Chapter Text
The product development department of Jeong Industries is alive with energy, a testament to its newest rising star—Wooyoung. As the newly appointed Product Development Manager, he is at the heart of the company’s boldest venture yet: the launch of an innovative line of smart masks, designed specifically for the Chinese market.
A year ago, Wooyoung had been on the verge of losing everything. Now, he’s leading one of the most exciting projects in the company’s history.
Wooyoung finds himself exactly where he belongs—at the forefront of innovation, spearheading one of Jeong Industries' most ambitious projects to date. He has poured his heart into this launch, his first major success in the department.
The concept was his brainchild. While most companies focused on standard filtration masks, Wooyoung saw an untapped opportunity—to merge health protection with cutting-edge technology and lifestyle appeal.
The result?
A high-tech mask that not only filters air but also integrates seamlessly with modern smart devices, offering real-time air quality monitoring, personalized fit adjustments, and even customizable LED displays for both fashion and function.
Standing in front of his colleagues from the product marketing department to present his idea before introducing it to the Chinese, Wooyoung gestures toward the projected campaign materials on the screen. “We’re not just selling a mask,” he says with a confident grin. “We’re redefining what a mask can be. This is a personal air purifier, a fashion statement, and a communication device—all in one.”
The team listens attentively as he continues, outlining the product’s key features.
“1. Advanced Air Filtration, 2. Real-Time Air Quality Tracking, 3. Smart Voice and Gesture Control, 4. Customizable LED Display, 5. Ultra-Comfort Adaptive Fit, 6. Seamless Integration with Smart Devices.”
The excitement in the room is palpable. One of the employees chimes in, “We should push influencer marketing harder. This isn’t just for health-conscious people—it’s for urban trendsetters, professionals, even the high-end fashion market.”
Wooyoung snaps his fingers. “Exactly! We’re going to make smart masks a status symbol. Luxury brands have high-tech watches and designer sneakers—this is the next evolution in wearable technology.”
As the team disperses, Wooyoung takes one last look at the finalized strategy. The past year had been a journey—one of love, power struggles, and self-discovery. But now? Now, he’s in control of his own destiny.
With a deep breath, he rolls up his sleeves. “Alright,” he says, eyes shining with determination. “Let’s make the world fall in love with the future.”
Wooyoung leans back in his chair, stretching his arms over his head before glancing at his assistant, Jia, who is already poised with her tablet in hand, waiting for his next instruction. She’s sharp, ambitious, and fresh out of university, but she has a keen business sense that Wooyoung appreciates.
“Alright, Ms. Yang,” he says, tapping a pen against the sleek surface of his desk. “We need to start making connections with potential partners in China. I want you to compile a list of companies that might be interested in our Smart Mask project—tech firms, health and wellness brands, even fashion labels that could push this as a luxury item.”
Jia straightens her glasses, already making notes. “Understood. Should I prioritize larger corporations, or are you open to mid-sized companies with strong innovation potential?”
Wooyoung smirks, impressed. “Good question. Start with the big players—established names in the market will give us credibility. But I also want a few wildcard candidates, companies that are hungry for disruption. If they have a strong R&D department or a history of rapid expansion, they’re worth considering.”
Jia taps quickly on her tablet. “Got it. I’ll put together a list along with a short company resume for each—background, financials, market influence, past collaborations, and any red flags we should be aware of.”
Wooyoung grins. He likes bossing people around. Now he finally understands why Yunho loves his job so much, even though he denies that this is the reason. His bedroom manners say differently. “Perfect. Send it to me by the end of the day. And Ms. Yang?”
She looks up. “Yes, sir?”
“This is big. If we land the right partners, this could launch us into an entirely new market with a competitive edge. No pressure, though.” He winks.
Jia rolls her eyes but hides a small smile. “Of course, boss. I’ll make sure we get the best candidates.”
As she exits the office, Wooyoung leans forward, rubbing his temples. The stakes are high, but this is exactly the kind of challenge he thrives on. The future of the Smart Mask project—and perhaps even his career—rests on making the right connections.
Now, all that’s left is to see who will bite
Being summoned by assistant Kang himself, Wooyoung takes the stairs two at a time, a half-eaten sandwich in one hand and his phone in the other. He could’ve taken the elevator, sure, but he’s been sitting all morning, and a little movement doesn’t hurt—especially with all the stress eating he’s been doing lately.
As he reaches the executive floor, Yeosang is already waiting for him, arms crossed, an amused look on his face.
“You know, most people just take the elevator,” Yeosang says, raising a brow.
“Yeah, well, most people don’t have my ass,” Wooyoung quips, flashing a smug grin.
“And most people actually take a break during lunch,” Yeosang ads, glancing at the sandwich in Wooyoung’s hand.
Wooyoung takes an exaggerated bite and talks through his chewing. “I am taking a break. This is me taking a break.”
Yeosang wrinkles his nose and starts walking alongside him. “Speaking of people who don’t take breaks, San’s been on a roll. He’s finalizing the lease for a second flower shop.”
Wooyoung pauses mid-bite. “Wait, seriously? He’s actually expanding?”
Yeosang nods, looking quietly pleased. “The new location’s in a busier district. He already has enough pre-orders for the first few months.”
“Damn,” Wooyoung whistles. “Our little florist is really turning into a mogul.”
“He said he’ll send you a bouquet when you finally settle down and stop being a menace.”
Wooyoung scoffs, stuffing the rest of his sandwich into his mouth. “I don’t need to settle down to enjoy flowers.”
Yeosang smirks. “He also said you’d probably kill them in a week.”
“Okay, rude.”
Yeosang chuckles before nodding toward the door. “Anyway, Mr. Jeong waiting for you.”
Wooyoung wipes his hands on a napkin, straightening his posture. Yunho rarely calls him up like this, especially in the middle of the day. Whatever it is, it must be important.
Wooyoung steps into the office, only to freeze in place.
It looks like a flower shop exploded. Bouquets, vases, and elaborate floral arrangements cover every surface—his desk, the coffee table, even the floor. Soft pastels mix with rich, velvety reds, splashes of bright yellows and deep blues creating a chaotic but oddly mesmerizing sight. It smells like a garden in full bloom, a heady mix of roses, lilies, orchids, and something distinctly citrusy.
In the middle of it all, Yunho stands with his hands in his pockets, watching Wooyoung’s reaction with barely concealed amusement.
“Impressive pitch today. I knew you’d make this department shine,” Yunho welcomes him.
“…Did San get drunk and misdeliver his entire stock?” Wooyoung just asks, blinking.
Yunho chuckles. “No, I ordered them.”
Wooyoung slowly turns his gaze back to him, eyes narrowing. “Why? It’s not our anniversary.”
“I know,” Yunho says, looking entirely too pleased with himself. “I wanted to get you flowers, but I couldn’t remember which one you liked.” He gestures vaguely at the floral chaos around them. “Your taste changes every other month, so I just… got everything.”
Wooyoung stares at him. Then back at the flowers. Then back at him.
“You absolute idiot,” he finally breathes, somewhere between exasperation and adoration. “You could’ve just asked me.”
“But then it wouldn’t be a surprise,” Yunho counters, as if that’s a completely reasonable justification for turning his office into a botanical garden.
Wooyoung sighs, but there’s a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “You’re ridiculous.”
“And you love it,” Yunho retorts smugly.
Wooyoung rolls his eyes but steps closer, looping his arms around Yunho’s neck. “Yeah,” he murmurs, “I do. But you really went overboard this time. You need to take a step back spoiling me, or I turn into a brat—”
He gets cut off by loud laughter. “Oh, this wasn‘t a joke?“ Yunho just shrugs, completely unapologetic. “So? You deserve it.”
Wooyoung walks over to one of the arrangements, brushing his fingers over delicate petals. “I still can’t believe you bought all of these just because you couldn’t decide.”
“It’s a strategic move,” Yunho argues, stepping beside him. “Now you can pick your favorites, and I’ll know for next time…At least until you change your mind again.”
Wooyoung hums, pretending to be unimpressed, but his lips twitch as he starts carefully inspecting the flowers. His fingers dance over roses, orchids, and tulips before pausing on a cluster of soft, white lilies. He brushes against their velvety petals, inhaling the delicate scent.
“These,” he finally says. “Lilies.”
Yunho watches him for a moment before reaching to one of the vases and pulling out the largest bouquet of lilies he had ordered. He turns back to Wooyoung and hands it over, the flowers almost too big for him to carry comfortably.
“Alright, then hold them for a sec.”
Wooyoung blinks, momentarily caught off guard.
For a moment, he just stands there, staring down at the huge bouquet in his arms. The scent surrounds him, light and fresh, and something warm and fluttery settles in his chest. He swallows past the unexpected lump in his throat.
“…You really are an idiot,” he mumbles, cheeks a little warm.
Yunho grins. “And yet, you’re still here.”
Wooyoung snorts, shaking his head, but he tightens his hold on the flowers just a little. “Yeah,” he murmurs. “I am.”
Wooyoung's breath hitches the moment Yunho starts to lower himself.
“No—no, no, no—” Wooyoung’s hands fly to his mouth, his eyes already shining with unshed tears. His heart is pounding, and he can’t even think straight because he knows what’s happening, and he’s not ready for this—except he is.
Yunho pauses for just a second, smiling at him, before settling fully on one knee. He gently takes Wooyoung’s hand, prying it away from his trembling lips, holding it steady between his own.
“You always talk too much,” Yunho teases, voice thick with emotion. “So, just this once, let me speak.”
Wooyoung lets out a shaky breath, biting his lip, nodding desperately.
Yunho squeezes his hand. “You drive me insane,” he starts, and despite himself, Wooyoung lets out a breathless laugh. “You are stubborn, reckless, and you always have to push every single button I have.”
Wooyoung sniffles, squeezing back.
“But you are also the most passionate person I have ever met. You fight for the things you believe in, you never give up, and you make my life brighter in ways I never even thought possible.” Yunho’s voice wavers slightly, his thumb brushing softly over Wooyoung’s knuckles. “You have been by my side through everything. Even when I pushed you away. Even when I didn’t deserve it. And now, I don’t ever want to go through this life without you there.”
Wooyoung lets out a soft sob like he’s trying to hold himself together.
Yunho reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small velvet box, opening it to reveal a graceful ring—classic yet timeless.
“Jung Wooyoung,” Yunho says, looking up at him with so much love it almost knocks Wooyoung off his feet, “will you be my forever?”
Wooyoung is already nodding before Yunho can even finish his sentence, tears spilling over as he practically yanks him up from the floor, crashing into his arms. “Yes, of course, yes! I‘d marry you a thousand times, every day anew for the rest of our lives.”
“Well, that would be very expensive and… rather stressful,“ he muses when Wooyoung gives him a gentle smack on the arm.
Then Yunho lets out a laugh, breathless and relieved, holding him tight before pulling back just enough to slip the ring onto Wooyoung’s trembling finger.
Wooyoung stares at it for a long second before looking back up at Yunho, eyes wide and full of love. “I hate you so much for making me cry,” he chokes out, wiping at his wet cheeks.
Yunho chuckles, cupping his face. “You love me.”
Wooyoung sniffles. “…Yeah,” he admits. “I do.”
And then Yunho is kissing him, slow and deep and full of promise, and Wooyoung melts into it, into him—into the rest of their lives together.
Wooyoung pulls away from the kiss, still breathless, still dizzy, when he hears the unmistakable sound of cheering.
He blinks.
Then he turns his head.
And there, right outside the glass door of Yunho’s office, is a whole crowd of people watching them with wide grins and excited expressions—his coworkers, Yunho’s team, half the damn company, it seems. But most notably, front and center, are San and Yeosang, practically vibrating with excitement, waving like they’re trying to flag down a plane.
“WOOOYOUNG!” San shouts, hands cupped around his mouth. “CONGRATULATIONS!”
Yeosang is right beside him, smirking as he nudges San’s shoulder. “I told you he’d say yes. I must know, living with the torment of their daily… Let‘s call it flirts.”
“Oh my god,” Wooyoung croaks, horrified, his face turning an impossible shade of red.
Yunho just laughs, pulling him closer, completely unbothered. “You guys couldn’t at least pretend to give us privacy?”
“Absolutely not,” Seonghwa chimes in, arms crossed but smiling.
“We had bets going,” Jongho adds, sipping his coffee like this is the most normal thing in the world. “I won.”
Wooyoung smacks a hand over his own face. “I hate all of you.”
“No, you don’t,” Yeosang says cheerfully.
San presses himself dramatically against the glass, looking like he’s about to cry. “Our baby is getting married.”
“OH MY GOD,” Wooyoung yells, reaching for the nearest object—a pen—and chucking it at the door, making them all scatter with laughter.
Yunho watches the chaos unfold with pure amusement before looking back down at Wooyoung, squeezing his hand gently.
“You ready for this?” he asks, voice soft, eyes warm.
Wooyoung glances back up at him, taking in the love in his gaze, the way his thumb brushes soothingly over his knuckles. He takes a deep breath, feeling the weight of the ring on his finger, the solid warmth of Yunho beside him.
And he smiles.
“Yeah,” he says with a conviction he‘s never felt before. “I am.”
The engagement dinner the weekend after is a spectacular success. The restaurant’s private room is softly lit, the air filled with the murmur of clinking glasses, laughter, and the rich scent of fine food. Wooyoung and Yunho are surrounded by their closest colleagues and friends and family, everyone in high spirits, celebrating what feels like a new chapter in all of their lives.
San and Yeosang are practically glued together, constantly whispering in each other’s ears, sharing private jokes while clinking glasses. They can’t keep the smiles off their faces, both thrilled for the future.
Seonghwa is at the head of the table, his eyes occasionally flicking to Hongjoong beside him. The two of them look... different. More at peace, if anything, despite the history that weighs between them.
Hongjoong looks surprisingly at ease. It’s as if a weight has lifted off his shoulders, and his usually guarded demeanor has softened, just enough to give him a sense of humility and reflection that Wooyoung hasn’t seen from him before.
He’s still a part of Jeong Industries, but with minor influence, dropping his shares down to 7%. Just enough to have a say. He‘s the one fueling Woooyung‘s invention from the very start. And Wooyoung‘s thankful for him stepping up. Maybe it’s his way of a peace offer without losing sight of his financial ambitions.
He‘s sitting next to Seonghwa, an arm casually resting on the back of his chair, his eyes tender as he watches him interact with the group. He doesn‘t quite feel like belonging, but Wooyoung accepts him. For Seonghwa.
Wooyoung still feels guilty for pushing him into this. Perhaps accepting the man by his side is Wooyoung‘s way of a peace offering.
They’re still a little awkward, but there's no denying the quiet bond forming again between them. It’s not the same as it once was, but maybe, in time, it will be something new, something better.
After months of separation, Seonghwa sought the help he needed, took time to heal and confront his mental health, even spending months in a hospital to work through his breakdown. It had been a journey for him—one of reflection, self-discovery, and gradual reconciliation.
Hongjoong had never once abandoned him, and now, their relationship was slowly finding a new balance, rebuilt on trust and the quiet understanding of their past mistakes.
"I still can't believe you're getting married," Seonghwa says, his tone lighter than Wooyoung has heard in ages, a hint of genuine amusement in his eyes. His gaze flicks over to Hongjoong, who seems quieter tonight, but not distant.
Wooyoung chuckles, leaning back into his chair. "I can't believe it either. Yunho’s out of his mind for wanting me."
Yunho, who’s seated beside Wooyoung, gives him a playful nudge. "You’re not getting out of this one, Wooyo." He smiles softly, and Wooyoung feels his heart swell at the simple affection in his eyes. There’s no doubt anymore—this is real. Their future together, despite everything, is within reach.
As the night moves on, the conversation flows between light teasing and more serious discussions about future projects for the company, laughter filling the air. Everyone is more than ready to put the past behind them, at least for the night, and simply enjoy the success of their little circle.
Wooyoung leans back, glancing at the people gathered around them—San and Yeosang, who are clearly head over heels in love; Seonghwa and Hongjoong, who are tentatively rebuilding their connection; and then there’s him and Yunho, ready to take on whatever comes next.
The night ends with toasts, promises, and a sense of cautious optimism. Wooyoung can’t help but feel a quiet kind of hope settle deep in his chest, like they’ve all been through the worst of it, but somehow, they’ve made it through together.
That night, as the room quiets and the soft hum of the city fades into the background, Wooyoung and Yunho cuddling up in the cool sheets. The only sound in the room is the gentle rustle of fabric as Wooyoung shifts to face Yunho, his hand instinctively reaching out to find his.
Yunho has already turned onto his side, his head propped up on one hand as he glances at Wooyoung, his eyes full of warmth and contentment. There’s no rush in their movements tonight, no stress from the chaos of the day. The weight of everything that happened, of everything that’s yet to come, feels far away in these quiet moments.
"So," Wooyoung starts, his voice teasing, "where do we live after the wedding?" He lifts an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "We can’t exactly stay in that apartment forever. I’m ready for something new, something more… us."
Yunho chuckles softly, running his thumb over Wooyoung’s hand. "I thought you liked my apartment," he teases, though the hint of seriousness lingers. "But you’re right. I want to start over with you by my side, a fresh beginning. Do you have any ideas?"
Wooyoung sighs dramatically, rolling over onto his back, his hands behind his head as he stares at the ceiling. "Honestly, I was thinking something more… grand," he says, his voice dripping with mock arrogance. "You know, a penthouse, high up in the sky, the best view in the city. Maybe a private pool. I’ll need somewhere to host my extravagant parties."
Yunho laughs, shaking his head at Wooyoung’s dramatics. "Of course, you want a private pool. But don’t think I’m paying for it." He leans over, nudging Wooyoung with his elbow. "You know I’m not into all that, right? As long as it’s big enough for us—you—to have a little space to think, and somewhere comfortable to be together, I’m fine with it."
Wooyoung smirks, rolling his eyes. "I knew you were going to say that. Always the practical one." He turns his head to look at Yunho, his expression softening. "As long as it’s with you, I’m happy wherever."
Yunho’s smile falters for a moment, his heart swelling at the sincerity in Wooyoung’s voice. He leans in, brushing his lips softly against his cheek. "You’re ridiculous, you know that?" He whispers, his breath warm against Wooyoung’s skin. "But I’m glad we’re on the same page."
Wooyoung’s heart skips a beat at the closeness, at the way Yunho always knows how to make him feel like the most important person in the room. His voice is quieter now, almost hesitant. "Remember when we first started all this? I didn’t even think we’d make it this far... let alone talk about marriage."
Yunho hums softly in agreement. "Yeah, I remember. You were stubborn, all cocky and confident like you had everything figured out." He grins, teasing Wooyoung gently. "But I think I had you figured out. I knew from the first time I saw you that you were trouble."
Wooyoung raises an eyebrow, the corner of his lips curling up in a knowing smirk. "Oh, really?" He scoffs playfully. "You think you knew me from the start? I seem to remember you having a few problems reading me."
Yunho laughs, shaking his head. "Maybe. But I knew you were more than what you showed. You were just putting on a front."
Wooyoung snorts lightly, "I wasn't hiding anything, Yunho. I was just living my life." He pauses for a moment, reflecting on how much things have changed. "I was so... different back then. So lost."
Yunho’s expression softens as he watches Wooyoung, his heart aching with the vulnerability in his words. "You weren’t lost," Yunho says softly, his thumb gently brushing across Wooyoung’s knuckles. "You were just trying to figure it out, like we all do. And look where we are now."
A quiet moment passes between them, both of them lost in the weight of the memories and the journey they’ve taken together. Wooyoung looks up at the ceiling, thinking for a moment before he turns his head to face Yunho again, his eyes filled with an affectionate tenderness.
"Do you ever think about how much has changed?" Wooyoung asks softly, his voice barely above a whisper.
Yunho looks into Wooyoung’s eyes, his gaze unwavering. "Every single day. I never thought I’d be here, like this. But now that I am, I wouldn’t change a thing."
Wooyoung’s heart flutters in his chest, his emotions swirling with affection, gratitude, and love. He feels so overwhelmingly lucky, so thankful for the path they’ve walked, for everything that brought them here.
"Me neither," Wooyoung murmurs, his voice a little softer now, a little more intimate. "And I’m glad I didn’t let you go. Even when we were stubborn."
Yunho leans in, brushing his lips against Wooyoung’s forehead gently. "I could never let you go."
Wooyoung smiles, letting the warmth of Yunho’s words wash over him. "You really are hopeless," he says, his voice teasing but filled with love.
"Maybe," Yunho replies with a grin. "But I’m hopeless for you."
As the night deepens, their laughter fades into a comfortable silence, and Wooyoung leans into Yunho’s chest, his hand resting over his heart.
"Wherever we live," Wooyoung whispers softly, "as long as I’m with you, that’s all I need."
Yunho tightens his hold on him, his voice hushed, but filled with certainty.
"Same here."