Both smiled softly before leaning in, their foreheads touching, eyes closed. Their breaths slowed, and in the silence, they could hear nothing but the rhythm of each other's breathing.
Seungmin's hand moved with intent—starting at Han's hand, gliding slowly up his arm, then across his chest, before finally resting at the back of his neck. He leaned in, pressing a soft, fleeting kiss against Han's lips, just a gentle touch—testing, asking for permission without words. Then he pulled back slightly, eyes half-lidded, watching.
Han's chest tightened; he couldn't catch his breath. His own restraint broke, and he leaned forward, pressing his lips against Seungmin's.
Seungmin smirked at the surrender, and with that, he took control. The kiss deepened—harder, but not rough—firm enough to show dominance, yet careful enough to savor. His free hand slid to Han's thigh, lingering there before slipping under his shirt, fingertips brushing against warm skin as he traced a slow path up to his abdomen, then toward his chest.
The air between them burned with unspoken desire—until a sudden horn blared outside, snapping them back. They froze, pulling apart quickly, sitting upright as if nothing had happened.
They laughed, and Seungmin patted his head. "Let's go in."
The party was grand, held by HX Group's heir. Celebrities and elites filled the room, each holding glasses of wine, chatting politely. Han and Seungmin stayed together, greeting people as they passed.
Then Han spotted Hanbin. His eyes lit up. "Seungmin, remember him? From Nexon ."
"Yes, I remember," Seungmin said. "Go talk to him."
Han nodded and went over..
Flashback.
Two days after the bike incident, while fishing, Han had told Seungmin about Chaewon.
"Minnie, you remember Chaewon, right? Our junior. Do you remember that scandal? That girl accused him, then vanished. He's innocent."
"What do you want me to do?" Seungmin asked seriously, like waiting for an order.
Han only smiled. "What can you do? I just wish things could be normal for him again."
Flashback end.
That thought stayed in his mind.
Later, when Han came back from the restroom, he saw Seungmin and Hanbin talking together, even exchanging numbers. Han didn't approach—he just watched from afar.
Meanwhile, back at the apartment, chaewon was restless. He went downstairs, bought fried chicken, but after two bites, he lost his appetite. Who said chicken makes you happy at night? He lay on the sofa, staring at the ceiling, unable to sleep.
Two hours later, his phone rang.
"Yes, Hanbin hyung?"
"Chaewon, I found someone who said he'll help with your case."
But just then, Chaewon heard the door open. He quickly ended the call and pretended to sleep.
Han stepped inside, saw him on the sofa, and nearly stumbled in surprise. He really used my card to come in… His eyes narrowed, but instead of waking him, Han fetched a blanket and pillow. Gently, he placed them over Chaewon, tucking him in quietly.
Then, without another word, he went to his own room.