One day,
Han was at the basketball court. Everyone had already left, and he was the only one still there. The echo of bouncing balls had faded, leaving only the faint hum of lights above. He sat on the cold floor, lost in thought, when Seungmin walked in.
Before this, whenever Han saw Seungmin, his whole face would light up — his eyes would sparkle just at the sight of him. But this time… it felt different.
Chaewon's words had planted something inside him — a small seed of doubt that grew quickly, wrapping around his heart like vines. He started to see things differently now. The way Seungmin treated him — it didn't feel like how you treat someone you love, someone you're committed to.
Maybe Seungmin was only with him out of formality.
Maybe he didn't actually like men.
Maybe he was just… being kind.
Seven years together, and yet — no physical closeness, no real intimacy. Still, Han knew one thing for sure: he loved Seungmin, and no matter what, he needed him.
Seungmin came closer and sat down in front of him. That same warm, gentle smile spread across his face — the one that always melted Han's worries. And just like that, the heavy thoughts in Han's head faded. For a moment, he felt lighter.
"What happened?" Seungmin asked, eyes gleaming softly.
Han looked at him, forcing a small smile. "Even if there was something… it's gone now. Let's go."
In the car, Han turned to him. "Where are we going?"
Seungmin glanced at him with a playful smile. "You always ask me to take you to a club, right? So I'm finally taking you."
Han's eyes widened. "Really? No way — are you serious? I'm so happy!"
Hearing that made Seungmin smile even more. He couldn't stop looking at him.
When they reached the bar, Seungmin led him to the VIP area. Mr. Choi owned several clubs, hotels, and bars, and most of them were managed directly by Seungmin. That was why he was often too busy for Han — juggling business, meetings, and endless responsibilities.
But tonight felt different. It felt like just them.
Han was enjoying the music, completely in his element. The flashing lights reflected in his eyes as he started to dance, carefree. Seungmin's gaze never left him. He couldn't help but smile, watching Han laugh and move with the rhythm.
Han leaned closer, his breath brushing against Seungmin's ear. He wrapped an arm around his waist and whispered, "Seungmin… has anyone ever told you? You have a sad smile."
Seungmin's smile slowly faded. The warmth in his eyes turned still — empty. After a pause, he whispered back, "And has anyone told you? You have sad eyes."
The words hit Han like a quiet truth he didn't expect. It was as if Seungmin had looked straight into him. He hugged Seungmin tightly and murmured, "Even though my eyes are sad… my heart is happy being with you."
Seungmin exhaled softly and hugged him back, tired but tender. "And I'm happy that you're with me," he said quietly.
Just then, a bodyguard appeared, bowing slightly. "Mr. Seungmin, you're needed outside."
Han immediately stepped back, his warmth leaving Seungmin's arms. Seungmin gently made him sit down. "Han, don't drink. I'll be back in five minutes, okay?"
Han nodded, though he didn't want to be left alone. Still, he waited quietly, eyes following Seungmin until he disappeared from sight.