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The Promise That Changed Everything
Sunoo and Jungwon had been inseparable since childhood. From scraped knees to late-night talks about their dreams, they had always been each other’s constant.
But somewhere along the way, something changed.
Jungwon found himself looking at Sunoo differently—his laughter a little too sweet, his touch lingering a little too long. He caught himself staring at the curve of Sunoo’s smile, at the way his eyes sparkled when he was excited. It scared him, how deep his feelings had grown.
One evening, under the dim glow of their childhood playground’s lamplight, Sunoo sighed, his legs swinging as he sat on the swings.
“You know,” he said, “friendships like ours are rare.”
Jungwon hummed in agreement, his fingers gripping the rusted chains of his own swing.
Sunoo turned to him with a small, almost nervous smile. “That’s why… let’s make a promise.”
“A promise?” Jungwon echoed, his stomach twisting with unease.
Sunoo nodded. “If one of us ever falls in love with the other… let’s not say anything. Let’s not confess.”
Jungwon stiffened. “Why?”
“Because what if it doesn’t work out?” Sunoo’s voice was quiet, as if he had already thought about this before. “What if we date, and then we break up, and then everything we have now—everything we’ve built—just disappears?”
Jungwon stared at him, his heart pounding.
“You’re just scared,” he realized.
Sunoo let out a dry laugh. “Of course, I’m scared. I don’t want to lose you.”
Something inside Jungwon shattered.
Because it was already too late for him. He had already fallen.
But looking at Sunoo’s hesitant eyes, he forced a smile and nodded. “Okay. We won’t confess.”
Sunoo beamed, relieved. He playfully nudged Jungwon’s arm. “Good. We’ll stay best friends forever, okay?”
Jungwon swallowed hard, his chest aching.
“Forever,” he echoed.
But as Sunoo continued to laugh beside him, completely unaware of the silent war inside Jungwon’s heart, he knew—
This promise would be the thing that broke him.
____________________________________________
Sunoo never considered himself rich, but he had always managed. He lived comfortably—not extravagant, but enough.
That changed when he got accepted into UST.
Tuition wasn’t cheap, and even though he had some savings and a partial scholarship, it wasn’t enough. His parents did what they could, but he refused to burden them. He knew they were already struggling, and he wouldn’t let them sacrifice more for him.
One night, while Sunoo sat at his desk, calculating his expenses for the hundredth time, his phone buzzed.
Jungwon: Wanna grab food? My treat.
Sunoo smiled, shaking his head. Jungwon always had a way of showing up when he needed a distraction.
Sunoo: Aren’t you tired of feeding me?
Jungwon: Never. I like seeing you eat.
Sunoo’s heart skipped a beat before he quickly shook off the feeling.
The Offer He Couldn’t Accept
___
They met at their usual spot—a small ramen place near their neighborhood. Sunoo barely had time to sit before Jungwon placed an envelope on the table.
Sunoo frowned. “What’s this?”
“Money,” Jungwon said casually. “For your tuition.”
Sunoo stiffened. His appetite vanished. “Jungwon, no.”
Jungwon sighed, as if he had expected this. “Sunoo, don’t be stupid. Just take it.”
“I don’t need your pity,” Sunoo snapped, pushing the envelope back.
Jungwon’s jaw clenched. “It’s not pity. It’s because I care about you.”
“That’s the same thing.”
“No, it’s not,” Jungwon shot back, his voice tight. “You’re my best friend. If I can help you, why wouldn’t I?”
Sunoo exhaled sharply, looking away. It wasn’t that he didn’t appreciate it. He did. More than anything.
But something about taking Jungwon’s money felt wrong.
Like he would owe him something. Like it would shift their relationship into something more complicated than it already was.
So he stood up, grabbing his bag.
“I’ll figure it out myself.”
Jungwon watched him go, frustration clear on his face. But he didn’t chase after him.
He just whispered, “You don’t have to.”
___
Later that night, Sunoo scrolled through his phone, still feeling the sting of their conversation.
That’s when he saw the post.
“VALENTINE’S DATE FOR RENT!! Cheap and fun! Includes holding hands, strolling, coffee dates, and even kisses!”
Sunoo stared at it.
The idea was ridiculous.
…But was it?
It wasn’t like he’d be doing anything illegal. It was just a date. Just for money.
And it wasn’t like he had many options.
Before he could overthink it, he opened his notes and started typing.
A few minutes later, he posted:
“VALENTINE’S DATE FOR RENT! Prices vary per package. PM for details ❤️”
He set his phone down, heart pounding.
This was fine.
This was just a job.
Nothing could go wrong.
Right?
___
But what he didn’t expect is his post gain much attention. It was just a desperate attempt, a last-minute idea to get some extra cash for tuition.
But within minutes, his inbox exploded.
Random User 1: How much for the full-day package?
Random User 2: Bro, are you serious?
Random User 3: Do you do overnight dates too?
Sunoo gagged at that last message and quickly blocked the sender.
Then, amidst the flood of messages, one stood out.
Eric: I’ll take the full package. Full 24 hours. And I want the kiss.
Sunoo blinked.
THATS literally 10k pesos!
That was more than he expected. More than enough to cover what he needed.
His fingers hesitated over the keyboard. Did he really want to do this?
Then he thought about the tuition deadline. The unpaid balance. The way Jungwon had offered him money, and how he had refused.
He clenched his jaw.
Sunoo: okay, deal.
___
Few days later
“Hey, are you free on Valentine’s?” Jungwon asked casually a few days later, walking beside Sunoo as they left class.
Sunoo nearly tripped.
“What?”
Jungwon smirked. “I said, are you free? Let’s go out. I’ll even pay for the food this time.”
Sunoo forced a laugh, ignoring the warmth in his chest. “You always pay.”
“Then consider it a date.”
Sunoo froze.
Jungwon’s words were playful, but there was something… off about them. He was staring at Sunoo too closely, like he was testing something.
But Sunoo pushed the thought aside.
“Can’t,” he said, forcing a grin. “I already have a date.”
Jungwon stopped walking.
Sunoo barely took two steps before realizing. He turned back to see Jungwon staring at him, expression unreadable.
“You… have a date?” Jungwon repeated, slow and careful.
Sunoo nodded, shifting uncomfortably. “Yeah. Someone hired me.”
Jungwon’s eyes darkened. “Hired?”
Sunoo scratched his cheek. “For Valentine’s Date for Rent.”
Jungwon’s grip on his bag tightened. “You’re joking.”
“Nope. Got paid 10k upfront,” Sunoo said lightly, trying to keep the mood casual. “It’s just one day.”
Jungwon let out a sharp laugh. “Right. Just one day.”
Something about the way he said it sent chills down Sunoo’s spine.
Jungwon’s lips curled into a smirk, but his eyes were cold. “Who’s the guy?”
“Eric.”
Jungwon scoffed. “Eric Lim?”
Sunoo blinked. “You know him?”
Jungwon exhaled harshly, rubbing his face. “Yeah, I know him.”
He didn’t say anything else.
Sunoo was about to ask when Jungwon suddenly smiled again—too bright, too sharp.
“Fine. Have fun on your little date,” he said, voice dripping with sarcasm.
Then, without another word, he walked away.
Leaving Sunoo standing there, heart pounding, suddenly unsure if he had made the right choice.
____________________________________________
The Valentine’s Day arrived faster than Sunoo expected.
Dressed in a simple yet stylish outfit, he waited at the meeting spot—a popular café downtown. The city buzzed with couples, hands intertwined, laughter filling the air.
Sunoo should’ve felt excited. After all, he was earning 10k in just a day.
But his chest felt heavy.
Maybe it was because this was his first Valentine’s without spending it with Jungwon.
Or maybe it was the way Jungwon had reacted when he told him about Eric.
“Fine. Have fun on your little date.”
Sunoo frowned, pushing the thought away.
“Sunoo?”
He looked up and found Eric standing in front of him. Tall, well-dressed, and undeniably attractive, Eric had the confident aura of someone who was used to getting what he wanted.
Sunoo forced a smile. “Hey! Ready for our date?”
Eric smirked. “More than ready.”
___
Eric was unexpectedly… interesting.
He was funny, flirty, and surprisingly charming. They started the day with coffee, followed by a stroll at the park. Despite it being just a rented date, Eric treated it like a real one. He held Sunoo’s hand, casually draped an arm over his shoulder, and made teasing remarks that had Sunoo rolling his eyes but laughing anyway.
“You’re cute when you’re flustered,” Eric noted, leaning in.
Sunoo nudged him. “You’re enjoying this way too much.”
“I paid for the full experience,” Eric shrugged. “I might as well enjoy it.”
Sunoo chuckled, shaking his head. He had to admit, this wasn’t bad.
Until Eric brought up the kiss.
“So, when do I get my 10k worth?” Eric asked, tilting his head.
Sunoo blinked. “Huh?”
“The kiss,” Eric reminded him. “It’s in the package, right?”
Sunoo’s stomach twisted. He had agreed to it, but now that the moment was here, hesitation crept in.
Eric must’ve noticed because he grinned. “Relax. It’s just a kiss. No big deal.”
Sunoo swallowed. It was just a kiss. Just a job.
So why did he feel like he was doing something wrong?
Taking a deep breath, he stood on his tiptoes and pressed a quick peck against Eric’s lips.
It lasted barely a second, but it was enough.
Eric smirked. “Not bad, though I expected more than a peck.”
Sunoo stepped back, forcing a smile. “That’s all you get.”
Eric chuckled. “Okay fair enough, maybe next time I can get the more than pecks.”
But for the rest of the date, Sunoo couldn’t shake off the uneasy feeling in his chest.
____________________________________________
Sunoo arrived at school the next day, exhausted.
He thought everything would go back to normal after the date with Eric thingy.
But he was wrong.
Because the moment he walked into campus, he saw him.
Jungwon.
Leaning against the lockers. Laughing. With a girl.
A girl who was clinging onto his arm.
Sunoo frowned. Jungwon wasn’t the type to openly flirt. In fact, he barely paid attention to romance at all.
So why—
Jungwon’s gaze flickered toward him.
And then he smirked.
As if he had been waiting for Sunoo to see this.
Sunoo’s stomach dropped.
He turned away, pretending not to care.
But deep inside, he knew.
This wasn’t just Jungwon finding someone.
This was payback, and to prove his point.
And for the first time, Sunoo realized—
He had made a terrible mistake.
____________________________________________
For the next few days, Jungwon barely spoke to Sunoo.
And when he did, it was different.
Cold. Distant. Forced.
Sunoo noticed it immediately.
Jungwon still walked past his usual spots, still sat in the same classroom, still played on the basketball court like nothing had changed—
But the difference was, he wasn’t alone anymore.
There was always a girl with him. Sometimes different ones. Always laughing, and that girl his always with which her name was I think winer?, idk but she always clinging to his arm, always making it obvious.
And always when Sunoo was watching.
At first, Sunoo convinced himself it didn’t bother him.
“Maybe he’s just trying to find someone. That’s normal, right?”
But as the days passed, it became painfully clear—Jungwon wasn’t dating these girls because he liked them.
He was doing it because of him.
And Sunoo hated it.
______
“You okay?” Jay asked one afternoon as they sat outside the cafeteria.
Sunoo blinked. “Huh?”
Jay glance toward Jungwon, who was across the courtyard, chatting with yet another girl.
Sunoo quickly looked away. “I’m fine. Why wouldn’t I be?”
Jay raised an eyebrow. “Because you’ve been stabbing your rice with your fork for the past five minutes.”
Sunoo glanced down at his plate. His rice was practically mashed into a paste.
“…Right.” He set down his fork.
Jay sighed, leaning back. “Look, I don’t wanna assume, but you and Jungwon… are you guys fighting?”
Sunoo hesitated. “No.”
Jay gave him a look. “You sure? Because the dude looks like he’s trying way too hard to prove a point.”
Sunoo forced a laugh. “He’s just… trying to move on.”
Jay frowned. “From what?”
Sunoo opened his mouth, then closed it.
From me.
From us.
From whatever we were before I ruined our friendship.
Instead, he shrugged. “I don’t know.”
Jay studied him for a moment, then exhaled. “Well, if you need to talk, I’m here.”
Sunoo smiled, grateful. “Thanks, Jay.”
And so, slowly but surely, he started hanging out with Jay more which is his and Jungwon friends too since high school.
And that’s when the rumors began.
Whispers in the Hallways
“Did you hear? Sunoo and Jay might be a thing.”
“No way. What about Jungwon?”
“Dunno, but Sunoo and Jay have been together a lot lately.”
Sunoo wasn’t an idiot. He knew how fast gossip spread in their school.
But hearing it still caught him off guard.
At first, he ignored it. But then he started noticing the way people looked at him.
The way some people nudged each other when he walked past.
And worst of all—
The way Jungwon reacted.
Because for the first time in weeks, Jungwon looked at him again.
Really looked at him.
Not with indifference. Not with that fake smirk.
But with something dark. Something raw.
Something that made Sunoo’s heart clench.
___
Sunoo had barely stepped into the hallway when it happened.
A hand grabbed his wrist.
Firm. Unrelenting.
Before he could react, he was being pulled—away from the crowd, away from the prying eyes.
Into an empty classroom.
The door slammed shut behind him.
And then he was face-to-face with Jungwon.
Breathing heavy. Jaw clenched. Eyes burning with something Sunoo couldn’t name.
“What the hell do you think you’re doing?” Jungwon’s voice was low, dangerous.
Sunoo yanked his wrist away. “What are you talking about?”
Jungwon let out a bitter laugh. “Don’t act dumb, Sunoo. You know exactly what I’m talking about.”
Sunoo crossed his arms. “If this is about Jay—”
“It is about Jay.” Jungwon stepped closer, invading his space. “You think I wouldn’t notice? You think I wouldn’t hear what people are saying?”
Sunoo’s heart pounded. “It’s none of your business.”
Jungwon’s eyes darkened. “None of my business?”
He scoffed, running a hand through his hair, frustrated. “So that’s it? You can spend Valentine’s with some random guy for money, you can let him kiss you, and now you’re hanging out with Jay like you’re a couple—”
Sunoo flinched. “It wasn’t like that.”
“Then what was it?” Jungwon demanded.
Silence.
Sunoo swallowed. “I just… I needed the money.”
Jungwon let out a humorless chuckle. “Right. Money. But when I fucking give you the money you need you just fucking reject it, and you saying i was doing that because I pity you.”
“I fucking did that because i care about you, about us, about this fucking friendship you call”
Sunoo frowned. “Don’t twist this, Jungwon.”
“Now i’m twisting things?” Jungwon stepped even closer, until their faces were inches apart. “You’re the one who made that stupid promise. ‘If one of us falls in love, don’t confess.’” His voice dripped with bitterness.
Sunoo froze.
Jungwon’s lips curled into a mockery of a smile. “But guess what, Sunoo?”
His voice dropped to a whisper.
“I was already in love with you long before you made that promise.”
Sunoo’s breath hitched.
His chest ached.
But he still shook his head. “Jungwon, please—”
“No.” Jungwon cut him off. “No more excuses. No more pretending.”
His gaze bore into Sunoo’s.
“Tell me you don’t feel anything for me, and i’ll fucking move on.”
Sunoo opened his mouth.
The words were there—I don’t. I never did.
But nothing came out.
Jungwon stared at him, waiting.
Daring him.
And that’s when Sunoo realized—
He couldn’t say it.
Because it would be a lie.
Because deep down, he had always known.
But if he admitted it now… if he let himself want Jungwon…
What if they ruined everything?
What if loving Jungwon meant losing him?
So instead, he did the only thing he could.
He turned away.
And walked out the door.
Leaving Jungwon behind.
Leaving his heart behind.
_______
Sunoo thought walking away would be the end of it.
That maybe, if he ignored it, if he pushed his feelings down far enough, things would go back to normal.
He was wrong.
Because after that night, everything changed.
Jungwon stopped trying.
Stopped looking at him, stopped acknowledging him, stopped acting like Sunoo even existed.
At first, Sunoo convinced himself it was for the best.
“This is what I wanted, right? This is what’s safe.”
But then came the whispers.
The stolen glances in the hallway.
The way Jungwon never seemed to be alone anymore.
He was always surrounded by someone—always a girl, always laughing, always making sure Sunoo saw.
And every time, it felt like a knife to the chest.
______
“You’re staring again.”
Sunoo blinked, tearing his gaze away from Jungwon, who was across the cafeteria with yet another girl practically hanging off his arm.
Jay sighed. “Look, I wasn’t gonna say anything, but… are you really fine with this, I thought you guys already talk, what happened?”
Sunoo forced a smile. “Why wouldn’t I be?, and it’s not your problem.”
Jay gave him a knowing look. “Because you look like you’re about to break your spoon in half, also I care about your problem because you are my friend.”
Sunoo looked down. He was gripping his spoon a little too tightly.
With a sigh, he set it down. “It’s not my business what he does.”
Jay hummed, skeptical. “Right. So if I went over there and asked him what the hell he’s trying to prove, you wouldn’t care?”
Sunoo stiffened. “Don’t.”
Jay raised an eyebrow. “Why not?”
Sunoo exhaled. “Because it’s between us.”
Jay studied him for a moment, then leaned forward. “And what exactly is between you?”
Sunoo opened his mouth—then closed it.
Because he didn’t have an answer.
Or rather, he had one, but he was too much of a coward to say it.
___
Sunoo tried to ignore the rumors, the glances, the ache in his chest every time he saw Jungwon with someone else.
But the universe wasn’t on his side.
Because the next day, as he walked down the hallway, he overheard something that shattered whatever resolve he had left.
“Did you see Jungwon last night?”
“Yeah, he was with her again, right?”
“I heard they kissed this time.”
Sunoo stopped in his tracks.
His breath caught.
His vision blurred for a split second.
He didn’t want to believe it.
Didn’t want to care.
But before he could stop himself, he was already turning, already walking—
Straight toward Jungwon.
Straight toward the person he swore he wouldn’t chase.
Straight toward the one person who had always, always been his weakness.
And this time, he wasn’t going to walk away.
Sunoo wasn’t thinking.
His feet moved before his mind could catch up.
Before he knew it, he was storming across the courtyard, pushing past students, heart pounding in his ears.
Jungwon was there.
Leaning against the lockers, arms crossed, a smirk playing on his lips as the girl beside him giggled at something he said.
Sunoo didn’t even hesitate.
He grabbed Jungwon’s wrist, yanking him away from the girl’s grasp.
Jungwon’s smirk disappeared.
The entire hallway went silent.
Sunoo barely registered the whispers.
He didn’t care.
Not anymore.
He pulled Jungwon into an empty classroom and slammed the door shut.
Jungwon raised an eyebrow. “Wow. Dragging me into empty rooms now? Didn’t think you had it in you.”
Sunoo glared. “Shut up.”
Jungwon’s amusement faltered for a split second. “What’s your problem?”
Sunoo clenched his fists. “My problem?” He scoffed. “Are you seriously asking me that?”
Jungwon leaned against the desk, crossing his arms. “Yeah. I am.”
Sunoo’s chest burned. “I heard about last night.”
Jungwon tilted his head. “And?”
Sunoo’s nails dug into his palms. “You— You kissed her.”
Jungwon studied him for a moment, then exhaled. “So what if I did?, and she has a name it’s winter”
Sunoo flinched.
Something inside him cracked.
He forced a bitter laugh. “So that’s how it is now? You just move on? Just like that?”
Jungwon’s jaw tightened. “Isn’t that what you wanted?”
Sunoo froze.
Jungwon stepped closer, eyes dark. “You told me not to confess. You told me to forget it. You walked away.”
His voice dropped.
“And now, suddenly, you care?”
Sunoo looked away. “I never said I didn’t care.”
Jungwon let out a humorless chuckle. “Right. So what is this, then? Jealousy? Regret?” He scoffed. “Or are you just mad that I’m finally doing what you told me to do?”
Sunoo’s throat tightened.
He didn’t know what to say.
Because Jungwon was right.
This was his fault.
He was the one who pushed Jungwon away.
And now, he was the one suffering for it.
Jungwon sighed, stepping back. “You don’t get to do this, Sunoo.” His voice was quieter now, but no less sharp. “You don’t get to push me away and then get mad when I stop waiting.”
Sunoo swallowed hard.
Jungwon shook his head. “If you have something to say, say it.”
Silence.
The words were there.
Don’t do this. I was wrong. I—
But Sunoo couldn’t say them.
So he did what he always did.
He turned around—
And walked away.
But this time, Jungwon didn’t call after him.
And somehow, that hurt even more.
Later that day Sunoo didn’t cry.
Not when he left the classroom.
Not when he ignored Jay’s concerned glances at lunch.
Not even when he got home and collapsed onto his bed, burying his face into his pillow.
But the moment he heard his phone vibrate, his breath caught.
He grabbed it instantly.
For a split second, he hoped.
But it wasn’t Jungwon.
It was Eric.
Eric: Hey, you free? I had fun last time. Wanna go out again?
Sunoo stared at the message, his fingers trembling.
His mind flashed back to their “date.”
To how easy it was, how simple it had been—no history, no complications, no heartbreak.
His chest ached.
So he did something reckless.
Sunoo: Yeah. When?
Few days came he and Eric go out to a date
The café was warm, filled with the scent of coffee and soft music playing in the background.
Sunoo stirred his drink absentmindedly as Eric talked about something—he wasn’t really listening.
His mind was elsewhere.
His thoughts were on someone else.
“Hey.” Eric nudged him. “You okay?”
Sunoo blinked. “Huh? Oh—yeah, sorry.”
Eric smirked. “Are you waiting for someone?”
Sunoo stiffened. “What?”
Eric leaned back. “Come on, Sunoo. I’m not stupid.” He took a sip of his drink. “You keep looking past me, like you’re expecting someone else to walk in.”
Sunoo opened his mouth to deny it—
But then the café door swung open.
And there he was.
Jungwon.
With her.
His fingers intertwined with hers, their laughter echoing across the café.
And for the first time, Sunoo felt something snap inside him.
He turned back to Eric.
“Do you still want that kiss?”
Eric raised an eyebrow, then smirked. “Depends. Do you?”
Sunoo didn’t even hesitate.
He leaned in.
And just as their lips were about to meet—
A hand grabbed Sunoo’s wrist, yanking him up.
A chair scraped against the floor.
Gasps filled the café.
And when Sunoo looked up, his heart stopped.
Jungwon’s eyes were burning.
His grip was tight.
And his voice—when he finally spoke—was dangerously low.
“What the hell do you think you’re doing?”
Then Sunoo’s breath hitched.
Jungwon’s grip on his wrist was firm—almost bruising.
The entire café had gone silent.
Eric cleared his throat. “Uh, dude—”
“Stay out of this.” Jungwon’s voice was sharp, his eyes never leaving Sunoo’s.
Sunoo yanked his arm away. “What the hell is your problem?”
Jungwon’s jaw tightened. “That’s my question, Sunoo.”
Sunoo scoffed. “Oh, so now you care what I do?”
Jungwon let out a bitter laugh. “Are you seriously asking me that?”
Sunoo crossed his arms. “Why shouldn’t I? You’re the one who’s been parading around with her.”
Jungwon’s expression darkened. “And you’re the one who told me to move on.”
Sunoo flinched.
Jungwon took a step closer, voice dropping. “But I guess it’s different when you’re the one watching, huh?”
Sunoo hated how his chest tightened.
He refused to show it.
So he forced a smirk. “Why? Are you jealous?”
Jungwon’s eyes flashed.
Then—
He laughed.
Low, humorless, almost mocking.
“Jealous?” He tilted his head, stepping even closer until there was barely any space between them. “That’s funny, coming from the guy who just tried to kiss a stranger to get back at me.”
Sunoo felt his breath catch.
His throat tightened.
Because Jungwon was right.
He was doing this to get back at him.
But he refused to admit it.
So instead, he said the only thing he could.
“What does it matter to you?, and Eric is not stranger.”
Jungwon’s smirk dropped.
His expression shifted—anger, frustration, something deeper, something unreadable.
And then, suddenly—
He grabbed Sunoo’s chin, forcing him to look up.
Sunoo gasped.
Jungwon’s grip was firm but not rough, his fingers warm against his skin.
And his eyes—
His eyes were burning.
“You really don’t get it, do you?” Jungwon’s voice was a whisper now, low and dangerous.
Sunoo’s heart pounded.
His hands trembled.
But he refused to back down.
He clenched his jaw. “Then say it, Jungwon.”
Silence.
A muscle in Jungwon’s jaw twitched.
His grip on Sunoo’s chin tightened for a brief second—
And then he let go.
Stepping back.
His expression blanking.
“Forget it.”
Then—
He turned around.
And walked out of the café.
Leaving Sunoo standing there, heart racing, lips tingling from the ghost of Jungwon’s touch.
He left.
Just like that.
For a second, Sunoo wanted to chase after him.
Wanted to grab his wrist the way Jungwon always did to him.
But his feet wouldn’t move.
He was too scared.
Too ashamed.
Too—
“Wow.”
Eric’s voice snapped him out of his thoughts.
Sunoo turned, suddenly remembering he wasn’t alone.
Eric smirked, arms crossed. “That was intense.”
Sunoo swallowed hard. “Sorry. I should go—”
Eric held up a hand. “Relax. I get it.”
Sunoo blinked. “You… do?”
Eric shrugged. “Yeah. I’m not blind, Sunoo.” He took a sip of his drink. “That guy’s crazy about you.”
Sunoo felt his chest tighten. “He’s not—”
“Don’t.” Eric gave him a knowing look. “You’re lying to yourself.”
Sunoo opened his mouth—then closed it.
Because deep down, he knew Eric was right.
Eric sighed, leaning back. “Look, I had fun hanging out with you. You’re cute, and honestly? If you weren’t so obviously in love with him, I’d probably keep trying.”
Sunoo’s breath caught. “I—”
Eric smiled. “But I don’t like competing in a race that’s already over.”
Sunoo didn’t know what to say.
So he stayed silent.
Eric chuckled. “Figure your shit out, Sunoo. Before it’s too late.”
Eric said while he wink at Sunoo, and start drinking his coffee
_____
That night, Sunoo lay in bed, staring at the ceiling.
His chest felt heavy.
His mind wouldn’t shut up.
Jungwon’s words echoed in his head.
“You don’t get to push me away and then get mad when I stop waiting.”
“You really don’t get it, do you?”
Sunoo shut his eyes.
Eric was right.
He was lying to himself.
He had been lying to himself for years.
Because the truth was—
He did love Jungwon.
He had always loved him.
But now…
Did it even matter anymore?
Or was he already too late?
______
Sunoo spent the entire weekend drowning in his own thoughts.
He barely touched his phone.
Didn’t text Jay back.
Didn’t check if Jungwon messaged him.
Not that he expected him to.
Because this time, Jungwon was really done.
And Sunoo had no one to blame but himself.
It was Monday Morning
Sunoo walked into school feeling like a ghost.
The second he stepped into the hallway, he heard the whispers.
“Did you hear?”
“Jungwon and that girl are official now.”
“I knew it. He finally moved on.”
Sunoo’s stomach twisted.
No.
That couldn’t be right.
Could it?
He didn’t want to believe it.
Didn’t want to see it.
But then—
Jungwon walked in.
Hand in hand with her.
And this time, it wasn’t for show.
He wasn’t looking at Sunoo.
He wasn’t smirking or waiting for a reaction.
He was just… moving on.
Like Sunoo never mattered.
Like they never mattered.
And that—
That was the worst part.
___
“You’re going to lose him for real.”
Sunoo flinched at Jay’s words.
They were sitting under the big tree behind the school, the one they used to sneak out to when they were younger.
Sunoo hugged his knees to his chest. “I think I already have.”
Jay sighed. “Maybe. But maybe not.”
Sunoo rested his chin on his knees. “Even if I tell him now… what if it’s too late?”
Jay gave him a look. “Then at least you’ll know.”
Sunoo bit his lip.
Jay leaned back against the tree. “You were scared of losing him, right?”
Sunoo nodded.
Jay exhaled. “And now?”
Sunoo swallowed hard.
Now…
Now he was losing him anyway.
And it hurt so much worse.
Later that night
Sunoo lay in his bed, gripping his phone.
His heart pounded.
He stared at Jungwon’s contact.
The blinking cursor in the empty message box.
Jay was right.
If he didn’t say something now, he never would.
And the thought of Jungwon slipping away for good—
Of him looking at someone else the way he used to look at him—
Sunoo couldn’t take it.
So he took a deep breath—
And typed.
Sunoo: Can we talk?
Then, before he could second-guess himself, he hit send.
Now, all he could do was wait.
And hope—
That maybe, just maybe—
It wasn’t too late.
he is now staring at his phone.
One minute passed.
Then five.
Then ten.
Nothing.
Jungwon had read the message.
But he didn’t reply.
Sunoo’s stomach twisted.
He set his phone down, pressing his palms into his eyes.
This was it, wasn’t it?
The moment he had been dreading.
Jungwon was really done with him.
And Sunoo…
He was too late.
___
The Next Day
Sunoo barely got any sleep, but he still dragged himself to school.
His chest was tight, his limbs heavy, but skipping wouldn’t change anything.
Jay greeted him with a raised eyebrow. “You look like shit.”
Sunoo forced a laugh. “Thanks.”
Jay sighed. “So? Did he reply?”
Sunoo shook his head.
Jay didn’t say anything for a moment. Then, with a sigh, he patted Sunoo’s shoulder. “Guess you’re gonna have to talk to him in person.”
Sunoo hesitated.
Could he do that?
Could he really face Jungwon after everything?
Would Jungwon even let him?
But then—
A familiar voice cut through the hallway.
Sunoo turned—
And there he was.
Jungwon.
Standing at his locker, talking to her.
And laughing.
Like nothing was wrong.
Like Sunoo didn’t exist.
Sunoo’s heart clenched.
But before he could overthink it, his feet moved on their own.
Straight toward Jungwon.
Straight toward the truth.
No More Running Sunoo you can do this.
“Jungwon.”
The second Sunoo spoke, Jungwon froze.
Slowly, he turned.
His face was unreadable. “What?”
Sunoo swallowed hard. “Can we talk?”
Jungwon glanced at the girl beside him. “I’m busy.”
Sunoo clenched his fists. “Please.”
Something flickered in Jungwon’s expression, but it disappeared just as fast.
Then, without a word, he closed his locker and walked away.
Sunoo felt his chest tighten.
No.
Not this time.
He wasn’t going to let Jungwon walk away again.
So he grabbed his wrist.
Just like Jungwon had always done to him.
Jungwon stiffened.
And when he turned back—
His eyes burned.
“Don’t.” His voice was low.
Sunoo hesitated but didn’t let go.
Not this time.
Jungwon exhaled sharply. “What do you want, Sunoo?”
Sunoo’s heart pounded.
This was it.
No more excuses.
No more running.
He took a shaky breath—
And finally, finally said the words he had been too scared to admit.
“I like you—”
“No scratch that I love you.”
Silence.
Jungwon just stared at him.
Expression blank.
Sunoo’s hands trembled. “I know I was stupid. I know I pushed you away. But I was scared, Jungwon. I was scared of losing you. And I thought—” His voice cracked. “I thought if I ignored it, if I pretended I didn’t feel this way, we’d be okay. But we’re not.”
Jungwon still didn’t say anything.
Sunoo’s chest ached.
He forced a small, broken smile. “So there. I broke the promise.” He let go of Jungwon’s wrist, stepping back. “If you hate me for it, I get it. But I just… I couldn’t keep lying anymore.”
Silence.
The hallway was too quiet.
Jungwon’s eyes were unreadable.
And then—
He turned around.
And walked away.
For real this time.
Sunoo didn’t cry.
Not when he stood there, watching Jungwon’s back facing him while walking away.
Not when Jay found him and asked what happened.
Not even when he got home and collapsed onto his bed.
Because this time, there was nothing left to cry about.
This time, he really had lost him.
___
The days after Jungwon walked away felt like a blur.
Sunoo moved through them like a ghost—silent, detached, barely present.
Jay stopped asking questions.
Jake, which Jay’s bestfriend and also Sunoo’s friend, gave him worried glances but didn’t push.
Even Eric sent a message once:
Eric: Hey. You good?
Sunoo never answered.
Because the truth was—
No.
He wasn’t.
____
Jungwon didn’t even bother ignoring him anymore.
Because to ignore someone, you had to acknowledge they existed.
And Jungwon?
Jungwon acted like Sunoo was nothing.
He walked past him in the halls without a glance.
Laughed with his friends like nothing had changed.
Held his girlfriend’s (i think because neither of them confirmed the rumor, but it’s all here we can see it that they are in relationship) hand like he meant it.
And Sunoo…
Sunoo just had to live with it.
Because he did this.
He waited too long.
And now he had to deal with the consequences.
____
It happened on a Wednesday.
Sunoo had just finished his last class when he heard a familiar voice.
Jungwon’s.
He was a few steps ahead, leaning against the lockers with his girlfriend, talking in hushed tones.
Sunoo wasn’t going to stop.
He wasn’t.
But then—
“You’re still thinking about him.”
Sunoo froze.
It was her voice.
Jungwon didn’t answer right away.
But then, quietly, “It doesn’t matter.”
Her voice softened. “Jungwon…”
Jungwon sighed. “He had his chance.”
Sunoo’s breath caught.
His heart pounded in his chest, fingers curling into fists.
That was it.
That was all he needed to hear.
Sunoo turned on his heel and walked away.
Because maybe, just maybe—
It was time for him to move on too.
___
Sunoo took a deep breath and pulled out his phone.
He scrolled through his contacts.
Hesitated for a second.
Then clicked on Eric’s name.
Sunoo: Are you free this weekend?
The reply came instantly.
Eric: For you? Always.
Sunoo swallowed hard.
This was it.
If Jungwon could move on…
Then so could he.
Right?
___
Sunoo wasn’t sure what he was doing.
But he did it anyway.
The weekend came faster than he expected, and soon, he was standing outside a café, waiting for Eric.
When Eric arrived, he flashed his signature smirk. “Missed me?”
Sunoo forced a laugh. “Something like that.”
Eric gave him a once-over. “You look better.”
Sunoo hummed. “Guess I just needed a distraction.”
Eric raised an eyebrow. “A distraction, huh?”
Sunoo shrugged. “You said it yourself. I should figure my shit out before it’s too late.”
Eric watched him for a moment. Then, surprisingly, he sighed. “Sunoo.”
Sunoo blinked.
Eric looked… serious.
“I like you,” he admitted. “And if this was a different situation, I’d try to make you mine for real.”
Sunoo’s breath caught.
Eric leaned in slightly. “But I’m not stupid.” His eyes searched Sunoo’s face. “You’re not over him.”
Sunoo’s chest tightened.
He looked away. “I—”
Eric cut him off with a small, sad smile. “I don’t mind being your distraction, you know.” He reached up, brushing a strand of hair from Sunoo’s face. “But tell me, Sunoo… will that actually help?”
Sunoo swallowed hard.
Because he didn’t know.
And maybe…
Maybe he was just running again.
Unseen Eyes
What Sunoo didn’t know was that they weren’t alone.
Across the street, standing beside his friends, was Jungwon.
He hadn’t meant to see them.
Hadn’t even planned on going out.
But the moment his eyes landed on Sunoo and Eric—
Something inside him snapped.
Because Sunoo wasn’t just hanging out with Eric.
He was smiling.
Laughing.
Letting Eric touch him.
And for the first time since he walked away…
Jungwon realized—
He wasn’t okay with this.
Not at all.
Jungwon’s Messed-Up Logic
Jungwon stormed off without saying a word.
Heeseung and the others called after him, confused.
But he didn’t care.
He didn’t know where he was going.
Didn’t know what he wanted to do.
All he knew was—
Sunoo was moving on.
And he hated it.
Because wasn’t this what he wanted?
Wasn’t this what he asked for?
Then why—
Why did it feel like he was the one getting left behind?
___
By the time Sunoo got home, his mind was a mess.
Eric had left him with more questions than answers.
And now, lying in bed, staring at the ceiling, one thought repeated over and over.
“What do I really want?”
Did he want to move on?
Or…
Did he still want Jungwon?
Sunoo shut his eyes.
Because the answer was obvious.
It had always been.
And if Jungwon still cared—
Even just a little—
Maybe it wasn’t too late.
____
Monday morning came with a new sense of purpose.
Sunoo was done running.
Done avoiding the truth.
He walked into school, searching for Jungwon.
And when he finally saw him—
His heart clenched.
Because Jungwon was already looking at him.
Like he was waiting.
Like he was just as tired of this as Sunoo was.
And this time—
Sunoo wasn’t going to let him walk away.
Not again.
Jungwon stiffened but didn’t walk away.
Didn’t ignore him like before.
Instead, he just stood there—watching.
Waiting.
Sunoo swallowed hard. “We need to talk.”
Jungwon exhaled sharply. “Now you want to talk?”
Sunoo flinched.
But he nodded. “Yeah.”
Jungwon scoffed. “What? Did you and Eric not work out?”
Sunoo’s chest tightened. “This isn’t about Eric.”
Jungwon’s jaw clenched. “Then what is it about, Sunoo? Huh? Because from where I’m standing, you’re the one who didn’t want this. You’re the one who pushed me away.”
Sunoo’s hands trembled. “I know.”
Jungwon let out a bitter laugh. “And now, what? You realized you don’t like seeing me with someone else?”
Sunoo hesitated. “Do you like being with her?”
Jungwon’s expression turned cold. “Does it matter?”
Sunoo’s heart pounded. “It does to me.”
Jungwon stared at him, eyes dark, guarded. “Why?”
Sunoo took a shaky breath. “Because like i said I love you.”
Silence.
Jungwon didn’t move.
Didn’t speak.
Just stared at him, expression unreadable.
Sunoo’s throat burned. “I love you, Jungwon. I loved you then, and I love you now. I was scared. I was stupid. But I swear, I—”
Jungwon cut him off with a low, bitter laugh.
“You’re unbelievable,” he muttered, shaking his head.
Sunoo’s chest ached. “Jungwon—”
Jungwon met his eyes, and Sunoo’s breath caught.
Because there it was again—
Pain.
Anger.
And something else.
Something raw.
“I waited for you,” Jungwon whispered. “For years.”
Sunoo’s fingers curled into fists. “I know.”
“I gave you everything,” Jungwon continued, voice shaking. “I let you break my heart over and over, and I still stayed. Because I thought—” He exhaled sharply. “I thought if I waited long enough, you’d finally see it. See me.”
Sunoo’s vision blurred. “I see you now.”
Jungwon laughed. But it wasn’t happy. It wasn’t warm.
It was tired.
“And what if I don’t want to be seen anymore?”
Sunoo’s breath hitched.
Jungwon stepped closer, his voice quiet, almost broken.
“What if I’m done waiting?”
Sunoo felt something crack inside him.
Because for the first time—
He wasn’t sure if Jungwon still wanted him.
The school bell rang, but neither of them moved.
Students passed by, whispering, watching.
But all Sunoo could see was Jungwon.
Jungwon, who had always been there.
Jungwon, who had loved him long before Sunoo was ready.
Jungwon, who might not love him anymore.
Sunoo swallowed hard.
He could walk away.
He could let Jungwon go and pretend it didn’t hurt.
But that wasn’t what he wanted.
Not anymore.
So he took a deep breath.
And said the only thing that mattered.
“I’m not giving up on you.”
Jungwon’s eyes widened slightly.
Sunoo held his gaze, voice steady despite the fear in his chest.
“I was too scared before, but I’m not anymore. I love you, Jungwon.” His voice cracked. “And I’ll prove it to you.”
Jungwon didn’t reply.
Didn’t move.
Just stood there, staring.
Then, without another word, he turned around—
And walked away.
And just like last time—
Sunoo didn’t chase him.
____
Sunoo had never been good at waiting.
But now, he had no choice.
Days passed.
Jungwon didn’t speak to him.
Didn’t look at him.
Didn’t acknowledge him again just like he was doing this past few weeks.
And is still hurting Sunoo.
More than Sunoo expected.
But he meant what he said.
He wasn’t giving up.
____
“You look like hell.”
Sunoo sighed, slumping against the café table. “ricyy, thanks.”
Eric smirked, sipping his iced coffee. “I mean, I did try to warn you.”
Sunoo groaned, rubbing his face. “Jungwon hates me.”
Eric raised an eyebrow. “Does he, though?”
Sunoo frowned. “What do you mean?”
Eric leaned forward. “If he really hated you, he’d be fine right now. He wouldn’t be avoiding you—he’d be living his best life, making sure you see how little you matter to him.”
Sunoo bit his lip. “But he is avoiding me.”
Eric shook his head. “No, he’s running from you. Big difference.”
Sunoo stared at his drink, his stomach twisting.
Eric sighed. “Look, if you want my opinion—”
“You always give your opinion.”
Eric grinned. “And you love me for it.”
Sunoo rolled his eyes but stayed silent.
Eric’s voice softened. “He’s hurt, Sunoo. And maybe for the first time, he’s making you wait instead.”
Sunoo’s chest tightened.
Because Eric was right.
And Sunoo deserved it.
____
Jungwon hated this.
Hated how his heart still clenched every time he saw Sunoo.
Hated how his hands twitched to reach out.
Hated how much he still loved him.
Because Sunoo finally said the words Jungwon had been waiting for.
But it didn’t feel good.
It felt… exhausting.
Like a cruel joke.
Because how was he supposed to trust this?
How was he supposed to believe that Sunoo wouldn’t run again?
Jungwon exhaled, gripping his phone.
There were unread messages from Sunoo.
Nothing dramatic.
No begging.
Just simple things.
Sunoo: Did you eat?
Sunoo: It’s raining. Don’t forget your umbrella.
Sunoo: I meant what I said, by the way.
Jungwon clenched his jaw.
Because despite everything—
His fingers twitched to reply.
___
It took a week.
Seven whole days of silence again.
Then—
One night, as Sunoo was leaving campus, he found Jungwon leaning against the gate.
Waiting.
Sunoo’s heart nearly stopped.
Jungwon looked at him for a long moment.
Then, finally, he spoke.
“Prove it.”
Sunoo’s breath caught. “What?”
Jungwon’s gaze was steady. “You said you wouldn’t give up on me.”
Sunoo nodded, his throat tight. “I won’t.”
Jungwon tilted his head. “Then prove it.”
Sunoo swallowed. “How?”
Jungwon didn’t smile. Didn’t tease.
Instead, he said—
“Stay.”
And Sunoo—
Sunoo nodded.
Because he wasn’t running anymore.
He was staying.
For Jungwon.
For them.
For love.
_____
Staying was easy to say.
But proving it?
That was harder.
Sunoo didn’t know where to start.
Jungwon didn’t give him a list of things to do.
Didn’t set any conditions.
He just watched.
Waited.
Testing if Sunoo would stay even when it got hard.
And Sunoo?
Sunoo was determined not to fail.
Small Steps
At first, nothing changed.
Jungwon didn’t suddenly start talking to him again.
Didn’t magically forgive him overnight.
But he also didn’t push him away.
So Sunoo started small.
Sitting near Jungwon at lunch, even if they didn’t talk.
Walking home the same way, even if Jungwon pretended not to notice.
Sending good morning and good night texts, even if Jungwon never replied.
It wasn’t much.
But it was something.
And that was enough for now.
One evening, after a long day of classes, Sunoo found himself outside Jungwon’s house.
He hadn’t planned to come.
But his feet brought him here anyway.
He hesitated before knocking.
A minute passed.
Then the door swung open.
Jungwon stood there, looking surprised. “What are you doing here?”
Sunoo swallowed. “I—” He hesitated, suddenly unsure.
Maybe this was too much.
Maybe Jungwon would shut the door in his face.
But instead—
Jungwon sighed and stepped aside. “Come in.”
Sunoo’s breath caught.
But he didn’t hesitate.
He stepped inside.
Because this was progress.
They sat on Jungwon’s bed, neither speaking at first.
Then, finally—
Jungwon broke the silence.
“You’re stubborn.”
Sunoo glanced at him. “You’re just realizing that now?”
Jungwon huffed a quiet laugh.
It was small. Barely there.
But it was real.
Sunoo smiled. “I meant it, you know.”
Jungwon’s expression softened. “I know.”
Sunoo took a deep breath. “Do you believe me?”
Jungwon looked at him for a long moment.
Then, quietly—
“I want to.”
Sunoo’s heart clenched.
Because that was enough for now.
And he’d spend every day proving it.
____
Sunoo didn’t expect things to go back to normal right away.
But that night at Jungwon’s house—
The way they sat together in comfortable silence—
It felt like a step forward.
It felt like them.
And Sunoo had missed that.
More than anything.
The Morning After
Sunoo woke up to the smell of coffee.
For a second, he forgot where he was.
Then he turned and saw Jungwon sitting on the floor, scrolling through his phone.
Sunoo rubbed his eyes. “You didn’t wake me up?”
Jungwon didn’t look at him. “You looked tired.”
Sunoo blinked.
That… sounded almost caring.
His chest warmed.
Stretching, he mumbled, “I’m always tired.”
Jungwon finally glanced at him, lips twitching. “Then sleep more.”
Sunoo grinned, sitting up. “Are you worried about me, Jungwon-ah?”
Jungwon scoffed, standing up. “Don’t push your luck.”
But his ears were pink.
And Sunoo definitely saw it.
School Whispers
Word spread fast.
By lunchtime, people were already whispering.
“Did you hear? Sunoo stayed at Jungwon’s house.”
“Wait, aren’t they fighting?”
“Are they back together?”
“They aren’t even together, they are just best friends”
“But we heard a rumor that they like each others”
Sunoo sighed, poking at his food. “People need new hobbies.”
Jay smirked. “Well, you did stay over. Can’t blame them for talking.”
Jake nudged Sunoo. “So? What did happen?”
Sunoo shrugged. “Nothing. We talked a little. That’s it.”
Jay raised an eyebrow. “And?”
Sunoo hesitated.
Then, softly—
“He said he wants to believe me.”
Jay’s expression shifted. “That’s… good, right?”
Sunoo nodded. “Yeah.”
But deep down—
He knew Jungwon still hadn’t fully let him in.
And that was the part that scared him.
After lunch Sunoo go to his classroom, and he didn’t expect what he saw.
Jungwon wasn’t ignoring him anymore.
But he also wasn’t going out of his way to talk to him.
It was like he was watching.
Testing if Sunoo would stay even when things were quiet.
And Sunoo did.
He sat next to Jungwon in class.
Waited for him after school.
Didn’t demand anything.
Didn’t rush him.
And slowly—
Jungwon’s walls began to crack.
___
A few days later, they found themselves in the library together.
Jungwon was studying.
Sunoo was trying to study.
But he was too busy stealing glances at Jungwon.
Then, suddenly—
Jungwon caught him.
Sunoo froze, eyes wide.
Jungwon narrowed his eyes. “What?”
Sunoo hesitated.
Then—
“You’re just really cute.”
Jungwon blinked.
Then, to Sunoo’s shock—
He smiled.
A real, genuine, Jungwon smile, even showing his deep dimples.
And Sunoo’s heart stuttered.
Because for the first time in a long time—
It felt like maybe, just maybe—
They were getting somewhere.
But Jungwon’s smile didn’t even last long.
But Sunoo saw it.
Felt it.
And now, it was all he could think about.
Jungwon wasn’t fully his again—
But that smile?
That was a crack in the walls.
And Sunoo was going to break through.
____
Jungwon hated how aware he was of Sunoo.
The way his tiny waist curved under oversized sweaters.
The way his lips shined like he had just licked them.
The way his laughter still made Jungwon’s stomach tighten—
Even when he tried to ignore it.
Because Jungwon was trying to ignore it.
Trying to stay mad.
Trying to remember that Sunoo had hurt him.
But it was hard.
Especially when Sunoo looked at him like that.
Like he belonged to him.
Like he had never left.
And the worst part?
Jungwon didn’t know if he wanted to fight it anymore.
Unexpected Proximity
It happened in the gym.
Jungwon was finishing his workout when Sunoo appeared, arms crossed.
“Why didn’t you tell me you were here?” Sunoo pouted.
Jungwon wiped sweat from his neck. “Didn’t think you’d care.”
Sunoo rolled his eyes. “I always care.”
Jungwon raised an eyebrow. “Since when?”
Sunoo huffed. “Since forever, idiot.”
Jungwon bit his lip, trying to suppress a smirk.
Then—
“I thought you didn’t like gyms,” Jungwon said, tilting his head.
Sunoo blinked. “I don’t.”
Jungwon smirked. “Then why are you here?”
Sunoo hesitated.
And in that second—
Jungwon grabbed Sunoo’s waist.
Just to mess with him.
To see his reaction.
And Sunoo—
Sunoo froze.
Jungwon’s hands fit perfectly around his tiny waist.
It was almost unfair.
And for a second—
Neither of them moved.
Sunoo’s lips parted slightly, shining under the fluorescent lights.
Jungwon’s grip tightened just a little.
Then—
Sunoo shoved him.
“I— You— Stop touching me!” Sunoo’s voice was higher than usual.
Jungwon just grinned, wiping his hands on his shorts.
“Why?”
Sunoo’s face was red.
Jungwon leaned in, smirking. “You didn’t seem to mind.”
Sunoo let out a strangled noise.
Then—
He ran.
Jungwon chuckled, watching him go.
Because now?
Now it was Sunoo who was flustered.
And Jungwon liked that.
Maybe too much.
____
Sunoo was frustrated.
Not just because of the gym incident.
Not just because Jungwon had touched his waist like it was his to hold.
But because—
Jungwon was still hanging around that girl.
The one everyone whispered about.
The one people claimed Jungwon had invited to his house and the rumor that it’s Jungwon’s lover, also the one he kissed, thats what he heard about the rumor.
And no matter how much Sunoo tried to act like it didn’t bother him—
But It did.
They are now walking home together.
A rare moment of peace.
Jungwon had his hands in his pockets, eyes focused ahead.
Sunoo, on the other hand, couldn’t stop thinking.
Then, before he could stop himself—
“You’ve been spending a lot of time with her.”
Jungwon blinked. “Who?”
Sunoo clenched his jaw. “The girl.”
Jungwon glanced at him, amused. “Which one?”
Sunoo stopped walking.
Jungwon took two more steps before noticing.
Turning back, he raised an eyebrow. “What?”
Sunoo exhaled sharply. “Winter.”
Jungwon’s smirk faded.
Sunoo crossed his arms. “Are you dating her?”
Jungwon didn’t answer immediately.
Instead, he studied Sunoo.
And Sunoo hated the way Jungwon’s gaze felt—
Like he was figuring something out.
Finally, Jungwon tilted his head. “Why do you care?”
Sunoo’s stomach twisted.
“I don’t.”
Jungwon smirked. “Liar.”
Sunoo scowled. “I just— I just thought we were fixing things. And now you’re—” He waved a hand. “You’re suddenly close to her.”
Jungwon hummed. “So?”
“So?” Sunoo’s voice rose. “What do you mean so?”
Jungwon took a step closer.
Sunoo didn’t back away.
“You don’t get to be jealous, Sunoo.”
Sunoo’s breath hitched. “I’m not.”
Jungwon scoffed. “Then why are you so mad?”
Sunoo clenched his fists. “Because you—” He stopped himself.
Because you’re supposed to be mine.
Because you’re supposed to be waiting for me.
But he couldn’t say that.
So instead—
He turned away. “Forget it.”
Jungwon let out a sharp exhale. “She’s my cousin.”
Sunoo froze.
Slowly, he turned back. “…What?”
Jungwon rolled his eyes. “The girl everyone’s talking about? She’s my cousin.”
Sunoo stared at him, stunned. “But— But people said—”
Jungwon smirked. “People say a lot of things.”
Sunoo rolled his eyes “Then why did you kiss her?”
“I was really surprised when you ask that weeks ago, like people this day spreading a rumor and doesn’t even align, why would i even kiss my cousin that’s disgusting”
Jungwon then looked at Sunoo smirking at his reaction.
Sunoo opened his mouth.
Then closed it.
Then—
“Wait. You knew I’d assume the worst, didn’t you?”
Jungwon grinned.
Sunoo gasped, pointing an accusing finger. “You let me suffer on purpose!”
Jungwon shrugged. “Maybe.”
Sunoo wanted to be mad.
But the relief washing over him was too strong.
Jungwon wasn’t dating her.
Jungwon wasn’t replacing him.
And that—
That was enough for now.
They continued walking.
This time, the silence was different.
Lighter.
Softer.
Then, suddenly—
Jungwon spoke.
“You really don’t want me to move on, huh?”
Sunoo’s breath caught.
He turned to look at Jungwon—
Only to find Jungwon already watching him.
Something unreadable in his eyes.
Sunoo swallowed.
He could lie.
Could brush it off.
Could pretend it didn’t matter.
But instead—
He whispered, “No.”
Jungwon’s lips parted slightly.
Sunoo felt his heart race.
Felt the world slow.
Then—
Jungwon smiled.
And this time—
It wasn’t teasing.
It wasn’t smug.
It was real.
And Sunoo felt like he could finally breathe.
____
Sunoo had already confessed.
And Jungwon…
Jungwon hadn’t said it back.
Even though they are now fixing their relationship(?)
He didn’t also rejected him either—
But that almost made it worse.
Because now, Sunoo was stuck in a never-ending cycle of waiting.
Waiting for Jungwon to forgive him.
Waiting for Jungwon to want him back.
Waiting for the moment when Jungwon would finally say—
“I love you, too.”
Jungwon wasn’t cold to him anymore.
He wasn’t ignoring him.
But he wasn’t his either.
And Sunoo felt it every time Jungwon walked ahead without waiting.
Every time Jungwon smirked at him instead of smiling.
Every time Jungwon looked at him like he was testing how far Sunoo was willing to go.
And Sunoo—
Sunoo was willing to go as far as it took.
Because he meant it.
He loved Jungwon.
And now, for the first time, Jungwon had the upper hand.
Sunoo started clinging to Jungwon more.
Not in an annoying way—
(Okay, maybe a little annoying.)
But he was desperate to pull Jungwon closer again.
Like today, when Jungwon was leaving for his workout.
“Can I come?” Sunoo asked, trailing behind him.
Jungwon didn’t stop walking. “Since when do you work out?”
Sunoo huffed. “Since now.”
Jungwon glanced at him, amused. “You’ll just distract me.”
Sunoo pouted. “No, I won’t.”
Jungwon smirked. “You’re literally distracting me right now.”
Sunoo gasped dramatically. “You think I’m distracting?”
Jungwon rolled his eyes. “Not like that.”
But his ears were pink.
And Sunoo definitely saw it.
That was a win.
Sunoo grinned. “You don’t mind me coming, though, right?”
Jungwon sighed. “Fine. But don’t complain when you can’t keep up.”
Sunoo’s smile widened.
Another win.
____
Sunoo thought things were getting better.
Until—
He saw Jungwon laughing with her again.
His cousin, yes.
But still.
The way Jungwon leaned in, the way his eyes crinkled when he smiled—
Sunoo hated it.
Because when was the last time Jungwon looked at him like that?
His stomach churned.
And before he could stop himself, he was grabbing Jungwon’s wrist.
Jungwon blinked at him in surprise. “What?”
Sunoo’s grip tightened. “Come with me.”
Jungwon frowned. “I was talking.”
“I don’t care,” Sunoo said, voice sharper than intended.
Jungwon’s expression darkened. “Excuse me?”
Sunoo exhaled, loosening his grip. “Please.”
Jungwon studied him.
Then, with a sigh, he turned to his cousin. “I’ll text you later.”
She nodded, throwing Sunoo a knowing look before walking away.
Sunoo ignored it.
Instead, he pulled Jungwon behind the school building—
Where no one else was.
Where it was just them.
Jungwon crossed his arms. “What’s your problem?”
Sunoo’s heart pounded. “I hate it.”
Jungwon blinked. “Hate what?”
Sunoo looked away. “Seeing you with someone else.”
Jungwon was silent.
Then—
“You’re jealous?”
Sunoo’s head snapped up. “Of course I’m jealous!”
Jungwon looked amused. “You never cared before.”
Sunoo’s voice softened. “I care now, and it’s different now we both know that i love you.”
Jungwon inhaled deeply, eyes searching Sunoo’s face.
“…You’re serious about this, huh?”
Sunoo nodded. “I’ve never been more serious.”
Jungwon looked away, clenching his jaw.
And for the first time—
Sunoo saw it.
Saw the hesitation.
Saw the wall Jungwon was still keeping up.
And he knew—
This wasn’t over.
Not yet.
But Sunoo was not giving up.
Not this time.
And Jungwon wanted to believe Sunoo.
Wanted to believe that Sunoo wasn’t just saying things to fix what was broken.
That this wasn’t just guilt.
That this was love.
But after everything?
After all the waiting, the heartbreak, the late nights wondering if Sunoo would ever look at him the way he wanted him to—
How was he supposed to just give in?
How was he supposed to trust it?
But then—
Sunoo grabbed his wrist again.
Firm. Desperate.
And Jungwon realized—
Sunoo wasn’t letting him go this time.
___
Sunoo didn’t know how to put it into words.
Didn’t know how to make Jungwon see that this was real.
Didn’t know how to make Jungwon understand that this wasn’t just him regretting his mistakes—
That this was love.
So he did the only thing that made sense.
He stepped forward—
Grabbed Jungwon’s collar—
And kissed him.
____
The world stopped.
Sunoo’s lips were soft.
Warm.
Shining, just like always—
But this time, they were pressed against his.
Jungwon’s brain short-circuited.
Because this was Sunoo.
Sunoo, who had once told him not to confess.
Sunoo, who had run away when Jungwon had loved him too much.
Sunoo, who was now standing in front of him, kissing him like he was the one who couldn’t breathe without him.
Jungwon should push him away.
Should make him earn this.
Should punish him for all the nights he spent wondering if this moment would ever come.
But instead—
Jungwon grabbed his waist.
Pulled him in.
Took control of the kiss like he was starving for it.
Because he was.
God, he was.
And when Sunoo let out a soft, breathy moan against his lips—
Jungwon lost it.
His Sunoo clung to him, tiny waist fitting perfectly against Jungwon’s hands.
His fingers tangled in Jungwon’s hair, needing him closer.
Jungwon didn’t hold back.
Didn’t care about anything else.
Just his Sunoo.
Just this.
Just finally having what he had wanted for so, so long.
And when they finally pulled away, breathless, foreheads pressed together—
Jungwon smirked.
“Took you long enough.”
Sunoo pouted, lips swollen and shiny. “Shut up.”
Jungwon chuckled, running his thumb across Sunoo’s lower lip.
“You’re mine now,” Jungwon murmured.
Sunoo’s breath hitched.
Then—
A small, shy smile.
“I always was.”
Jungwon kissed him again.
Because finally—
Finally—
Sunoo was telling the truth.
Jungwon had spent years waiting for this.
For Sunoo to see him.
To stop running.
To love him back.
And now, with Sunoo wrapped in his arms, lips still tingling from their kiss—
Jungwon realized something.
Sunoo had never been the one with the choice.
Because no matter how long it took—
No matter how much it hurt—
Jungwon was always going to choose him.
After their kiss, things didn’t magically fix themselves overnight.
Sunoo still had the tendency to overthink.
Jungwon still had lingering scars from the past.
But this time—
They faced it together.
Jungwon no longer had to wonder if Sunoo would leave.
And Sunoo—
Sunoo no longer had to wonder if Jungwon would wait.
Because neither of them were running anymore.
Not from their feelings.
Not from each other.
Not from the love that had always been there.
A week later, they were lying on Jungwon’s bed.
Sunoo was curled into his side, fingers lazily tracing over Jungwon’s abs.
(Jungwon would never admit how smug that made him feel.)
The room was quiet.
Peaceful.
And then, Sunoo whispered—
“I love you.”
Jungwon stilled.
Not because he hadn’t already known.
Not because he hadn’t already felt it.
But because this time—
Sunoo wasn’t saying it to convince him.
Wasn’t saying it because he was scared of losing him.
Wasn’t saying it because he had to.
He was saying it because he meant it.
Jungwon exhaled, a slow smile forming.
“You better.”
Sunoo rolled his eyes. “Just say it back.”
Jungwon chuckled, pulling Sunoo on top of him.
Sunoo yelped, hands landing on Jungwon’s chest.
Jungwon grinned up at him, eyes filled with something softer than before.
Something certain.
“I love you more, baby”
Sunoo’s face turned pink.
Jungwon kissed him before he could hide it.
Because this—
This was the only ending they were ever meant to have.
And this time—
Neither of them were letting go.