Epilogue

The night before the new year, liveliness and enthusiasm fill the air. The shine in people's eyes, the laughter of kids, the bustling of the market, and the joy of new chapters in life. Amidst all this, one question lingers in the air.

New year means a fresh start, perhaps like a snake shedding its skin. But, does it feel as easy as it looks? Shedding the skin must be so painful for it. Yet, it's very much needed for its growth.

Perhaps nature is the true and best teacher. It teaches you inspiring things that cannot be found in books, either.

We could take the snake as an example and learn that forgetting and removing a memory can be painful. But should we live with it? Sometimes, it's best to shed those pasts and embrace the growth. We can look back and see how far and stronger we have become.

Dean keeps his luggage on the floor of the international airport. He heaves a sigh, turning his attention to his family and stepping out of the taxi. His brother, mother, and father—everyone has come. Calder wished him luck through a call. The model saw the tiny daughter of new parents. Chris wished him to do well and be happy.

Happiness is nowhere near his sight. After the conversation, they did not hold onto any negative thoughts about each other. Still, he was expecting at least a call from him. Perhaps this is what life has decided for them.

"Mom," Dean whispered, watching his mother's teary eyes. She caressed the whole face. "My boy is starting his journey alone now." She held his arm and hugged him tightly. "You were so tiny yesterday; when did you grow up?"

Dean smiles, caressing her back and pressing a kiss on her hair. "Take care of yourself, okay? I'll call you every day."

Dean looks at his brother, who looks away, blinking his eyes. He smiled, breaking the hug and stepping towards his brother. "Brother," Ethan pulls Dean into his embrace. "I love it when you call me brother and not just bro." He gently taps his back. "Be brave, yeah? Make sure to become so popular that I'll show off to everyone. My brother, the best model."

Dean chuckled, hugging his brother. His eyes fell on his father; the man nodded his head. "Do what makes you happy. Became so perfect that success will follow you everywhere."

"Ok, Dad."

The brown-eyed male held his luggage, bidding bye one last time. He steps towards the entrance, his finger fumbling with the handbag in search of the passport and ticket. His phone in one hand and another held the ticket when he heard a loud cry from a boy.

"Teacher!"

Dean's feet stuck to gravity like a magnet. The voice, he knows it even in his heart.

Dean swiftly turned around, eyes finding the source, who held his breath.

Ayan's arm swings left and right. "Bye, teacher!" he grins widely, eyes clinging, creating a crescent moon.

Dean's eyes look up at the father of the boy.

'By being each other's shelter.'

Seeing Roman, he is reminded of the very night they spoke to their heart's content.

"Let's be each other's shelter, a shelter that takes away all the looming shadows and puts us at ease." Roman approached the trembling man.

Dean bit his lips to soothe his tears. "I'm sorry," he said, wiping his tears from the back of his hand. "I don't understand how I cause trouble for others. I don't know, why am I like this?"

Roman sighed. "I think I could never be angry at you." Roman patted Dean's head, bringing him close to his embrace and allowing Dean to rest his head on his shoulder. "If you had talked it out with me, nothing like this would have happened." Roman rubbed his shoulder, listening to the sniffs of the soul. "You love bottling your emotions, and finally, you'll burst like this, mm?"

Dean shook his head, hugging Roman's waist tightly.

"I will take it as you agreed."

Dean shook his head again.

"What? You should agree to something."

Dean shook his head again. He widens his eyes, looking around. "Where is Ayan?"

Roman smiles, gently tucking Dean's bangs aside to see his eyes better. "He's with his grandparents. Mom gestured to me that she was taking Ayan to a stall to buy popcorn."

Dean nodded, "Then, I want to say something else too."

Roman nods, urging Dean to speak his mind.

Dean hesitates, nevertheless whispering, "I want to tell you about my past. My past with Nathan. How I reached the hospital and—"

Roman shook his head. "You don't have to. I don't want to know about your past. For me," his eyes flickered all over Dean's face, "this Dean matters the most. Your past might have crafted your present. However, I don't wish for our past to mold our future."

Dean looks at Roman with big eyes. "Our future?"

Roman nodded. "I have understood and often said how important you are to me."

Dean's face held a small smile. He nodded in affirmation. He knew whenever Roman said that his heart would skip a beat. However, it was always ignored because of the tension in his mind. Now that everything is almost sorted. He cannot ignore his thoughts, emotions, and feelings anymore.

"Today, I am so close to saying something very important to you," Roman said, noticing Dean's cheeks tinting pink as though he understood what the hidden message was. "However, I will not say it today. I shall do it after you return from your project."

"Oh," There was dejection in Dean's voice. He looks down with a nod.

Roman smiled, pulling the male closer. "If I say it now, will you be able to go and not get distracted, not wish to return, and forget your future?"

Dean bites his lips and shakes his head. Albeit, he will not be able to go. He completely forgot that he's going for a year. 365 days away from everyone.

"Shall I decline the offer?" Dean asked, keeping his head back on Roman's shoulder, hugging his waist.

Roman chuckled, "As much as I am loving this cuddly side of you. My leg is hurting from standing for a long time."

Dean quickly pulls himself away. "I forgot. I keep forgetting everything. Why am I like this? Always—"

"Always adorable." Roman cuts Dean's words, holding the crunches tightly, and turns around to sit on an available bench. He found one nearby, sitting on it comfortably while removing the crutches from his elbow.

Dean, following the man, couldn't look up because of burning cheeks. Suddenly whatever Roman says touches his heart faster than before. His eyes prefer gluing the trees around then to the man sitting next to him.

"And, no, when life gives you an opportunity regardless of the situation. You must grasp it tightly because it can open many doors of possibilities in your life. So, when you look back, you would only wish for your younger self to be proud of you." Roman explained, turning towards Dean.

Dean contemplates for a second and nods his head. "I got a second chance to live again. I must not waste it."

Roman smiles. "Good. I will always be proud and be there for you."

"Now, I don't feel like going." Dean murmurs, and with slight hesitation, he reaches for Roman's hand. His eyes find Roman to see any discomfort or rejection. Yet, he could see the comfort in them. He smiles, leaning his head on Roman's shoulder while tightly enclosing their hands together.

"Never rethink your decision just because of one person."

"But that decision was taken for you." Dean swiftly injects, looking up at the male. His eyes fall back on his lap when he realizes the slip of his tongue. "I thought that you would hate me. Even, Dr. Jenifer said, you hate the receiver of Amelia's heart. You...you don't wish to see their face. Since you got to know the truth..."

Roman sighed. "I apologize. I did say those things. I thought I could hate the person because somewhere they were related to this. However," He looks deeply into Dean's eyes. "I could never make myself hate you." His thumb caressed Dean's backhand. "How can I hate the one who helped me stand up and move on? Also, this person is working to give justice to his donor." Roman gave a tender smile. "Tell me, can I be so cruel as to hate you?"

Dean pressed his lips together and nodded. "I judged you without knowing."

Roman pinched his cheek. "When you understand things. You become so adorable like Ayan." He pats his shoulder for Dean to lean back. The model smiled at the gesture and kept his head on his shoulder with a deep breath. His eyes closed, feeling the comfort.

His parents often told him he needed to get married and settle down for himself. A life partner, a soulmate, is very needed in life. However, the past didn't allow Dean to move on. Now, perhaps, is the time to choose himself and his happiness.

Roman pressed a small kiss to Dean's hair, hoping the male didn't feel it. His cheeks burned, feeling the silly act he did.

Dean pressed his lips between his teeth, trying to suppress the wide smile. Did Roman just sneak a peck from his hair?

Just this year, and I will court you properly.

The thought became a New Year resolution to Roman.

Dean stood up and glanced around.

"Tell me. Whatever you are thinking to say and unable to do so." Roman said, catching Dean off guard. He gasped while pointing at himself.

"How do you always know that I want to say something? Something is bothering me?"

Roman smiled, wearing the elbow crunches. Dean quickly held his hand, helping him to stand up.

"Just like now, I didn't ask or say anything. Yet, you understood me." Roman replied, turning his gaze to Dean. "Not everything can be explained in words. Some things are meant to be felt."

Dean nodded his head, "For this year, to survive. Can I call you?"

Roman shook his head. "How about we don't contact each other? Probably this will be the time we can fully move on and understand each other's importance in our lives."

Dean bites his lips, nodding. "If you say so." He looks at Roman's eyes. "But I need something, anything that can be held, and I could smile remembering you."

Roan smiles, "Actually, I did buy something for you."

Dean shook his head. "I don't want those things. I want something that would be one of a kind in this world like it's just with me and nobody else has it."

Roman shrugs his shoulder. "I am not rich enough to buy some antique items for you."

Dean groans, "You are not able to understand."

Roman frowns. "You're already throwing a tantrum; why don't you make me understand what you want?"

Dean shook his head. "I don't want to think; you should think. If I do everything, what is your effort in this?"

Roman scratched his nape, trying to understand what this man was trying.

"If you want something immediately, I'll just tear a blade of grass and make a ring for you." Roman joked, finding himself funny. "I seriously can't under--"

"I will love that."

Roman looks at Dean. "Huh? Why will you need a grass?"

Dean smiles, holding his hand. "Because it's made by you and it's only for me. I don't need those antique items. What I want is small, tiny, special efforts from the man I..." Dean hesitated. "You confess after a year. I will say it now. I—mph!" Roman pressed his palm on Dean's mouth.

"Don't say it now. How will I survive without hearing it again?" Roman explained, watching Dean's whine while pushing his hand away.

"Fine, you want a ring, right? I'll get you one."

Dean held Roman's hand, who was trying to stand again. "Did I annoy you? I'm sorry. I don't know, I thought--"

"Hey," Roman's tender whisper stopped Dean's words. "If not me, where will you throw your fits? I would love to handle your wishes." Roman stands up. "If my effort could bring a bright smile to your face, it would be my honor."

Dean couldn't find any reply; he would rather watch the man looking around. Probably a few minutes ago. He wished to apologize and go away. But he's sitting here under the warmth of happiness.

Before Roman could bend to pluck leaves, Dean was quick with his feet, reaching. "You tell me what you need; I'll get you everything."

Dean's flashback came to an end with a tug on his shirt.

"Teacher," Ayan calls, looking up at his teacher and giving him a box of carrot cake.

Dean smiles, kneeling in front of Ayan. "For me?" He points at himself.

Ayan nodded. "Yes, do your best and..." He scratched his head, turning to look at his papa. "Papa, I don't know."

Roman chuckled, stepping towards the duo with the help of crutches. "Ayan wants to say, teacher, please take care of yourself. You should eat well and do your best. Always be happy and not stressed."

Ayan nodded, pointing at his papa. "Same-same."

Dean held Ayan's hand. "You pronounced it correctly this time." He hugged the boy. "I'm so proud of you." Caressing his hair. "I'll miss you so much."

Roman's eyes fell on Dean's ring made from twigs and a tiny yellow flower stuck with it. His gaze moved forward and found Dean's eyes watching him. He nods with a blink of his eyes.

"We'll be here, always rooting for you."

Dean nods, breaking the hug with Ayan and placing a kiss on his hair. He looks at Roman and places a peck on the ring.

⋇⋆✦⋆⋇

Sometimes, it feels like a year just passes with a blink. Sometimes, a year looks like a decade. When do we feel so? Perhaps when we are wishing for it to pass soon, when we are waiting for something to happen.

Dean and Roman did agree to be apart yet connected somehow. For Dean, it was the ring. Sitting through the green room, he would stare at the resin wrapped around his finger. The resin has the most beautiful moments frozen in it. The flower reminds of the blooming feelings, the twig shows the strength, and the shine of the resin showcases the dream he holds.

During work hours, while posing in front of the camera or sitting with the investor as the brand ambassador of La Scente, often his mind drifts to Roman. How is he doing? Did his leg heal properly? Has Ayan grown taller now?

One day, he wished to see Roman and at least hear his voice. However, he couldn't do so knowing if he heard Roman, he would break down immediately. He won't be able to stop himself from returning. Perhaps he couldn't control the urge and called Roman. However, it was accepted by Ayan. The boy's beaming voice and excitement brought relief to his soul.

As the year agreement was coming to an end, Dean stopped calling Roman. Also, he faced recognition that many reached out to the company to sign his name as its brand representative.

Dean, climbing the stairs of success, reached Roman's ear. He felt immensely proud, and his friend Liam would not forget to wriggle his eyebrows whenever they would meet. Liam became the chain connector; he was a mediator replying or speaking about Roman to Dean even before the model would try to reframe it.

Liam would purposefully walk in front of Roman's cabin, talking loudly with Dean.

Roman often held his phone to call Dean. But he knew these tiny sacrifices create a better future. Dean's fame is growing; being in the finance department, he analyzes the expenses and profit. For sure, the company gained profit, excluding the dip in the graph in the middle of the year.

It was the time when the news of Emricon's founder being sentenced to life imprisonment along with Freya.

The name shocked his parents more than him. The evidence provided by Calder showed every minute thing done by them. Freya was sentenced to 20 years of imprisonment, and Sabastian's name was used when Calder highlighted Roman's accident. Sabastian's shocked face turned sour when Calder cuffed his hand and pulled him through the office.

Roman remembers the day, the very day he was wishing for his breath. Calder's assurance brought worry to his heart about the family waiting for the officer at home. He cannot bear the pain of losing someone important to him. However, Calder held better determination to prove Elder Raynott guilty. To shove the man behind bars, to make him trim the nurturing ego within him.

This came true along with the shocking news of Freya being involved, as Elder Raynott didn't want to leave anyone behind. One by one, all the important figures, from politicians to businessmen, fell into the web of karma.

He remembers the teary eyes of Freya. The lady wipes her eyes and looks at Roman, exclaiming she did it for him because she loved him. He started to feel guilty, believing he was the reason Amelia died. He had cried in front of the tomb with strings of apology. At that moment, he wished Dean were there to embrace him, to hold him tightly, to push his negative guilty thoughts away.

Somehow he pulled himself together and wiped his tears. He knows Dean would get sad seeing him this way. He took a deep breath, trying to channel the strength he imagined Dean would offer him. With a newfound resolve, he turned away from the grave, determined to honor Amelia's memory by living fully, just as she would have wanted.

He walked away from the sober site, each step a tribute to her vibrant spirit. As he made his way back to the car, he felt a flicker of hope ignite within him, reminding him that love transcends even the deepest of sorrows.

He glanced up at the sky, where the sun began to break through the clouds, casting a warm glow over the path ahead. With every stride, he embraced the promise of new beginnings, knowing that Amelia would always be a part of him, guiding him toward brighter days.

⋇⋆✦⋆⋇

Dean contemplates whether to drop the message or not. Should the model inform the other person to anticipate his arrival?

"Why should I be the only one going through this?" The model mumbles to himself, looking at his suitcase.

I'm returning soon.

Dean dropped the message and shut his phone, keeping it for charging. He kept the suitcase aside and sat on the bed.

His eyes follow the cloud floating in the air. The experience here made him a known face. Those days were full of great experiences and understanding himself better. By understanding, he understood the importance of Romans in his life.

The nights make him starve to see Roman, his scrunched nose, pearl teeth, and frown whenever he is concentrating. Sometimes, it becomes difficult to name his feelings. Is he in a relationship with the man, or is it a long-distance love, one-sided love, or unrequited love?

Dean smiles, opening the notepad on his phone while it's still charging.

#Your smile, your face

I miss them.

Do I have the right?

I think of our days,

Do I have the right?#

Dean puts the phone aside and pulls the duvet over his body. The moon is shining brightly through the window, and the chilly weather urges Dean to hug the duvet close to himself.

On the other side, Roman read the message, his heart thumping against his chest. The weight of the words lingered in his mind, forcing him to confront memories that had long been tucked away. He hesitated for a moment, his fingers hovering over the screen, unsure if he should respond or let the silence stretch between them like the distance they had created.

Taking a deep breath, he finally typed a response, his message both an admission and a plea for connection. As he pressed send, he felt a flicker of hope mingled with anxiety, wondering if this fragile bridge could lead them back to the warmth they once shared.

Roman placed the phone back on the table, his eyes watching the evening glow of the sky. The beauty of the sky reminded him of Dean, whose laughter often echoed amidst the vibrant hues of sunset. Each color seemed to whisper memories, urging him to believe that perhaps, after all this time, a new beginning was on the way.

He leans against the window, closing his eyes and feeling the gentle breeze ruffle his hair. As he breathes in the crisp air, a sense of hope blossoms within him. It is as if the universe is signaling that brighter days are ahead, and with every passing moment, he feels more ready to embrace whatever comes next.

"Gosh, your message made me impatient now." Roman mumbles, shaking his head.

⋇⋆✦⋆⋇

Sitting inside the flight with a thumping heart, Dean doesn't think he felt the same emotion while going. There is this very happiness in his eyes, which is looking out of the window.

There is no hunger in his stomach, either. His heart is so happy that the appetite is gone. He's going to meet his family and his brother, who proposed to Chris on his knees. The model chuckled, remembering the moment shared with him through a picture. He fidgets with his finger ring, the metal feeling cool against his skin. And, Roman.

How is it possible to not remember him in every moment? Perhaps, Roman did the right thing by stopping him from confessing. If he had done so, he would never have gotten happiness with just imagining. If he had confessed, his imagination would have turned to expectations.

Dean smiles, leaning back on the chair. The mind creates different scenarios of meeting Roman.

There will be a tender breeze in the air, which brings Roman's fragrance to me. A moon hung in the sky too. Tiny lights, or much better if it's fireflies.

Dean pats his cheeks from heating.

And he will be there standing with arms wide. His beautiful hair is gently gelled while flipped over, his eyes only on me with a tender smile.

Also, Ayan. My boy would have grown taller now. His giggles and the tiny hands hid his shy face. I shouldn't forget about him calling me, teacher! Teacher!

Dean smiled to himself. His arms hugged his frame. He knows he can sigh with content only with Roman and Ayan in front of him.

The flight continued to reach its destination. The airport was filled with people rushing in and leaving the premises. Everything looks so busy except for their happiness. People are so busy running through checking and searching for their flights, almost being late to catch their flights. In this chaos, a family waits for a man to return after a year.

Mom's excitement reached the sky with happy eyes searching through each arrival.

"Where is Dean?" Mrs. Rayden asked, clutching a bouquet of her son's favorite flowers.

Ethan tilts his head up while narrowing his eyes to scan. "His flight landed a while ago. He will be here soon, Mom. Have patience."

Mrs. Rayden gasped. "If I can handle a son like you, then I have a lot of patience for sure." She playfully slaps Ethan's shoulder.

The man gasped, showing his arm to his lover. Chris chuckled, rubbing the area as though soothing it.

Mr. Raynott slings an arm over his wife's shoulder. "He'll be here. Don't worry."

Soon Dean stepped out while pushing the trolley. His eyes didn't need to scan through the area.

"Dean!" His brother called so loudly that people turned to look at him.

Ethan flips his hair. "I know, I look like a celebrity."

Chris pinched his arm. "It's not you. It's your brother, who is famous."

Ethan smiled at Dean and whispered. "I'm proud of him. Because now in the office people don't need my introduction, I'll just say, 'You know Dean? I'm his brother.'"

Christopher looks away.

I know that's why I fell in love with you. You fell first. But I fell harder.

"Yeah, yeah, whatever. Taking advantage of your brother's popularity?"

Ethan swiftly shook his head. "You know, I will never do that."

"MOM!" Dean hugs his mother tightly. My heart was overwhelmed with sheer joy and longing. It's been so long since he hugged her. The gentle caress of a motherly hug brought tears to Dean's eyes.

"I missed you so much."

The painful voice of her son brimmed tears in the mother's eyes. "I missed you too, my dear." She kissed his forehead. "My baby grew up to be such a fine man now."

Dean smiled at his father, who patted his shoulder. "Welcome back." Dean blinked his eyes and nodded.

Ethan quickly placed the luggage in the car. "Dee, you can go sit in that car." Ethan points at a sleek blue car parked 20 steps away from them.

Dean gasped, "Did you buy a car? You didn't tell me about it, brother."

Ethan glanced at Chris and turned his attention to his younger, confused, and excited brother. "It's not mine. Perhaps," he glanced at the car. "It could be yours soon."

Dean closed his eyes and shook his head, trying to understand his brother. "Brother, I haven't bought any car yet. So, are you pulling a prank on me?"

Chris held Dean's shoulder, pushing the man to walk towards the car. "Look at my brother-in-law. This is not Ethan's car. But this is bought by someone your eyes were searching for when you stepped out of the airport."

The model's narrowed eyes turned bigger with realization. "You mean..." he points at the car.

Chris smiled, nodding his head. "Yes, they're waiting for you."

All this while, Dean anticipated meeting Roman. He gulps the lump in his throat. The excitement and imagination drained within him. His eyes would flicker from the car to the windshield, wishing to catch a glimpse of the man.

His breath hitched when the door opened, and Roman stepped out while holding a bouquet. The fresh primrose is glowing with pink hues. He never thought he would start loving a different flower from his favorite. Perhaps, whatever, Roman gives with his heart dedicated. Dean will accept it with heartfelt content.

Roman took a shaky breath, clutching the bouquet tightly in his embrace. There was the man; he was waiting to see for so long that a year felt like a decade. His step took him towards the model, reminding him of the time he walked away just for his comfort, the wiping of tears, the way Dean fought for his donor's justice, the panic Dean cried in his chest when Roman met with an accident, beautiful Dean when he spoke about the plastic flowers during the screening of the model, the comforting Dean encouraging him to move forward, and the calm Dean praying along with him for Amelia's soul.

Roman didn't realize the tears were gliding on his cheek until Dean's fingertips touched his cheek. He noticed the model's eyes filling with tears.

I missed you.

Roman breathes out without uttering the words. He thought he said it until he realized he didn't say it.

"Me too," Dean replied, turning his attention to pink roses.

Roman widens his eyes and forwards the roses. "For you."

Dean's eyes flickered from the roses to the man. "Finally," he uttered, hugging Roman tightly.

The tears he was holding back trickled down with a sob. Eyes turning redder, cheeks warming up as he clings Roman to his dear heart. Fingers fisting the shirt tightly while sobbing profusely.

Roman embraces Dean, holding his waist, pulling the man closer, and breathing into his hair.

"You are more important than I thought," Roman whispered, closing his eyes. "There's not a single day I didn't think about you."

Dean cried even more, pressing his face on Roman's shoulder. "Then, why didn't you call me?"

Roman smiles. "That's what makes our bond special. I didn't see you, I didn't talk with you, and I couldn't hear your voice. Yet, you are always in my mind."

Dean nodded, closing his eyes. Just a little more of having Roman closer.

"Excuse me, no PDA, please. We have elders and small children here." Ethan said playfully while driving by.

Chris was quick to slap his arm. "Shut up and start driving."

Dean quickly breaks the hug with a shy smile. He looks up at Roman. "Ayan? He must be at school, right?"

Roman shook his head. "His teacher is returning, and he will go to school?"

Roman opened the back door of his car. Dean peeks inside and smiles. Ayan is sleeping while hugging a Spiderman plushie.

"He was so excited that he slept late at night. I couldn't make him sleep. He kept saying what he wants to tell you, what he wishes to show you, and on and on." Roman explained, ducking inside to wake Ayan.

Dean quickly held his hand. "Let him sleep." He keeps the flowers next to Ayan and sits on his right side.

"That Spider-Man is for you," Roman said, placing a hand on the roof of the car as Deans sat inside the car.

Dean opened his arms and tenderly pulled Ayan to sleep. Roman smiled and closed the door.

⋇⋆✦⋆⋇

The familiar room of Dean lulled the man to deep sleep. The peace of home cannot be compared to luxurious hotels. No matter the beautiful views, the window of his room is much better. The model snuggled to sleep with soft snores under his breath. Until his phone starts ringing.

Dean whines, throws the duvet, and turns to the other side. The phone rings again, making the man sit upright. With anger and aggression, he takes the phone from the table.

He accepts the call without seeing the name. "Hello," fixing his hair falling on his face.

[Congratulations!]

"For what?"

[You are famous because of the rumor.]

Dean understood the sarcasm. He looked at the caller ID. It was his manager. The man was supposed to return today. Dean was planning to return today, but he preponed it, and the manager couldn't tag along because he needed to wrap up.

"What rumors?"

[Ok, you don't know. Perhaps, in the airport, did you help anyone carrying bags?]

Dean got a flash as he abruptly got up. "I was just helping."

[My good wishes for your upcoming relationship. The man you helped is a popular celebrity.]

"WHAT! How would I know who he is?"

[What did you do exactly?]

"I was done checking in, and I saw a man struggling to keep all his bags in the trolley. His hand was injured too. I thought--"

[You couldn't keep your helping nature aside and jumped to help him even for his checking and boarding. You were with him almost until you boarded your plane. Thankfully, he had to catch a different flight.]

"If he was popular, why were there no guards around him? Where was his manager? How would I know who the hell he is?"

[I'm your manager, was I with you? The people are saying that you and him are together and went on vacation. You took a different flight to avoid rumors.]

"What nonsense! People are spouting nonsense, and you believe it?"

[I don't, because I have known you for a year now. You will never look at anyone except the man in your heart.]

"Exactly! Wait, Roman? Did Roman read those articles too? Shit!"

Dean ends the call and runs out of his room, slamming his door loudly and flinching the people sitting at the dining table.

"Dean?" His father called.

"Dad, I will be back," Dean said quickly, wearing whatever shoe he could see.

"First, change your clothes. You are still in PJ." Dad spoke to the wind as the man ran faster than the wind.

Dean looks around with confusion. "Within a year, so many things have changed?"

He hails a taxi, saying the destination. The driver looks at Dean suspiciously. A man dressed in pajamas in broad daylight. Is he drunk?

Dean swiftly pays the amount and gets out of the taxi.

Standing in front of Roman's apartment. He contemplates whether to ring the bell or call him. He quickly touched his pockets, noticing they were empty except for his wallet.

He rings the bell and walks around. He rings again, trying to see through the peephole. He rings another time. "Roman?"

The male mentioned flinched, looking at the door and then back at his son. The tiny boy was busy plucking rose petals and filling the basket.

"What is your teacher doing here?" Roman asked, looking around the house.

The hall room has been decorated with lights, and the curtains have been changed to floral ones. The wall has the balloons stuck on it. "Shit! Your teacher shouldn't come here." Roman runs around the house, trying to hide things as much as possible.

Dean is getting impatient. "Roman? Are you there?" Followed by the doorbell.

"Teacher!" Ayan shouts with happiness.

"Ayan! Help me instead of calling him," Roman says, trying to use an old curtain to hide the wall. "You are going to sit here and pluck the flowers. No noise, okay?"

Ayan nodded, putting a finger on his lips. Roman smiles, "Or else the surprise will be ruined."

When Roman didn't open the door, Dean knocked on the door. Thinking of the worst possibilities. What if Roman read the rumors and believed them? How will he make him understand that he didn't do anything?

"Roman, please open the door. I'm sorry." Dean choked on a sob. "I can't lose you. I'll die this time. Please, believe me, I didn't do anything. I didn't know him either; I was trying to help him--" Other words got muffled because of the strong arms wrapped around him.

"Sush," Roman whispered, hugging the male. Roman tries to calm him with a panicked mind.

What made him cry? Why is he crying like this? Why is he here early in the morning? Did someone say something to him?

"I'm sorry, I don't know him. He is unknown to me. Everything is false. Please don't believe them."

Roman frowns, his heart racing as he feels the warmth of the tears soaking into his shirt. "Just breathe, okay? I'm right here," he murmured, his voice steady despite the turmoil within him. He needed to get to the bottom of this, to understand the pain that had driven this person to such despair.

Dean took a deep breath, breaking the hug. He needs to explain before Roman concludes anything.

"Are you talking about helping a celebrity?" Roman asked, lightly wiping Dean's tears.

Dean nodded with a hum. He looks down, holding Roman's arm.

"I know you. I have seen the love in your eyes." Roman whispered, urging Dean to look into his head.

Dean hesitated for a moment, his heart racing at the vulnerability of the situation. "However, in your eyes. It's not just love," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. "It's about finding a way to heal, to help each other in this chaotic world."

Roman smiles, "Exactly!"

You keep making me love you even more.

Dean looks at the door behind Roman. "Is Ayan awake?"

Roman looks around. "Uh, yeah. No, he is still sleeping. Today is the weekend, so..." He notices the disappointment in Dean's face.

"Uh," Dean says, watching Roman.

Roman pulls his hair inside his head.

I know you are expecting me to invite you inside. I can't do it today. I'm so sorry.

"Well, then. I need to prepare breakfast, or I will have dropped you off at home." Roman explained, gesturing with his hands.

Dean nods, his expression a mix of understanding and sadness. "It's fine; I get it," he replies, forcing a smile. "Just make sure he doesn't sleep the whole day away."

Roman smiles with a nod. "Roger that."

Dean nodded and took his cue to leave. He came here uninformed; what was he expecting? Roman would drop his plan and ask him to stay back. Roman may like him, but that doesn't mean he will prioritize Dean. Perhaps he still has a long way to go before becoming very important to the man.

"De-Dean," Roman calls after a lot of thinking. He is doing this surprise for the model, and here he is returning with a sad face. What should matter is the happiness of Dean more than the perfection of the surprise.

Dean turns around, giving his full attention.

Roman took a deep breath. "Could you give me two minutes and wait here? I will try my best to make it worth the wait."

Dean nods, a flicker of curiosity sparking in his eyes. "Of course, take your time," he replies, his voice warm and encouraging, as he leans against the wall, eager to see what Roman has in store for him.

As Roman stepped away, anxiety and determination coursed through him. He needed to gather his thoughts and prepare a moment that would not only impress Dean but also express everything he had been meaning to say.

Roman closed the door. "Ayan, are you done? Baby, we need to work fast." He quickly scattered the petals on the floor. "Your teacher is waiting outside."

Ayan brought the basket filled with orchids. His tiny steps ran behind his dad.

"Baby, ring! It's on my table." Roman said, pulling the curtain away from the wall, and showcasing the heart balloons.

Ayan runs to his dad's room, searching for the ring. His eyes locked with the blue velvet box. He took the support of the chair and stood on it. Carefully picking the box between his palms. He jumps from the chair, running towards his dad.

"Papa," Ayan gives the box, looking around with big eyes.

Beautiful lights decorated the surface of the wall with flower petals scattered on the floor.

"We could have done better." Roman sighs with disappointment while combing his hair. "But something is better than nothing."

Roman picks Ayan in his arms. "Look at our dress. You are still in pajamas. I didn't wear a good shirt either." He combs Ayan's hair.

"It's ok, papa. The teacher will love me." Ayan says, showing his crescent moon smile.

Roman nods, taking a deep breath. His eyes are going towards the closed door.

"You remember your lines?" Roman asked, shoving the box in his pocket.

"Yes, I will say, teacher, please marry my papa. We will stay together always."

Roman kissed his son's hair. "Now, go and get your teacher inside our home."

Ayan nods, waiting for his dad to open the door. He quickly steps out, eyes searching for his teacher. He smiles at his teacher and holds his hand.

"Teacher, please come." Ayan pulls Dean's hand towards their home. His eyes were shining with happiness. "Papa said, You'll stay with Ayan always."

Dean frowns with confusion. He is unable to understand what the boy is saying.

"Papa," Ayan shouts and runs towards his father, standing in the middle of the room.

Dean's eyes flicker at every detail and effort made by them. The petals on the floor make a path to reach Roman.

Roman took a deep breath. "Dean," the way Roman breathed out his name erupted goosebumps in his arms.

Dean steps towards him. Somewhere, having a hunch of the destination awaits on this path of roses.

Perhaps it is the environment or mostly the blood pressure of Dean, which went low as Roman knelt on the floor. Suddenly the atmosphere blurred around him. There are tingles or excitement and fear too, perhaps a bit of worry for the changes that may happen in his life, or it could be the assuring eyes requesting him to believe them.

"I planned many things for this day," Roman spoke, licking his dry lips. There is a pinch of worry in his eyebrows. What if he messes up everything? This is supposed to make Dean feel the importance he has in his life.

"De," Roman's voice went dry. He quickly gulps, taking a deep breath. "Gosh, it's more difficult than I imagined." Roman chuckled, keeping the ring on his lap, and tried again.

"Mr. Dean Rayden, I wish to tell you something, a wish that I have kept inside my heart for a long time. Whenever you called, I would be so close to confessing to you. That's why I refrained from talking with you. Yet, I found it to be more difficult than handling accounts of the company."

Dean chuckled, standing in front of Roman with Ayan in his arms.

"Mr. Dean Rayden, I wish to spend the rest of my life with you. It's not because my heart wants you; it's because it can't live without you. These 376 days of living away from you taught me how much I miss your hugs, the gentleness in you, and many other things I could only feel and hardly explain to you." He noticed the way Dean's lips wobbled, eyes looking at his feet, which were filled with tears. But this time, it could be happy tears. "Will you give me the honor of calling you my moonflower?"

Dean chuckled with a sniff. "Moonflower?"

Roman nods his head. "Moonflower, because you glowed as the moon when my life was dark with sadness. Many can see the moon, but only the privileged can see the blooming of moonflower, and I am glad that this moonflower will accept me."

Dean smiles when Ayan wipes his tears, "Teacher, don't cry."

Dean breaks into a wide smile. "How did I get so lucky?" He kissed Ayan's cheek. "I got this cute baby as my son,"

Roman's heart skipped a beat hearing that.

"And, this handsome papa as my love." Dean looks at Roman and forwards his left hand. Roman quickly takes his hand while Dean kneels in front of him. "Will you also give me the honor to love you forever?"

Roman bites his lips, giving a quick nod. He slides the ring on Dean's finger, caressing the knuckle. "My heart beats for you."

Dean's tears streamed down his cheek, turning it redder as he smiled brightly. "My heart beats for you too."

They pressed their foreheads together. The two of them were wrapped in their little bubble of love and promise. With a soft chuckle, Dean whispered, "I never thought this day would come, yet here we are, destined for each other." Closing his eyes, "It's like a dream," Dean added, his voice barely above a whisper, "and I never want to wake up."

Roman smiles, kissing Ayan's cheek. "Perhaps it was all because of this tiny angel." Dean nodded, "Yes because he is my cute student and the most adorable baby in the world."

Ayan whines, pushing his dad away with a crimson face. "Papa,"

The duo chuckled, watching the tiny human crossing his little arms in a huff.

"You can't be mad at us for too long, Ayan," Roman teased, reaching out to tickle his sides. The little boy squirmed and burst into giggles, his earlier annoyance forgotten as he melted into their playful banter.

"See? That's more like it!" Roman exclaimed, grinning as he pulled Ayan into a warm embrace. The laughter filled the room, creating a cozy atmosphere that wrapped around them like a soft blanket.

"Now, how about we make some cakes to celebrate?" Dean suggested, his eyes sparkling with mischief. Ayan's face lit up at the idea, and he nodded eagerly, momentarily forgetting his previous frustration as he raced toward the kitchen, leaving his father's arm.

Roman smiles at his son, his fingers gently taking Dean's with his own. "Aren't you looking the cutest, hmm?"

Dean furrowed his eyebrows and looked down. He felt a rock hitting on his head. "I was like this as I was receiving your confession? Why didn't you tell me before?"

Roman chuckled softly, ruffling Dean's hair playfully. "Well, sometimes it takes a little while to find the right moment," he replied, his gaze warm. He pulls Dean's head closer. "This moment is the best."

Dean's heart raced as he met Roman's eyes, a mix of vulnerability and affection swirling within him. "I guess. I was just scared of ruining the moment," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper, but the warmth of Roman's embrace dispelled any lingering doubts.

"Papa, how to make cake?" Ayan asked, peeking from the kitchen.

Roman and Dean smiled at each other. Roman pressed a kiss on Dean's hair.

"Let's help our son, moonflower."

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