DISCLAIMER
This book is a work of fiction. The story, names, characters, events and incidents portrayed in this book—even those based on real people—are entirely fictional. No identification with actual persons (living or deceased), businesses, places, buildings, events or incidents is intended or should be inferred.
This book is not intended to hurt anyone's religious, political, spiritual, brand, personal or fanatic beliefs and/or faith, whatsoever. It is also not to defame or disregard anyone's personal decision or identity. The author of the book understands that every individual has a right to do whatever they are doing and there is no intention to stop or highlight anyone from doing anything they feel is their right, duty, and lawfully permissible.
This work may contain mature themes. Reader discretion is advised.
AUTHOR'S NOTE
Set in South Korea, this book is written in English (UK) for accessibility.
AGAINST ALL EVIDENCE
A cafeteria—layered lighting, flowering plants and light grey walls.
A man in his thirties is preparing a serving of latte—the bangs on his forehead make him appear to be a lot younger.
He serves the latte to a young woman with a professional smile. She pays for her order and bows subtly before walking away.
'Yeon-seok Hyung-nim!' exclaims a young man in his late twenties.
'Tell me, Seo-hoon-ah.'
Yeon-seok does not look at him.
'I'm off to my father's house. I gotta take my girlfriend to meet him,' responds Seo-hoon with his arms crossed.
'Already?' Yeon-seok turns to face the other man. 'I don't think I can manage everything on my own.'
'You'll do just fine, Hyung,' says Seo-hoon and grins.
Two men in police uniform walk into the cafeteria. One of them with thin lips barks, 'Min Yeon-seok!'
The man with bangs looks at the officers. 'Yes? How can I help you?'
'Arrest him, Kim Ki-hoon,' says the officer with the name "Han Tae-hyuk" on his uniform.
Ki-hoon walks to Yeon-seok and holds his arms.
'What are you doing?' asks Yeon-seok—his eyes show that he is puzzled.
The officer handcuffs Yeon-seok as he says, 'You're under arrest. You have the right to remain silent, but anything you say can and will be used against you in the court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you by the court. Do you understand?'
Seo-hoon's lips part open as he watches Yeon-seok being handcuffed.
Upon receiving no response from Yeon-seok, the officer repeats himself. 'Do you understand?'
'All right. Rights informed. No response given,' says Tae-hyuk sternly.
Seo-hoon gulps.
The officers take Yeon-seok out of the cafeteria while the people around stare at him.
An interrogation room.
Tae-hyuk adjusts the sleeve of his uniform—he is sitting on a chair in front of a table. Ki-hoon stands behind the former with his chin raised slightly.
Yeon-seok stares at the officer sitting in front of him—he is handcuffed.
'I suppose you could tell me what this is about, Officer-nim.'
Tae-hyuk leans forward. 'Why did you kill him?'
'What?' Yeon-seok blinks. 'Who?'
'Stop acting innocent.'
Ki-hoon crosses his arms.
'I don't understand,' says Yeon-seok with clueless eyes.
'You've been arrested for murdering Lee Eun-kook,' says Tae-hyuk.
'Who's that?' asks Yeon-seok.
Ki-hoon stares at him. 'Do you kill people without knowing who they are? Are you a psychopath?'
Yeon-seok sighs softly. 'I don't know any Lee Eun-kook and I have no idea what you're talking about.'
Ki-hoon steps closer to Yeon-seok and slaps his left cheek.
'Let me talk to him, Kim Ki-hoon,' says Tae-hyuk in a deep voice.
Ki-hoon bows subtly yet apologetically and steps back.
The corner of Yeon-seok's lips bleed.
'Why did you kill him?' asks Tae-hyuk. 'Stop lying and tell the truth.'
Yeon-seok sniffs. 'I don't know what you're talking about.'
Ki-hoon clutches Yeon-seok's hair and hits his head on the table, making him grunt.
'Kim Ki-hoon!' barks Tae-hyuk, making the other officer bow and step away from the table.
Yeon-seok groans and wipes the blood off his lips.
'Listen, Min Yeon-seok. I know that you live alone and you don't have an alibi. Also, there's no one to confirm it even if you have one,' says Tae-hyuk as he leans on his chair.
Yeon-seok inhales unsteadily. 'But-'
Tae-hyuk interrupts him. 'Hear me out.'
Yeon-seok presses his lips together and stares at the officer.
Tae-hyuk leans forward and continues, 'You should plead guilty to murdering Lee Eun-kook.'
Yeon-seok frowns. 'Why would I do that?'
'If you don't plead guilty, Officer Kim Ki-hoon will deal with you,' says Tae-hyuk nonchalantly.
'What?'
'You do know what I mean,' says the officer with his chin raised subtly.
Yeon-seok gulps.
'Either you die here or live in the prison. You can choose what you want,' says Tae-hyuk and leans on the chair. He continues, 'As you can't afford an attorney, you'll be provided with one,' and stands up. He walks out of the interrogation room with a relieved look on his face.
Ki-hoon leans forward and presses his hands on the table. 'What do you say, Min Yeon-seok?' he asks intimidatingly.
Yeon-seok lets his eyes meet the officer's. He takes a deep yet unsteadily breath as his chest tightens. 'I plead guilty.'
'Good,' says Ki-hoon as he holds Yeon-seok's arm and makes him stand up. He takes Yeon-seok out of the interrogation room.
The sunlight is getting warm.
An office room.
A man in his early thirties in a black suit is standing next to a young man with a tucked in white shirt and black trousers buckled with a leather belt. The former slides his phone into his trousers pocket as he says, 'We gotta go, Jung-seok-ssi,' and begins to walk.
'Yes, Ji-hoon-nim,' responds the young man and follows him.
The clouds have hidden the sun.
Ji-hoon walks into the police station and looks around. He spots Tae-hyuk sipping a cup of coffee and bows to him. 'Hello, Officer-nim. I'm here to meet Min Yeon-seok.'
The officer points towards a cell.
Ji-hoon exhales sharply through his nose. 'I'm his defence attorney and he has the right to have a conversation with me.'
'Am I stopping you, Attorney-nim?' asks Tae-hyuk as he keeps the cup of coffee on the desk.
Ji-hoon raises his chin slightly. 'How about this? You take him to the interrogation room, uncuff him and let me meet him.'
Tae-hyuk licks his inner cheek with fierce eyes.
'The court has appointed me as Min Yeon-seok's defence attorney. I hope you won't interfere with the court's decisions.'
'Kim Ki-hoon!' exclaims the officer with an irked face.
Ki-hoon rushes to him and bows. 'Yes, Hyung-nim.'
'Take Min Yeon-seok to the interrogation room. Attorney-nim wants to meet him.'
Ji-hoon presses his lips tight as Ki-hoon flashes a glance at him. The latter bows to Tae-hyuk and walks off.
The interrogation room.
Yeon-seok is sitting on a chair in front of the table with his hands supporting his head—he seems to be in discomfort.
Ji-hoon steps in and notices the chafed wrists of Yeon-seok. He takes a deep breath and bows as he says, 'Hello, Min Yeon-seok-nim. I'm Park Ji-hoon, your defence attorney.'
Yeon-seok sits upright and looks at him.
'The court wants me to be your defence attorney,' says Ji-hoon and smiles softly—a nervous smile. 'Can I sit?'
Yeon-seok sniffs. 'Please.'
Ji-hoon bows subtly and sits in front of him. 'How have you been?'
Yeon-seok does not respond.
Ji-hoon scans Yeon-seok's face—the bruises make his chest tighten. He clears his throat and mutters, 'Not a good question.'
Yeon-seok leans on his chair. 'Why are you here?'
'I'm gonna defend you in court. I gotta know what happened,' answers Ji-hoon quickly.
Yeon-seok nods once.
'Did you kill him?' blurts Ji-hoon with anxious eyes.
'It doesn't matter,' answers Yeon-seok nonchalantly.
Ji-hoon exhales softly. 'It does matter. If you're honest with me, I can help you.'
'You don't have to help me,' says Yeon-seok and pauses for a moment. 'Attorney-nim.'
'Did you do it?'
Yeon-seok sighs softly. 'I'm telling you again, Attorney-nim. It doesn't matter.'
'You're gonna be imprisoned if you don't tell the truth,' says Ji-hoon.
'That doesn't matter either,' says Yeon-seok.
'This is a high-profile case. Lee Eun-kook was a businessman's son,' says Ji-hoon.
Yeon-seok nods subtly. 'I see.'
'The one who killed him was a politician's son. The police want someone else to take the blame,' says Ji-hoon—his tone nervous.
Yeon-seok inhales deeply. 'You do know that I didn't kill him, whoever he was.'
'But if you plead guilty to something that you didn't do, I can't help you, Yeon-seok-nim.'
'There isn't much I can do other than to plead guilty,' responds Yeon-seok—his eyes nonchalant.
'Did they offer you money?' asks Ji-hoon.
'Even if they did, I wouldn't accept it,' answers Yeon-seok.
Ji-hoon leans forward. 'You gotta-'
Yeon-seok interrupts him. 'I've got no reason to spend money even if I had it.'
Ji-hoon's lips press tightly.
'You don't have to waste your time trying to help me,' says Yeon-seok.
'Can you tell me where you were on the night of the fourth of February?' asks Ji-hoon.
'I was home,' answers Yeon-seok.
'Where exactly do you live?' asks Ji-hoon.
'A flat. It's called "Strangers",' answers Yeon-seok.
Ji-hoon frowns.
'It doesn't have any CCTV. As the name suggests, people come and go,' says Yeon-seok.
'Why do you live there?' asks Ji-hoon.
'It's cheap and affordable,' answers Yeon-seok.
'Right,' mumbles Ji-hoon and says, 'I'll look around and search for surveillance footage.'
Yeon-seok's eyebrows furrow.
Ji-hoon stands up and bows to Yeon-seok. He rushes out of the interrogation room, leaving the latter to frown. He steps out of the police station and spots Jung-seok. He walks to a car as he says, 'Let's go.'
Jung-seok says, 'Yes, Hyung-nim,' and follows him.
"STRANGERS" reads the board of a flat.
Ji-hoon pulls over in front of the flat and unfastens his seat belt. He says, 'Just a minute,' and gets out of the car. He walks to the guard and bows to him.
He bows to Ji-hoon and presses his lips tight.
'Does this flat have CCTV?' asks Ji-hoon.
'No, sir,' he answers.
Ji-hoon bows as he says, 'All right. Thank you,' and walks off to the car.
Jung-seok watches Ji-hoon get into the car as he asks, 'What did he say?'
Ji-hoon fastens his seat belt as he answers, 'No CCTV. Just as he said.'
Jung-seok sighs softly. 'I saw a clothes shop nearby. They might have CCTV in front of it.'
Ji-hoon says, 'Let's check that out,' and begins to drive; he takes a U-turn and drives off.
A clothing store.
He parks the car in the parking area of the shop. He unfastens his seat belt and gets out of the car; Jung-seok follows him.
He steps into the shop with Jung-seok and spots a woman in her late thirties. 'Hello,' he says as he bows subtly and asks, 'Do you have CCTV in front of your shop?'
She bows subtly and answers, 'We do, sir.'
He grabs a card from his pocket as he says, 'I'm… Attorney Park Ji-hoon,' and shows it to her.
She flashes a glance at the card and bows subtly.
'I wanna see the CCTV footage of the fourth of February.'
She says, 'Sure, sir. Please follow me,' and begins to walk; he follows her with Jung-seok.
A security room.
Ji-hoon stands behind Jung-seok, who is sitting on a chair in front of the desktop. He crosses his arms and watches the footage.
'Around seven, like… quarter past seven, maybe.'
'Yes, Hyung-nim,' says Jung-seok and plays the footage.
Ji-hoon leans forward. 'That's him. 7:35. Copy that footage.'
Jung-seok follows Ji-hoon's words.
The woman is talking to a young man.
Ji-hoon steps towards her with Jung-seok. She says something to the young man and bows to the attorney.
'Thank you… Have a nice day ahead,' says Ji-hoon and bows.
'Have a nice day,' she says as she reciprocates the bow.
Ji-hoon walks out of the shop. Jung-seok bows to the woman and follows him.
The police station.
Ji-hoon walks into the police station and bows to Tae-hyuk. He notices Yeon-seok curled up on the floor of a cell.
'I'm here to meet Min Yeon-seok.'
Tae-hyuk stares at the attorney as he exclaims, 'Kim Ki-hoon!'
Ji-hoon crosses his arms and watches Ki-hoon approaching the other officer.
'Yes, Hyung-nim,' says Ki-hoon as he bows.
'Attorney-nim wants to meet the suspect.'
After sparing a glance at the attorney, Ki-hoon walks to the cell and unlocks it. He opens the door and says, 'Get up.'
Yeon-seok slowly sits upright on the floor. His eyes fall on Ji-hoon as he stands up.
Ki-hoon grabs Yeon-seok's left arm and takes him away.
The interrogation room.
Ji-hoon watches Ki-hoon closing the door and sits in front of Yeon-seok at the table. 'I found CCTV footage.'
'What footage?' asks Yeon-seok with a slight frown.
'Your alibi. You walked to your flat at night. At 7:35 pm, you crossed the CCTV of the shop called "Jin-soo clothing store",' answers Ji-hoon confidently.
'Why are you doing this?' asks Yeon-seok.
'What do you mean?' asks Ji-hoon.
Yeon-seok leans on the chair. 'I'm no one.'
'You're someone,' says Ji-hoon and pauses for a moment. 'Moreover, you're my client. I can't let you go to prison.'
Yeon-seok scoffs softly.
Ji-hoon frowns.
'You don't have to help me,' says Yeon-seok in a deep voice. 'I'm gay.'
'What?' asks Ji-hoon.
'I like men. Only men,' answers Yeon-seok.
'Yeah, I did get that but why do you want me not to help you?' says Ji-hoon.
Yeon-seok leans forward. 'My family disowned me. I couldn't even get to complete my studies. I'd have lived a good life if I never told them about my identity.'
'I'm sorry, Yeon-seok-nim.'
'My cousin is in a gay relationship but I never told anyone because I know what it's like to be hated by the whole world,' says Yeon-seok with nonchalant eyes.
Ji-hoon gulps.
'Why do you think my friends began to hate me?' asks Yeon-seok. 'Because I'm gay.'
Ji-hoon takes a deep breath. 'I'm so sorry.'
Yeon-seok crosses his arms. 'There's no one in this world for me. No one's gonna give a damn even if I go to jail. You should stay away from me.'
'Maybe you didn't have anyone until now… But you do have one now.'
Yeon-seok frowns. 'What do you mean?'
Ji-hoon swallows. 'I can be your friend.'
Yeon-seok chuckles bitterly. 'Friend? An attorney?'
'Why not?' asks Ji-hoon with a frown.
'I don't think you're an attorney at this point.'
Ji-hoon grabs his card from his pocket and shows it to him.
Yeon-seok blinks. 'You really are one,' he says and gazes into the attorney's eyes.
Ji-hoon keeps his card back in his pocket and says, 'If you still don't believe me, I can show you my law graduation certificate.'
Yeon-seok chuckles softly. 'I do believe you…'
Ji-hoon hums. 'You'll be taken to court tomorrow. I'll make sure that the court grants you bail.'
'I don't know why you're doing this,' says Yeon-seok.
'Just because I want to,' says Ji-hoon.
Yeon-seok inhales softly. 'Thank you.'
'You're welcome,' says Ji-hoon and flashes a warm smile, making Yeon-seok blush slightly.
The clouds are moving slowly.
Ji-hoon walks out of the police station and gets into his car.
Tae-hyuk makes a call to someone and leans on his chair. 'The attorney is trying to help him.'
The sun has set.
Ji-hoon shifts gears as the fingers of his hand on the steering wheel tap gently on it. He stamps on the brake pedal as a white car pulls over in front of his black car.
A man and a woman in their thirties step out of the car and walk to Ji-hoon's car. She knocks on the window with two of her fingers.
Ji-hoon lowers the window with a subtle frown.
'Attorney Park Ji-hoon,' says the man. 'We gotta talk.'
Ji-hoon's frown is no longer subtle as he asks, 'About what?'
He gestures for Ji-hoon to get out of the car.
The breeze is quite chill.
Ji-hoon adjusts his suit jacket as he spares a glance at the woman and the man.
'We know that you're trying to help Min Yeon-seok.'
His words do not seem to bother Ji-hoon.
'We have an offer,' he continues confidently. 'Ten million Won.'
She raises her chin slightly. 'Get the money and stop trying to help him.'
Ji-hoon crosses his arms. 'Why would I do that?'
He scoffs. 'You get money, Attorney-nim. Is there a need for another reason?'
Ji-hoon sniffs. 'I don't think I'm interested.'
'Twenty million Won,' she says with a fierce look in her eyes.
'Okay, so,' responds Ji-hoon. 'You want me to let Min Yeon-seok go to prison instead of Yang Jin-mook. Is that right?'
'Yes, of course. He's the son of an influential person. His reputation can't be ruined,' says the man as he tilts his head just a little.
Ji-hoon hums softly. 'But my job is to defend Min Yeon-seok. I can't help you.'
'We are pretty sure you wouldn't wanna face the consequences,' she says sternly.
Ji-hoon says nonchalantly, 'I'm gonna do my job. I'm sorry but I really can't help you,' and walks off to his car. He gets in and starts the engine. He fastens his seat belt and raises the window of the car. He drives off by taking the right side of the road.
The sun is shining brightly.
Jung-seok is standing next to Ji-hoon's car.
Yeon-seok is being taken out of the police van—he is handcuffed and his face has faded bruises.
Ji-hoon walks to him and bows subtly as he says, 'Hello, Yeon-seok-nim.'
Upon receiving no response from Yeon-seok, the attorney turns to look at Tae-hyuk. 'Please uncuff him, Officer-nim.'
'Why would I do that?' asks the policeman nonchalantly.
'He's definitely not gonna run away, Officer Han.'
Tae-hyuk clicks his tongue and uncuffs Yeon-seok.
The bruises on Yeon-seok's wrists darken Ji-hoon's eyes.
A young man with a mask on stares at Ji-hoon without realising that Yeon-seok has noticed him. He quickly grabs a pistol and aims it at Ji-hoon. As he pulls the trigger, Yeon-seok pushes Ji-hoon away—the bullet pierces the right side of Yeon-seok's chest while Ji-hoon falls to the ground.
Yeon-seok's stained white T-shirt gets wet with his blood. He begins to gag as he struggles to breathe.
Ji-hoon gets up in a hurry and rushes to Yeon-seok. He holds the latter closer by his shoulder line and rests his head on the former's lap.
The young man aims his pistol at Ji-hoon again. Ki-hoon grabs his pistol as he exclaims, 'Drop your weapon!'
He is about to pull the trigger.
Ki-hoon aims at the left shin of the young man and pulls the trigger immediately. He watches the latter fall to the ground with nervous eyes.
Tae-hyuk stands still—his eyes stare at the young man on the ground.
Ji-hoon says, 'Yeon-seok-nim, open your eyes,' and pats Yeon-seok's right cheek. He exclaims, 'Min Yeon-seok!' and gently shakes Yeon-seok's body just a little.
Yeon-seok flinches and opens his eyes.
Ji-hoon says, 'Look at me… Stay with me,' and tightens his hold on Yeon-seok's shoulder line.
An ambulance arrives.
The paramedic and men in scrubs lift Yeon-seok and make him lie on the stretcher. They take him to the ambulance. Tae-hyuk walks into the ambulance, closes the door and the driver begins to drive.
Ji-hoon rushes to his car and gets into it; Jung-seok joins him. He fastens his seat belt and starts the engine. He follows the ambulance with anxious eyes.
The emergency department of a hospital.
A woman in her late forties walks out of a room—the white coat has her name on it—"Pyu So-yeon".
Ji-hoon stands up and bows to her. 'Is he all right, Doctor-nim?'
Tae-hyuk stands up and bows subtly to the doctor.
She bows and answers, 'He'll be all right.'
'I hope he wasn't severely injured,' says Ji-hoon nervously.
'The bullet pierced his right lung. He suffered a tension pneumothorax,' she says.
'He'll be fine, won't he?' he asks.
'He underwent the necessary procedures for it. Let's hope for the best,' she says.
'When can I meet him?' he asks.
'Soon,' she answers.
He bows gratefully. 'Thank you, Doctor-nim.'
She bows subtly and walks off.
A hospital room—the number on its door reads "141".
Ki-hoon is sitting on a chair next to the wall. Ji-hoon bows to him and presses his lips tight. He adjusts his suit jacket and pushes the door open. He spots Yeon-seok lying in the bed with a nasal cannula and ECG pads. He steps in and closes the door. He walks to the bed and drags a chair closer. He sits on it and clears his throat. His eyes fall on the handcuff—Yeon-seok's left arm is handcuffed to the side rail of the bed.
Yeon-seok gazes at Ji-hoon with exhausted eyes.
'How are you feeling, Yeon-seok-nim?' asks Ji-hoon hesitantly.
Yeon-seok, in a hoarse voice, answers, 'I've been better before.'
Ji-hoon's eyes lock Yeon-seok's. 'I don't know why you did that.'
Yeon-seok chuckles softly. 'You're an attorney. You can be of use to many people,' he says and pauses for a moment. 'Unlike me.'
'There are people who care about you,' says Ji-hoon.
'I don't even have a pet to care for me,' says Yeon-seok.
Ji-hoon blurts, 'I care about you,' and swallows.
'Why? Is it because I'm your client?' asks Yeon-seok and breathes in deeply.
Ji-hoon does not respond.
'I suppose you care about all of your clients like this,' says Yeon-seok nonchalantly.
'It's not like that, Yeon-seok-nim.'
Ji-hoon's denial comes too quickly.
'What is it like then?' asks Yeon-seok—his gaze sharp despite his hoarse voice.
Ji-hoon inhales softly. 'I don't take you as a mere client.'
'You take me as a what? A friend?' asks Yeon-seok with expressionless eyes.
Ji-hoon gulps. 'Yes.'
'I can't be a good friend to you, Attorney-nim,' says Yeon-seok.
'I don't want anything from you,' says Ji-hoon.
'If you're feeling grateful, please don't,' says Yeon-seok.
Ji-hoon swallows. 'I owe you, Yeon-seok-nim.'
Yeon-seok chuckles dryly. 'You don't have to.'
'I know that people haven't treated you well but I'll make sure to treat you better,' says Ji-hoon with a serious look on his eyes.
Yeon-seok frowns. 'Why?'
'I just wanna treat you better than the others,' answers Ji-hoon—his tone as soft as a gentle breeze.
Yeon-seok says with a straight face, 'I should've died.'
'Why do you say that?' asks Ji-hoon with a frown.
Yeon-seok inhales deeply. 'Everybody at the café I work at watched me when the police arrested me. They wouldn't want me back. People treat me like they loathe me and it's not gonna get better.'
'Once the court declares you innocent, you'll be free, Yeon-seok-nim. You won't be an accused anymore,' says Ji-hoon.
'It means that I don't get imprisoned. It doesn't mean that people are gonna understand what really happened,' says Yeon-seok.
'I understand your concern, Yeon-seok-nim. Let's focus on one problem at a time,' says Ji-hoon.
Yeon-seok avoids Ji-hoon's eyes. 'There are things that can't be helped.'
'You can't just give up on life.'
Yeon-seok stares at the ceiling. 'It doesn't matter.'
'Everything about you matters to me,' says Ji-hoon as he reaches for Yeon-seok's handcuffed arm. He gulps nervously as he brushes Yeon-seok's palm—his touch as soft as a breeze against a flower.
Yeon-seok's eyes lock with Ji-hoon's. He presses his lips tight as Ji-hoon blinks twice. He notices the stains of his blood on Ji-hoon's suit jacket.
The sun has risen—the wind is quite crisp.
Yeon-seok is sitting on the bed, propped up with pillows—he is staring at the wall.
Ji-hoon opens the door and walks in—he is wearing a white T-shirt and black jean trousers.
Yeon-seok gazes at Ji-hoon from top to toe.
A couple of knocks interrupt his gaze.
Ji-hoon walks to the door and opens it. He gets a bowl of soup from the woman and closes the door. He says, 'You should be having something now,' and flashes a warm smile.
Yeon-seok's lips quiver slightly.
Ji-hoon continues, 'I'll help you,' and walks closer to the bed. He drags the chair next to the bed and sits next to Yeon-seok.
'It's all right. I can,' says Yeon-seok as he looks away from Ji-hoon and continues, 'Have it by myself.'
'It's all right. You're not supposed to strain yourself.'
Yeon-seok gulps nervously and stares at Ji-hoon, who takes a spoonful of soup and blows on it.
'It's a bit hot,' says Ji-hoon as he brings the spoon closer to Yeon-seok's lips.
After an anxious gulp, Yeon-seok begins to have the soup.
The moon is visible despite the clouds trying to hide it.
Ji-hoon is sitting on the chair next to Yeon-seok, who is lying in bed.
Jung-seok opens the door a little.
Ji-hoon turns to look at him. 'Come in.'
Jung-seok steps in and bows to Ji-hoon and Yeon-seok.
Ji-hoon says, 'This is Lee Jung-seok. My assistant,' and looks at Yeon-seok.
'Hello,' greets Yeon-seok in a hoarse voice.
Jung-seok bows to him as he says, 'Hello, Yeon-seok-nim,' and looks at Ji-hoon. 'It's tomorrow. I just wanted to meet you once before that, Hyung-nim.'
'We're good to go. Yeon-seok-nim will be discharged in the morning,' says Ji-hoon.
'I'll be there at the court,' says Jung-seok.
'Okay,' says Ji-hoon.
Jung-seok bows subtly and looks at Yeon-seok. 'Get well soon, Yeon-seok-nim.'
'Thank you.'
Jung-seok bows to Yeon-seok professionally. He offers a quick subtle bow to Ji-hoon and walks out of the room.
'You should go home,' says Yeon-seok.
'I'll stay here tonight,' says Ji-hoon.
'Don't you have someone waiting for you at home?' asks Yeon-seok.
Ji-hoon chuckles. 'No, I don't.'
Yeon-seok's lips press tightly.
'Don't you believe me?' asks Ji-hoon as he rests his palms on the bed.
'It's none of my business whom you live with,' says Yeon-seok nonchalantly.
'I just want you to know that I live alone,' says Ji-hoon and leans on his chair.
The sunlight is getting warm.
Yeon-seok is standing at the defendant's stand—his lips appear to be pale while his eyes show exhaustion. Ji-hoon is sitting at the lawyer's desk.
'Prosecution. You may proceed,' says the judge in a deep voice.
A woman in her forties stands up and bows to the judge. 'Your Honour, the victim, Lee Eun-kook, was murdered on the night of the fourth of February, 2025. The fingerprints of the accused, Min Yeon-seok, were found on the weapon, a knife, identified as the instrument of the crime. The prosecution has duly submitted all relevant evidence before this Honourable Court for consideration.'
A middle-aged woman hands over a file to the judge, who looks into it and says, 'Defendant. You may proceed.'
Ji-hoon stands up and bows to the judge. 'Your Honour, my client, Min Yeon-seok, has an alibi. I hereby submit it for consideration before this Honourable Court.'
She plays the CCTV footage.
The judge looks at it and the prosecutor says, 'Objection, Your Honour.'
'Objection sustained.'
The prosecutor says sternly, 'It's merely the footage of the road. He could have taken an alternative route to the crime scene.'
Ji-hoon takes a deep breath and says, 'Your Honour, the prosecution's timeline cannot stand. The CCTV clearly places the accused at 7:35 pm., while the estimated time of death is 7:30 pm. The crime scene is about a twenty-minute distance from his residence, and the road where the CCTV captured him lies only a couple of minutes from his residence. It is therefore impossible for the accused to have committed the murder at 7:30 and be seen elsewhere at 7:35.'
'And what of the fingerprints?' asks the prosecutor authoritatively.
'The marks on my client, Min Yeon-seok, were made under duress. The police forced him to accept responsibility for a crime he did not commit. Your Honour, I now submit evidence regarding the actual perpetrators of the murder of Lee Eun-kook for this Honourable Court's consideration.'
She plays a video—it is the conversation between Ji-hoon, the man and the woman in the middle of the road.
Ji-hoon raises his chin slightly as he waits for the video to end.
'Min Yeon-seok, were you assaulted by the police and coerced into taking the blame?' asks the judge.
Ji-hoon presses his lips tight and slowly flashes a reassuring smile at Yeon-seok.
'Yes, sir. They made me touch the knife and threatened that I would be killed in the cell if I did not claim responsibility. They were attempting to protect the son of an influential person,' says Yeon-seok in a slightly hoarse voice.
Ji-hoon faces the judge as he says, 'Your Honour, I used a spy camera to record the man and woman's conversation. They threatened my client and myself. A person then attempted to shoot me, but Min Yeon-seok saved me, taking the bullet into his right side, sustaining life-threatening injuries.'
'Objection, Your Honour.'
The judge says sternly. 'Objection sustained.'
'The defence's claim of an alibi must be properly verified. The CCTV footage and the accused's location require formal confirmation before they can be accepted as fact.'
The judge leans forward slightly. 'The court will not treat the alleged alibi as established until the evidence has been examined and verified. Counsel for the defence may proceed, but refrain from presenting unverified assertions as conclusive.'
Ji-hoon inhales sharply. 'Your Honour, the accused reports that he was assaulted while in police custody. This raises concern about whether his rights were observed and whether any statements taken can be relied upon.'
The prosecutor raises her chin slightly. 'Your Honour, unless the defence provides evidence to support this allegation, it cannot be accepted. The prosecution requests that the court disregard the claim until it is properly substantiated.'
'The court notes the defence's allegation. Counsel for the defence is directed to submit medical records or other supporting material at the earliest. Until such evidence is produced, the claim will not affect the proceedings. The prosecution is reminded that, should the allegation be proven, any related evidence will be subject to exclusion.'
Ji-hoon bows subtly. 'Your Honour, the accused has no prior record and limited financial means. We request that he be released on bail under suitable conditions rather than a monetary bond.'
Prosecutor retorts, 'Your Honour, while the prosecution maintains concerns regarding interference with witnesses, we defer to the court's discretion on appropriate safeguards.'
The judge pushes his glasses up onto his nose bridge. 'The court will grant release on recognisance, without monetary bond. The accused shall report once weekly to the local police station, remain within the jurisdiction of this court, and have no contact with any witnesses in this case. Any breach of these conditions will result in immediate revocation of release.'
The clouds have hidden the sun.
Ji-hoon is driving Yeon-seok somewhere.
'You don't have to, Attorney-nim,' says Yeon-seok hesitantly.
Ji-hoon shifts gears. 'I just wanna drop you home.'
'Will you be safe?' asks Yeon-seok as he looks at the attorney.
Ji-hoon smiles softly. 'I know that people want me dead. It's the same every time I get a new case.'
Yeon-seok does not respond.
Ji-hoon continues in a gentle tone. 'I have received a lot of death threats but no one really tried to harm me.'
'I almost got you killed,' says Yeon-seok in a deep voice.
'But you didn't. I'm glad that you didn't get yourself killed,' says Ji-hoon to which Yeon-seok does not reply.
'It's time for lunch. How about we drop by at a restaurant?' says Ji-hoon and shifts gears. 'Or we could have lunch at your flat.'
'Are you like this with all of your clients?'
Yeon-seok's question makes Ji-hoon chuckle softly.
'Not really.'
Yeon-seok spares a glance at Ji-hoon. 'Why me?'
'Because you're special to me.'
Yeon-seok looks out of the window.
'Let's have lunch at your place then,' says Ji-hoon and shifts gears.
An old flat.
Ji-hoon opens the door and steps in—the room looks ransacked.
'The police must have searched your flat and left the door unlocked,' he says as he turns to look at Yeon-seok.
A middle-aged woman exclaims, 'Lee Eun-kook's murderer!' and says as she looks at a man of her age, 'Honey, look at him.'
'What are you doing here?' he asks with a frown.
Ji-hoon steps out of the flat and looks at him. 'He's just a suspect. The court has not convicted him and due to the lack of evidence, he's gonna be acquitted in the upcoming trials.'
He stares at Ji-hoon.
'I'm the defence attorney of Min Yeon-seok-nim.'
The woman raises her chin slightly. 'I don't care who you are. I don't want a criminal in my flat. You have to move out today.'
Yeon-seok bows. 'I apologise for the inconveniences caused. I'll move out as soon as possible.'
'Soon isn't enough. It should be today.'
Ji-hoon is about to talk but Yeon-seok stops him by holding his forearm. The latter bows apologetically.
She walks off with the man.
'You didn't have to agree to that, Yeon-seok-nim,' says Ji-hoon as he frees himself from Yeon-seok's hold.
'She owns this place.'
Ji-hoon clicks his tongue. 'Let's grab your stuff and move out.'
Yeon-seok stares at him. 'Where?'
'My flat,' answers Ji-hoon and steps into the flat.
'I don't wanna bother you, Attorney-nim,' says Yeon-seok as he walks in.
'You have to move out today. We'll have to meet several times before the trial anyway. It's better for us to stay at my flat. You need rest as well,' says Ji-hoon as he begins to collect the books on the floor.
'Do you let all of your clients stay with you at your place?' asks Yeon-seok in a deep voice.
Ji-hoon turns his face to look at Yeon-seok. 'I told you already. You're special.'
Yeon-seok presses his lips together.
The sun has begun to set.
Ji-hoon unlocks the door of a flat with a key card and opens the door. He walks in with a box and says, 'Come in. Please.'
Yeon-seok hesitantly steps into the flat with a bag and Ji-hoon closes the door.
The automatic door lock clicks.
'Make yourself at home,' says Ji-hoon and walks to the table. He keeps the box on it and says, 'Let's arrange your things.'
Yeon-seok stares at him.
The stars dazzle.
Ji-hoon is serving a few dishes on the dining table. 'Yeon-seok-nim, let's have dinner.'
Yeon-seok stands still, watching Ji-hoon.
'Is something bothering you?'
Upon receiving no response from Yeon-seok, he continues, 'Are you not feeling hungry?'
'I'm fine,' says Yeon-seok nonchalantly despite the irked look in his eyes.
Ji-hoon blinks. 'Okay, that's good. Come on. Let's finish dinner and go to bed.'
Yeon-seok sits at the dining table. Ji-hoon sits in front of him and smiles softly.
'I don't think I can eat a lot,' says Yeon-seok.
'Eat as much as you want. I'll help you finish,' says Ji-hoon.
Yeon-seok takes his chopsticks and starts to eat his food; Ji-hoon follows him.
The clock is ticking 10:32.
Ji-hoon places the pillows on the bed—he has strands of wet hair on his forehead.
Yeon-seok steps out of the bathroom and closes the door—he is wiping his nape with a towel; he has grey trousers on.
Ji-hoon looks at Yeon-seok's skin on his chest. 'Does it hurt?'
'What?' asks Yeon-seok.
'The hole in your chest,' answers Ji-hoon.
Yeon-seok inhales softly. 'Not really. I've got painkillers.'
'Do you take them on time?' asks Ji-hoon.
'Only when I feel like it,' answers Yeon-seok.
Ji-hoon takes a step towards Yeon-seok. 'Dry your hair and get dressed. We should sleep.'
Yeon-seok nods and walks to a bag. He unzips it and grabs a white T-shirt. He zips it and puts on the T-shirt. He steps out of the bedroom casually.
Ji-hoon adjusts the room temperature and turns off the lights except for the table lamps.
Yeon-seok steps into the bedroom. 'Can I get a pillow?'
'You can sleep here, Yeon-seok-nim,' says Ji-hoon.
'I don't wanna bother you,' says Yeon-seok.
'You need proper rest and sleep. I'll sleep on the couch. No worries,' says Ji-hoon.
'I can't let you sleep on the couch, Attorney-nim,' says Yeon-seok.
Ji-hoon sighs softly. 'We can share the bed. It's big enough for two people.'
'I don't wanna make you uncomfortable,' says Yeon-seok.
'I'm not uncomfortable sharing a bed with you,' says Ji-hoon.
Yeon-seok gulps. 'Do you think this is a good idea?'
'Of course. Come on,' says Ji-hoon and sits on the bed.
Yeon-seok closes the door as Ji-hoon lies in bed. He joins the latter and pulls the blanket until his waist.
'If you feel uncomfortable, just let me know, Attorney-nim.'
Ji-hoon turns to look at Yeon-seok. 'Why don't you call me something else?'
Yeon-seok blinks. 'I don't know what else to call you.'
'I'm thirty and you're thirty-two. I'll call you "Hyung". You can call me by my name. Does this sound good?'
Ji-hoon's soft smile makes Yeon-seok nervous.
'You can call me anything. I don't mind.'
Ji-hoon chuckles softly. 'And you can call me anything as well, Hyung.'
Yeon-seok's heart flutters. 'You should sleep.'
Ji-hoon hums.
Yeon-seok turns to the other side and gulps.
Ji-hoon suppresses his grin as he closes his eyes.
The sun has begun to rise.
Yeon-seok is standing next to the balustrade of the balcony with a cigarette and a lighter in his hand.
Ji-hoon opens his eyes as the alarm goes off. He turns it off and looks around. 'Hyung,' he says as he gets up from the bed. He rubs his eyes and spots Yeon-seok. He frowns as he walks to the balcony.
'Hyung, what are you doing here?'
Yeon-seok flinches and swallows.
Ji-hoon notices the cigarette between the two fingers of Yeon-seok. 'Hyung, what's wrong with you?' he asks as he steps towards the latter.
Yeon-seok turns to look at him.
'You just got your lung punctured. You can't smoke right now,' says Ji-hoon as he abruptly grabs the cigarette from Yeon-seok's fingers.
'Why do you care? I'm just a client of yours,' responds Yeon-seok with furious eyes.
'You saved me once. I can't let you die,' says Ji-hoon.
'It doesn't matter if I die,' says Yeon-seok.
'Do you smoke regularly?' asks Ji-hoon.
'How does that matter?' asks Yeon-seok.
Ji-hoon inhales sharply. 'Just answer my question.'
Yeon-seok snaps, 'I do. I smoke everyday. How does that bother you?'
'Listen, Hyung,' says Ji-hoon and continues gently yet firmly, 'I'm pretty sure you're having a nicotine withdrawal. I'll get some patches for you. Use it until you get better. It might even help you quit forever.'
Yeon-seok does not respond.
'How many cigarettes do you smoke per day?' asks Ji-hoon with his arms crossed.
'Three. Sometimes, four.'
After a subtle nod, Ji-hoon says, 'I want you to hand over all the cigarettes you've got to me.'
'Why would I do that?' asks Yeon-seok.
'Give me the cigarettes and I'll give you patches. Like a barter, maybe,' answers Ji-hoon.
Yeon-seok clenches his jaw unnoticeably and walks into the bedroom. He unzips his backpack and takes out a pack of cigarettes.
Ji-hoon walks to Yeon-seok and tilts his head slightly. The latter gives the pack to him.
'Thank you, Yeon-seok Hyung,' says Ji-hoon and walks off.
Yeon-seok sits on the bed and wipes his face with his palms. He breathes deeply as a disheartened look fills his face.
The clock is ticking 8:53.
'Sit down comfortably. I'll stick it on your arm,' says Ji-hoon as he walks closer to the bed.
Yeon-seok sits in front of Ji-hoon on the bed. The latter lifts the sleeve of the former's T-shirt and sticks a nicotine patch on his upper arm.
'Is it okay?' asks Ji-hoon with nervous eyes.
Yeon-seok hums softly.
Ji-hoon kneels on the floor in front of Yeon-seok as he lets go of the latter's sleeve. He places his hands on the latter's thighs and inhales softly.
Yeon-seok frowns subtly.
'Hyung,' says Ji-hoon and swallows. He continues softly, 'Please don't be mad at me. I just want you to be healthy.'
'I'm not mad at you. I just don't have a reason to live,' says Yeon-seok nonchalantly.
Ji-hoon leans closer to Yeon-seok. He inhales unsteadily and places a soft kiss on Yeon-seok's dry lips.
'I want you to stay alive, healthy and happy, Hyung.'
Yeon-seok stands up. 'What's wrong with you?'
'Nothing,' answers Ji-hoon as he stands up. 'I just like you.'
'What?' asks Yeon-seok—his eyes nervous.
'I'm not joking.'
Ji-hoon's sincere eyes bring a frown to Yeon-seok's face.
'I don't think you understand what you're saying. You're an attorney and I'm…'
'You're the man I fancy,' replies Ji-hoon in a soft voice.
Yeon-seok scoffs softly despite the desolation in his eyes. 'You can't be more ridiculous than this.'
Ji-hoon's demeanour does not change. 'I'm not being ridiculous. I'm just being honest.'
'What do you want me to do?' asks Yeon-seok with fierce eyes.
'I don't know,' answers Ji-hoon and pauses for a moment. 'I know that you have feelings for me.'
'I lost my job.'
Yeon-seok's response makes Ji-hoon blink. Even before he can reply, Yeon-seok continues, 'I got a text from the café I used to work at. They don't want me around anymore. I'm a criminal after all.'
'You're not. I'll do whatever it takes to prove that you're not what they want you to be.'
Yeon-seok chuckles bitterly. 'You don't really understand. I'm jobless now. I don't think you should like me anymore.'
'I didn't develop feelings for your job, Min Yeon-seok. I like you. I have feelings for you,' says Ji-hoon with visible anguish in his eyes.
'I'm no good for you. You should get that into your head,' says Yeon-seok.
'I don't care about your financial situation or anything. I care about you. I'm aware of what I'm feeling. I hope you are, too,' says Ji-hoon.
Yeon-seok exhales unsteadily. 'It's not about what I feel. I don't wanna ruin your life.'
Ji-hoon steps closer to Yeon-seok. He gently places his hands on the latter's shoulders. He slowly leans closer to Yeon-seok and embraces him by his nape. 'You're not ruining anything, darling.'
Yeon-seok's lips quiver. He holds Ji-hoon's waist with trembling fingers. He slowly buries his face in Ji-hoon's neck.
Yeon-seok's muffled sobs are heard.
Ji-hoon strokes Yeon-seok's nape. 'I'm here for you, darling.'
Yeon-seok tightens his hold—the embrace becomes quite passionate.
Ji-hoon places a soft kiss on Yeon-seok's head.
The wind blows harshly but the windows are closed, allowing the two men to absorb each other's presence.
The clouds have hidden the sun.
Yeon-seok lowers his head even before the judge begins to speak. Ji-hoon's eyes show his confidence.
The judge adjusts his glasses and says, 'Having considered the verified evidence, the court finds that the accused, Min Yeon-seok, could not have been present at the scene at the relevant time. The prosecution has not established guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The accused is therefore acquitted of the charge of murder, and all previous conditions upon his release are discharged.'
Yeon-seok exhales softly.
Ji-hoon raises his chin slightly. 'Your Honour, the defence thanks the court for its careful consideration. We trust that today's decision restores the liberty of an innocent man.'
The judge responds firmly, 'This acquittal must not be mistaken as the conclusion of the case. The death of Lee Eun-kook remains a serious matter. The court reminds the prosecution and investigative authorities of their duty to pursue the truth with diligence. Justice demands that the person responsible be held to account.'
The prosecutor bows subtly and says, 'Your Honour, the prosecution takes note of the ruling. We shall review the evidence afresh and continue our investigation so that the true perpetrator may be identified.'
Ji-hoon spares a glance at Yeon-seok.
It begins to drizzle.
Ji-hoon unlocks the door of his flat and opens it. He steps in and holds the door open. Yeon-seok walks in and takes off his footwear. He sits on the couch and wipes his face with his palms.
'Are you hungry?' asks Ji-hoon as he closes the door. He locks it and takes off his shoes. 'Hyung,' he says softly as he takes off his suit jacket.
'No, I'm good.'
'Okay,' replies Ji-hoon. 'You don't sound good.'
'I don't know what to do with my life anymore,' blurts Yeon-seok in a deep voice.
'We can sort things out, darling.'
Yeon-seok chuckles bitterly. 'I wish I was a graduate.'
'Do you wanna join a university?' asks Ji-hoon.
'What?' asks Yeon-seok.
Ji-hoon keeps the suit jacket on the single couch as he asks, 'You wanna be a graduate, don't you?' and sits next to Yeon-seok. 'I can pay for it.'
'You're kidding me, aren't you?'
Ji-hoon shakes his head in disagreement. 'I never do that with you.'
Yeon-seok avoids Ji-hoon's eyes. 'I don't wanna be a burden.'
'You're not,' says Ji-hoon as he reaches for Yeon-seok's palm. 'I really wanna do things for you.'
'Why?' asks Yeon-seok as his eyes quickly lock Ji-hoon's.
'Because I'm your boyfriend,' answers Ji-hoon—his tone soft despite his nervousness.
Yeon-seok frowns. 'Boyfriend?'
The doorbell is heard.
Ji-hoon presses his lips together as he stands up and walks to the door. He unlocks and opens it.
A woman in her late fifties steps in and takes off her heels.
He bows to her.
Yeon-seok stands up and bows immediately.
'What are you doing here?' he asks as he closes the door.
She sits on the single couch and crosses her legs. 'You don't welcome your mother like that, Park Ji-hoon.'
Yeon-seok blinks.
'Who is he?'
Ji-hoon swallows. 'He's Min Yeon-seok.'
She hums and is about to say something but he interrupts her.
'She's Oh Min-ji. My mother.'
Yeon-seok bows to her. 'Nice to meet you, ma'am.'
'Who is he to you?' she growls with fierce eyes.
'He's my boyfriend.'
She notices the wrapper of a nicotine patch on the side of the couch.
Yeon-seok flashes a quick glance at Ji-hoon.
'What about her?' she asks while fixing her eyes at Ji-hoon's.
'Who?' he asks.
'Your girlfriend,' she answers.
'We broke up a year ago,' he says.
'Why?' she asks.
He crosses his arms. 'We didn't get along as we thought we would.'
'What was wrong with her?' she asks and tilts her head. 'You've chosen a man; a hopeless, jobless smoker.'
Yeon-seok presses his lips together.
Ji-hoon raises his chin. 'Nothing was wrong with her. It didn't work out. And yes, I did choose a man but he's neither hopeless nor jobless. He used to smoke but not anymore.'
'He's got a job? That was not what I heard,' she retorts. 'Just using these stickers isn't gonna make him quit.'
'He's gonna join a university. He'll be a student and not a jobless man. About those stickers, they're called nicotine patches and they help people quit smoking. It's been two weeks now and he hasn't smoked even once.'
She scoffs softly. 'Your father used them for months. He never quit. He still smokes.'
'Yeon-seok Hyung isn't my father. He doesn't have to end up like him.'
She hums faintly. 'And what about the case? He's a criminal.'
'He's been acquitted of all charges by the court and he's not a criminal.'
She looks at Yeon-seok. 'What about your parents? Do they know your disgusting side?'
'They know that I'm a homosexual. They're not in contact with me anymore,' answers Yeon-seok nonchalantly.
Ji-hoon's eyes fill with anger. 'There's nothing disgusting about him. If you think he's disgusting because he's with a man, then I'm as disgusting as he is. I'm his man, too.'
She stands up. 'Your father wouldn't care about you at any point but I did. Not anymore.'
'You never cared about me. You cared about yourself. You wanted me to be successful so that you can brag about me to your friends. I never wanted to go to law school in the first place.'
She slaps his left cheek.
'Shut up. Don't talk about me like you know everything.'
Yeon-seok extends his hand to hold Ji-hoon's. 'You're free to have a conversation with him, ma'am, but please don't hurt him physically.'
'You're no one to tell me what to do. He's my son and I can do whatever I want to do to him.'
Yeon-seok tightens his hold on Ji-hoon's hand. 'He's your son but that doesn't mean you can do anything to him. He's an individual and you should respect his decisions. Moreover, he's my boyfriend and I will do whatever it takes to keep him safe.'
Ji-hoon inhales unsteadily. 'Eomma, I never wanted to talk to you about my personal life because I knew that you'd never understand. It's all right. Let's not complicate everything. We don't live together anymore.'
She glares at him. 'You're implying that I should stay out of your business.'
'Yes.'
She scoffs. 'I never thought you'd end up with someone like this. You're nothing but a disappointment.'
'I'm not forcing you to accept us. I just want you to let us be.'
She walks off to the door and steps into her heels. She opens the door and walks out of the flat.
The door clicks.
Ji-hoon's lips quiver. Yeon-seok steps closer to him.
'Ji-hoon-ah, calm down.'
He bursts into tears.
Yeon-seok shushes Ji-hoon softly as he embraces the latter by his waist. 'It's all right. I'm here.'
Ji-hoon grips Yeon-seok's hair on his nape. 'I… I was not…' he stutters. 'Ready to face her.'
'It's okay. It's gonna get better,' says Yeon-seok as he brushes Ji-hoon's back.
'I'm sorry to have dragged you into my mess,' says Ji-hoon as he breaks the hug.
'No, you didn't. I was in a mess and you pulled me out,' says Yeon-seok as he cups Ji-hoon's face. 'Even if we end up in a mess, I'll be here for you.'
Ji-hoon rests his forehead against Yeon-seok's. 'Don't leave me. Please.'
'I'm yours,' whispers Yeon-seok and breathes in deeply.
The moon is nowhere to be seen—a new moon night.
Ji-hoon swallows and turns to face Yeon-seok—they are in bed—the latter is trying to sleep while the former is nervous.
'Hyung, can I ask you something?'
Yeon-seok hums softly.
'Why did you agree to be my boyfriend just like that?' asks Ji-hoon—his tone firm despite his anxious eyes.
Yeon-seok slowly turns to face Ji-hoon. 'Did you not want me to?'
After a click of his tongue, Ji-hoon pats Yeon-seok's thigh with his palm. 'I'm being serious, Hyung.'
Yeon-seok hisses. 'That hurts, baby.'
Ji-hoon glares at him.
'Okay, I'll tell you,' says Yeon-seok after a soft chuckle.
Ji-hoon hums.
'I was scared of bringing someone into my messy life. To have someone by my side would also mean being responsible,' says Yeon-seok and swallows. 'I wasn't ready to take up responsibilities I possibly couldn't handle.'
Ji-hoon thinks for a moment. 'And what made you decide that you were ready for it?'
Yeon-seok says with a straight face, 'You told your mother that I was your boyfriend.'
'Oh,' responds Ji-hoon and leans backwards. 'And you thought you should play along.'
'No, I didn't,' retorts Yeon-seok. 'I know what it's like to be hated by your own people. I didn't want you to face it alone.'
Ji-hoon does not respond.
'It wasn't anything like I didn't actually like you. Anyone would like you. I think you're perfect.'
'I think you're trying to sound nice but people don't really like me. If they did, I wouldn't be,' says Ji-hoon and inhales softly. 'Empty.'
'I like you and you're perfect to me,' says Yeon-seok—his voice as gentle as a soft petal on skin.
Ji-hoon smiles softly. 'I love you.'
Yeon-seok holds Ji-hoon's waist. 'I love you, too.'
Ji-hoon blushes as he rests his face against Yeon-seok's upper arm.
'Can you tell me about your ex?' asks Yeon-seok—his eyes stern.
Ji-hoon leans backwards and feels Yeon-seok's arm slowly sliding off his waist. 'What do you want me to tell you?'
'Anything.'
Ji-hoon inhales deeply. 'She was my classmate. We were friends and I thought we could be more than that. I proposed to her and to my surprise, she said yes. Apparently, she liked me all along even though I never realised it.'
Yeon-seok nods subtly. 'You both had feelings for each other. Why did you break up?'
'It didn't work out,' says Ji-hoon and turns to stare at the ceiling. 'We were better off as friends.'
'I don't understand. Why didn't it work out?' says Yeon-seok—his eyes fixed on Ji-hoon.
'We were alike,' says Ji-hoon and takes a deep breath. 'So damn alike that she was irked every time I was. I gave up things when she did. I wanted to be comforted and she wanted the same. We couldn't balance each other.'
'Do you miss her?' asks Yeon-seok—his gaze steady.
'No,' answers Ji-hoon and turns to face Yeon-seok. 'I used to miss the feeling of having someone but not anymore,' he continues and raises his chin subtly. 'I have a boyfriend now.'
Yeon-seok exhales sharply.
'Do you have an ex?' asks Ji-hoon.
'No,' answers Yeon-seok.
'Okay,' says Ji-hoon.
Yeon-seok breathes in softly. 'I was scared of dating a man. What if I got in trouble when people found out? I wasn't ready for all that.'
'And I suppose you're ready now.'
Yeon-seok hums in agreement.
'No matter what kind of trouble you get into, I'm always here for you,' says Ji-hoon and nuzzles up against Yeon-seok's shoulder.
'Good night, Ji-hoon-ah,' says Yeon-seok and rests his arm on Ji-hoon's waist.
The attorney's office.
Ji-hoon walks in and spots Jung-seok talking to a man in his thirties.
Jung-seok notices Ji-hoon and bows to him. 'He's here to meet you, Hyung-nim.'
Ji-hoon bows to him.
The man bows to Ji-hoon and says, 'I heard that you won a case against prosecution… The Lee Eun-kook murder case. I want you to handle my brother's case as well.'
Ji-hoon bows subtly. 'Let's have a talk. Please join me inside.'
He bows in agreement.
Jung-seok bows and hurries into the office room; Ji-hoon follows him.
He looks around and walks behind Ji-hoon.
The breeze hits the calendar placed on a small table next to the window—it reads "March".
Yeon-seok disposes of an empty pack of nicotine lozenges into the rubbish bin.
'Should I buy you more?' asks Ji-hoon as he wipes his hair dry.
'No,' answers Yeon-seok. 'I don't need it anymore.'
Ji-hoon steps closer to Yeon-seok. 'I'm proud of you, Hyung.'
A small smile gleams on Yeon-seok's lips.
Ji-hoon blushes. 'You're so cute when you smile like that.'
'Am I?' asks Yeon-seok as he tilts his head slightly.
Ji-hoon hums softly as he turns to spread the towel to dry over the laundry basket.
'How about a reward for being cute?' asks Yeon-seok—his lips forming an impish smile.
Ji-hoon turns to face Yeon-seok with a clueless face. 'What?'
Yeon-seok raises his chin—his eyes filled with confidence.
'You're being naughty, aren't you?' asks Ji-hoon with a sense of cheekiness in his tone.
'Am I?' asks Yeon-seok with innocent eyes.
Ji-hoon chuckles softly. 'What do you want, darling?'
Yeon-seok steps closer to Ji-hoon. 'Would you give me anything that I ask for?'
'Of course, darling. Name it.'
Yeon-seok eyes scan Ji-hoon's lips.
'You don't have a good intention, do you?'
Yeon-seok takes a step back. 'I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable.'
Ji-hoon frowns. 'No, that's not it.'
Yeon-seok's shoulders stiffen unhurriedly. Ji-hoon leans closer to him and plants a kiss on his lips.
Yeon-seok blinks.
Ji-hoon swallows and wraps his hands around Yeon-seok's nape. He pulls Yeon-seok into a kiss.
Unaware of the emotions that he is feeling, Yeon-seok stays still. He feels Ji-hoon's fingers clutching his hair and reciprocates the kiss.
The passionate moment turns on the heat for Ji-hoon. He slowly breaks the kiss and breathes heavily.
'I want you.'
Yeon-seok inhales unsteadily. 'Are you sure, baby?'
Ji-hoon breathes in Yeon-seok's scent. 'Please.'
The night turns timeless for the lovers.
[Author's note: This is the censored version of this story. For the extended (uncut) version, please check out my Patreon (Creator name: Mek Hwan).]
The alarm goes off.
Yeon-seok opens his eyes and turns it off. He murmurs something and sits upright on the bed.
'Good morning,' says Ji-hoon as he steps into the bedroom.
'Morning…'
'Are you ready for the first day of university?' asks Ji-hoon with a pleasant face.
Yeon-seok hums.
Ji-hoon steps closer to the bed. 'You're gonna do really well,' he says and exclaims, 'Keep fighting!'
Yeon-seok chuckles softly. 'Thank you, baby.'
Ji-hoon plants a soft kiss on Yeon-seok's left cheek. 'Get ready. I've prepared breakfast.'
Yeon-seok nods once.
Ji-hoon giggles shyly while Yeon-seok notices the reddish mark on the former's neck. A smug smile surfaces on his lips as Ji-hoon walks out of the bedroom.
A shy smile is persistent on Ji-hoon's lips as he steps closer to the dining table.
The chill breeze hits Yeon-seok's bare skin.