The ballroom shimmered under crystal chandeliers, golden lights reflecting off polished marble floors. The annual gala had begun — a luxurious, elite event hosted by the hotel owner.
Every guest was dressed in elegance. Cameras flashed. Music flowed like silk.
But Aiden didn't care about any of it.
His eyes were on the main door, waiting.
And then—
Yuuto entered.
Nervous. In a borrowed suit. His hair gently styled by a kind co-worker.
He looked out of place.
But to Aiden — he looked breathtaking.
---
Aiden stepped forward immediately.
"I'm glad you came," he said softly.
Yuuto smiled shyly. "This place is… a lot."
Aiden offered his arm. "You'll get used to it."
Yuuto hesitated, then took it.
And just like that, they walked in together — arm in arm — the whispers starting as they passed.
---
At the far end of the room…
The hotel owner stood in silence, watching from the upper level.
A glass of champagne in hand.
His smile never reached his eyes.
> "So you brought him here, Aiden."
He turned to his assistant. "Make sure Yuuto is seated next to me during dinner."
"Yes, sir."
He glanced at the hall once more.
> "Let's see who he chooses... when he's confused between what he feels, and what he remembers."
---
Later that evening
Dinner was served.
The guests sat according to the planned chart.
Yuuto glanced down at his name card.
His seat was… next to the hotel owner.
He looked across the table — Aiden was seated diagonally across.
Their eyes met.
But before Yuuto could move or question it—
"Yuuto," a calm voice interrupted.
The hotel owner turned toward him with a charming smile.
"I've heard a lot about you."
Yuuto blinked. "You have?"
The owner nodded slowly. "You're doing well here. Impressive work. Would you mind if we talked more after dinner?"
Yuuto nodded politely, unsure what else to say.
Aiden's jaw tightened slightly, but he said nothing.
He watched.
Listened.
Endured.
---
Throughout the dinner,
The hotel owner was calm. Charming. Careful with every word.
Yuuto laughed once or twice — small things.
But Aiden noticed everything.
And when the hotel owner placed his hand a little too casually on the back of Yuuto's chair — Aiden stood up.
"I need some air," he said abruptly.
Yuuto turned quickly, concerned.
But Aiden was already walking away.
---
Yuuto followed him moments later.
He found Aiden standing outside on the balcony, hands on the railing, staring at the city lights.
"Aiden?"
Aiden didn't turn.
"I'm fine."
Yuuto stepped closer.
"I didn't choose to sit beside him," Yuuto said.
"I know."
"But you're angry."
"No," Aiden said quietly. "I'm scared."
Yuuto frowned. "Of what?"
Aiden finally turned, eyes gentle but filled with emotion.
"Of losing something again… before I even get the chance to have it."
Yuuto's breath hitched.
The music from the ballroom felt far away.
And between them — silence. Heavy and real.