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Chapter Text

“Min!!!” Ryeowook panicked as soon as the door to the entertainment company’s ceo’s door closed and both Ryeowook and his manager/BEST friend Sungmin were alone in the halls, “Ayoko! Hindi ko kaya!” Ryeowook intensely shook his head as he abused the elevator’s button, desperate to leave the floor and this building.

“Ryeok, wala naman tayong choice, wala KANG choice,” Sungmin reminded him, “Ano ba, tigilan mo nga pagpindot diyan!” Sinaway siya ni Sungmin. Napatingin lang si Ryeowook sa maliit na screen na pinapakita kung paakyat o pababa ang elevator. Narinig ang buntong-hininga ni Ryeowook, sabay ang pagsandal nito sa pader na malapit.

“Beh! Kahit anong offer at role pa ‘yan! Kahit pakainin pa ako ng mga insekto, mag-scuba diving sa Mariana Trench, o kaya mag-skydiving sa taas ng butas ng Mt. Fuji gagawin ko… Huwag lang ‘yung offer na ‘yan!” Ryeowook said again, “A-YO-KO.” 

“Again, do you have a choice? None,” Sungmin retorted, “Wala namang masama doon? For all we know, pang-akit lang ng mga brands at works ‘yung ‘relationship’ niyo. Isipin mo na lang na fanservice, just like the old times…” Sungmin emphasized the last words. 

Ryeowook just rolled his eyes. Finally, the elevator doors opened, and the two went inside. Ryeowook just finished a brand shoot earlier, he’s almost done for the day, nang bigla siya pinatawag to give him the news na may bagong offer sa kanya. 

“Ryeowook, I think this offer will be new to you, but at the same time it’s with an old friend of yours…” Ryeowook’s ears perked up as soon as he heard those words. He looked at Sungmin to check if his manager/best friend knew about it, but he was also clueless.

“What is it po? And with whom?” Tanong ni Ryeowook.

“Okay, a little background, alam mo naman na our company and An10na Co. are merging soon, actually, they’re acquiring us to be a sub-label.  We're thinking of kind of soft-launching it to the public by…” The CEO paused, “Pairing you, and your former on-screen partner Kyuhyun again, however, not in a movie or series… They want you to be in a fake relationship with Kyuhyun, na ire-reveal sa press and media outlets as soon as possible.

“Po?!” Nabigla si Sungmin at ang CEO sa lakas ng boses ni Ryeowook, “Sorry ho, tama po ba ang narinig ko? Gusto niyo bang maging KAMI in public?” 

“Yes. If you haven't heard, Kyuhyun’s career is in jeopardy because of the recent scandal that he was involved in…” The CEO explained, “In order to save his image and career, their P.R. suggested na palabasin na may relationship si Kyuhyun to counter the allegations and scandal.”

“Ano bang ginawa niya? I haven't heard of the issue.” Ryeowook asked.

“The running president’s only son is having an affair with him. Apparently, some caught them in a yacht in Subic, and it made headlines. Maraming beses na sila nakikita magkasama at na-iissue, at first they denied it na magkaibigan lang sila, but there was a picture of them making out on that yacht at night. Unfortunately for Kyuhyun, siya ang kita sa picture, while nakatalikod naman ‘yung anak.” Walang nasabi si Ryeowook at Sungmin sa narinig nila. “There will be a meeting with both parties soon to discuss this. Don't worry.”

“Pero… bakit po ako?” Tanong ni Ryeowook, “What made Kyuhyun’s side think na I’m the best choice to save his ass?” Bahagyang sinuway ni Sungmin si Ryeowook dahil sa pananalita nito.

“Because it looked like you sa malayo. Here,” Pinakita ng CEO kay Ryeowook ang iPad niya na may picture… There, it revealed Kyuhyun, who was obviously making out with someone; however, the person had his back to the camera.

“Ka-likod mo nga…” Bulong ni Sungmin, sabay zoom sa picture, “Ganito rin kulay ng buhok mo before your shoot last month…” 

“No way!” Sagot ni Ryeowook, “Sorry po, pero parang hindi ko po kaya ito…”

“Ryeowook, please think this through. It’s just a fake relationship, pang-front lang. If you have someone right now, okay lang. We can include him in the NDA to protect you and your relationship,” The CEO advised Ryeowook, “Please pag-isipan mo nang mabuti. This is a multi-million-dollar deal. Tiba-tiba tayo dito, you just have to pretend you’re in a relationship with him, and sa side nila, sila na bahala magpabango sa pangalan ni Kyuhyun. Besides, Kyuhyun’s about to have a tour in a few months. You don’t have to be together all the time. He just needs the status na in a relationship siya. Don’t worry, we’ll try to work on na hindi kayo ma-interview and refrain from talking about the scandal.”

“Pumayag ka na, hindi naman din pala kayo magkikita palagi eh. May upcoming tour naman pala ‘yung tao.” Sungmin tried to persuade Ryeowook as the two went inside the van. 

“Min, alam mo naman kung bakit ayoko ‘di ba? Alam mo kung saan ako nanggagaling…” Ryeowook sighed, he initially thought na this day would be a relaxing day for him dahil isa lang trabaho niya. He should've known.

“Hay, bakit na-fall kasi?” Tanong ni Sungmin, pero parang mas sinasabi niya ito sa kaibigan niya, “Alam mo namang trabaho lang, alam mo namang mere loveteam lang ‘yon, pero sinong nahulog?”

“Whatever.” Sagot ni Ryeowook, “Forbidden topic ‘yan ‘di ba? Mag-drive ka na lang diyan para maka-uwi na ako.” Ryeowook closed the blinds on the side of the mirror niya and put on his headphones, he’ll just try to nap sa biyahe instead na makipag-usap kay Sungmin.

Habang nakapikit, pilit na paulit-ulit na naririnig ni Ryeowook ang sinasabi niya kahit pa may tumutugtog na kanta. Alam mo namang mere loveteam lang,

pero sinong nahulog?

Si Ryeowook. Si Ryeowook na nahulog sa ka-loveteam niya from 4 years ago. 

Trabaho lang kasi dapat, ganun naman palagi. He had worked and been paired with many actors before, but with that person, it was different. Their loveteam made it big din, from being a side couple/pairing, nabigyan sila ng own spin-off series and it became huge, very huge. Ang daming brand ambassadorship, deals, shoots, advertisement offers ang nabigay sakanila. They were once considered THE loveteam. There were billboards, magazine covers, and posters of them everywhere. Even if the last time they worked together was 4 years ago, minsan nakakakita pa rin siya ng mga bahid ng nakaraan kahit na matagal na. Hell, there are even edits of them on social media with a sad song… because now, they are labeled as a loveteam or ship na lumubog… Ika nga ng mga netizens, na-Titanic.

Ryeowook tried so hard to sleep, but the memories from before are just flashing back — those times where they would spend time together in-between shooting, or whenever they’ll hang out all of a sudden kasi trip lang ng isa’t isa. Ryeowook doesn't want to admit it, but he sure does miss the person. Besides, they were friends naman habang loveteam sila. Best of friends pa nga eh kaso, some things must come to an end. Hindi naman maiiwasan eh, eventually, the loveteam ended, and sadly, along the way, the friendship between the two also ended when one of them realized that it’s becoming deeper, and that person knew better, knew better to expect na there’s something more. He knows na wala, he’s accepted that fact but for him to help himself, he needs to sacrifice. The friendship was sacrificed para hindi na mas lalong umasa ‘yung isa. 

Ryeowook sacrificed his friendship with Kyuhyun for him to put a stop to his one-sided feelings with Kyuhyun.

Ming

Ryeok

Wala nang atrasan, okay? 

May meeting na mamaya with An10na Co

WALANG. AATRAS.

pakita mo kung sino ka

wala naman na, diba?

BALEEW!

Oo walang aatras. Walang duwag

sa pamilya na ‘to!!!

BASTOS!!!

FORBIDDEN TOPIC!!! OK?!?!

Whatever. Sunduin kita in an hour.

Grocery lang ako ta’s rekta na jan

Walang malelate.

Pag sinabi kong baba, dapat bababa

👍

Ryeowook’s management cleared his schedule for the day until tomorrow because of this meeting. He wanted to come there na kahit anong suot lang, but it was also a meeting with someone he hadn't seen for a while now. He put on nice clothes and styled himself, he also put on some light make-up to accompany the fit. 

He had just finished putting on his shoes when he received a text message from Sungmin na nasa baba na raw ito. Dali itong bumaba at pinuntahan si Sungmin.

“Aba! Ang gara ng suot!” Sungmin exclaimed as he drove off, “Hindi ka naman ready ah?”

“Ang OA?” Ryeowook replied, “Ganito naman lagi suot ko?”

“Whatever you say!” Tawa ni Sungmin, “So ano? Ready ka na bang makaharap siya?”

“Again, ang OA lang ha?” Sagot ni Ryeowook, “Meeting lang naman?”

“Oo, meeting with someone na bigla mo nalang hindi kinausap?” Bira ni Sungmin, Ryeowook almost gasped sa sinabi ng kaibigan niya.

“Foul?!” Natatawang sabi ni Ryeowook, “F.Y.I. Sino ba ang nagsabing pagod na sa mga loveteam, ganaps, and wants to focus on his solo career?”

“Ganon?!” Sagot ni Sungmin, “May hinanakit pala sa isa’t isa ‘yung mga mag-me-meeting mamaya ah… Interesting!”

“Whatever, dude!” Ryeowook just rolled his eyes and used his phone. 

The traffic wasn't so bad on the way to the company ng An10na Co. As he was getting out of his van, he saw someone getting out of the van a few cars away from where they had parked.

“Isn’t that…”

Hindi nakasagot si Ryeowook, para bang napipi siya nung nakita niya kung sino ‘yon. It has been years since they last saw, talked, and contacted each other, so seeing him in the flesh again after all those years feels kinda… strange to Ryeowook. 

“Mas lalo siyang gumwapo ‘no?” Nagsalita sa tabi niya si Sungmin, “Oh, check ko lang, baka tumulo na ang laway mo diyan…”

“Tanga! Tara na nga!” Nauna na naglakad si Ryeowook, he wore his shades and mask just in case there was a paparazzi inside the parking lot. He then walked towards the ramp, papunta sa entrance papasok ng building. Dere-deretso lang ang paglakad ni Ryeowook while Sungmin walked behind, no one talked hanggang sa makarating sila sa elevator. Thankfully, when he pressed the button, it opened right away. Both he and Sungmin went on the lift. As the elevator doors closed, he caught a glimpse of someone entering. It was too late when Sungmin pressed the open doors button.

“Sayang…” Bulong ni Sungmin.

“Anong ‘Sayang’?” Tanong nito.

“Wala, wala…” Sagot nung isa, “Ay, alam mo ba?”

“Hindi pa.”

“Tinitignan ka niya kanina.” Sungmin continued, “He was actually staring…”

“Ano'ng gusto mong gawin ko?” Ryeowook asked, “Ang issue mo! Ang tagal na noon! Naka-move on na ako’t lahat, ikaw hindi pa!”

“Talaga lang ha?” Lalo lang siya inasar ni Sungmin

“Talaga!”

The elevators opened, and someone from the An10na Co staff led them to kung saan pupunta. As they went inside, the CEO of Ryeowook’s company, the managing director, and their PR strategist were already there. With them, nandon din ang head ng kabilang management and their PR team. As they greeted each other, someone walked in, completing the attendance for this meeting. 

“Hi, am I late?” The new person asked, “Good afternoon po.” He greeted everyone, bowed to everyone in the room, and sat in front of Ryeowook. Ryeowook subtly glanced at the man seated in front of him, 

“So, how have you been, Ryeowook?” The head asks, “Ang tagal na simula nung huli tayo nagkita ah, I believe wrap up party ata ‘yon ng series? Kumusta?”

“Hala, ganon na pa ba katagal?” He asked, “I’m doing fine po, kayo po? Kumusta po kayong lahat?” He politely replied and then looked at everyone when he said the last words.

“Okay lang din! Heto, tumatanda na… Pero uy, it’s so nice to see you again. Lately, sa mga advertisement at programs na lang kita nakikita eh, you’re a big star now!” The head praised Ryeowook, bigla naman nahiya si Ryeowook sa compliments, he knew this person, he’s known to be a father-figure sa mga artists niya. He heard nothing but good things about the head of the company of Kyuhyun.

“Maraming salamat po…” He shyly responds, as he said those words, he could feel someone staring right at him, or like more on watching him and his moves.

“Anyway, I’ll cut to the chase since I don’t want to waste your time, kasi alam kong busy ka, but first let me thank each and every one for their time. Maraming salamat at pinaunlakan niyo kami sa meeting na ito…” The head stood up and bowed to the people in front, “I’m really thankful you’re all here today. Anyway, Sohee, the floor is yours, you can start.”

The person just smiled at the head of the company and spoke, explaining what the meeting was about. She discussed all the details and whatnots, even the N.D.A. that both parties are to sign before the meeting ends.

As Ryeowook reads the papers just like everyone else, he couldn't help but ask, “I’m sorry to ask this question, but what is your relationship with this person in the photo?” He asked, looking straight at the person in front of him. He couldn't help but ask kasi kahit na payag na siya sa offer, a big part of Ryeowook is still against all of this. 

The man in front slowly raised their head and met Ryeowook’s eyes. They looked at each other for a moment before the person answered him.

“Wala.” Kyuhyun simply replied.

“Huh?” Kunot noo’ng tanong ni Ryeowook, “What do you mean ‘wala’?”

“Walang relationship. We were hanging out, we were drunk, and then that happened.” He explained, “Nothing is going on between us.” Ryeowook couldn't hide the face he made, so he just asked another question.

“So, is this really the president’s son?” He asks Kyuhyun again, “Isn’t he engaged? I don’t know, ha? Kasi kung ako, mag-iingat ako lalo na that person’s related to someone in power and position, at ako na celebrity. I wouldn't just make out with anyone anywhere, lalo na considering both of us are big names here.” Ryeowook said.

“Ryeok…” Bulong ni Sungmin, napatingin si Ryeowook kay Sungmin, his face was asking, ‘What? Am I wrong?’

“In short, dapat mag-ingat. Alam naman natin na walang sinasanto mga paparazzi, kahit nasa gitna pa kayo ng dagat, may paraan at paraan sila,” He said, he then looked at Kyuhyun again, “You know this already. Ikaw pa nga ang nagsabi sa akin niyan noon, ‘di ba? Sana nag-iingat ka rin.”

Walang nasabi pabalik si Kyuhyun sa mga salitang binitawan ni Ryeowook, totoo naman kasi lahat ng mga sinabi nito. Kyuhyun was indeed not careful, considering na matagal na siya sa industry na ito.

“That was the last time,” Kyuhyun spoke, “Iyan na ‘yung huling beses na nagkita kami, and that was months ago. Hindi na naulit.”

“Eh kasi may nakahuli,” Ryeowook rebuts, “If hindi naman nahuli, I doubt na matitigil ‘yang rendezvous niyo nung anak ng presidente.” Ryeowook spat, his words like venom. The CEO lightly called his name to make him stop or even control his mouth. Sungmin was also holding his arm na nakapatong sa table. That’s the thing with Ryeowook, his words are so sharp, and most of the time, walang preno ang bibig niya. 

He finally realized what had just happened and looked around the room, almost everyone was looking at him — Kyuhyun’s PR strategist was looking down, alam naman kasi na totoong hindi nga nag-ingat artist nila. Their head was just smiling apologetically towards Ryeowook. He internally panicked sa mini crash out niya, he suddenly felt nervous and scared sa nangyari.

“I-I’m sorry po… Sorry.” He apologized, he then looked at Kyuhyun, who was just looking at him, he couldn't read his face, but one thing's for sure, he knows that each and every word Ryeowook has spat was correct.

“No, don’t be sorry. It’s actually us that should be apologizing to you…” The head told Ryeowook, “It’s fine, Ryeowook.”

“I’m sorry po ulit,” He told everyone, “I’ll help po. To the best of my ability. Hindi naman na po siguro tayo mahihirapan na patunayan na kami. We can just say na matagal nang kami but decided to keep our relationship exclusive and private, right?” Both PR strategists from the two companies agreed.

“We can also just stage that night and take some pictures para ma-prove na ako ang kasama ni Kyuhyun. You can let us know what we need to do. I’m up for it.” Ryeowook assured everyone, Kyuhyun was still observing him, binigyan ni Ryeowook nang tipid na ngiti si Kyuhyun as an assurance na tutulong siya talaga.

“That’s a nice suggestion, Ryeowook, but how will we address the almost 4 years na walang ganap between the two of you? Apat na taon din kayo nakitang hindi magkasama sa TV, sa events, and even in public sightings. Don’t get me wrong, what you said is a nice suggestion, but baka lang makahanap sila ng butas.” The head told Ryeowook, looking at the two artists.

“That’s easy,” Ryeowook spoke, napatingin ulit lahat sa kanya, while Ryeowook? He looked straight at Kyuhyun bago bitawan ang mga salitang,

“We’ll say we wanted to focus on our solo careers and growth as individuals. In short, ayaw naming ma-cage sa loveteams lang.”

Ryeowook responds, using Kyuhyun's exact words that came out of his mouth 4 years ago.

Ryeowook woke up in panic thinking he missed a schedule, but later on realized that he has a free weekend this week due to the announcement they will be posting in a couple of hours. 

Mamayang hapon ilalabas sa press at media outlets ang statement from Kyuhyun’s side. Up until this moment, Ryeowook still isn't wholeheartedly okay with this move, but wala na siyang magagawa. He had already signed and stamped the contract and NDA, kumbaga eh nakakontrata na siya na sila ni Kyuhyun for an indefinite time period sa mata ng publiko. Does he regret it? Probably, but iniisip na lang niya he’s doing a good deed and helping someone, hindi naman niya siguro ikamamatay na magpanggap, ‘di ba? That’s literally his livelihood — to act.

He lazily made his way out of his bed after minutes of tossing and turning and screaming on his pillow. He still couldn't believe that after 4 years, magkakatrabaho na naman sila ni Kyuhyun, ganitong klaseng trabaho pa. Ryeowook almost went down to his knees nang maalala niya ulit ang mga kaganapan these past few days. 

Just last Tuesday, Ryeowook was given a document containing a list of what needs to be done and fulfilled during the “fake relationship with Kyuhyun propaganda to save his career” time. Ryeowook thanked his company’s P.R. team and CEO for adjusting the demands of Kyuhyun’s side. There was a rule na inalis na kailangan daw ni Ryeowook na makitang kasama siya sa lahat ng tour stops ni Kyuhyun soon, which is absurd because that will literally kill Ryeowook if he had to fly wherever Kyuhyun is kung para lang sa publicity. They tweaked some of the rules that made it easy for  Ryeowook since again, he’s just doing Kyuhyun a favor kahit na mababayaran at mababayaran si Ryeowook sa contract na ito. 

The rules aren't that heavy to be honest, kung tutuusin parang bumalik nga lang sila sa pagiging love team nila; however, the target audience isn't just their fans, it’s the casual viewers and general public na. Lalo’t may involve na taong hindi dapat malaman ng publiko. The rules consist of these:

• Both parties need to come up with a story on how they became a couple/how their relationship started. If neither of the two wants it, the respective management would need to provide for Kim and Cho, and it has to be followed and used if needed. 

• Both parties are forbidden to discuss the contract with their friends and acquaintances in the industry.

• Families and/or respective partners (if there are any) of both parties are also to sign and stamp an N.D.A. to ensure the safety and confidentiality of the contract.

• As for both parties, Cho and Kim won’t need to entertain such questions and interviews regarding their relationship; however, if it’s a sudden one, both parties just need to answer that they have been seeing each other all this time, and both have chosen to be private with regard to their relationship. 

• Both parties won't entertain a pairing/couple brand advertisement, guestings, and shows without their consent. If there’s a deal, Cho and Kim will have to decide if they want to take it or not; the management will have no control over that.

• Should both parties agree on a brand deal, both managements, mainly An10na, will have the power to negotiate with the involved partner brands.

• Both parties should be seen out on a romantic date in public, at least once a month, until the contract nulls out. Cho and Kim will have the liberty to arrange those meetings, unless both parties agree that the management will do it.

• Both parties should be seen engaging in each other’s posts and posts that include either Kim or Cho (i.e., liking and/or commenting on posts, resharing/reposting stories of each other)

• Both parties also have the choice to engage with brand posts/contents, including either one of them, and even engage with posts from fans.

• Cho and Kim will have to attend the GSM’s Met Ball together as a way to confirm their relationship to the public.

• Kim must be seen with Cho and vice versa, at least every week or every other week (posts on each other’s social media accounts, during behind-the-scenes filming of each other’s individual schedules, and the like)

• Kim should be with Cho/seen with Cho at least in one or two tour stops of Cho outside the country. 

Additional:

• For the upcoming concert tour of Cho, Kim must be in the audience for one show, as Cho will prepare a special stage for him. 

Should any of the parties wish to add a rule, please contact your respective P.R. representative. 

 Kim Ryeowook:                                                  
    (MADEnt.)                                                             

Cho Kyuhyun:                                                     
    (An10na Co.)                                                      

If you look at it, the rules and duties aren't that demanding naman pero considering na may silent and unaddressed beef si Ryeowook kay Kyuhyun, that makes it difficult for him to comply with all the rules, but what else could he possibly do? Kailangan naman niyang sundin ‘yan. Ryeowook tried to clear his head and decided to just make his daily matcha drink. As he started to whisk his matcha, his phone’s screen lit up, and a notification came in.

Kyuhyun Cho

Hi. Busy ka ba today?

It’s Kyuhyun.

Good morning btw.

Ryeowook literally had to stop whisking his matcha to process the messages na natanggap niya. He paused midway through reading the chats. Hindi pa rin pala niya nabubura ang contact ni Kyuhyun sa KKT niya. Ryeowook processed the messages and waited if mag-memessage pa ulit si Kyuhyun, pero wala na. He also pondered how to respond to the guy’s message. Should he be friendly? professional? civil? nonchalant? Ryeowook really doesn’t know. Up until now, he doesn't know paano niya pakikitunguhan si Kyuhyun.

Kyuhyun Cho

Hi. Busy ka ba today?

It’s Kyuhyun.

Good morning btw.

Hello. Why?

Also, bakit ka nagpakilala?

Lol

Baka kasi hindi na naka-save

number ko eh.

Ano? Are you free?

For what?

I’m thinking we could go out 

today to discuss ‘yung rules.

Sakto kasi KyuWook Day din

pala for our fans/shippers.

We could use this day to soft 

launch, di ba?

Serious ka?

I am.

Ok…. 

Mamayang hapon na lang

After ng pilates ko

Okay, should I pick you up?

No need, let me know na lang

kung saan ka i-meet.

You’re bringing Sungmin?

No. Why?

Wala naman, akala ko lang.

Okay, I’ll see you later.

Ingat.

“BALIW!!!” Ryeowook dropped his phone on the kitchen counter after he received Kyuhyun’s message, “Baliw! Baliw! Baliw!!!!!” He exclaimed. He then proceeded to continue whisking his matcha; he was whisking it aggressively to the point na natalsikan na ang pajama at ang kitchen counter niya. Ryeowook finally calmed down and finished making his drink. He sat on top of his kitchen counter, his knees below his chin as he sipped his perfectly made-with-rage matcha.

He was peacefully drinking his matcha latte as he stared into the void when he heard someone enter his apartment. There are only two of them who know Ryeowook’s apartment’s passcode — Sungmin, his manager/best friend, and his childhood best friend/twin.

“Anong ginagawa mo diyan?” His best friend asked, napatingin si Ryeowook sa kanya, she was putting down the groceries na binili niya.

“Sohee…” Ryeowook spoke, “Tama kaya ginawa ko?”

His friend, Sohee, who’s also one of An10na’s P.R. head, looked at Ryeowook as she put her hand on her waist, “Bakit ka kasi pumayag ba? To be honest, hindi ko alam bakit ka pumayag. There’s a chance na makaapekto ‘to sa image mo.”

“Hindi ko rin alam kung bakit ako pumayag…” Ryeowook honestly answered, “Ayoko namang masira rin ang career ni Kyuhyun, if I could help naman, bakit hindi ko tulungan ‘di ba?”

Sohee continued restocking her best friend’s pantry cabinet, she glanced at Ryeowook before speaking, “Ayon, ang bottomline: hindi mo pa rin matanggihan kapag si Kyuhyun ang nangailangan,” Sohee told Ryeowook saka niya hinarap ito, “Alam mo, Ryeok… I’m not saying na mali ‘yung decision mo, ang akin lang is Kyuhyun would still escape that scandal one way or another kasi hindi naman ‘yan pababayaan ng management. Cash cow ng company si Kyuhyun, you helping them just made it easier for them to clean up Kyuhyun’s mess.”

Each and every word Sohee said was true. Even Ryeowook knows that alam naman niyang hindi pababayaan si Kyuhyun… Si Kyuhyun ‘yon eh.

“It’s funny na even after all these years, kapag nangailangan si Kyuhyun, ikaw palagi ang nandiyan to save his dumb ass,” Sohee told him, “Until now, hindi mo pa rin siya matiis kapag nangailangan siya. 4 na taon na ‘yan walang contact ha? Tibay mo.” She added.

“Anong point mo beh?” Ryeowook asks, but he knows to himself anong point ni Sohee.

“Ang point ko is you need to stop your savior slash hero complex when it comes to Kyuhyun. Matanda na siya, may sarili siyang team, may isip na ‘yon. Kung ano man ang gusto niyang gawing katarantaduhan, surely alam niyang may consequences and repercussions ‘yon. Choice niya ‘yon. You don’t have to possibly put your career and name at risk for someone like him.” 

Natahimik si Ryeowook sa sinabi ni Sohee. The words felt like daggers piercing through his soul. Sohee’s right, hindi niya alam bakit when it comes to this certain person, na-tatanga si Ryeowook. Wala naman na siyang feelings, but hindi lang talaga niya matiis na hindi tulungan ito. Ika nga ni George from The Hows of Us — “... matalino akong tao eh. Pero pagdating sa'yo, ewan ko, natatanga ako.” Ganyan na ganyan ang situation ni Ryeowook kapag si Kyuhyun na ang usapan.

“Wala eh,” He spoke as he put his drink sa may lababo, “Minahal ko siya, sobra-sobra. Wala naman na akong feelings para sa kanya, pero kasi, nasanay siguro ako… Nasanay akong kapag kailangan niya ako, andiyan ako for him. Kasi sa ganoong paraan ko napakita noon na mahal ko siya.”

Kyuhyun texted him kung saan sila magkikita that day, he made a reservation sa isang restaurant later at 5:30 PM. Neither of them knew what time their companies would release the news, pero bahala na, Ryeowook just decided to shut his phone for the night. Bukas na lang niya haharapin ang mga texts at calls kung meron man.

Ryeowook had extra time after his pilates class, so he decided to go back to his apartment to freshen up and get ready. After he finished showering, he went straight to his closet, but even after choosing his clothes, wala pa rin siyang mapili. It’s almost 5:00 at wala pa siyang napipili, so for the last time, he went through his clothes and decided to just wear a semi-casual fit — a white tee under a blue long-sleeve shirt and a pair of pants. Bahala na kung underdressed or overdressed man siya, gusto na lang niyang matapos ang pag-aayos. After he dressed up, he quickly styled his hair and applied some light make-up, and he’s good to go.

The drive there didn't take much time because traffic wasn't that bad. Wala naman din masyadong tao nang makarating siya doon. There might have been a few people already dining, but they didn't mind him. When he went inside, the host knew and recognized him even before he could say anything. He was guided sa may  bandang sulok ng restaurant, agad niyang naaninag ‘yung likod ng taong naghihintay. He knows that figure so well.

“Here’s your table, Mr. Kim. You can ask anyone if you’re ready to order. Thank you.” The host bowed before leaving Ryeowook with Kyuhyun.

“Am I late? Naghintay ka ba? Sorry…” Ryeowook apologized as he sat down. 

“No, no. Halos kararating ko lang din,” Kyuhyun answered, “What do you want to eat?” Kyuhyun asks him. 

‘Awkward!’ Ryeowook’s mind screamed. Sobrang awkward nilang dalawa. Hindi niya na-realize na ang titipid ng mga salita nila sa isa’t isa… Paano nila mapu-pull off ‘yung jowa stunt if they’re this awkward? They managed to order their food, and as they were waiting for the main course to arrive, they tried to break the silence.

“Uh…” “Uhm…”

Sabay sila nagsalita, napatingin din sila nang sabay sa isa’t isa, ramdam na ramdam ang awkwardness between the two. It’s as if there were a huge wall between them.

“Sorry, ano ‘yon?” Kyuhyun told Ryeowook.

“No, uh, mauna ka na, what were you saying?” Ryeowook nervously drank from the water na nasa harap niya. 

“Are you sure?” Kyuhyun asks him again, Ryeowook nods, “I feel like we need to address the elephant in the room. We can't do what we’re supposed to do if hindi muna natin pag-uusapan ang mga existing issues…” Kyuhyun told him.

Ryeowook almost spat the appetizer he just ate. He hesitatingly looked at Kyuhyun and found the latter already looking at him. Dito mahina si Ryeowook, ito ang weakness niya — ang confrontation.

“What… do you mean?” Ryeowook asks nervously as he slowly swallows the food along the lump that has formed in his throat.

“Why did you suddenly cut ties and hindi na lang ako kinausap 4 years ago?” Kyuhyun started, “Did I do something? May nagawa ba akong kasalanan sa’yo na hindi ko alam? May ginawa ka ba sa akin? Why?”

As he was asking those questions, he was looking straight at Ryeowook. Meanwhile, Ryeowook averted his gaze from Kyuhyun’s eyes, scared that his eyes might give away the real truth.

“What really happened?” Kyuhyun asks him again, “What happened to us, Ryeok?” 

And that’s it, as if there was a bucket-full of ice water splashed on Ryeowook when he heard Kyuhyun call him by his nickname. There was another silence between them; only the soft chatters of the other diners and the mellow jazz music playing in the background could be heard, but for Ryeowook, all he could hear was the loud thumping of his heart that felt like it could combust at any moment from now.

Kyuhyun was about to speak again when the servers served their food. The serious conversation momentarily got interrupted, but when the servers left, Kyuhyun thought Ryeowook wouldn’t ever answer his question, so he decided to just eat, but Ryeowook started by clearing his throat.

“I…” Ryeowook began to speak, trying to find the right words that could explain what happened, but at the same time, the words that won’t give away his deepest secret he has kept all this time, “I happened to have listened to your one podcast back then. The one kung saan sinabi mo na ayaw mo na ng loveteam work, na nagsasawa ka na at gusto mo na mag-focus sa solo career mo.” 

Kyuhyun’s face turned soft when he realized what Ryeowook was referring to. He was about to speak up when Ryeowook spoke again. He wasn't looking at Kyuhyun; he was staring at his plate, playing with his food. 

“Medyo… na-hurt ako doon. Not because sa ayaw mo na sa loveteams, it’s because feeling ko dahil sa akin naging hadlang ako sa solo career growth mo,” He truthfully told Kyuhyun, “Ever since naman alam namin na focus mo talaga is your solo career, kaso wala bigla lang nag-boom ‘yung pairing natin from All This Time, who would've thought right? Hindi naman talaga dapat tayo OTP pero bigla tayo sumikat just because of one scene?” Ryeowook laughed, reminiscing about their days nung nasa series pa sila.

“Dapat after nung series, solo career na ang focus mo but napilitan ka pa sa loveteam. Ayun, feeling ko isa ako sa naging rason. That’s why when I heard your podcast, napagtanto ko na rin na it’s also finally time to grow from this loveteam, nac-cage tayo sa loveteam whereas we could excel more individually, right? Look at us now?” Ryeowook explained, he finally looked at Kyuhyun, but he was shocked to see Kyuhyun looking like… he was about to cry, or rather, his eyes showed sadness, “The reason also why I stepped away and cut contacts was an immature reason but I’ll be honest na rin, it’s because nasaktan ako nung narinig ko ‘yung mga salita mo. Don’t get me wrong,” Ryeowook paused, “I’m not hurt sa sinabi mo because you’re right naman, I was hurt because you didn't tell me. I had to find out pa sa isang podcast, I just wished you told me sooner the moment na ayaw mo na… Hindi naman din ako papayag na patagalin pa if one of us aren't happy anymore.”

“I’m sorry, Ryeok…” 

“Don’t be. I’m sorry also for cutting ties and sa biglang hindi pagka-usap sa’yo for almost 4 years. That was a petty and immature move, I’m really sorry. I should've told you also.” 

Natahimik lang ang dalawa nang biglang inabot ni Kyuhyun ang kamay ni Ryeowook na nakapatong sa lamesa, and took it to hold it, “Ryeok, can we… can we go back from what we were before? Can we be friends again?” Kyuhyun asks him.

Ryeowook on the other hand, who was taken aback by the sudden action of Kyuhyun, suddenly couldn't speak. Na para bang napipi siya sa paghawak ni Kyuhyun sa kamay niya. 

“I’m sorry din, Ryeok… I’m sorry, sana sinabi ko na lang sa’yo agad noon. We’re friends, we’re best friends, I should've told you back then. Hindi mo dapat nalaman sa iba pa ‘yon. I’m sorry, Ryeok… I’m really sorry… Please, sana mabalik friendship natin…” Kyuhyun apologized, as he lightly squeezes Ryeowook’s hand that he’s holding, “I should've been honest to you baka sakaling hindi ka lumayo and hindi ako nawalan ng kaibigan… I’m really sorry Ryeok.”

Ryeowook felt like crying upon hearing those words, aside from the fact na na-in love nga siya kay Kyuhyun nung mga panahon na ‘yon, they were really the best of friends, kaya mas malala ang chemistry between them. They became close, and then friends, and then the two of them became the ultimate best friends. So, the sudden loveteam breakup and loss of interaction shook their fandom and almost the whole entertainment industry considering they’re one of the biggest loveteams at that time.

“Kyu…” Ryeowook held Kyuhyun’s hand back, “Oo naman, sino ba naman ako para tanggihan ka? Kaya nga nandito ako ngayon, ‘di ba? Hindi ko naman kayang hayaan ka lang…”

“Ryeok…” Kyuhyun was at a loss for words, he wanted to hug Ryeowook at that moment but they were in public kaya ang tanging nagawa na lang niya was to hold the latter’s hand tighter, “Thank you! I swear, I’ll be a better friend than before… Thank you for giving our friendship a second chance… Thank you, Ryeok…”

Ryeowook just smiled the moment na bumitaw si Kyuhyun sa kanya. For the first time in a while, he was able to give Kyuhyun a genuine smile. Ryeowook thought that this is better, this should be fine. 

Kyuhyun doesn't need to know the other reason kung bakit ako lumayo. They’re friends, they’re best friends, if malaman ni Kyuhyun ‘yung iba pang rason, baka mawala na naman ang friendship nila. Ayaw na ni Ryeowook ‘yon, because that would hurt Kyuhyun again, at ayaw ni Ryeowook ‘yon…. ayaw niyang masaktan si Kyuhyun ulit kung mawawala ulit ang friendship nilang dalawa.

The news of Ryeowook and Kyuhyun being in a relationship destroyed the internet overnight. Lahat ng mga nag-hiatus na fans sa fandom nila ay nabuhay overnight. Their names are trending, they’re all over the news, and making headlines pa sila. That news and their attendance at Meta Ball together fueled more kaya sobrang daming headlines about them. It’s as if this were news from the Royal Family announcing a marriage. It really made so much noise to the point na nabaon ang scandal ni Kyuhyun from a few weeks ago. 

And as expected, Ryeowook was bombarded with texts and messages from his co-artists and co-workers about it. Some are congratulating him and claiming that they have been fans of him and Kyuhyun ever since, while others were also expressing their apologies because the relationship was revealed to the public, which should've been kept private in the first place. 

The reactions were mostly positive; both the KyuWook Nation (their fandom), Ryeoksunis (his fandom), and Kyupiters (Kyuhyun’s fandom) are celebrating right now. Mostly, the Kyupiters are happy because their idol just proved the scandal wrong. Anyway, all fandoms are in uproar, almost a week since the news happened, and mainit pa rin ang news, kabi-kabila pa rin ang mga nagc-cover dito. Some are even having a marathon of their series to celebrate the news. It’s as if it were 2019-2021, their peak era. 

Whenever Ryeowook has schedules, he was just teased na ang galing niya magtago ng relationship kasi hindi nila ito napansin at hindi nahalata kay Ryeowook. There were no sudden interviews yet for Ryeowook since taping lang siya always these days and some advertisement shoots. Sungmin also helped manage, just in case there were reporters na makakasalubong nila, Sungmin and Ryeowook would both politely decline answering or would simply give a plain answer. 

Right now, it really feels like he went back in time because that’s how it looks right now. His old posts from years ago with Kyuhyun, be it an ad or a picture/selfie of them together, are gaining thousands of likes because of the news. Whenever he opens his social media as well, puro mukha lang nila ni Kyuhyun ang nakikita niya. He couldn't believe that they really broke the internet because of it. 

Just like how their loveteam came back to life, bumalik din sa dating gawi si Kyuhyun at Ryeowook. They became friends again, they hang out again, speak with each other again daily, send stupid and dumb stuff to each other just like the old times, but now may ibang label nga lang sila in public ngayon. Dating loveteam lang, now they’re a “couple”, they’re “boyfriends”, they’re in a relationship… in the public eye, but behind the curtains and off-camera, they’re best friends again. No one knew about their friendship breakup aside from the close people around them, but of course hindi naman malalaman ng public at fans ‘yon.

Right now, Ryeowook has just finished a taping schedule. He’s waiting for Sungmin to come because of the traffic due to the strong winds. Ryeowook is in another city for a taping, si Sungmin naman ay bumalik sa company nila dahil pinatawag sila for a meeting. Sungmin thought the meeting would finish right away pero nag-overtime ang madaldal at palakwento nilang CEO. So now, Ryeowook’s stuck in another city waiting for Sungmin. Almost all his co-stars left, and mga staff na lang na nagpa-pack up na ang natira. He was busy playing games sa phone niya nang may mag-text sa kanya.

Kyuhyun

Psst. 

Taping ka pa?

Tao pa ako

😂😂😂😂😂😂

Ano na?

Tapos na taping pero wala pa si

Min, traffic daw sa may toll eh,

hindi raw nagalaw ‘yung pila

Wew.

San ba taping mo?

Gimpo.

For real?

Bakit naman ako magjo-joke?

Asa Gimpo rin ako eh, 

Sa airport pa.

Bakit nasa airport ka?

Sched sa japan.

On mga location mo.

[You shared your location.]

Ano eta raw ni Sungmin?

Last niyang sabi, 

Mga 1 hr & 15 mins daw.

Daanan ka na namin ni Shindong. 

Mag-check in kami sa hotel kasi

malala nga raw traffic.

Pano si Sungmin?

Sabihin mo deretso na lang siya

sa hotel hahahaha.

Nag-dinner ka na ba?

Di pa

Same.

Sige otw na kami.

See u.

Kkk. Ingat kayo.

Ryeowook shouldn't feel that way, but he can't help but feel that way. Hindi alam ni Ryeowook kung bakit ito kinikilig. Normal lang naman kay Kyuhyun na ganoon ang umasta. Sanay na si Ryeowook doon, pero bakit parang aside sa loveteam at fans nila, bakit parang may iba ring bumabalik?

Ryeowook quickly shook that thought away. He hid his phone and stood up to do some stretching. Patapos na halos mag-pack up ang mga staff. He decided to walk to the garden of their shooting location. The garden is big, really big; there were also lots of plants and flowers and maganda rin ang lights kaya nag-stay siya doon, ikot-ikot lang siya tinitignan mga bulaklak at mga halaman na nakapaligid sa kanya. May mini playground din na may swing, slide, seesaw, at mini obstacle. Ryeowook decided to sit sa isa sa swing habang pinapanood niya ‘yung mga ilaw, at pinapakinggan ang mga tunog ng kuliglig sa kalayuan.

Hindi niya napansin na napatagal pala siya doon sa playground. Nabigla na lang siya nang may biglang umupo sa tabi niya, doon sa slide na nasa gilid niya na dahilan ng pagkagulat ni Ryeowook.

“The fuck! Nabigla ako sa’yo!” Tinulak ni Ryeowook si Kyuhyun, “Tara na ba?” He asks as he looks at Kyuhyun. The guy’s just wearing his favorite NewBalance windbreaker, shorts, and rubber shoes. Ryeowook was actually surprised naka-rubber shoes siya kasi alam niya sandals lang palagi ang suot ni Kyuhyun kapag umaalis ito.

“Wait lang,” Kyuhyun said, “Dito muna tayo, ang ganda naman dito…”

“Paano mo nalaman na nandito ako?” Tanong ni Ryeowook.

“Sabi nung isang gaffer. Nakita ka raw niya pumunta dito,” Sagot nito, “Mabuti hindi malakas ulan dito?” 

“Kanina sobrang lakas, ta’s pa-ambon-ambon na lang kanina,” sagot ni Ryeowook, “Tara na, baka umambon pa ulit, tsaka alam ko naman na pagod ka, para makapagpahinga ka na rin.” Tumayo si Ryeowook at nagpagpag ng pantalon niya, “Tara na!” Aya niya kay Kyuhyun, he’s now standing in front of him.

Kyuhyun pouted, but before he obliged, he stretched his arm to Ryeowook, na para bang nagpapatulong o nagpapahila para tumayo. Ryeowook just looked at him, “Uy…” Kyuhyun called as he shook his arms. 

“Para kang bata!” Ryeowook rolled his eyes but still grabbed Kyuhyun’s hand to pull him up, “Ang laki mong tao, ang kids mo!”

Nang makatayo si Kyuhyun, bago pa man makabitaw si Ryeowook sa hawak niya, he immediately intertwined his fingers with Ryeowook, locking them in his grasp.

“Bitaw!” Bulong ni Ryeowook, “Ba’t nanghahawak ka bigla ng kamay?”

“May tao doon, let’s pull a show.” Bulong ni Kyuhyun sa tenga niya, and he did it oh-so-seductively! Ryeowook immediately felt the hair on the back of his neck and around his arm rise because of what the guy beside him did.

“Ano ba?!” Ryeowook almost jumped, “Huwag mong gagawin ulit ‘yon!” Saway niya.

“Why? Nakiliti ka ba sa boses ko?” Asar ni Kyuhyun.

“Fuck you.” Ryeowook gave him the finger using his free hand. They walked back kung saan nakalagay ang mga gamit ni Ryeowook at kung saan ‘yung mga staff. Everyone was looking at them dahil sa biglang pag-holding hands ng dalawa. They could hear others who are secretly squirming, siguro mga fans nila? They don’t know. 

When Ryeowook was about to pick up his belongings, inunahan ito ni Kyuhyun, he was the one who carried Ryeowook’s bags and was even the one who brought Ryeowook’s tumbler and tablet. He then grabbed Ryeowook’s hand again, using his free hand bago sila makaalis doon. Both of them bid their goodbyes sa mga staff na natira sa taping location before walking back sa van ni Kyuhyun. 

As soon as they were inside, Kyuhyun asked Ryeowook kung ano gusto nito kainin, “Where do you want to eat?”

“Diretso na tayo sa hotel para makapagpahinga na kayo. Mag-order na lang siguro ako doon para hindi na hassle.” Sagot ni Ryeowook.

“No, it’s fine. Nagugutom na rin kami eh,” Sagot ni Kyuhyun, he pulls out his phone and searches for some restaurants na bukas pa, “G ka ba sa Chinese food?” 

“Okay lang ba talaga sa inyo? Hindi ba kayo pagod? Jet-lagged?” Tanong ni Ryeowook kina Kyuhyun at sa manager niyang si Shindong.

“Oo, oks lang talaga, Ryeowook. Actually, gutom na gutom na ako.” Sagot ni Shindong, natawa naman si Kyuhyun at Ryeowook sa sagot ni Shindong. 

“Sinend ko sa KKT ‘yung link ng restaurant, Shindong. Doon tayo kakain,” Kyuhyun informed his manager, “Si Sungmin? May balita ka na sa kanya?”

“Wait,” Ryeowook checks his phone and nakatanggap siya ng text from Sungmin na kalalagpas pa lang niya sa toll and on the way na, “On the way na siya, sabihin ko ba sumunod na lang siya sa resto?” Kyuhyun nods at him.

“Forward ko sa’yo ‘yung link ta’s send mo na lang kay Sungmin.” 

“Okay, thanks.” Sagot ni Ryeowook, agad din namang na-send ni Kyuhyun at sinend ni Ryeowook kay Sungmin ‘yon.

After that, may ilang minutong katahimikan dahil nag-cellphone lang silang dalawa, pero nabasag ‘yon nang biglang magtanong si Kyuhyun.

“May schedule ka ba bukas niyan?” Tanong nito.

“Uhhh, teka,” Chineck ni Ryeowook ang calendar niya, “Gabi pa naman, event lang siya.” Sagot nito.

“Anong event?”

“Baseball pitch.” 

“Weh? Anong team?” Kyuhyun asked.

“Lotte Giants.”

“Wow!” Shindong exclaimed, nabigla si Ryeowook sa reactions nila. Even Kyuhyun was surprised upon hearing it.

“I sang the national anthem last season. Kia Tigers vs Samsung Lions,” Kyuhyun told him, “Huge crowd grabe.”

“Kinakabahan ako!” Ryeowook said in panic, “What if hindi ko maibato nang tama ‘yung bola ta’s mapahiya ako?”

“Okay lang ‘yan! Wala naman silang pake if celebrity.” 

“Kahit na… Ayoko mapahiya…” Ryeowook worried, “Anong ginagawa mo bukas? May sched ka?”

“Morning, taping lang, why?”

“Wala kang gagawin sa hapon hanggang gabi?” Tanong ni Ryeowook. Kyuhyun just shook his head.

“Wala, baka maglaro lang ako. Why?”

“Samahan mo ‘ko, please?” He asks Kyuhyun.

“Sa sched mo?” Tanong nito, tumango si Ryeowook, “Puwede ba?”

“Oo! T’yaka great publicity din siya? Pwede nang considered ‘date’ ‘yon, ‘di ba?” Ryeowook suggests, “Sila Sungmin at Shindong paupuin na lang sa ibang bench siguro?”

“Okay lang! Gusto ko ‘yan! Sasama ako, Wook!” Shindong exclaimed, doon lang niya naalala na baseball fan pala ito.

“Sasama ka ha?” Ryeowook turned to Kyuhyun, pleading, “Please? Kinakabahan talaga ako para dito, promise, I swear to God.” 

“Pag-isipan ko sige…” Kyuhyun told him, obviously teasing him, “If papayag kang iki-kiss kita bukas during kiss cam, sasama ako.”

“Ano?!” Nabigla si Ryeowook, even si Shindong na nagda-drive ay nabigla rin sa sinabi ni Kyuhyun, “Bakit mo ‘ko i-ki-kiss?!” 

“Kiss Cam nga ‘di ba? Hindi ka talaga nanonood ng mga games eh ‘no?” Kyuhyun lightly flicked Ryeowook’s forehead. “Shindong, ‘di ba may gano’n sa mga games?”

“Meron talagang ganon, Ryeowook. Hindi siya nagjo-joke.” Napatingin si Ryeowook kay Shindong na nakatingin kay Ryeowook gamit ang rear-view mirror.

“Kailangan ba gawin ‘yon?!” He asks.

“Oo, for publicity…” 

Wala nang nagawa pa si Ryeowook, “Whatever! Sa cheeks mo lang ako puwedeng i-kiss.”

“Bawal sa lips?” Kyuhyun asks, Ryeowook was really exasperated sa narinig niya, his mouth slightly ajar sa narinig niya.

“Sumosobra ka!” He pointed his finger at Kyuhyun. What happened next, Ryeowook didn't expect, Kyuhyun suddenly pulled his hand and lightly bit the finger he used to point at Kyuhyun, “Eww!!!!! What the hell, Kyuhyun!!!!” Ryeowook shrieked, quickly wiping his finger on Kyuhyun’s shirt.

“Ang OA!” Kyuhyun exclaimed, natatawa pa siya kay Ryeowook, hindi siya pinansin ni Ryeowook dahil hinahalughog nito ang bag niya para kumuha ng wipes or alcohol, “Kung maka-asta, akala mo hindi naglaplapan noon? Remind lang kita ha, ilang beses na tayong naglaplapan sa TV, natikman mo na laway ko, Sir Ryeowook Kim...” Asar ni Kyuhyun kay Ryeowook, “Malay mo maulit soon kapag nagka-project tayo? Hmmm, what if kahit walang project? Mamaya gusto mo? Try lang natin kung may chemistry pa if tayong dalawa ang gagawa?” 

Ryeowook’s eyes almost popped out sa mga salitang narinig niyang lumabas sa bibig ni Kyuhyun. Wala na itong ibang naisip gawin kung ‘di ibato ‘yung pack of wipes kay Kyuhyun. 

“KYUHYUN, WHAT THE HELL?! SHUT UP!!!”

And just like that, Kyuhyun and Ryeowook made headlines again after appearing together at the baseball game. Not to mention the plan that Kyuhyun suggested the night before the baseball game — Kyuhyun kissing Ryeowook during the Kiss Cam. They executed that move very well, Ryeowook initially agreed with Kyuhyun kissing him on the cheek only, however, napagtrippan sila ng cameraman at ilang beses nag-pan sa kanila ang camera. Almost 5 times napunta ang camera sa kanila; twice Kyuhyun was the one kissing Ryeowook on the cheek, then it’s Ryeowook 

giving Kyuhyun a kiss on the cheek two times, and the last time, the one that had everyone cheering and screaming, even the players below and the commentators, was when Kyuhyun suddenly kissed Ryeowook right on the lips. 

Ryeowook was talking to him kaya nakaharap siya kay Kyuhyun, while Kyuhyun was looking at the screen, while Ryeowook was talking, napansin niya na nasa kanila ulit ang camera, so Kyuhyun just did what he had to do… to kiss Ryeowook right there. That move caught both of them off-guard. Ryeowook was literally almost frozen because of what Kyuhyun did, but thank God he managed to act quickly. Nakatulong din ang nakabibinging sigaw sa loob ng stadium, kaya agad niyang na-compose ang sarili niya. After that incident, Ryeowook went quiet and non-verbal despite the loud cheers and sounds during the game. That’s their first kiss in a long time. Their last kiss was nung nags-shoot pa sila ng series. They never kissed outside taping/filming, so this is the first time Kyuhyun did this — this is the first time they kissed outside of filming. 

Naiinis siya, hindi kay Kyuhyun, hindi dahil sa ginawa ni Kyuhyun, naiinis siya dahil para bang nagiging delikado na ulit siya… It’s just been a month since they started this, the fake relationship thing, pero bakit ang bilis? Hindi naman sila palaging magkasama ni Kyuhyun, pero kapag magkasama na sila, minsan nalilimutan ni Ryeowook na nagpapanggap lang sila. Ganon ba ka-effective na artist at actor si Kyuhyun? Kasi, in fairness, napakagaling nito. Sa mata ng iba, pati na rin sa mata ni Ryeowook, hindi halatang nagpapanggap siya. Ryeowook hated that feeling, really hated it, kasi bakit parang may nauulit?

Hanggang sa natapos na ang laro at naimbitahan sila na ma-meet in person ang mga players. Both Ryeowook and Kyuhyun had a mini meet-&-greet with the Lotte Giants players. They had a short photo op and signing before everyone bid their goodbyes. Ryeowook and Kyuhyun walked to the designated parking lot for celebrity guests, towards their respective cars, where Sungmin and Shindong were both waiting for them.

“Okay ka lang?” Tanong ni Kyuhyun, habang naglalakad sila. Ryeowook really went silent after that kiss happened, hindi niya rin masyado kinibo si Kyuhyun after, unless kailangan lang talaga or kakausapin siya nito.

“Ha? Ah, okay lang ako…” Tipid na sagot ni Ryeowook, Kyuhyun suddenly stopped walking and held Ryeowook’s arm, forcing the guy to face him.

“Sorry for doing that,” Kyuhyun apologized, “Sorry, hindi na lang dapat kita kiniss… I’m sorry.”

“Bakit ka nag-sosorry?” Ryeowook replied, “Okay lang, on the spot naman ‘yon, kaya oks lang.” He assured, as he gave Kyuhyun a small smile. Then, they continued to walk until they could spot their vehicles in the distance. Kyuhyun bids his goodbyes and apologizes for the last time before going in when Ryeowook calls him suddenly.

“Kyu?” He calls Kyuhyun, napatingin si Kyuhyun sa kanya, “Anong relationship mo with.. with him? Ano talagang meron sa inyo?” Ryeowook bravely asks. 

Wala namang tao kung na saan sila, it was an open parking and there were no cars and people there aside sa kanila and sa managers na nasa loob ng sasakyan. Nabigla si Kyuhyun sa tanong ni Ryeowook, he scanned Ryeowook’s face to check him but hindi niya mabasa ang mukha ni Ryeowook. Natahimik lang silang dalawa sa tanong ni Ryeowook, at that moment, Ryeowook realized how invasive his question was to Kyuhyun.

“I’m sorry for asking that. You don't have to answer it…” Ryeowook apologized, “Good night, ingat sa biyahe—” Ryeowook was cut off when Kyuhyun suddenly spoke, answering Ryeowook’s question.

“Wala, walang relationship,” Kyuhyun truthfully answered the question, his answer the same as before, “Sadly, wala. Even though gusto kong meron, pero wala talaga eh.” Kyuhyun bitterly smiled. Walang masabi si Ryeowook sa sinagot ni Kyuhyun. Even the managers were shocked sa narinig nila, nakabukas na kasi ang mga pinto ng mga sasakyan eh. Nanatili lang silang tahimik, hinihintay kung sino ‘yung magsasalita ulit.

“I badly wanted na magkaroon pero wala, bawal eh…” Nagsalita ulit si Kyuhyun, “Hindi siya tanggap ng pamilya niyang ganoon siya, kaya hanggang… magkaibigan lang kami. Noon, pero ngayon, wala na. Dahil sa picture na ‘yon, wala na talaga.” Sagot ni Kyuhyun. 

Napatango na lang si Ryeowook sa narinig niya. He then asked him something that Ryeowook immediately regretted after the words came out of his mouth. Pero, what can he do? Naitanong naman na niya, so kailangan na rin niyang harapin kung anong magiging kasagutan ni Kyuhyun. 

“Mahal mo pa siya?”

Hindi nakasagot si Kyuhyun; he was just looking at Ryeowook. He couldn't form the right words to answer Ryeowook, hindi rin kasi niya alam sagot eh.

“Mahal mo pa siya,” Ryeowook confirmed. He then gave him a small nod, as if saying he understood him.

“Good night, Kyu. Sorry sa ambush question, ingat kayo sa biyahe.” Ryeowoon smiled at him and bid his goodbyes. He was about to enter the van when Kyuhyun spoke again.

“Pero hindi ako mahal. Hindi ako minahal, siguro mahirap ako mahalin?”

Ryeowook looked at him, he shook his head to disagree at Kyuhyun. 

“Don’t say that,” Halos pabulong na sabihin ni Ryeowook, “Pahinga ka na, Kyu. Good night.” Ryeowook finally closed his vehicle’s door and asked Sungmin to drive away, leaving the venue first. 

On the ride home, tahimik lang si Ryeowook. Ryeowook pondered on Kyuhyun’s words; his response, his expressions, his words, everything. Lahat iniisip ni Ryeowook. At that moment, gusto na lang niyang magpalamon sa lupa kasi halo-halong emotions ang nararamdaman niya. He completely went non-verbal, even when Sungmin dropped him off, he just nodded and waved at him at dere-deretsong pumasok sa building niya. 

Sungmin also didn't bother to chat with him naman. He knows that his best friend needs some alone and quiet time after that conversation with the former love of his life. Alam naman ni Sungmin na nagkakagulo na ang utak at puso ni Ryeowook. He’s been with Ryeowook ever since he started in this industry. He’s seen Ryeowook through ups and downs — especially during that time na sobrang in love ni Ryeowook sa ka-partner niya pero wala itong sinasabi. 

Sungmin has a feeling that this might be different; he doesn't know why, but this is different. Sungmin senses that this time… it might be stronger than before. Alam niyang delikado na naman ulit ang kaibigan niya, pero hindi muna siya magsasalita hangga't hindi nagsasabi si Ryeowook, but he knows… he knows this time it will be different from before. Hindi rin niya alam kung ito ay mas makakasakit sa kaibigan niya o hindi because only Ryeowook, Kyuhyun, and time have the answer for that. 

Now, Sungmin just hopes and prays for the better. Pinagdarasal niya na sana this time, maging maayos at masaya ang kaibigan niya.

A couple of weeks have already passed since they had that conversation outside the baseball stadium. Ryeowook and Kyuhyun pretended that the convo didn't happen between them. The next time na nagkita sila, para bang wala lang talagang nangyari. Even the kiss incident wasn't brought up/talked about kapag sila lang dalawa. 

Safe to say na back to normal sila — yes, back to normal. But for Ryeowook, the ‘normal’ for him is that time bago sila nagkaroon ng reconciliation dinner ni Kyuhyun. The civil, iwas, and indifferent Ryeowook whenever Kyuhyun is around. 

Since that baseball game night, Ryeowook had a one-on-one talk with himself na he won’t let what happened back then na mangyari ulit this time. He cannot let himself be careless again kasi in the end, siya naman ulit ang matatalo, siya ang luhaan at masasaktan, kaya hindi puwedeng hayaan niyang mangyari ulit ang nakaraan. 

He told himself he’ll set some boundaries kay Kyuhyun. He won’t let the guy barge into his life again and ruin him to pieces — once is enough, twice is peak katangahan. 

Thankfully din naman tadtad ng schedules si Ryeowook at Kyuhyun. Ryeowook has back-to-back tapings, while Kyuhyun’s busy preparing for his upcoming concert. At least, both of them are too occupied to think about their fake relationship at the moment. Ryeowook even has a 10-day lock-in taping sa isang series right now, so hindi siya puwedeng makaalis sa shoot location nila. Gagawin na lang niyang rason ‘yun sa hindi pag-reply at sagot sa mga calls and chats ni Kyuhyun sa kanya when in fact, he’s purposely ignoring the guy.

Sa isip ni Ryeowook, need lang niyang i-recalibrate ang puso at isip niya sa mga ganap. 

‘Hayop na halik kasi ‘yan!’ Isip-isip ni Ryeowook. 

Hindi rin pala nakatulog si Ryeowook that SAME night because of Kyuhyun’s sudden kiss. It’s funny because Kyuhyun’s words were replaying in his mind that night,

“Kung makaasta akala mo hindi naglaplapan noon? Remind lang kita ha, ilang beses na tayong naglaplapan sa TV, natikman mo na laway ko, Sir Ryeowook Kim...” 

“Malay mo maulit soon kapag nagka-project tayo? Hmmm, what if kahit walang project? Mamaya gusto mo? Try lang natin kung may chemistry pa if tayong dalawa ang gagawa?”  

Ryeowook tossed and turned that night dahil sa mga sinabi ni Kyuhyun, and also dahil sa halik nito. Hindi alam ni Ryeowook kung bakit, eh sa totoo naman ngang ilang beses na silang nag-kiss on-screen ni Kyuhyun. Smack nga lang ginawa niya during the baseball game kiss cam, eh, noong may taping sila, literal na make-out ang ginagawa nila, both of them even tried kissing with tongues involved, salivas mixed kaya hindi pwede mag-inarte si Ryeowook. Their kisses back then were far more wild and intense than what Kyuhyun did pero halos mabaliw siya sa nangyari.

Simula nung gabing ‘yon doon na nga niya napagtanto na kailangan niyang ayusin sarili niya or else, mapapa-”I think I’ve seen this film before, and I didn't like the ending” (Taylor Swift, 2020) siya. Hindi na talaga puwede mangyari ‘yun kasi, in Sohee’s words, awa na lang sa (’yo, baks) kanya. Hindi alam ni Ryeowook pero iba talaga si Kyuhyun, hindi niya alam ano bang lason ang meron ‘yung tao na ‘yon kasi sa tuwing nandiyan siya parang hindi alam ni Ryeowook ano ginagawa niya. Oftentimes, Ryeowook just finds himself na nagpapa-ikot at nagpapa-uto na naman kay Kyuhyun (kahit na alam niyang kaya naman niyang pigilan ito.)

So, again, Ryeowook has decided to finally, FINALLY, put some boundaries between himself and that guy. Yes, meron silang contract, he’s still obliged to do some couple stuff with Kyuhyun but with boundaries, limitations, and supervision (with the help of ehem, Sungmin, ehem.) He’s really, really, really, really determined not to make the same mistakes as before. He’s older and wiser now, and mature. He’s known better, lalo na’t mukhang in love at hindi pa rin naman nakaka-move on ‘yung isa sa forbidden love affair nito.

He’s done for the day now and wrapped up his shoot earlier than expected, so now he’s just lazing around inside his room waiting for his other co-actors to finish their scenes para makakain na siya. He decided to post a photo dump from last week, pwede naman sila mag-post ng picture basta ba walang makikitang possible spoilers and bts, only pictures with co-actors, pictures inside the dressing room/tents, and inside the accommodation are allowed naman. 

As soon as he posted the pictures, he immediately realized that he wasn’t replying to Kyuhyun pala, he was about to archive and delete the post, but for sure may nakakita na non, and Kyuhyun may have seen the post already, lalo na’t parang wala itong ginagawa for the past few days dahil panay kulit ito at send ng kung ano-ano sa kanya sa tiktok at sa IG.

After a couple of minutes, doon na nga siya nakatanggap ulit ng chat galing kay Kyuhyun.

Kyuhyun

Nakapag-photo dump pero

hindi ako kayang replyan?

Awts.

Ryeowook intends to ignore him na lang pero baka makahalata na ito kaya mag-rereply na lang siya.

Kyuhyun

Nakapag-photo dump pero

hindi ako kayang replyan?

Awts.

OA

Busy nga ako ngayon lang ako

Nagkaroon ng free time.

Bakit ba?

Sungit naman. :(

Ano ginagawa mo?

Magpapahinga. Katatapos lang

ng scene ko. Bakit?

Lahat talaga may ‘bakit’ na tanong.

Hahahahaha. 

Wala naman, di mo 'ko kinikibo eh.

????

Pwede ba kita daanan kahit

mabilis lang?

???!!!

Bakit naman? Naka-lock in taping 

nga ako di ba?

Wala lang. Gusto lang

kita makita.

😁 

Masyado ka bang bored??

Hindi ba may concert ka niyan?

Oo, ma-mi-miss mo nga ‘yung 

first and second night eh. 

Hays. :<

Sorry. Hindi ko alam na

gagawing lock-in ang taping eh.

Hahahaha okay lang.

Parang others ka naman.

Hindi ka ba talaga pwede daanan

kahit mabilis lang?

I don’t think so.

Talaga? Hays.

Paano na ‘to namimiss na pa

naman kita.

Ryeowook threw his phone away from him. He couldn't believe what he just read and what Kyuhyun just sent. 

‘Paano na ‘to namimiss na pa naman kita.’ ?!?! 

Ryeowook’s alarm bells were blaring so loud dahil sa chat ni Kyuhyun, “What the fuck?!?!” He half screamed and half whispered. 

“Baliw!! Baliw! Baliw!!” He exclaimed as he reaches out for his phone and muted his conversation with Kyuhyun, “Hibang! Baliw! Paasa! Paasa!”

“Ano na namang ginawa ni Kyuhyun?” Nabigla siya nang pumasok bigla si Sungmin sa hotel room niya, “Bakit mo na naman siya tinawag na ‘paasa’?” Sungmin brought Ryeowook some food and desserts. Agad niyang nilapitan si Sungmin para tingnan ‘yung dala nito.

“Sa’n mo binili ‘to? T’yaka ba’t ka bumili eh may buffet?” Ryeowook asks but he proceeds to open the food and eat it naman, “Sarap! Ugh nag-ccrave pa lang ako kagabi ng Thai food! I love pad thai noodles so much!!”

“Inutusan lang ako eh.” Sagot ni Sungmin as he also starts to dig into the food. Ryeowook was surprised sa narinig niya, literal na napatigil siya sa pagnguya sa narinig niya.

“Kanino… galing… ito?” Tanong niya.

“Kanino pa ba?” Sungmin chewed his food first, then swallowed, “Edi sa nangungulit sa’yo simula nung start ng taping mo.”

Ryeowook couldn’t believe what he heard. Eh isa lang naman ‘yung nangungulit sa kanya eh… pero bakit naman niya ‘yun gagawin?

“You’re kidding me.”

“Eh kung nireplyan mo lang, hindi ako ‘yung kinukulit niyan,” Sungmin retorts, “Beh, ‘yung totoo? In love na ba ‘yan sa’yo? Hanep kung magpapansin at batak mag-I miss you sending ng mga tiktoks sa’yo eh.

“What?!”

“I was using your tablet kanina to check your schedule, ta’s nag-notif ang Tiktok mo, nag-send si Kyuhyun today… ng 10 tiktoks puro ‘I miss you’ troll posting.” 

Dali naman binuksan ni Ryeowook ang tiktok niya at nakita nga na puro ganon ang mga sinesend na tiktok ni Kyuhyun, hindi lang doon natapos, the dumbass was also reposting the videos. He even came across a video that Kyuhyun reposted saying na, “Iba pala mangulila ang isang Kyuhyun Cho, grabe na ang lock-in taping sumusobra na, sana ibalik na kay pareng Kyuhyun yung honeybunch sweetiepie, baby, my love, so sweet niya (si Ryeowook)” with matching Alipin as background music pa, hindi pa nakuntento si Kyuhyun, nag-reply pa ito ng, “omsim pre 😞”

“Oh my god!!!! Nakakahiya mga pinagsesend at pinagrerepost niya, nag-cocomment pa siya!!” Ryeowook exclaimed, “What the heck! Nakakahiya!”

“Sus, ‘yung totoo, nahihiya o kinikilig? Nangungulila na sa’yo ‘yung tao, oh…” Asar pa ni Sungmin.

“Aligaga lang ‘yan dahil hindi pa namin nagagawa for this month ‘yung duties!” Ryeowook snapped at Sungmin, “Ayoko na, oh my god. Hindi ko na kaya.”

“Gusto mo nang itigil?”

“Like noon pa?”

“Ayos marunong ka na mag-damage control ah?” Sungmin commented.

“What do you mean?” 

“Wala, wala!” Sungmin dismissed, “Hindi pa puwedeng itigil. Nasa peak pa kayo, hindi papayag ‘yung dalawang management for sure. Gagatasin muna kayo ng mga ‘yan before nila kayo hayaang makawala.”

Ryeowook knew that for sure. Lalo na’t ang sinign niyang contract has a clause stating na this will have an indefinite time frame. Which Ryeowook just now realized na hindi pala okay ‘yun. Ryeowook just ate the food na nasa harap niya habang siya’y tulala. There are hundreds of thoughts running through his mind right now, and at least 95% of them are about and because of Kyuhyun.

“Bakit ba ang OA these days ng hayop na ‘yan?” Sungmin asks him, “Makaasta eh…”

“Hindi ko alam sa baliw na ‘yon? Parang tanga lang.” Sagot naman niya, he really doesn't know why Kyuhyun’s doing all of that.

“Performative siguro?” Sungmin suggests, “Ryeok, utang na loob ha? Hindi ka na mahuhulog at magpapadala sa hayop na ‘yon!” Sungmin sat up and faced Ryeowook. He was already on the bed while si Ryeowook nanatili doon sa sofa kung saan siya kumakain.

“OA!” Binato ni Ryeowook ‘yung isang throw pillow kay Sungmin, “Over na ‘ko sa tanga, if mauulit pa ‘yon!”

“Over ka naman talaga sa tanga, beh…” Sungmin replied, as-a-matter-of-factly.

“Naaalala mo convo namin nung gabi nung baseball game?” Tumango si Sungmin, “Nung tinanong ko if mahal niya pa… hindi naman niya sinagot ‘yung tanong ko. Also, the face, the expression, and the eyes that time… I know what that means. Ganun mga mukha na mahal na mahal pa rin ‘yung isang tao and until now hindi pa nila kaya bitawan.

For the first time, Ryeowook was able to read Kyuhyun that night; and it’s as if he was looking straight at himself through a mirror. Kyuhyun mirrored the exact look of longingness, hopelessness, and sadness Ryeowook had shown when he was in that position years ago. Of course, alam ni Ryeowook ‘yon, master si Ryeowook pagdating sa ganyan… noon.

“Malay mo naman nagm-move on na ‘yung tao?” 

“Malay ko sa kanya. I don't ask him that stuff and personal stuff.” Sagot ni Ryeowook. Wala rin kasi siyang pakialam do’n (masasaktan lang daw kasi siya ‘pag inalam niya — HUH WHO SAID THAT?)

“Pero, Ryeok. Sa tingin mo ba never nalaman or alam na ni Kyuhyun na na-in love ka sa kanya?”

Halos matisod si Ryeowook sa biglaang tanong ni Sungmin. That’s literally his biggest nightmare, na para bang kapag nangyari ‘yon, he’ll possibly retire from showbiz and the entertainment industry at magpapakalayo-layo sa mga kakilala niya. That could NEVER happen, and MUST NEVER happen. Kyuhyun could never know that Ryeowook spent a long time loving and yearning for Kyuhyun’s love, and also spent a long time getting over him.

“Kapag mangyari ‘yun, safe to say na magreretire na ako at magpapakalayo-layo at mawawala sa face of the earth. I swear to the heavens above at kay poncio pilato. I will do that.” Ryeowook seriously said, eh totoong seryoso naman siya. Kung ang iba ay karumaldumal ang deepest darkest secret nila, Ryeowook’s one is the fact that he spent a long time loving and having feelings for Kyuhyun in secret, and also a long time getting over him.

”Eh, what if magustuhan ka nga noon, hypothetically lang naman,” Sungmin asks him, “What if it wasn't the right time back then pero ngayon, puwede na? Okay na? Will you give him a chance?” He added, “Oo ‘yan, marupok ka eh.” Sungmin added it as a joke but to his surprise, Ryeowook answered him seriously.

“No. I’d rather lose the chance than take the risk again,” He began, “Alam mo ‘to Sungmin, alam mong sobrang sakit nung mga panahon na ‘yon. Hindi ko nga expect na makakaya ko eh, pero sobrang sakit no’n Min. 

Ryeowook was clearing the table habang sinasabi ‘yon kay Sungmin, “Siguro ang balik na lang talaga sa akin after years ng sakit is ‘yung pag-grow ko individually at pag-grow din ng career ko. Whatever shit that happened to me was painful pero ‘yung equivalent naman na swerte na bumalik sa akin is iba.” 

“Ayoko nang maulit uli ‘yung noon. My mistake at that time was that I wasn't able to distinguish ‘yung trabaho at personal, napaghalo ko sila kaya ayun, ako ang nahirapan. Pero ngayon, ang trabaho ay trabaho lang. I won't let my personal life and feelings interfere again. Nagkamali na ako noon, hinding-hindi ko na uulitin pagkakamali ko na mahulog ulit sa kanya.”

Kyuhyun had just successfully wrapped up his 3-day sold-out concert last weekend, and as expected from the contract, he actually had a gimmick in mind for Ryeowook on the 3rd and last night of his concert. Funny thing, Kyuhyun and his team didn't tell which performance, because he really wanted Ryeowook to be surprised by it.

As the song ‘Confession Is Not Flashy’ starts, Kyuhyun starts singing the song on the center stage, he was just going around interacting with the fans from the standing pit. Ryeowook knows this song, actually one of Kyuhyun’s songs that he genuinely and actually likes. 

Ryeowook was singing along with Kyuhyun and the fans when he noticed Kyuhyun slowly approaching him, the lights were starting to dim, and there was a spotlight following Kyuhyun kung saan siya papunta. Tuloy-tuloy lang ang pagkanta ni Kyuhyun hanggang sa nakatayo na siya sa tapat nito. There was a railing between them, and Kyuhyun leaned in as he continued singing, or rather, serenading Ryeowook who was seated in front of him. 

Ryeowook’s cheeks started to flush from the embarrassment. There was a spotlight for him and Kyuhyun, and he’s shown on the screen, kitang-kita kung paano siya kiligin sa mga paandar ni Kyuhyun. 

“I neolbeun sesangwie, geu gilgo gin sigan soge…

geu sumaneun saramdeuljunge, ojik geudaemaneul saranghae…” Kyuhyun sang while looking straight at Ryeowook as he pulled out a bouquet of sunflowers from his side and gave it to Ryeowook. He shyly accepted it naman and Kyuhyun continued singing the next lines for Ryeowook,

“I neolbeun sesangwie, geu gilgogin sigan soge, geu sumaneun saramdeuljunge… geudael mannangeol… kamsa…” Kyuhyun paused as he reached out for Ryeowook’s hand, saka nito tinutok ang microphone kay Ryeowook, asking him to sing the next line. At first, nahiya si Ryeowook, but he didn't want to embarrass Kyuhyun.

“... hae…” Ryeowook finished the song and after that the arena was uproaring from loud applause, screams, and cheers from the fans. 

After that, as usual, they made headlines again. Their names have been trending for how many days because of the stunt Kyuhyun pulled. There were also brand deals and offers that came in dahil ilang buwan nang sobrang ingay ng mga pangalan nila. The two haven't had the time to have a sit-down meeting for them to discuss anong mga collaboration deals, offers, and guestings ang gusto nilang gawin dahil sa sobrang busy nilang dalawa, but some time they’ll eventually have to do it.

Oh, and by the way, ever since that night, that was the last time Kyuhyun and Ryeowook saw each other. Ironic right? Wanna know why?

Ryeowook was guided backstage to meet Kyuhyun in the dressing/waiting room. They were supposed to have dinner together along with the concert band members, staff, and production crew to celebrate the success of the 3-day sold-out concert. However, while Ryeowook excused himself to go to the bathroom, someone also went inside and judging sa boses he knew na it’s Kyuhyun and his bestfriend, Minho.

“Congrats, bro! Success ah.” It’s Minho.

“Thank you, oo nga eh. Kala ko talaga luge na eh.” It’s Kyuhyun’s turn naman. 

“Akala ko rin bro ‘yun na ‘yon, it was so bad you barely made it out.” (M)

“I know, right?” He then heard both guys chuckle. 

“Sa tingin mo nanood s’ya?” (M)

“I don't know, but sa ingay ng pangalan ko right now I doubt he’ll not see…” (K)

“Sabagay, parang every other week trending kayo ni Ryeowook.” (M)

“Real. Excited na nga ako sa nangyari kanina eh, for sure puro mukha na naman namin ang nasa mga social media sites… magsawa siya.” (K)

“Damn, sinadya mo ba gawin ‘yong kasama si Ryeowook kanina? Scripted?” (M)

“Yeah. I did that in front of everyone para makita niya anong sinayang niya… it could've been them but masyadong mama’s boy eh. Their loss.” That was the last thing that Ryeowook heard because Kyuhyun and Minho left the bathroom after that. 

Ryeowook remained unmoved inside the cubicle stall. He didn't know what to feel and think after niya marinig ‘yon. He’s very much aware naman na ginagamit lang siya pero iba pa rin pala talaga ‘pag pinagduldulan sa harap mo ‘yon eh ‘no?

Ryeowook doesn't think twice to contact Sungmin and tell him na he’ll skip the dinner due to an emergency (non-existent), he just didn't feel na makitungo kay Kyuhyun at sa mga ibang taon. He’s not in the mood to deal with mga user na katulad ni Kyuhyun.

He managed to sneak out without getting caught. Thank God sa height niya at sa suot niyang T-shirt na tour merch ni Kyuhyun. Walang nakapansin sa kanya noong lumabas siya sa exit kung saan ang mga fans. He was also wearing a mask and a cap upon exiting the venue. Since keyless entry din ang van niya, he managed to unlock it using an app sa phone niya. Inside his vehicle, he waited for Sungmin. He feels sorry dahil si Sungmin ang sasalo sa lahat ng tanong ni Kyuhyun.

After a few minutes, he could see Sungmin jogging towards the vehicle and soon hopping inside, “Anong meron?”

“Basta, tara na.” Aya ni Ryeowook.

“Beh, kita mo ‘yung traffic? Hindi tayo agad makakaalis…” Sungmin explained, sabay-sabay umaalis ang mga nakasasakyan, oh.

“I mean, umalis na tayo dito baka sundan pa tayo ni— SPEAKING OF!” Ryeowook pointed sa may windshield niya, naka-heavy tint naman siya sa labas kaya hindi siya kita pero kitang kita niya si Kyuhyun na naglalakad papalapit sa van niya, he still hasn't changed from his concert clothes, but he’s wearing his sandals now. “Yan na nga ba sinasabi ko! Ayoko siyang kausapin! Sabihin mo nag-commute ako paalis! Lock the doors at huwag mo akong ilalaglag!”

Ryeowook then pulled down the blackout curtain separating the driver’s and passenger’s seat sa back seat. Ryeowook even moved sa pinakalikod ng van para safe siya. He also heard Sungmin locking the car doors, and a few moments later there was a knock at the car’s window, base sa tunog, nanggaling ito sa side ng driver. Kyuhyun knocked on Sungmin’s window, and Ryeowook could hear Sungmin rolling down his window.

“Andiyan si Ryeok?” Kyuhyun asks him.

“Wala, nag-commute lang ata siya, ‘di ko nga alam kung nasan eh.” Sagot ni Sungmin, halos hindi na rin huminga si Ryeowook sa likod just in case na marinig siya.

“Umalis talaga siya nang hindi ka kasama?” He asked again, “Ang bilis naman niya nakaalis?”

“Ewan ko do’n, sabi niya nagkaroon daw ng emergency. Hindi pa nga nagre-reply kung asan siya.” Sungmin lied.

“Okay sige, sabihan mo ’ko please if alam mo kung na saan siya and if okay lang siya.” Kyuhyun then left 

Ryeowook only went back sa upuan niya and tucked the curtains away when Sungmin assured na naka-alis na ito.

“What was that?” Tanong ni Sungmin.

“Baliw yan.” Ryeowook chucked his phone to Sungmin, tinignan naman nito ang cellphone ng kaibigan niya, and it showed 5 missed calls from Kyuhyun and almost 10 chats.

“Beh, in love na ‘to sa’yo.”

“As if!”