. But Lucas didn't back off.
"I've always liked people like you," Lucas continued. "Soft. Quiet. Easy to read. And harder to forget."
"Mr. Lucas, I—"
"Just call me Lucas," he said, leaning closer.
Yuuto stood up quickly. "I should get back to work."
Lucas stepped aside, smiling politely—but behind that smile was something darker. Calculating. Possessive.
---
That evening, Yuuto returned home, Aiden waiting in the kitchen. The scent of dinner filled the apartment. Soft music played.
Aiden pulled Yuuto into a warm hug. "You smell like coffee."
"Lucas offered me some."
Aiden hesitated. Just for a second. Then nodded.
"I hope he's not overwhelming you."
Yuuto gave a soft smile. "He's a little intense."
Aiden frowned. "Did he touch you?"
Yuuto blinked. "What? No. Why would he?"
Aiden turned away to stir the pot. "No reason."
---
But late that night, Aiden stood in his study alone. He scrolled through his phone, landing on a message Lucas had sent earlier:
> You really trust him with me, huh? Cute.
Some things are better left unspoken, Aiden. Like your illness. Wouldn't want that slipping out… accidentally.
Aiden's jaw clenched. Fingers tightening around the phone.
He knew now—Lucas wasn't helping.
Lucas was hunting.
And Yuuto was the bait.
---
Meanwhile, in his apartment, Lucas held a photo of Aiden in his hand, tracing his fingers across the image like it was a lover's cheek.
"You'll come back to me," he whispered. "Once he's gone, you'll remember who really loved you first."